If you are reading this, then perhaps you are thinking, pondering, questioning the idea of pursuing some form of Yoga Teacher Training. I welcome you during this pivotal time, and send you warm and healing energy. I must also say that you have come to the right place. And I am happy you are thinking about joining the Devvrat Yoga Sangha for your yoga teacher training journey.
A faithful leap into the unknown
Early in 2026, my heart was in a similar place as yours: Questioning my life and wondering what was next, where was I going? I started to research yoga training programs outside of the United States, my home country. I was eager to leave, hungry for something challenging and deep. The thought of venturing to India was a seed planted in my mind, that began to sprout and bloom. Yet, there were so many training programs to choose from. How to know which space was to be my new home? As you may know, there are many offerings in Northern India, the home place of yoga. This appealed to me, but when I saw the opportunity to be in Varkala Beach, near the ocean, in a lush environment, I knew that the Devvrat Sangha was for me. And I am so relieved I made this decision!
Varkala: the best place for a Yoga Teacher Training
Kerala is a special place- the only communist state in India. It is so welcoming, kind, and stunning. Far different from other parts of India thanks to its dramatic cliffs dropping into the Arabian Sea, the rich Malabar Coast the exquisite culture, and the vast expanse of sea that surrounds the coastal cities. I was unaware of all of this before I arrived in Kerala, and after arriving in Trivandrum, my taxi carefully drove me to the Devvrat school in Varkala Beach, and I learned just how special this place was.
I was pleasantly surprised to be welcomed into this huge house that was the 300H Yoga Teacher Training Campus, the sweet dogs, a gentle group of house staff, and smiles. I wandered around my first day solo, exploring the cliffs, sweating in the humid sun, and sipping coffee at the local cafes. It was truly a dream. I was shocked this place was not more spoken of!
Varkala Beach is a sacred place for Hindus, especially at Papanasam Beach, meaning ‘Destroyer of Sins.’ And this is evident as you walk around, hearing the bells and fireworks from the Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple, and feel the power of the earth as you step on the sands of the beaches.
Life at Devvrat Yoga Sangha: High quality classes, deep connections and unforgettable memories
This place became my home for a month, and it was one of the best decisions I ever made. The course was extraordinary, challenging me in every way possible. My body becoming nimble as the monsoon rains washed over the sky. Thunder roared as my mind ventured into deep mediation. My heart was full as I made new friends, laughter echoed in the house at night over our freshly cooked meals. The rotis were warm, the beds soft, and so much education, my mind was vibrating with joy.
I cannot recommend this 300H Yoga Teacher Training course enough. The gentle Hatha Flow in the mornings, learning new asanas and feeling the warmth of the sun as it rose. Late mornings were spent diving deep into anatomy, philosophy, alignment, and teaching methods. Delicious meals served by the wonderful staff all throughout the day. I felt so at home here. Our late afternoons were met by a challenging Ashtanga practice, followed by a gentle meditation as the sun went to sleep.
So much chanting, learning Sanskrit, and moments of joy. The aroma of incense will forever remind me of this special time in the yoga shala. Then a lovely dinner, and relaxing time with friends and books.
The course was intensive, which I loved, carefully pouring knowledge into my mind and soul, promoting some much-needed spiritual growth. Our Sundays were off, and we had time to explore the cliffs, swim in the ocean, sip coffee, ride tuk tuks all over, and evening dinners together. I was truly graced by some amazing people, and I cannot thank the Devvrat Yoga Sangha enough for this experience.
If you want to do a teacher training, read this
I left Varkala Beach teeming with wisdom, I was a new person, I felt fresh, ready, eager to go out into the world and spread my knowledge. I know I can always return to Varkala in my heart when I have moments of darkness, to remind myself of the lessons of Yoga, concentration, meditation, breath, and reuniting with my true self.
If you need a sign or a message from the universe, I hope this can be that for you. I wish you all
the best on your yoga journey.
With love,
Michaela Tomchek