EMPOWER™ IS DESIGNED FOR:

  • yoga teachers and studio owners

    You want to be recognized as a specialist in women's yoga. You may or may not already be a yoga teacher, but you do want to teach yoga for women: Through pregnancy, post-partum with baby, and menopause and offer hormone balancing practices. You want to learn how to take your yoga business to the next level, from someone who's been there and done that. The program is accredited by Yoga Alliance International.

  • dedicated yoga lovers

    You love yoga and you're ready to deepen your practice. You may feel you're not getting as much as you could from yoga; you could be experiencing less than optimal health; hormonal imbalances or have lost direction and motivation. You want to overcome your blocks; find your soul purpose and live your best life, on and off the yoga mat. You want to learn about the best yoga practice for the female life stages and embrace them for your own health and wellness.

  • midwives, doulas and birth & baby workers

    You recognize the incredible benefits of yoga for women during pregnancy, birth and postpartum for mum and baby, and want to incorporate them into your current work - without necessarily becoming a yoga teacher or taking a 200-hour teacher training.

  • fitness & wellness entrepreneurs

    You want to learn how to use therapeutic feminine yoga practices through pregnancy, postpartum and menopause to help your clients relieve stress; find hormonal balance and optimal wellness. You want to learn everything Cheryl knows about creating and growing a thriving wellness business to apply to your own.

Introducing EMPOWER™ by YogaBellies:

EMPOWER™ is a unique yoga teacher training programme for all women at every stage of life - and you don't need to be a yoga teacher already! Let me explain...



I created this programme for those who want to become an expert in women's wellness. This is not a dry teacher training, we look primarily at YOU living and embracing your yoga - on and off the yoga mat - and learning how to teach the YogaBellies practices, as we embody them. This training is equal parts practicing and teaching yoga; personal development and learning tangible business and empowerment skills. EMPOWER is a real game-changer and is going to make a huge impact on your life and on the lives of the women you work with.

With a focus on yoga for physical, emotional and mental wellbeing throughout the female life stages - we’ll cover yoga and wellness for the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, post-partum (and baby!) and the stages of menopause, female-specific illnesses and conditions - as well balancing hormonal fluctuations;  yoga through the seasons, nutrition, self-care, Ayurveda for women's health… oooft! And so much more :)

Cheryl will lead you on a deep, personal journey, no matter your level of yoga experience. EMPOWER™ will allow you to understand and embrace the cyclical nature of female life and show you how to lead other women to do so too.

With more than 15 years experience as a yoga teacher, and over a decade in training and leading YogaBellies® teachers, Cheryl is the visionary behind EMPOWER™  

Check out just some of the publications that Cheryl and YogaBellies have been featured in over the years.


Want to know more about YogaBellies Teacher Training?


EMPOWER™ is:

  • Time-honoured Wisdom of Feminine Yoga

    Explore the female life cycle and learn yoga practices for optimal wellness and vitality throughout life. Learn how to tune into your feminine intuition and live your best yoga life, on and off the mat. As we embody these feminine yoga practices, we learn how to empower other women with these tools also. Empower women using yoga during the menstrual phases; pregnancy; post-partum with baby and through menopause.

  • A Journey of Self-Enquiry and Personal Empowerment

    Uncover what you really want from life, what's been holding you back and how to create and execute that life and yoga business plan you always dreamed of. Embody feminine yoga practices, self-care and rituals as you learn to teach.

  • Business Wisdom from one of Yoga's Leading Entrepreneurs

    Learn everything you ever wanted to know about creating and growing a successful ethical yoga or wellness business from multiple-award winner; serial entrepreneur; author and yogi, Cheryl MacDonald. Get access to Cheryl's know-how as she guides you through yoga practices and yoga business coaching, never offered before.

Meet The Teacher

Cheryl MacDonald, E-RYT 500


"I understand why women need yoga throughout life - and that it can benefit us as much in life as it can in class. I've practiced and I've taught women at every life stage - in fact,  over 100,000 women in the UK alone,  have come along to YogaBellies classes to balance their hormones; relieve stress; find their calm place for birth; chill with baby afterward and battle the symptoms of menopause. 

Yoga is as important to women at 14 as it is 99, and over my 25 years of yoga practice, I have developed The YogaBellies Sadhana, to give women exactly what they need in a safe and therapeutic practice.

YogaBellies isn't just about pulling shapes: It's about loving yourself, on and off the yoga mat. Body positivity, Self-love, and Self-worth are all important elements of our practice and the EMPOWER™ journey.

Equally as important to me is empowering women to have a sustainable career as yoga teachers. The main thing that yoga teacher training lacks is someone who actually has the experience of creating a successful yoga business; I have this and I want to share it with as many teachers as possible! I've personally trained and coached hundreds of YogaBellies teachers in my proven business systems and marketing practices that have made YogaBellies a global phenomenon. I've won several business awards over the years including but not only...


  • LuxLife Most Inspirational Women's Yoga Teacher 2021 
  • The Great British Entrepreneur Award 2019
  • The Scottish Edge Award for Enterprise 2013
  • Woman of the Year Award 2014
  • Mumpreneur UK Award 2012
  • 3 x What's On for Little Ones Awards 2014
  • Working Mums Top Employer Award 2015
  • Mums Club Top 100 Businesses 2012


You may also have seen me featured in:

  • The Huffington Post - talking about my yoga journey and YogaBellies® beginnings
  • As a winner of BBC Dragon's Den (watch us in the video below!) - the Dragon's loved the concept of YogaBellies®
  • Appeared on ITV's This Morning - teaching yoga to women and children at various life stages
  • All of the magazines, TV channels and publications you can see on this page, talking about yoga for women throughout life
  • Been personal yoga teacher to celebrities such as Kimberley Walsh (Girls Aloud), Fearne Cotton and Catherine Tyldsley (check out some of the featured press below)



EMPOWER Guest Experts and Senior Yoga Teacher Team


Our EMPOWER Teacher Training also has a number of Guest Experts and Senior Yoga Teacher Mentors from across the globe (United Kingdom, Singapore, Dubai, and Thailand!) These women's yoga and health experts will lead sessions throughout the programme.



What EMPOWER Students Have Said

Read Trainee Testimonials

A course that every female can benefit from *****

Course review for Empower 300 YTT by Beth Thomas

I signed up for the Empower 300 YTT purely from the perspective of wanting to become a yoga teacher working with ladies in pregnancy and postnatally, but the course has offered so much more than that. It is truly a course that every female at every life stage will benefit from. I have not only learnt so much about yoga, I have learnt about the wonders of the human body, our hormones, the impact of our environment, the importance of diet and nutrition, the wonder of aromatherapy and most importantly about myself. I have already been commenting to my female friends and family members about how can we not know this stuff - how is it not taught in schools or in families... I really look forward to using what I have learnt for myself as I progress through life, as well as offering a wonderful yoga practice for other ladies.

Empower 300 ytt review by Katie Brown Svennebye *****

Course review for Empower 300 YTT by Kathleen Brown Svennebye

I have really enjoyed the EMPOWER 300 YTT course thus far, Module 1 really opened up a whole new depth of yoga knowledge particularly the spiritual aspect and I loved learning more about Ayurveda, Module 2 has really allowed me to appreciate our natural cycles & opened my eyes to living more in tune with nature, the seasons and in particular the moon and it’s relation the our menstrual cycle, as the course is limited to a small number of women it feels like an intimate group and safe space to share our personal experiences and wisdom together and make real friends whilst gaining a deeper understanding of yoga philosophy and practical knowledge. I am pleasantly surprised by the in depth course materials provided by Cheryl especially the extra courses for foundational yoga knowledge which is particularly beneficial for a non yoga teacher like me, the lifetime access to the materials also means I can dip in and out of these areas of study at my own pace and in as much depth as I choose, the hormonal eating plan, birth rocks, pregnancy and menopause additional materials included also provide for greater understanding of these topics alongside the EMPOWER course. I have also enjoyed access to the Yogabellies teachers lounge as well as the empower group to provide further opportunity to meet others in the yogabellies family and gain some insight from other yoga teachers and their existing knowledge. The course is refreshing in that it does not put high pressure on us to achieve certain academic grades and feels more about growing and learning over time and understanding that each module can be completed without having to “know it all” at once but that we can use the live lectures, handbooks & nest sessions to gain a foundation of knowledge in the particular module area and to sufficiently complete the module but know we will continue to use the additional materials and recommended reading throughout our lifetime and that together with our own personal yoga practice will enable us to develop practical yoga and teaching skills over time. Also thanks to the small groups undertaking the course at any given time, it means rather than feeing like a lost number in a high volume academic setting, I feel my voice can be heard and I can gain a deeper connection with those participating and teaching in the course despite being online rather than in person training and also allows for those of us to share the course across different countries. I would definitely recommend the course to any other women seeking a new challenge and wanting to develop their yoga practice and knowledge and/or wishing to teach female friendly yoga at every life stage. Thanks 🙏🏼 🧘‍♀️Katie Brown Svennebye

Life Changing *****

Course review for Empower 300 YTT by Katieanne Duncan-Bruce

I’ve loved every minute of Empower so far. There is so much information at hand and Cheryl & the team are quick to answer any further questions. I’ve been thinking about doing a course like this for a while and so glad I waited until now. Empower is so thorough and the live sessions are invaluable. I’ve learnt so much in a short time and looking forward to the remaining modules. I would highly recommend this course to anyone thinking about becoming a yoga teacher or working on their personal development. I feel confident in what I’ve learnt so far and love that there are so many resources to refer back to in future. The inclusion of guest speakers is a fantastic addition. Cheryl is so knowledgeable, welcoming and down to earth - a fantastic role model. You are made to feel so welcome and included in the group. All the senior yoga teachers are experienced and inspiring. I’m so excited for my journey ahead. Thank you empower. Katieanne

Informative, relevant and manageable *****

Course review for Empower 300 YTT by Jeanie Mannion

I am part way though the Empower training and really loving it. The content is relevant to me and the different stages of my life (I began peri-menopause within 12 months of having a baby), and is also giving me the knowledge and understanding I need to become a yoga teacher. I am managing to fit the requirements of the course around work and family life, and although I found everything a little overwhelming initially, I’ve come to realise that’s how I react to anything new! Once i got my head around the schedule and got organised, I’ve loved it. Cheryl is always on hand to help if we have any issues and her knowledge and own journey is truly inspiring.

Empower 300 YTT *****

Course review for Empower 300 YTT by Georgina Ward

I am currently halfway through my EMPOWER 300 YTT and can honestly say I am loving every second of it. I was so nervous before I started, I wasn't sure I would be able to keep on top of it all and wasn't sure how involved I would feel with it being online. Since I've started I've got to know some wonderful ladies, I have built up a connection with the girls in my nest and we feel like we have known each other for years but its just been a few months. The group are so supportive, from your nest to your SYT and Cheryl too. Its been a transformative experience for me so far, I have made such small changes to my life based on some of the things I'm learning but the outcome of that is huge. I have changed my mindset to menstruation, I have learnt to adapt my yoga practice based on which stage of the cycle I'm in. I have also learnt that yoga practice is a whole lot more than just postures. I'm seeing things differently in my every day, I'm embracing things that I didn't before....I'm just loving it. The content is so varied and interesting, you can take what you want from it and the delivery from Cheryl is so engaging and uplifting. I'm also really enjoying the life class run-throughs with different senior yoga teachers and seeing how their styles vary. This course is giving me back what I have been missing for years. I'm gaining confidence which I had lost since leaving my career and I'm seeing how I could build a future on these foundations. Thank you to Cheryl for developing such a collaborative, engaging, varied and interesting course. I don't have any regrets! Georgie x

Empower - Amazing! *****

Course review for Empower 300 YTT by Nicola Welsh

I enrolled on the course with little yoga experience feeling excited and nervous all in one! The support from Cheryl and the ladies also enrolled is great, we are all learning together. The course has lots of information and I had a lot to learn, this can be done in my own time which is great around family life and work. I’m so happy I decided to enrol, it’s life changing! Absolutely amazing!

Inspiring *****

Course review for Empower 300 YTT by Nicola Emmett

I can honestly see why the course is called Empower. It’s so inspiring to me as a female. The wealth of information is amazing and will keep me invested to keep learning for years to come! Even if you do not want to teach at the end of it, I’m still on a bit of a journey with this 😊 the things you learn about yourself for your own personal development is great. I love the content. I’m a busy working mum of two kids so i do wish I had more time to spend on the course as I love it but I’m trying to give myself more time for me. That’s one of the things this teaches us. It’s not optional to look after ourselves as women, it’s essential. I’ve loved getting to know Cheryl who I think is the most incredible women I’ve ever come across and the other ladies who are all so supportive. I just wished we all lived near each other but I’m sure we will all meet in person at some point in the future!

I think the course title sums up the entire ethos of the course. Love It *****

Course review for Empower 300 YTT by Claire O'Brien

The course content is well thought out, put together and presented. The flexibility of the course is great too, the recordings give you lots of options if you’re not able to join in live, and also to go back and recap on any areas of particular interest. The presenters are well informed, knowledgeable and approachable, everything you’d expect from a first class training course. Then course materials are well presented and easy to follow. Thanks for putting together such a wonderful course Cheryl. Women empowering other women to be the best version of themselves is exactly what we should all be doing. Keep up the great work and I would highly recommend the course to others wishing to deepen their knowledge of the benefits of yoga throughout a woman’s life cycle.

A wonderful experience *****

Course review for Empower 300 YTT by GEMMA STRONACH

Cheryl has worked tirelessly to provide a course which not only develops you as a practical yoga teacher, but also to understand the fundamental foundations of yoga in a mental and spiritual sense. Yoga with Cheryl and the girls has already transformed my life and continues to enhance it each day. It is not about who can do the best headstands and bends, it is about loving yourself and the body you have. It is about understanding what is going on and how to enhance your own life to then be able to help others. I have never been so in tune with my own body as I am now.

Sign up for 50-Hour EMPOWER Modules

Why EMPOWER™?

"EMPOWER™  is a culmination of 25 years of personal yoga practice and 15 years of teaching yoga created for women. I’m sooo psyched to be launching this much-needed specialist women's yoga teacher training because I know that we ALL need this. Teachers, yogis, fitness professionals, mums – we can all benefit from EMPOWER™ .

"EMPOWER™ training begins by focusing on your personal yoga and wellness journey and making your life better in every way.  As part of your journey, you'll be encouraged to follow a hormone-balancing diet (and given the resources to do so,) as well as tracking your menstrual cycle (or lunar if you don't menstruate) and to live in line with what your body needs and wants throughout the month and throughout life. As we change our own lives, we learn the YogaBellies practices and skills to empower other women on their wellness journey.

"Over a 6 month period, we’re going to uncover your deepest desires; set real-life goals, and understand what’s currently holding you back. I’m also going to help you to create your personal and business brand; identify your tribe and create the most-kick ass business and marketing strategy, guaranteed to meet your career and life goals - no matter what your work or business is!"

Yoga Student Onboarding Planner

Download our beginner's guide here for free

Download Now

KEEP READING IF YOU...

  •  Want to earn your Yoga Alliance International 300-hour certification.

  •  If you already hold a Yoga Alliance approved 200-Hour qualification, you can apply for the RPYS (Registered Prenatal Yoga Teacher) qualification also

  • Want to completely transform your health, wellness and life on and off the yoga mat.

  • Want to gain essential business skills to turn your dream of teaching yoga into a reality

  • Want to save thousands on learning key yoga practices for every female life stage in an integrated and logical way: from yoga for the menstrual cycle; pregnancy, post-partum with baby and through menopause.

  • Want to take time out to figure out what YOU need from life and become your most vibrant self to do this!

  •  Struggle to find your unique voice or tribe as a yoga teacher or leader.

  • Are passionate about the physical, mental and emotional benefits of yoga for women.

  • Want to integrate feminine yoga practices into your birth, baby, or women's wellness work.

  • Want to become a better wellness leader by using the YogaBellies Sadhana to structure your offering and be able to create client yoga prescriptions, for female life stages and conditions

  • Are ready to be seen as an expert in the field of feminine yoga.

  • Want to gain confidence in your yoga teaching or therapy/coaching practice.

  • Don't know how to take your yoga business to the next level.

  • Are seeking a like-minded community of women supporting women

  • Are ready to make a life-changing impact on your female clients and students.

Being part of YogaBellies® means that you're connected with an amazing global network of like-minded women, who want to support you and won’t judge you – because they’re right where you are too. It’s about waking up to the value of women supporting women, bringing back sisterhood and ‘the village’ as something that is absolutely essential for our wellbeing.


A Beginners Guide to Teaching Pregnancy Yoga

Download our beginner's guide here for free

Download Now

EMPOWER-300 YOGA TEACHER TRAINING IS ACCREDITED BY:


  • SPECIALIST WOMEN'S YOGA TEACHER TRAINING

  • PERSONAL EMPOWERMENT & FACILITATION SKILLS

  • WELLNESS BUSINESS STRATEGY & PLANNING

Watch Intro Video

Watch Cheryl Teaching Yoga

On ITV's This Morning

On Completion of EMPOWER 300-Hr YTT You:

  • Will understand your true calling as a yoga teacher; have overcome any blocks and have a long-term personal and professional plan for your yoga business;

  • You will be qualified to teach yoga for the phases of the menstrual cycle and female-related issues;

  • Yoga for Pregnancy and Childbirth;

  • Post-Natal Yoga for Mum and Baby Yoga;

  • Yoga for the Phases of Menopause;

  • Have a range of proven technical, marketing, social media and networking skills for your yoga business. You will be taught personally by the founder of YogaBellies global women's yoga collective, from her own skills and experience.

  • Please see individual mini-course/modules for the exact curriculum details of each module.



WHAT YOGABELLIES ALUMNI ARE SAYING





“I trained with YogaBellies in Scotland as I wanted to train to be a yoga teacher but also get the work-life balance. YogaBellies taught me how to set up and run a successful yoga business whilst watching my baby grow up. 


After teaching YogaBellies in Glasgow, I grew my own successful yoga business in Dubai when I moved,  making use of the YogaBellies techniques and classes. YogaBellies is more than just yoga teacher training. It teaches you business and life skills and most importantly you are part of a community of women all with the same goal, not competing with each other but helping each other succeed. "



Ellie Higgins,  
The OM Moms
Club Dubai
  



“After seeing a Facebook advert for YogaBellies in 2012 (and having an obvious interest in pre & postnatal yoga) I reached out to Cheryl and immediately knew it was the right training course for me. 


In the last 9 years, I’ve assisted more than 500 women on their pre & postnatal journeys or helped them to balance body & mind using YogaBellies practices and classes. I love how YogaBellies empowers women at every life stage, builds lasting friendships, and allows our teachers to create a fantastic work/life balance...


I’ve witnessed the course content growing from strength to strength in this time and have learned so much. I’d say that our USP is the incredible business and marketing training which goes hand in hand with our teacher training courses. That and the fantastic knowledge you’ll gain in feminine self-care to either empower you personally and/or for you to share with your students. YogaBellies Teacher training courses provide you with all the tools you need for a lifestyle transformation, enabling you to be the best version of yourself!”


Siobhan Hencher, 
The Wellbeing Circle,
Stirling Scotland


Want to know more?

Click here to be sent more information

Sign up NOW for EMPOWER 2022

Begin live lessons in August 2022 but access all of your online resources now

Get started now

More Testimonials

What EMPOWER Students Have Said About The Course

"In the past I have enjoyed yoga (asana) meditation, eating well, reading, podcasts, and self-care and insight into the self. Following postnatal depression, these were the things that pulled me out of it in the end, not the antidepressants prescribed. After learning about the 5 doshas, I realize all of these practices were part of the yogic lifestyle. I've found all the different aspects of this course so interesting so far. The Vikalpha section made me cry, in a good way. When you asked us “Who do you want to be”

I am already starting to see how this course can help me feel more 'empowered' as a woman, to honour all the different aspects of being female. This course is helping me gain confidence. In your handbook you talk about 'Yogabellies does not promote a flat belly and welcomes all the natural curves of a woman' This is my Vikalpha, my self-doubt. Something that may seem so insignificant to some people but which has haunted me for years. Having IBS especially and gaining weight after two kids, means I most likely will always have a round, bloated belly. I have often hidden myself away, turning down social events and only daring to dream that I could be a yoga teacher. 

This course is allowing me to think that as women we go through so many stages in our lives, and our 'bellies' are part of that :-) I am starting to learn to honour myself, to honour my body and it's this course that is helping me to heal :-) I definitely want to try and incorporate this idea into my business as it feels authentic to me."


"The content is absolutely amazing, so much information. I feel like I am learning way more than I ever realized I could!"


"I really like how you have set it out on the website, so I can keep dipping in and out when I have an hour or two free. Sometimes I literally manage one of your videos a day but I can clearly see where I'm at and keep writing notes on which section to do next."


"Gaining a better understanding of my own self in line with the lunar cycle and seasons, and now aiming to incorporate the affirmations and yoga practices in line with my natural cycle by listening to my emotions and body more instinctively to allow it to rest and recover when necessary, to just be, taking more me time and also accepting the different stages and cycles and allowing them to flow without resistance.

Really enjoyed this module, and also feel it has allowed the group to share real personal experiences with each other developing a real supportive sense of community in the course."


"Really enjoyed the practical aspect via the live yoga practice and also the videos provided with yoga asanas for menstruation and the luna class videos from the various yb teachers, to see how different teachers deliver the classes in their own style. Also the handy modifications list in the manual for menopause is a great reference to have at hand. Theoretical content - again a great breadth of information and ties in nicely with the yoga life journal."


YogaBellies helped me make a sustainable career of teaching yoga, and it offers this within a community of strong independent kind and intelligent women. I trained with YogaBellies in 2011 and after a period of illness, I'm back on board! 

— Sharon Osu,  E14 Yoga Coach, Docklands London

200-hour Yoga Teacher Certification IS NOT REQUIRED.

All yogis are welcome on this beautiful journey! Choose your specialist EMPOWER Module to study

The EMPOWER Programme Will Help You:

  • Live your dream life as a yoga teacher that's earning a sustainable incoming and exceeding their personal wellness and career goals

  • Uncover your optimal personal health so that you have the energy, vitality and motivation to help other women do the same

  • Discover what you REALLY want from life and help you get there - on the yoga mat; in your personal life and in business

  • Fully support female clients through pregnancy, post-partum with baby, menstrual issues and menopause

  • Understand why yoga has special benefits for women (that benefits us off the yoga mat too!)

  • Explore ways in which yoga can help alleviate and treat female-specific medical conditions

  • Learn how to live in alignment with our natural cycles and nature, in our yoga practice and in our daily lives

  • Discover what a woman's yoga practice needs to look like and why the BAP’s (back, abs and pelvic floor) are central to a woman’s wellness throughout life.

  • Take all of this expert knowledge and learn how to create an ethical and profitable business model that fully serves you and your clients' needs

  • Use everything you learn in EMPOWER™ to burst through any blocks, exceed your goals and absolutely live your best life!

Katieanne Duncan-Bruce

EMPOWER Student Testimonial

"Hi, I’m Katie! Over the past 6 months I have been undertaking a 300 Hour Yoga Alliance International accredited Women’s Yoga and Empowerment Teacher Training called ‘Empower’.

My background is in the Entertainment industry and I have over a decade of professional experience. Holding a BA(Hons) in Dance, I have worked around the world as a performer as well as various production and management roles. 

 

However, the proudest yet most significant moment of my life was the birth of my identical twin boys Alfie & Charlie. 

 

The challenges I faced physically and mentally during and after my multiple pregnancies are what drove me to become a yoga teacher.  Following my C-Section, I needed a further 2 abdominal surgeries.  This saw me dig into the depths of my physical and mental health. I was working full time as a Dance Teacher & Team Leader in the Central Belt of Scotland.  I loved it but thought about expanding my repertoire and had always taken an interest in yoga.  

 

Intuitively, it felt like the correct step to seek out this opportunity and at the perfect time – after relocating to my hometown in the North East of Scotland after 17 years away.   

 

I had heard about Yogabellies many years ago and saw Cheryl & Mike on Dragon’s Den.  I was inspired about the business model and had been following them for a while.  When I saw ‘Empower’ advertised I looked into it and immediately knew I wanted to add another string to the bow.   I wanted to invest in good quality training and the programme was unlike anything I’d ever seen before.  The timing was perfect for me! With the course being delivered online, it enabled live interaction with Cheryl from Singapore and other Senior Yogabellies Teachers from across the globe.  The final module – Soulful Entrepreneur: Business, Branding, Leadership & Productivity was my favourite. Having Cheryl as a mentor all the way through has been so inspiring and really invaluable.  She is so knowledgeable, welcoming and down to earth – a fantastic role model.  The training included assignments and assessments, practice teaching, yoga teaching video submissions, modules quizzes, regular yoga practice, completing a reading list and actively working on my personal Empower plan.   

 

I have learned so much during these past 6 months and can’t wait to get started with my plans.  I feel confident in what I have learned so far and I’m excited about the future! I hope to start a range of Yogabellies classes in my area as well as launching my own business offering workshops fused with dance and yoga later this year.   

  

I am truly grateful for the experiences and destinations my career has taken me and look forward to this next chapter of my journey. My twin boys are what have shaped me into the person I want to be today and I hope my experiences are what will help my future clients."

HOW DOES EMPOWER TRAINING WORK?

Having had some pretty deplorable 'online' training experiences myself, I wanted to make sure the EMPOWER provided as much as an in-person training BUT with the added benefits of having lifetime access to the resources and access them in your own time.


How is the EMPOWER Training Delivered?

THE EMPOWER PLAN

At the beginning of your training, we help you identify what you really want from your life - personally and professionally - and we use this as a guiding tool to make sure you get exactly what you need from the training.

LIVE AND INTERACTIVE SESSIONS

EMPOWER is a combination of live (or live online) yoga teacher training and guest expert sessions (including Cardiologists, Weight Management Specialists, Physiotherapists and Female Sexuality Coaches); live mentoring sessions with myself; live coaching sessions with your appointed Senior Yoga Teacher Mentor and daily interaction in our online forum with the YB team and your peers. Every week of training you will be engaged in a combination of these training sessions with home study too. We're constantly interacting with you to make sure you're on track throughout the training and if you can't make a session you can access it later in your own time.

HANDBOOKS AND CLASS PLANS

In addition to this, you have access to complete handbooks for each module; a full YogaBellies Asana Manual; adaptions for each female life stage and condition and more. You'll also be provided with pre-written YogaBellies class plans if you chose to become a licensed teacher.

ONLINE LEARNING

We provide over 30 hours of live YogaBellies class videos for your review and learning; 60 hours of lecture and asana break down videos, all of which you have lifetime access to and can watch at a time to suit. We even give you my hormone-balancing recipe book and meal plans for you to use personally throughout your EMPOWER journey!

ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT

If you wish to gain the 300-Hour Qualification, there are various criteria that need to be met including practice teaching; yoga teaching video submissions; modules quiz; Keeping a yoga practice and menstrual/moon cycle log; a reading list to complete and actively working on your personal EMPOWER plan.


Want to know more about YogaBellies Teacher Training?



EMPOWER Course Curriculum

A detailed breakdown of your training

  1. 1

    • Welcome!

    • Track Your Unique Journey

    • How to Master the EMPOWER Journey
  2. 2

    • Welcome!

    • Module 1 Handbook

    • The YogaBellies Sadhana

    • An Overview of the Koshas

    • SENSE: Yogaroma

    • SENSE: Nada Yoga and Sacred Sound

    • The Sadhana: BREATHE

    • BREATHE: The Respiratory Diaphragm

    • The Sadhana: MOVE

    • MOVE: YogaBellies Asana Manual

    • MOVE: Asana Categories

    • MOVE: Cheryl's Overview of the 29 Asana

    • MOVE: The 29 YogaBellies Asana Individual Instructional Videos

    • The Sadhana: SLEEP

    • Living Your Yoga: An Introduction to Ayurveda and Doshas

    • Yoga for Dosha Balancing

    • Ayurvedic Diet and Lifestyle

    • Vikalpas and Releasing Your Limiting Beliefs

    • Session Replay Video: Luna Class with SYT Siobhan

    • Further Study and Reflection

    • Assessment Module 1

    • Module 1 Exam Discussion

    • Module 1 Feedback Form

    • EMPOWER LIVE Module 1 Day 1

    • EMPOWER LIVE Module 1 Day 2

    • EMPOWER Live Recap with Cheryl

    • SYT YogaBellies Live Class Practice
  3. 3

    • Welcome!

    • Module 2 Seasons and Cycles Handbook

    • Webinar Replay: Why The Right Yoga Practice Has Extra Benefits for Women

    • HERStory and The Triple Goddess

    • Quiz: Which Goddess Archetype Do You Embody?

    • Menstrual Physiology

    • Is Your Menstrual Cycle Normal? Quiz

    • Female Monthly Cycles and The Moon

    • The Menstrual Cycle: An overview of the physical, spiritual and archetypal meanings of your cycle

    • Syncing Your Menstrual Cycle with The Lunar Cycle

    • Charting the Eleven Moon Centres

    • Yoga Throughout the Stages of the Menstrual Cycle: Walk through of the Asana

    • Asana Modifications and Recommendations Throughout the Menstrual Cycle

    • Yoga and Self-Care During Menstruation

    • Adapting Your Yoga Practice Throughout the Month: Additional Pointers

    • Quick Reference: Modifications for The Menstrual Cycle

    • YogaBellies Seed Cycling Cheat Sheet

    • Yin & Yang

    • An Introduction to Seasonal Yoga

    • Seasonal Yoga

    • The Wheel of the Year

    • Solstices

    • Adapting Your Yoga Practice By The Wheel of The Year

    • What Is Luna by YogaBellies?

    • Luna by YogaBellies

    • Luna

    • Watch Live YogaBellies LUNA Classes in Action

    • Assessment Module 2

    • OMwork, further reflection and study

    • Module 2 Feedback Form

    • EMPOWER LIVE Module 2 Day 1

    • EMPOWER LIVE Module 2 Day 2

    • EMPOWER Modules 1 and 2: Video of Live Recap with Cheryl
  4. 4

    • Welcome!

    • Module 3 Handbook

    • The Power of Menopause

    • Is This Menopause?

    • What Are Hormones and How Yoga Can Help to Balance Them

    • Yoga Practices to Stimulate the Endocrine System and Impact Hormones

    • Are You Suffering From (Peri) Menopause Symptoms?

    • Is Hormone Testing Necessary? (video)

    • YogaBellies Guide to Hormone Testing - Everything you need to know in a Handbook

    • Why Yoga Is So Incredible As Women Age

    • The Stages of Menopause and What Happens

    • The YogaBellies Sadhana for The Stages of Menopause

    • Therapeutic Asana and Modifications for Menopause with Kim

    • Reference Table: Yoga for Menopause Asana Modifications and Recommendations

    • Yoga Throughout Menopause

    • Common Female Conditions

    • Common Female Conditions Presentation

    • Female Anatomy and Pysiology

    • All About the BAPs (Back, Abs and Pelvic Floor)

    • The Core and Back

    • Embracing a Hormone Healthy Lifestyle: Endocrine Disruptors and Eating for Hormonal Health

    • Herbal Remedies and Supplements for Menopause

    • Aromatherapy for Menopause

    • GUEST SPEAKER REPLAY: DR MIKE MACDONALD: A Cardiologist Guide to Longevity and Wellness in Women

    • CorePlay Live Practice Session with SYT Ellie

    • Watch LIVE CorePlay Classes in Action

    • Assessment Module 3

    • OMWork and Further Reflections

    • Module 3 Exam Discussion with SYT Tara

    • Module 3 Recap with Cheryl

    • EMPOWER LIVE Module 3 Day 1

    • EMPOWER LIVE Module 3 Day 2

    • EMPOWER Live Recap with Cheryl

    • SYT YogaBellies Live Class Practice

    • GUEST SPEAKER LIVE: DR MIKE MACDONALD: A CARDIOLOGISTS GUIDE TO LONGEVITY AND WELLNESS IN WOMEN

    • Module 3 Exam Discussion

    • EMPOWER Live Recap with Cheryl

    • Module 3 Feedback Form
  5. 5

    • Welcome!

    • Module 4 Handbook

    • The Female Reproductive System

    • Overview of The Trimesters of Pregnancy

    • Contraindictions for Exercise in Pregnancy

    • Pre-existing Health Conditions and Pregnancy

    • An Introduction to Yoga and Pregnancy

    • SENSE in Pregnancy

    • BREATHE: Pranayama for Pregnancy and Birth

    • BREATHE: YogaBellies Breathing Practices for Pregnancy and Birth (videos)

    • MOVE: Practice Considerations Through The Trimesters of Pregnancy

    • MOVE: Adapting Your Yoga Practice During Pregnancy

    • MOVE: Therapeutic Asana and Modifications for Pregnancy

    • MOVE: YogaBellies for Pregnancy DVD Sequence Breakdown

    • MOVE: Asanas for Pregnancy Modifications: Quick Reference Guide

    • MOVE: Checking for Diastasis Recti (video)

    • MOVE: YogaBellies for the Pelvic Floor

    • MOVE: YogaBellies Pregnancy Yoga Sequences Quick Reference

    • SLEEP: Deep Relaxation in Pregnancy

    • Holistic Remedies for Common Pregnancy Complaints

    • BIRTH: YogaBellies Guide to Birth Preparation

    • BIRTH: Preparing for Birth (video)

    • BIRTH: Alternative Wellness Trends in Pregnancy and Birthing

    • Module 4 Live Recap with Cheryl

    • Module 4 Exam Discussion

    • Watch YogaBellies for Pregnancy Live Class Videos

    • EMPOWER LIVE Module 4 Day 1

    • SYT YogaBellies Class Practice

    • EMPOWER LIVE Module 4 Day 2

    • EMPOWER Live Recap with Cheryl

    • Assessment Module 4

    • OM Work and Further Reflections

    • Module 4 Feedback Form
  6. 6

    • Welcome!

    • Module 5 Handbook

    • YogaBellies for Mum & Baby: Sense, Breathe and Sleep

    • Postpartum Recovery and The BAP's

    • Post-partum Physiology

    • Postpartum Yoga Benefits and Contraindications

    • BREATHE: Post-Natal Pranayama

    • MOVE: Teaching YogaBellies for Mum & Baby and Class Walkthrough

    • MOVE: Yoga for Mum (Post-Partum Yoga)

    • MOVE: Post-Natal Asana Modifications and Recommendations with SYT Ellie PART 1

    • MOVE: YogaBellies Post-Natal Asana Modifications and Recommendations with SYT Siobhan PART 2

    • MOVE: Post-Natal Asana Modifications and Recommendations

    • MOVE: YogaBellies Postpartum Modifications Quick Reference Table

    • Working with Newborns

    • Teaching Baby Yoga

    • Baby Yoga

    • NURTURE: About NURTURE

    • NURTURE: Traditional Post-Partum Care of the Mother

    • NURTURE: Mama Massage - How To Do It

    • NURTURE: Teaching NURTURE

    • NURTURE: YogaBellies Baby Massage Instructor Training

    • NURTURE: YogaBellies Baby Massage Postures Video Demonstrations

    • Watch Live NURTURE Class Recordings: YogaBellies Baby Massage

    • Watch Live YogaBellies for Mum & Baby Class Videos

    • Mother and Child Lecture Sessions and Class Walkthrough

    • Session Replay Video: Live Class with SYT Siobhan

    • MOVE: YogaBellies Post-Natal Asana Modifications and Recommendations with Siobhan PART 2

    • Module 5 Recap with Cheryl

    • Module 5 Exam Discussion with SYT Tara

    • Mum & Baby Class with SYT Tara

    • YogaBellies Class Run Through with SYT Ellie

    • Guest Speaker Joanne Shaw Physio: Exercise and Activity to Optimize Every Female Life Stage

    • EMPOWER LIVE Module 5 Day 1

    • EMPOWER LIVE Module 5 Day 2

    • EMPOWER LIVE module 5 Day 3 Working with Newborns with SYT Kim

    • EMPOWER LIVE Module 5 Day 4 - Baby Yoga with SYT Tara

    • EMPOWER Live Teaching Session with Tara

    • SYT YogaBellies Live Class Practice with Ellie

    • EMPOWER Live Recap with Cheryl

    • Module 5 Exam Discussion

    • Assessment Module 5

    • OMwork, further reflection and study

    • Module 5 Feedback Form
  7. 7

    • Welcome!

    • Module 6 Handbook 1

    • Module 6 Handbook 2

    • Cheryl's Business Roladex

    • Who Are You Anyway?

    • Your Client, Your Brand

    • Consistency Counts

    • Offerings and Selling as a Yoga Teacher

    • Authenticity + Transparency Are the Key to a Beautiful Brand

    • Creating Your Yoga Business Funnel: Cha Ching! Automated Offer Funnels Sending Cash While You Plan

    • Writing Your Yoga Teacher Bio

    • Creating a Lead Magnet: 21 Easy Freebies that Convert

    • Webinar with Cheryl: How to Build a Niche Yoga Business from Scratch

    • EXPRESS YOURSELF: UNAPOLOGETIC MESSAGING, CREATION AND SELLING FOR YOGA TEACHERS

    • SYT Live Class Practice with TARA

    • Module 6 Live Recap with Cheryl

    • Module 6 Exam Discussion with SYT Ellie

    • Assessment Module 6

    • EMPOWER LIVE Module 6 Day 1

    • EMPOWER LIVE Module 6 Day 2

    • SYT YogaBellies Live Class Practice

    • EMPOWER Live Recap with Cheryl

    • Module 6 Exam Discussion

    • EMPOWER Live Recap with Cheryl

    • LIVE DISCUSSION OF EMPOWER PLAN

    • GRADUATION CEREMONY

    • Module 6 Feedback Form
  8. 8

    • Female Anatomy & Physiology

    • The Female Reproductive System

    • All About the BAPs (Back, Abs and Pelvic Floor)

    • BAPs (Back, Abs and Pelvic Floor)

    • The Core and Back

    • YogaBellies for the Pelvic Floor

    • Working with Common Female Conditions

    • The Biggest Health Threats to Women
  9. 9

    • YogaBellies Hormone Testing Handbook for Women

    • Natural Remedies for Hormonal Imbalance in Women

    • Herbs and Supplements for Hormonal Balance

    • Embracing Smoothies for Healthy Living and Hormonal Balance: Video

    • YogaBellies Hormone Balancing Recipe Book

    • YogaBellies 3-Day Hormone Balancing Reset

    • Why Yoni Steaming Will Change Your Life

    • Why Our Vaginas Need Yoga Too: Yoni Eggs and Ancient Sacred Practices
  10. 10

    • Your EMPOWER Live Training Schedule

    • Reading and Teaching Kit Lists

    • An Overview of Your Attendance and Assignments

    • Becoming a Licensed YogaBellies Teacher

    • Want to Become a YogaBellies Ambassador?

FAQs

Where will the training take place?

The training will run over 6 months beginning every August for 6 months. Cheryl will be teaching the training LIVE from Singapore but it will be available worldwide, with EMPOWER trainees joining us from the UK, Australia and Europe too! All sessions will also be recorded and professionally edited into bite-size chunks, so that you can take part in the training wherever you are in the world, at a time to suit you. You will also have lifetime access so you can refer back to the training whenever you like. Please click on the SIGN-UP link to check out dates of individual modules/mini-courses.

Applications for the YTT-300 are now closed for 2021: Can I still join the mini-courses?

Yes! The EMPOWER 300-Hour YTT is now closed for bookings for 2021. You can book now to begin in August 2022.

You can however join the individual modules which are specialist women's yoga mini-courses and accredited by Yoga Alliance International for a 50-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Qualification.

You will receive a downloadable certificate from YogaBellies on completion of each mini-course and these can also be counted as credits towards with 300-Hour EMPOWER YTT within 3 years. If you require a paper certificate you can request this from Yoga Alliance International. Please note installments are not available for mini-courses.

How do the 50-hour mini-courses work?

You can join the live sessions with the other EMPOWER students or you can choose to watch the recordings later and work through the course at your own pace. The full 50-hour courses are available online to study in your own time. To gain accreditation, you must complete the online assessment for the course. 

Can I teach yoga once I've completed a 50-hour course?

There is no legal standard for teaching yoga however, the generally accepted minimum standard is a minimum of 200 hours of yoga teacher training. Many of our students undertake individual mini-courses for personal development (for example, if they are pregnant or going through menopause) or add to working with clients in another area e.g. pilates or physiotherapy work. Whether you are ready to teach yoga is a personal decision you must make.

Do I have to be a yoga teacher or already have a 200 HR certification to take this training?

No! You do not need a foundational 200-hour yoga teacher training as a prerequisite before you do EMPOWER™. If you don't hold an existing qualification, we do recommend some additional reading, prep work and practice for you. We also offer an Introduction to Teaching Hatha Yoga supplementary course for non-yoga teachers. Think of a 200-hour qualification as a Bachelor's degree and a 300-hour as a Master's Degree. You can jump right in there, you'll just need to fill in the blanks, which we will help you to do.

However, if you wish to pursue a Yoga Alliance International 500-hour certification, you need to complete a 200-hour and advanced 300-hour training – both of which must be Yoga Alliance International certified or equivalent. Pilates teachers, midwives, physios, hypnobirthing, massage therapists, personal trainers and placenta encapsulators who've never taught yoga before are just some of the examples of women who undertake EMPOWER™ training.

What is a 300-hour Teacher Training?

Yogis, teachers, and wellness professionals who are serious about yoga (and want to deepen their knowledge and practice!) can choose to pursue advanced study after completing a foundational 200-hour yoga teacher training. The 300-hour yoga teacher training is the next step, certifying you as a coveted 500-hour Senior Teacher when you graduate.
Unlike most other 300HR training, which only covers yoga or yoga philosophy, our EMPOWER™ 300HR program is different.
We include in-depth training to help you understand the female body, mind and soul and our journey through the feminine life cycle, using yoga as our guiding tool. You will LIVE and embody the practices as you learn them so that everything you share with other women, you will have used yourself. The purpose of EMPOWER™ is to help you live your best life and to enable other women to do this too. This helps differentiate your yoga teaching expertise, add more value and ultimately make more money.
Plus, Cheryl teaches an entire module to help you learn to grow your yoga or wellness business, having done it first hand herself. 

What's the difference between the 200-hour and EMPOWER teacher training?

This is a question I get asked a lot! Traditionally, a 200-hour YTT qualification is the base required qualification to teach hatha yoga. The 300-hour qualification is usually for those who hold a 200-hour qualification already and want to dive deeper into yoga specializations, such as yoga for Menopause or Pregnancy. A 300-hour course also dives deeper into integrating yoga practices and methods into your own life for personal transformation. I always think the best way to describe this is to think of a 200-hour qualification as a Bachelors' Degree and to think of the 300-hours as a Master's Degree.

Our 200-hour YogaBellies Teacher Training covers specific women-focused yoga.

Who should take the CYT 200-hour training?

•    You don’t hold any other yoga teaching qualification

•    You want to be able to complete all of your studies online without deadlines or time commitments of live sessions

•    You want to be able to dip in and out of your studies and specific teaching styles (e.g. pregnancy and postpartum) as it suits you

•    You want to ensure you have a solid grounding in the basics of yoga terminology, philosophy, and anatomy.

•    You can to get qualified as quickly as possible and have everything at your fingertips

Who should take the 300-hour EMPOWER training?

•    Those who already hold a 200-hour yoga teaching qualification or

•    Midwives, teachers, chiropractors, doulas who wish to incorporate yoga practices for women into their work, without necessarily teaching yoga classes or

•    Serious yoga practitioners who want to dive into a journey of self-exploration, embodying the yoga practices they learn and empowering themselves throughout life

•    You want to dive deeply into each area of women's yoga or have a specialist interest in one area

•    If you are looking to complete your studies over a 6 month period and can commit to live online teaching and mentoring sessions, with Cheryl and her team of Senior YogaBellies Teachers

Will I receive a certificate upon completing this training?

Yes! You will be eligible to receive a dual Yoga Alliance International 300-hour certificate and our EMPOWER™ certification and approved by the World Yoga Federation. If you hold a Yoga Alliance 200-hour qualification already, you can also apply for the 85-hour RPYS (registered prenatal yoga teacher) qualification - you must complete the pre and postnatal modules to gain this.

If you join the individual modules, the specialist women's yoga mini-courses are accredited by Yoga Alliance International for a 50-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Qualification.

You will receive a certificate from YAI on completion of each mini-course and these can also be counted as credits towards with 300-Hour EMPOWER YTT within 3 years. Please note installments are not available for mini-courses.

Can I take this course if I live in a different time zone? What if I have a full-time job?

Yes! One of the main benefits of online yoga certification and training is that anyone can make it work with their own circumstances - we have students attending from the UK, Australia, Dubai and Singapore already!

Will I have one-on-one access to Cheryl?

You will have in-depth personal guidance through our Mentorship program with your assigned Senior YogaBellies Teacher mentor. Cheryl also leads her group work and teaching sessions live from Singapore and also during the monthly 'deep dive' calls where you can “jump into the hot seat” for personal coaching. There will also be expert guest speakers including Medics, Physiotherapists and Female Sexuality Coaches.

Is online training effective?

Yes! I love online training and I believe it’s a wonderfully accessible way to earn your Yoga Alliance International 300-hour Certification. It is profound how much transmission can come through online.
We use a combination of live and pre-recorded training for a genuinely one-of-a-kind, immersive experience. We will also all be “together” online for the group calls taught by Cheryl and the Senior YogaBellies teachers.
Plus, unlike in-person training, online training also offers you the unique opportunity to revisit any sessions you like at any time you like!
Finally, online learning allows you to earn your 300HR certification at a fraction of the cost of in-person training — there’s no overhead for your meals, travel, accommodations and we are able to offer the same curriculum at a fraction of the cost.

How much does the EMPOWER™ programme cost?

The standard early bird price is then GBP2519, available until the end of June 2021. The full program price is then GBP2997). The price is the same for live and online training and includes lifetime access to all online course materials. 

Can I sign up for individual modules?

Yes! Each module is  (GBP499) each. Installments are not available for modules.

Can I pay in installments?

Yes! You can pay for the full 300-hour programme over 4 installments, with first installment due on signup.

Early bird: 4 payments of GBP629.75 (USD875)

Full price: 4 payments of GBP719.75 (USD1000)

Is there an alumni rate if I've already completed the YogaBellies 200-hour training?

Absolutely! You will be able to undertake this 300-hour training at 50% of the listed price. If you've completed our 200-hour training, you will also be eligible to apply for Yoga Alliance International, 500 Hour Teacher Accreditation. *Applies to 2021 training only.

Can I start teaching YogaBellies branded classes and be listed on their website?

Yes! On completion of our 200 or 300-hour courses, you can apply to become a Licensed YogaBellies Teacher, meaning you will have your own mini-site on www.yogabellies.com, where you can list your classes and be instantly searchable worldwide. You will also have ongoing access to our International Teachers Lounge for support on your yoga journey, use of our pre-written class plans, social media templates, business tools and brand exposure. Becoming a licensed teacher is completely optional and application is no guarantee of approval.

Is YogaBellies a franchise?

No, we no longer offer a franchise model. YogaBellies now offers stand-alone yoga teacher training for all women and practitioners, with no obligatory fees, restrictions, or ongoing commitments. 

There is also an optional opportunity to become a LIcensed YogaBellies Teacher, where you can teach our branded class plans and be listed and searchable on our website. There is no obligation to do so and you can do this, even if you currently have your own yoga business, e.g. OM Mums Club, Dubai is listed on our website as having been trained by YogaBellies and practicing the methods.

Become a Licensed YogaBellies Teacher:

  • £2,999.00 first payment, £500.00 / year onwards

    £2,999.00 first payment, £500.00 / year onwardsEMPOWER 300 YTT and Licence

    Buy Now

  • £2,999.00 first payment, £50.00 / month onwards

    £2,999.00 first payment, £50.00 / month onwardsEMPOWER 300 YTT and Licence

    Buy Now

  • £2,499.00

    £2,499.00Empower and Yoga Teaching Foundations

    Buy Now