Gentle Yoga Therapy Guidebook for the Low Back, Knees and Hips

Gentle Yoga Therapy Guidebook for the Low Back, Knees and Hips

$29.95

 by Justine Shelton, E-RYT and AVI-Certified Viniyoga Therapist

Comprehensive Guidebook for Healthy Low Back, Hips and Knees. Includes over 40 poses, therapeutic modifications and teaching instructions. Companion Book to Justine’s Healthy Low Back DVD and Healthy Knees and Hips DVD.

Download Manual: $29.95

 

SKU: Manual-590-Therapy-BackKneesHips Category:

Includes over 40 poses on the Gentle Yoga for a Healthy Low Back DVD and Gentle Yoga for Healthy Knees and Hips DVD. Plus therapeutic modifications and teaching instructions.

Details

Developed and Illustrated by  Justine Shelton, E-RYT500 and Certified Viniyoga Therapist 

Comprehensive Guidebook for Healthy Low Back, Hips and Knees. Includes over 40 poses, therapeutic modifications and teaching instructions. Companion Book to Justine’s Healthy Low Back DVD and Healthy Knees and Hips DVD.

Table of Contents

Justine’s first DVD series focused on the Low Back, Hips and Knees and received rave reviews from the Yoga Journal for their thoroughness and therapeutic approach. This manual is the companion to these DVDs and contain all the poses with photos, descriptions, instructions and modifications.  A great resource for Yoga Teachers!
  • Gentle Yoga Therapy Poses for the Low Back
  • Gentle Yoga Therapy Poses for Knees
  • Gentle Yoga Therapy Poses for the Hips
  • Anatomy 101: Basic Anatomy for Yoga Teachers

More Information

Sneak Peek!

Here are some sample pages of this Manual so you can see the level of detail provided in each and every one of our Teacher Training Manuals.  No need to take notes… we do that for you!

Study with Justine!

Justine Shelton, Certified Yoga Therapist, shares a wealth of information in her online Workshops and in her in-depth Certification Programs.

Testimonials

Peggy M.

Chair Yoga Teacher

I’ve reached out to you before as I’ve found your style in leading chair yoga classes very forward thinking! I do a lot of program testing and development for MOSSA and I like how you focus on just getting people to move better to enhance activities of daily living – very much what we focus on these days!


Vicki Salisbury

Vicki Salisbury

Wynnum (Brisbane), Queensland | Australia

I have gotten so much out of your course and you have helped me find my personal “why”.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Certified

Edith Mildner

Edith Mildner

Winterberg | Germany

After my training in Wheelchair Yoga, Chair Yoga & Gentle Yoga, I have now completed the Corporate Yoga Program (yogavista is addicting 😉).
It was wonderful again how Sherry passed on her knowledge! Together with the chair yoga program, the content for corporate yoga was expanded.
All the information from the various training courses complement each other so wonderfully! I am very sure that I can now also offer corporate yoga classes.
Thank you so much Sherry!!


Chair Yoga Dance - TrainedChair Yoga TrainedCorporate Yoga TrainedGentle Yoga TrainedLow Back TrainedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Christine Nagy, San Diego, California, USA

Yoga Teacher

What I like most about Yoga Vista is the quality and authenticity of your teaching, the teaching staff (Sherry, of course) and the variety of classes. Yoga Vista is fun (and funny), friendly, and accessible online which is huge for those of us that cannot make it into the studio or any studio!

I am now on permanent disability and was a former yoga teacher for seniors. I feel as if I am in class at home and not missing out. Thank you for connecting with ALL of us! Much appreciated for everything you do!


Sheryl S., White Bear Township, Minnesota, USA

Chair Yoga Teacher

I thought it was fantastic. Thank you so much for making learning fun. I love the new jingle bell dance and I’m looking forward to to trying it out in my Friday assisted living class. I think they will be able to handle it and really enjoy it.


Katie Brandes

Katie Brandes

Gainesville, Florida | United States

I love Justine. And I love this course. Justine’s organization works the way my brain does. It just clicks. She teaches Yoga the same way I teach. I’ve had several “Aha!” moments in this course. Here is a big one. When Justine goes over Apanasana and Sciatica, she discussed doing one leg at a time, for several reasons. But the light bulb went off in my head. When I do Apanasana with both legs in, one leg hugs much closer than the other… and has for several years now (I know it didn’t used to). I never even stopped to think about how this relates to my back pain. I’m not acute right now, so I can practice all these moves safely. But I realized that this HUGE clue in Apanasana was pointing me to my trouble all along. Now I hug that leg in closer for several more breaths every morning. Then when I bring the other one in, Voila! They match! It’s so simple! I added this to my daily morning practice and I’m eager to see how it develops over the coming months. Thank you, Justine!


Chair Yoga CertifiedLow Back CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Marlene P., Santa Barbara, California, USA

Senior Yoga Teacher

I so enjoyed your workshop and feel so good that my ‘hunch’ about you from your online videos was right! You are an exceptional educator and mentor. I am so touched by how generous you are to share your pearls of wisdom and your many many movement ideas with such vast numbers of people. This quality speaks to the kind of person you are—sincere and completely lacking in any ego-driven need to be covetous of your work!


Marcia Falotico

Marcia Falotico

Palm Bay, Florida | United States

It was a great course, the lessons and videos where extremely well done. It is an Honor to be a graduate of Yoga Vista Academy.


Chair Yoga Certified

Anne G., Lexington, Kentucky, USA

Yoga Teacher

I opened one of the manuals last week in preparation for my chair yoga class. Your content is amazing! There is so much useful information and I appreciate all of your hard work and dedication to creating this program.


Lauren Hunt

Lauren Hunt

Ann Arbor, Michigan | United States

I loved the combined live mentoring program. I needed the structure of having a deadline every month to get through the material, and having a community of people to connect with and talk about the course and practice was really awesome. I don’t think I could have completed the course or got as much out of it otherwise. Peggy and all the women in the course were great. It was awesome getting to meet Sherry!


Chair Yoga Certified

Nina  Boswell Brown

Nina Boswell Brown

Bristol, North Somerset | United Kingdom

I just wanted to say how much I am enjoying the course! Thank you so much for encouraging me to go for it, I really am pleased I did! I have really enjoyed all of it so far and am loving learning more about our anatomy and conditions as we age. I find it fascinating how a subtle change to a pose or sequence can give different benefits. I am going through the course slowly and revisiting sections as I am new to yoga and there is a lot to learn… but I’m delighted by how many of the poses and sequences are feasible for me as a wheelchair user.


Chair Yoga TrainedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Olga Danilevich

Olga Danilevich

Toronto, Ontario | Canada

The course is so well thought through. I really love the methodology you used, the structure of this course, clear, step-by-step instructions. And it’s so inspiring! I believe and hope that many teachers will take this course and will spread joy and healing on all levels to many-many people!


Susan High

Susan High

Buckeye, Arizona | United States

Taking this class has given me a lot more confidence in my teaching. One other reason I took your course was to learn more about how to take care of myself. I am 63 (closer to 64) and have S-curve scoliosis that often gives me pain at L4-L5. Of course there are arthritic changes, too, and thinning discs. I thought it was great that your course offered a holistic approach and discussed anti-inflammatory supplements and topicals. Thank you again for everything. I really learned a lot, and I feel like I gained a friend.


Low Back Certified

Jeanine Faith

Jeanine Faith

Bend, Oregon | United States

I am not yet done, but I am enjoying the program very much. I think the thing that is different and that I like so much, is that it takes people where they’re at. I have gotten a little burnt out on the hard lines of strict Vinyasa flows. As we age it’s clear that limitations come up. Accepting them and staying positive seems key. You do such a wonderful job making the classes fun. I’m learning a lot just from your approach. Thanks for all your hard work!


Chair Yoga Certified

Lisa Johansson

Lisa Johansson

Peterborough, Ontario | Canada

I think that this was a fantastic format for taking this course. Having everything in bite-sized units made it seem like something that could be tackled via correspondence. Having video and text made sure that everything really made sense and sunk in. I so greatly admire the work that you all do that I am honoured to have taken this course.


Chair Yoga Certified

Linda Sala

Linda Sala

White Plains, New York | United States

The live mentoring component was invaluable. Viki is a highly skilled and effective instructor. She is extremely competent, and has a way about her that makes learning easy and fun. I found that her personal interaction with us was key to engagement in the program. In addition, Viki went above and beyond. She was extremely welcoming and supportive. She established relationships with the individuals in the class. She reached out to us with information, reminders, and follow ups. What was perhaps the most helpful, was Viki’s willingness to have us observe and participate in her chair yoga classes. Observing her teach provided an entirely different learning experience. For me, that was the most valuable learning lesson of them all.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Sharon Gaughan

Sharon Gaughan

Grayslake, Illinois | United States

I’m so very glad that I decided to take both the Chair Yoga and the Gentle Yoga teacher training courses! I can honestly say that I use something that I learned from these courses in every Chair Yoga class that I teach (and I teach 3-4 every week)! Both courses were so very full of information and ideas! Even though I’ve been teaching chair yoga (and occasionally subbing gentle yoga) for a few years, I learned so much from taking these courses! Thank you, Sherry (and Justine!) for all you’ve given me!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Becky Michalski

Becky Michalski

Anchorage, Alaska | United States

Justine’s ‘Gentle Yoga for Low Back’ training is phenomenal. Her in-depth knowledge of anatomy, skillful sequencing, and experience as a yoga therapist shines throughout the training. I came away from this training with the knowledge and confidence needed to teach individuals with low back conditions safely. Highly recommend it!


Low Back Certified

Zoran V., Slovenia

Currently Enrolled

I enjoy greatly in my Chair Yoga online courses. It changed, in many aspects, the way I see my own aging and also my ideas about sharing yoga with seniors.


Carol Daly

Carol Daly

Jackson Heights, New York | United States

Thank you for referring me to Bruce who hired me to work with his mother. I appreciate it!


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Certified

Jackie Currie, Avon Lake, Ohio, USA

Yoga Teacher

Your program has been priceless to me, and in turn my students. Just this morning I spoke to a lady about vertigo, a direct result of the program I watched on dizziness and vertigo. The resources and ideas have given me so many ideas, kickoffs, practices, and invaluable information to pass on and share. The Crown membership this past year was an excellent investment.


Karen Naids

Karen Naids

Concord, Maine | United States

I wish you had more courses. I have now taken all of them. Except for gentle yoga because there is alot of overlap. I think you guys are awesome. You have changed my path in my life. I am not going back to my nursing job because of you. I have been trying to figure out what I love for so long. I am, and always will be a nurse and I am finding that people love that I am a nurse and have gotten a few classes because of it!! So, a million thanks again. I know you are sick of me praising you, but you and Sherry have really changed my life!! Thank you again!!!


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Jeannette Brown

Jeannette Brown

Pico Rivera, California | United States

Thank you for your help and time. May I also take this opportunity to let you know that I really have learned a lot during this training. You have provided such a complete experience and I have truly enjoyed it.


Gentle Yoga Certified

Peggy Burcham

Peggy Burcham

Edmonton, Kentucky | United States

I have felt from the onset of the program that there was a real person that was available for support and guidance. I love the organization of the program! The online materials were easy to access, read and digest. I do appreciate the inherent redundancy in the chapters. This helps me remember concepts and asanas and to see their inter-relatedness. Thank you for offering this program! I know that I will use the written and online resources for years to come.


Chair Yoga Certified

Susan Rose, Sarasota, Florida, USA

Currently Enrolled

I just had to share with you, I did What a Wonderful World all week. The first time I did it was with my Assisted Living group, and I started crying during the song! It was so moving, and they really loved it! Thank you so much for what you have created.


Lorna F., Kansas, USA

Parent of Wheelchair Yogi

My daughter had spastic cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair exclusively. She just turned 20 and her school is trying to find “work” for her in our community as she transitions out of special education. Recent my daughter discovered you on YouTube and is an avid fan of your chair yoga. Her mobility specialist thought her interest in yoga, music, and how social she is might be something she could do for a “job”. In addition to the chair yoga being a huge benefit to my daughter and her CP. Emma wanted to work at our local hospital and long term care center as a good friend of ours works there. So this summer her specialist set it up for Emma to go to our long term care center and do yoga with the residents. Emma and the residents are really enjoying this.


Lee Terryberry

Lee Terryberry

Round Hill, Virginia | United States

I had no idea how successful my chair yoga classes would be! I started a class in January as a volunteer at our senior center. From that I have grown exponentially via word of mouth. I am now teaching 6 classes a week, and am being asked to do more.

Thank you from the center of my heart for your patience and kindness. I am SO grateful that you, your amazing team, and chair yoga has come into my life!! I hear from my students how they have benefited from their practice of chair yoga. Classes are full, fun, and flexible.


Chair Yoga Certified

Julie Hamilton

Julie Hamilton

Edwardsville, Illinois | United States

I really enjoyed being apart of your program for Chair Yoga. I feel that I learned a lot of skills that will help me be a better teacher. I love how each module was presented. I would not hesitate to recommend the Academy to my yoga teacher friends. You have a wonderful venue! I savored every module I took and I am incorporating them in every class I teach. I have learned so much and still am when I watch YouTube.


Chair Yoga Certified

Julie Bolton

Julie Bolton

Watchet, Somerset | United Kingdom

People are the very heart of the yoga visa academy. I love friendliness the optimism & positive support from everyone I have come into contact with.

The knowledge you share in such a loving & generous way, and the positive feedback & support you give is so enabling. I love that within 4 weeks of starting my Chair Yoga class Yoga Vista has already helped me to make a difference to people’s lives. One student told me she was now confident to climb the stairs using alternate feet (rather than leading with just one leg) and a second that she could now do up her shoes. I think that really says it all. Thank you so much …


Chair Yoga Certified

Saffron Murray

Saffron Murray

Tramore | Republic of Ireland

Each unit had a fully color detailed handout, easy to follow videos and an abundant of yoga pose library to suit each body part or a personal injury or condition. I especially loved the Anatomy so much fantastic information and illustrations throughout.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Carol Daly

Carol Daly

Jackson Heights, New York | United States

Sherry’s course enabled me to break down what I’m doing in a chair dance and teach the components with less improvising and even more fun. Identifying the movements as steady, progressive, free flowing, etc. has also helped me to choreograph more thoughtfully. The dances are easy to learn and provide a foundation for creating my own in a way that is most enjoyable and beneficial to my students. Sherry has painstakingly and lovingly included and attended to every detail. What a joy!

Sherry is the queen of chair yoga dance and has included songs for every season! During the winter the jingle bells song was such at hit at several of the places I teach. All of the dances can be done seated or easily modified to standing and make you smile. Thank you so much Sherry!


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Certified

Arupam  Laumas

Arupam Laumas

Stamford, Connecticut | United States

Viki is a great mentor, very supportive and thorough and creative in her teaching.


Chair Yoga Certified

Mary Helfeldt

Mary Helfeldt

Dunkirk, New York | United States

In my opinion, the live portion is extremely important. One reason being that questions can be answered which then can lead to additional questions and so on. Second, it is important to build relationships with real people. We spend so much time behind electronics that we forget how to really be with people who are also stepping outside of their comfort zone. It’s a great way to learn from one another and provide support. And of course, the teach back…. practicing in front of real people throughout the course helps to prepare for the teach back. When we teach, it is In front of real people. Lastly, it makes the experience meaningful. People make it something to remember. I highly recommend keeping and moving forward with the hybrid training.


Chair Yoga Certified

Elisabeth Serine Kragh

Elisabeth Serine Kragh

Horten | Norway

Great program, videos and pdf-handouts. Important knowledge for all yoga teachers. Even as a former nurse and with a previous therapeutic yoga teacher background, I learned a lot from this program and would highly recommend it to others. I’m very happy that I found it, and signed up!

The downloadable handouts are very informative with a lot of detailed pictures. The videos and Justine’s teaching are great. She shares a lot of knowledge and is easy to follow. I also liked the quiz following each chapter, a good way to check your progress.

I wanted to learn more about yoga adapted to common back problems. I teach regular classes and smaller groups for people with different health problems. Back problems are very common, and something every teacher at some point will meet. Knowing what postures to choose and which ones to avoid, and individual adaption is the key to a safe yoga practise.


Low Back Certified

Melanie Schwab, Carlsbad, California, USA

SAYCO Chair Yoga Teacher

I love your newsletter and incorporate so many of the poses into my classes! Great information. Thank you for sharing. I especially enjoy the illustrations of the muscles, that the asanas focus on. So helpful.


Edith Mildner

Edith Mildner

Winterberg | Germany

After my success with wheelchair yoga, I immediately booked the Dual Training Chair + Gentle Yoga. (Warning: Yogavista is addictive 😉) Even the subject of “anatomy of aging” is incredibly informative and exciting! Many handouts and videos show how many options there are for gentle yoga or yoga on the chair. In this way, even older or less flexible people can benefit from the health benefits of yoga! Thank you Sherry, you have enriched my yoga life so much!


Chair Yoga Dance - TrainedChair Yoga TrainedCorporate Yoga TrainedGentle Yoga TrainedLow Back TrainedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Doug G.

Disabled Adults Program Leader

Sherry I have worked at a day program with disabled adults for 31 years and came about finding you on Yo site u tube. Myself and a coworker have been using your YouTube site to get the people we serve to exercise. They all get involved doing the moves and singing to the music.


Pam Hofer

Pam Hofer

Charlotte, North Carolina | United States

Wow! What a fantastic program! The information was comprehensive, easy to follow, and very relevant. Just what I was looking for! I’m so excited and feel very blessed to have the opportunity to share this knowledge with others, as so many people will find it very useful in their day-to-day lives. Your support and encouragement throughout was wonderful. Thank you for giving me another way to share the magic of Yoga! With Much Gratitude.


Corporate Yoga Certified

Jackie C., Commack, New York, USA

Currently Enrolled

I just wanted to let you know how much I am enjoying the course! It is so comprehensive and beautifully presented. I am loving it. Thanks for the option to retake quizzes. The course is already enhancing my chair yoga classes. I work at Assisted Living centers and a chiropractor’s wellness center.


Joy J., Vienna, Virginia, USA

Yoga Teacher

I can’t recommend this course enough for people who are working with the aging population. It is a must! Their expertise in the aging population and their slides and explanation and demos as well as experiencing for ourselves, helped bring the understanding to a maximum potential.


Janet Rosoff

Janet Rosoff

Aventura, Florida | United States

I want to let you know how much benefit I am deriving from this membership which in turns provides so much benefit to my students.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Cynthia G., South Carolina, USA

Chair Yoga Teacher

I decided to close my yoga studio and pursue more outreach and community classes. The area where I live is a retirement community so I began cold-calling senior living centers and opportunities to teach have appeared, it’s so amazing! I love what I am doing now even more. I was trained in Ashtanga yoga but since moving to this new town I have sought out more accessible yoga practices for myself and my students. Your compassionate, knowledgeable and joyful style is so inspiring.


Karen Wexler

Karen Wexler

Delray Beach, Florida | United States

I feel like I have been hanging out with you a lot lately doing the low back course! I keep meaning to tell you that I am really enjoying it so much. Life has been throwing me a lot of distractions so it is a challenge to keep moving at a pace I would like to, but I suppose it is going okay. I am on Chapter four now, and can’t wait to get into it because I have been having a lot of SI joint issues myself.


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedChair Yoga TrainedLow Back Trained

Jill Lindstrom

Jill Lindstrom

Kernersville, North Carolina | United States

I have started a chair yoga class in the memory care unit at our Continuous care facility after taking your Yoga in Senior Care Facilities Workshop. I have about 10 people (about half participate). I have had great success in learning that using sing-a-long songs like – Jesus Loves Me, row your boat or You are my sunshine are great motivators to get them moving. At first I was very nervous having very little experience with patients with memory issues. It is quickly becoming my favorite class. Thank you for your support!


Chair Yoga TrainedGentle Yoga Trained

Katie Brandes

Katie Brandes

Gainesville, Florida | United States

You’ve been a terrific motivator. Probably the best there ever was 🙂


Chair Yoga CertifiedLow Back CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Andrea A., Rancho Santa Fe, California, USA

Yoga Teacher

I am most grateful for your weekly newsletter, and I frequently go on line to check the different classes available on U Tube for inspiration. I want my students to enjoy and have different ideas to work every part of the body, and it is always so much fun not only to challenge myself but to challenge my students and they seem to love it. Thanks for being so generous in providing the access to your great class videos.


Kathleen Behrens, Saint Paul, MN, USA

Currently Enrolled

I have so appreciated this course and your approach to teaching teachers to be competent, caring and joyful in their work. I must say, I talk about you and this program all the time. I had a wonderful experience in my original 200hr training because of its somatics orientation. It blended perfectly with your approach. I wish all programs honored the wisdom and brilliance of our bodies in this way.


Stephanie Burns, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

Currently Enrolled

Thank you for a really incredible course. I’ve learned so much!


Live Attendees: Deskworkers

High Tech Workers

WHAT WILL I DO DIFFERENTLY NOW THAT I KNOW?

“I use the techniques to stretch and move my body throughout the day hopefully preventing muscle/tendons/etc. issues.”

“I am aware of my posture when at my PC and correct it more often than before.”

“Improving my posture. Stretching regularly.”

“Sit Up More!”

“Constantly be more aware of my posture and work on breathing exercises.”

“I try and remember to stretch!”


John Conroy

John Conroy

Ennis | Republic of Ireland

This workshop has greatly enhanced my knowledge on the correct steps to deal with arthritis issues and in each of my classes seniors have issues with knees, fingers and hands being the most common and I have thankfully seen the exercises bring long term benefits to the Seniors through the various exercises I’ve learned in the two on-line courses.


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Kathleen Siker

Kathleen Siker

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania | United States

Yoga Vista Academy inspires me through its newsletters and YouTube videos. However, the impact of working my way through the Chair Yoga Certification program has made a tremendous difference in my growth as a Chair Yoga teacher. Teaching Chair Yoga classes to people with widely differing abilities requires significant knowledge to ensure student safety as well as their progression. Yoga Vista Academy gave me that and so much more as part of their certification program. And I know there’s more to come!!!


Chair Yoga Trained

Catherine Quehl-Engel

Catherine Quehl-Engel

Mount Vernon, Iowa | United States

I am so impressed with the attention, care, and in depth analysis of the teachback and other aspects of teacher training certification for the Chair Yoga Program. Thoughtful, wise, and helpful. Wow. The uplifting positivity in how Sherry and others offered teaching is powerful. Great role modeling for us other teachers. Also powerful is the insight into age related issues which otherwise make teaching a chair yoga for seniors a bit intimidating. Very in depth in terms of aging related anatomy and how to offer modifications.


Chair Yoga Certified

Kim Stabbe

Kim Stabbe

Fremont, Nebraska | United States

As always your programs and information are filled with great information and ideas. You wanted to know my feedback on how this differed from the Chair Program. It was more concentrated on the specifics of what is happening to desk workers and really anyone who sits at their job where posture and ergonomics are important. The anatomy information in the Chair Program was great and I felt that the anatomy information in the Corporate Yoga Program was then a good addition with specifics to the desk worker vs general chair yoga. It helped me know how to explain and teach more effectively to desk workers with the additional information I learned in the Corporate Yoga Program. The 2 Programs are great together in building my knowledge to offer yoga to more populations in need of yoga.


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga Certified

Saffron Murray

Saffron Murray

Tramore | Republic of Ireland

Last November I begun the Dual Certificate in Chair Yoga and Gentle Senior Yoga. With work, family and Christmas I had to put it to one side until January and all the materials I had read I decided to start again to refresh everything as I was near the end of the anatomy section and really wanted to absorb it all. I would like to take this opportunity to say how much I am LOVING this course the delivery and presentation of it all you really have ticked all the boxes. With your videos I feel I know you more as your personality shines out in each clip. The amount of work you have put into your courses is phenomenal, but you have made it so accessible for a student to learn and you set us up for success. You are my inspiration and hero and I just wanted to say special thank you for this gift of knowledge. I have lots more to finish on the course, and like my favourite lunch I’m savouring every bite.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Sue Woodruff

Staff for Center for the Disabled

I just wanted to let you know that I work for an organization that services people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We do exercising with our people, they were getting bored with what we had been doing. I found your Chair Yoga videos and this was a game changer for them. I take a group out to the local parks on Monday mornings and we do them outside. They love the songs and learning the movements. Their favorite is Over the Rainbow with Israel. Thank you so much for what you do and making their exercise time something they look forward to.


Moon Price

Moon Price

Eastport, Michigan | United States

It’s been an incredible journey. Loved the way new information formatted. Great videos, meeting new teachers, becoming friends ,exploring new ways to help seniors live better. Sherry and Justine made the course easy and fun while learning. Looking forward to my last get together in 10 days.


Chair Yoga Trained

Deanna Gutovic

Deanna Gutovic

Kitchener | Canada

I can’t thank you enough for all I have learned through your course. I apply many of the exercises daily to give me relief from my repetitive work. I use the Tray-Flow, Celtic Cross, Lateral Bending Flow daily.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Live Workshop Attendee

Yoga Teacher

“Teresa Austin had a genuine, friendly, welcoming and attentive presence which allowed the workshop participants, myself included, to relax and share freely in discussion. She introduced me to a new, and previously unexplored avenue for inward connection and gratitude, by guiding us to place our hands on our hearts and then bring our awareness and gratitude to its beating, which is more oft than not, taken for granted.”


Joyce Herman

Joyce Herman

Millstadt, Illinois | United States

I have learned and relearned so much. I am a retired nurse and anatomy and physiology have always been one of my passions. I love incorporating all the new poses and information from the course. I will certainly be going forward with the extras that have been provided. I am loving every minute of it!


Chair Yoga Trained

Belinda Burgett, Franklin, Indiana, USA

Currently Enrolled

As a dance instructor of over 20 years this was fun for me and new.


Josee Madison

Josee Madison

Columbia, South Carolina | United States

I really enjoyed taking part of the Yoga Vista Mentor Program. Not only was I helping adding teachers to our Gentle and Chair Yoga Community, I was also growing myself by going back into my books and refreshing my memory and knowledge of this amazing course. I would definitely do it again.


Gentle Yoga Certified

Dana Thiele

Dana Thiele

Rabun Gap, Georgia | United States

I started a chair yoga class three weeks ago and it is going very well. We had a reporter from our local paper come to class on Friday, it will be written up in our local paper. We are averaging around 21 lovely seniors ! Our reporter friend, 24 years young, did chair yoga with the class!


Chair Yoga Certified

Karen Naids

Karen Naids

Concord, Maine | United States

I just wanted to let you know that I am almost done your chair yoga class and I am loving it soooo much!!! You are an amazing teacher and so knowledgeable. I am a nurse and you know way more than I do!!!!! I just quit a horrible nursing job in which I was sitting all day and stressed out and trying to make a career change. I want to thank you so much for the information and the way it is presented. It is so easy to follow. Your enthusiasm is contagious!! I am thinking about doing the gentle yoga also. Thanks again, I think that you are just wonderful. I wish you were closer to me!!!


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Linda Guerra

Linda Guerra

Bakersfield, California | United States

I really, really appreciate your comments on “Area of Improvement”. As yoga instructors, we rarely get constructive criticism but I feel it is so important to improve our abilities so we can better serve our students and community. I will definitely use your cueing suggestions.


Chair Yoga Certified

Patricia Joyce

Patricia Joyce

San Marcos, California | United States

Thank you for the opportunity to learn and grow! I feel like I have improved my knowledge base and confidence. After completing this course, my confidence level is a 10. My Teachback is completed with lots a material to work with in the course. If you are teaching a combo class with wheelchair users then it will be helpful to take both the Chair Yoga and Wheelchair Yoga Training Programs.


Chair Yoga CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

| United States

I love that Yoga Vista not only inspires all ages and sizes to reach their fullest health and vibrancy through their classes but also that they are teaching instructors all over the world to do the same. Today is always a new day, a new chance no matter what shape you are in. I am passionate about bringing health and hope to those who may have challenges. Most yoga instructors don’t have the knowledge and understanding to help those with injuries, age, weight issues, etc. Yoga Vista ‘gets it’ and they do a great job equipping instructors.


Elizabeth M.

Yoga Teacher

I have watched a couple times now and found a Log online. Education is certainly empowerment and with your guidance I can proudly say my balloon can hold 18-20 oz.!!! Leaks and accidents are a thing of my past as well as the crazy ‘stresses’ and ‘urges’ I used to battle! Thank you for resolving 15 years of “oh my goodness”!!


Elizabeth  Richmond

Elizabeth Richmond

Gurnee, Illinois | United States

I can’t say how much I have enjoyed this training and how grateful I am for the impact it has had on my teaching. I look forward to my teach back with Jane and my fellow yogis this Sunday. I hope my assignment brings a smile to your face, your imprint and enthusiasm enabled me to have fun as I created real world options for all of us that go to the market and slump our way up and down the aisles. No more, the cart is an effective prop now. Chair yoga is totally portable!


Chair Yoga Certified

Helen M., Durham, United Kingdom

Currently Enrolled

I’m a doctor by background and I just wanted to tell you how much I am loving the anatomy section.


Ana Hernando

Ana Hernando

Hickory Creek, Texas | United States

First let me say that I am thoroughly enjoying all the information in the Chair Yoga course. I am blown away! The 20 hour anatomy portion is VERY informational and highly applicable to treating my patients… As an occupational therapist.


Chair Yoga Certified

Donna Schnoor

Donna Schnoor

Surprise, Arizona | United States

I have been enrolled with the Yoga Vista Academy since June and have been very pleased with the attention to detail and quality of the on-line program. Sherry is always knowledgeable and entertaining with her approach at offering the material, and Justine speaks to the ‘anatomy nerd’ in me!

I have been a teacher for many years and appreciate the difficulty in presenting material in a clear, concise manner, especially via online education.

Thank you for this opportunity to win this valuable teaching tool.


Chair Yoga Certified

Linda Collins, Jamul, California, USA

Yoga Teacher/Yoga Therapist

My favorite thing about Yoga Vista is Justine!!!! I don’t want the manual as I’m already signed up for the training. I’m just so happy she is our new HYT teacher. I wish I lived near Yoga Vista as I would love to be a member of your studio but Jamul is a long, long drive.


Margaret

Margaret "Maggie" Hancock

Jamestown, North Carolina | United States

Things continue to go well. My chair yoga classes are very popular. One student commented that she could tell a big difference as she had not attended in a while and just started back about six months ago and its a nice comment coming from her since she is a retired educator!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

Hey Gerry, I was looking back at the 25 + e-mails from you and want to say that I truly appreciated your encouraging words and advice. You kept me on task and that’s what Vata Karen needs :-).


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Cindy W., Pueblo, Colorado, USA

Yoga Teacher

I am going to be presenting the “3 Things the Body Loses…” at the Y (where I teach yoga) on Jan. 22nd. I have learned so much from watching the presentation several times. You are an amazing, gifted teacher! The information is presented in a way that is well-organized, hands-on, and fun! I know our participants are going to love it and benefit from it so much.


| Canada

Thank you for this great opportunity to learn through your Chair Yoga Course! I am enjoying it very much and applying so many of the techniques and tips to my regular yoga classes.


Christy Hill

Christy Hill

Orlando, Florida | United States

I have never found anatomy to be exciting, and didn’t receive a lot of anatomy in my 200-hour yoga teacher training. Learning anatomy on my own was both overwhelming and intimidating. When I was researching this course I saw something that said I didn’t didn’t need to be an anatomy expert to take the course. WOW.That was a relief so I went for it. I had a college professor say many times “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.” That is the way this course is put together. The anatomy is broken down into sections, so it isn’t intimidating at all if anatomy isn’t your thing. I’m a long way away from being an “anatomy geek” but it no longer intimidates me. Additionally, Justine’s yoga therapy teaching provided new insights to me that really enhanced my understanding of many concepts along the way.


Chair Yoga Certified

Lanny Carlson

Lanny Carlson

Estherville, Iowa | United States

I completed the Chair Yoga course several months ago, and it has been such a blessing. I am now teaching Chair Yoga twice a week at our local Regional Wellness Center, and twice a month at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home, and I continually refer to the course materials for insight and inspiration. Communication and support throughout the training and beyond has been great, and I highly recommend Yoga Vista Academy and its course offerings.


Chair Yoga Certified

Tara

Your course was just what I needed to get off the ground and get going. I’ve had a lot of feedback from other faculty that my videos look really good (comparatively of course) than those that are using their phones and computers and just going for it. It really did help.


Jill Doughty, Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan, USA

Fitness Instructor

You and your co-workers continually inspire me to explore new ways of teaching and sharing yoga with those who over 50. I get so excited to get your newsletter because I know I will be learning something new that I can share immediately with my students. Chair yoga has been a passion of mine since I began a class in 2011 due to an overwhelming demand for yoga that doesn’t require going to the floor. I thought I would have to create this class out of thin air until I found Yoga Vista. Such a find that was!!! Thank you for sharing so much!!


Mary Kay LaGuardia

Mary Kay LaGuardia

Naperville, Illinois | United States

I appreciate that you are constantly adding to the library of videos. This provides constant learning for me, and is motivating when I feel that my practices need a little refreshing. Also, I appreciate having access to videos from recent chair yoga teacher graduates and experts, such as James Knight. I think one of the the things that sets your program apart from other online courses is the fact that you are very accessible via phone or email. I feel a sense of connectedness to you as my mentor. I commend you on bringing that quality to an otherwise remote relationship. Overall, this was a very worthwhile investment. Time and money well spent! The learning is invaluable!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Kathy L., Emo, Ontario, CANADA

Yoga Teacher

I just want you to know that I teach yoga in a town of 1300 people in Emo, Ontario, Canada. We are on the Minnesota border.
I teach chair yoga and Hatha vinyasa. I love your website and all the great energy that you share with us. I feel blessed that I found you!
Thanks for all you do!


‎Ana Polanco Hernando‎

Occupational Therapist

What LOVE best about Yoga Vista Academy is the comprehensive detail to the online trainings and manuals. As on occupational therapist with over 20 years experience, I have never taken an anatomy and movement course specifically for geriatrics AND with the detail and care the information was presented. I am so happy I found this resource. I haven’t finished the Chair Yoga for Seniors course just yet but have incorporated what I have learned thus far with the geriatric patients I have on my caseload. Thank you!


Kerry Cannell

Kerry Cannell

Upland, California | United States

Mahalo, Justine. I am re-watching your group practice for the knees right now and had to stop and say it is so informative and also brings a smile to my face and heart. I so love you dear one. Thank you again for your contribution to Yoga and humanity at large. You are a joy and make a difference to me.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Kim Jacobs

Kim Jacobs

La Crescent, Minnesota | United States

I’m currently volunteer teaching both a gentle yoga and a chair class at my church. I really loved the course and all the videos that were available for me to study and learn from.


Gentle Yoga Certified

Karen Wexler

Karen Wexler

Delray Beach, Florida | United States

I LEARNED SO MUCH from this course! Justine beautifully presents high quality information here that is particularly special because it is infused with her own personal experiences with herself as well as her clients. I am truly inspired and cannot wait to get out there and work with and help people with back pain. I have chronic back pain as well so that was my first motivation for taking the course; to use it for myself. It has made me so much more aware and present in my own body and has definitely helped strengthen my core. Often after a course I might still feel not very confident with the material to start using it, but the homework assignments and teachback final really make sure you are ready with at least a good amount of the material. I am sure I will refer back to it over the years and will always find something new and useful. Thank you Justine, for sharing your knowledge, your humor, and your heart!


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedChair Yoga TrainedLow Back Trained

Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

I truly enjoyed and appreciated the flow of this program. The material was presented in a sequential and practical manner. The videos were just long enough to cover a new topic or song. After completing a module, I immediately wanted to learn the next dance. I’d describe this program as the “icing” to all your other programs.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Linda Sala

Linda Sala

White Plains, New York | United States

I just wanted to extend my thanks. I couldn’t have done this without Viki’s support! She is an extremely skilled teacher and a delightful, kind person.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Lynda Sandoval

Lynda Sandoval

Fredonia, New York | United States

But even after enrolling in the course, the task seemed daunting. Enter Corey Stiles, professional mentor extraordinaire and all around amazing woman. Because of her and Sherry’s unwavering positive encouragement during the Fast Track Mentor Program, never giving up on me, even when I gave up on myself for awhile, I was not only able to complete the course, I developed a level of confidence with designing classes and teaching seniors that I truly hadn’t expected.


Chair Yoga Certified

Sara Howard

Currently Enrolled

A teacher called me looking for a sub for her classes. She has been teaching chair dance classes that she copied from YouTube. She knew I taught chair, didn’t know that I teach dance too. We live in a small town and she thought she was the only one. I told her that I did your training, she was surprised that I bothered with the training since she “just copied them and already knows 12 dances”. I’m glad I did the training, it has helped me create my own fun dances.


Joanne Puglia

Joanne Puglia

Indian Harbour Beach, Florida | United States

You are AMAZING! I love what you offer for this wonderful community. I am loving all your brand new videos on YogaJP. I watch every one of them. Every week I watch a new video to get new ideas for my classes and also create my own. I just listened to your Safety Summary Video. I loved every minute of it. You gave an excellent presentation and didn’t miss a beat.


Chair Yoga Certified

Patricia Power

Patricia Power

Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia | Canada

I am a recently retired elementary school teacher who specialized in working with students with additional needs in an inclusive setting. Since starting to teach yoga in 2019 I have strived to follow the same philosophy as I did with my young students by making my classes accessible to all. Over the past year, I have completed the requirements to become certified in gentle yoga, chair yoga and chair yoga dance through Yoga Vista Academy. I found all of these programs to be comprehensive and well organized. I learned a great deal about anatomy as well as a wide variety of ways to create safe and engaging gentle and chair yoga classes. Safety considerations for seniors as well as for people with various conditions were throughly presented. The programs all provided a combination of reading, listening to presentations as well as being able to practice the concepts presented in numerous videos. I feel that working through the certification module is so beneficial for consolidating the concepts taught in the course in a practical way. I would definitely recommend the programs offered through Yoga Vista Academy for those yoga teachers who want to provide accessible and inclusive yoga classes.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Barbara Peter

Yoga Teacher

What I like best about the Yoga Vista Academy is the generous sharing of ideas straight from the heart. I first became acquainted with Sherry over a year ago when I participated in Webinars she gave for Yoga Alliance members. I was struck by Sherry’s determination to make a difference in the lives of seniors, as well as her generous spirit of encouraging other yoga teachers to do the same.

And this is why I still enjoy reading each and every email coming from Yoga Vista Academy. I love being caught up to date on the latest happenings and courses. Thanks so much for what you do for yoga teachers and students.


Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“I’m trained as an ICU/CCU RN – career nurse x 20 years – I’ve never had this explained as thoroughly/understandably. EVER! I will take this info out into the world – should be required reading by all Western adults 50 and over! Outstanding – THANK YOU!”

“Loved, loved, loved how you presented all this info through a Yogic lens. You made very complex information very understandable! Wonderful movement practice.”

“She made a tough topic to grasp very clear and easy to understand. This is so important as a health issue today. The practice at the end was a perfect practice to illustrate the power of Yoga to deeply relax and mobilize energy in healing ways. ”


Jim Angerame, Florida, USA

Chair Yoga Teacher

The course was excellent — as usual. With the growth of the Chair Yoga Movement (thanks a lot to you) a course like this is a must for any instructor. Your material and workshop have made me a better teacher and that has improved the wellness of my students. The Yoga community owes you much for all you provide.


Zoe M., UNITED KINGDOM

Yoga Teacher

I thought the [online] course was fantastic and it took me more than four hours as I could go over things and look in detail at what he was teaching and how he was teaching it. I think Somatics is wonderful!!


Sandra Price

Sandra Price

Hobe Sound, Florida | United States

I want you to know how much I enjoyed completing the Chair Yoga Certification course. I learned so much more anatomy than in any of my other Yoga trainings. I loved how the course tied together the anatomy portion with injuries and conditions, and then illustrated specific poses to be used for various conditions affecting seniors.


Chair Yoga Certified

Lucy Valente

Lucy Valente

Hazleton, Pennsylvania | United States

The Anatomy of Aging module was fantastic. The anatomical details presented were sufficient for a yoga teachers purposes organized in an understandable and informative format. Insight was given into movement, conditions, injuries and modifications that exceeded my expectations. The self-paced study allowed me to progress at my own rate. The tests, teach back and assignments were terrific learning tools. Overall the organization of the course was an excellent way of presenting a large amount of material. I would recommend this course to every yoga teacher whether or not your interest is in Chair or Gentle yoga.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

John S., Ontario, CANADA

Chair Yoga Teacher

I was fortunate to receive emails from Yoga Vista Academy and Yoga JP. I always developed a new routine each week from the short clips that you forwarded to me. This allowed me to have a great deal of variety in my practice. Sherry – I wanted to share this with you because you are such an inspiration to not only your students but to the yoga instructors that use your website as a resource for our practice.


Carol Daly

Carol Daly

Jackson Heights, New York | United States

Delving into the course material over the span of about five months helped me learn the importance of the “why” behind each movement and communicate that to the seniors I teach. As I continued through the course I applied what I learned in my classes which made them fresh and vibrant each time. I have significantly expanded my movement repertoire and confidence regardless of my audience size or level. I am better equipped to pull up whatever is needed to meet the group or person in front of me.

The course material is meticulous, well organized and infused with live vignettes and lots of subject matter experts in related fields. The handouts and multidimensional libraries of anatomy and poses are just wonderful! I think it’s a win win for all yoga teachers wherever you are in your practice and teaching.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Certified

Amy Stein

Yoga Teacher

I like the Yoga Vista Academy videos best! It’s great that you offer a spectrum of videos from the purely educational ones as well as the yoga class ones. The educational ones ground and inform what we do as teachers and the yoga class ones are fun and creative.

Thank you Sherry for being such an enthusiastic and inspiring advocate for senior yoga teaching and practice!


Kim Stabbe

Kim Stabbe

Fremont, Nebraska | United States

I have really enjoyed and learned great information especially on anatomy taking your Chair Yoga certification. Thank you so much for providing such a wonderful experience!


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga Certified

Donna Fetzko

Donna Fetzko

Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania | United States

I feel so blessed to have participated in this training and to have the opportunity to share it all with the senior’s in my community.
Thank you for your knowledge and inspiration Sherry, Justine, and everyone at Yoga Vista Academy.


Chair Yoga Certified

Patricia Joyce

Patricia Joyce

San Marcos, California | United States

Excellent teacher training for all Yoga Instructors that want more knowledge for incorporating students wheelchair users or offering a specialized class.


Chair Yoga CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Vicki Salisbury

Vicki Salisbury

Wynnum (Brisbane), Queensland | Australia

My favorite part of the program is how you instruct us to dissect the song into bit size pieces. The structure underpinning the course is very good…The process you take us through will help me remember your dances and invent my own choreography.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Certified

Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

I wanted to tell you that I am thoroughly enjoying your Gentle Yoga teacher certification. I have been chipping away at it slowly. Rather than speeding through it, I chose to read one chapter or module at a time and teach it in my style to my class. This morning, I did your class called “gentle yoga class: extra umpf of ujaii and sun salutation”. I absolutely loved it. At one point in the class, you asked a question to your students and I caught myself answering your question…haha..online…real-time.. what’s the difference?


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

You know that the only reason why “I got it”, is because your videos and handouts are exceptional and that I viewed your materials at least 3 times. In some cases, I used your videos for my personal practice and then taught your sequence to my students as a way of reinforcing what I learned from you. My students love your teachings and keep coming for more.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Karen Wexler

Karen Wexler

Delray Beach, Florida | United States

I am so very glad I decided to sign up for the mentorship program. It made a huge difference in my progress in the program. The Mentoring program was VERY helpful! I do like to work on my own, and I thought I would easily be able to do that as I have before with other online (unrelated) courses. But as I noticed myself letting “life” get in the way of my keeping up my pace, and the offer for the Mentorship program was so affordable it made it a no brainer to give it a try.

I got a lot of value from the conference calls and sharing with the others in the group. It gave the experience a much more connected and personal feeling to speak with others going through the same process. Gerry was very helpful of course by being there but not being too much. He was there to help and guide, and was there as much or as little as needed. I appreciated the weekly encouragements via our Facebook group.


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedChair Yoga TrainedLow Back Trained

Darlene Blackburn

Darlene Blackburn

Chicago, Illinois | United States

I am glad to say that the Live Mentoring Program was an asset. Those sessions were definitely a plus to be able to ask questions and receive constructive critiques. Jane was such an informative mentor and personal teacher, the sessions had a relaxed atmosphere just like when you are teaching your chair yoga classes which I still love watching. Thank You for a wonderful experience.


Chair Yoga Certified

Cheryl M.

Medical Doctor and Yoga Teacher

I felt compelled to write after watching your online yoga for seniors videos. They are exceptional and you are a pure joy to observe at work. I am a medical doctor and yoga teacher training in yoga therapy. My background is emergency medicine but I have more interest in sports and exercise medicine and integrative health these days. I work with patient groups and I am particularly interested in older adults. You are a wonderful ambassador. I love that your classes cover all the key areas building maintaining muscular strength, range of motion, decreasing stiffness and working on balance and coordination (I love the picking fruit exercise) but also fostering a sense of connection and all the other deeper wonderful layers of meaning we know and love from our own yoga practice and teaching. Please keep up the good work.


Sharon Cavanagh

Sharon Cavanagh

Calgary, Alberta | Canada

Thanks for these very helpful tips. Thanks also for your nice comments. I really appreciate how much thought you have put into my teach back.


Chair Yoga Certified

Kim Hannah

Yoga Teacher

Writing to say how grateful I am for you & all the positive, creative, life-inspiring things you share with yogis. Had to admit – initially I felt yoga chair dance was a bit “hokey”–coming from a fitness background “I” wanted “my” classes to be “yoga”. But your YouTube dances have been tweaking my interest & I gave it a try the past 2 weeks in several seniors chair yoga classes & WOW was I wrong!!!! My yogis absolutely LOVE the chair dances & when it’s LOVE it’s all YOGA!!!! Thank you so much for opening me to something new!~Namaste, Kim


Alice Caple

Alice Caple

Ansonia, Connecticut | United States

Thank you for doing what you do and inspiring me to be a better Yoga teacher.


Chair Yoga CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

John Conroy

John Conroy

Ennis | Republic of Ireland

I was interviewed on Ireland”s National Radio Programme Radio 1 about the success of the groups because what I am doing with the Seniors is a very recent development in Ireland, so much credit goes to yourself for all the valuable information I have learned both from the course and all the you tube clips you send on, so a big thanks.


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“The demonstration of poses was especially eye-opening as you explained, not just what you were doing, but why it mattered for Seniors.”

“Love the energy and playful approach! Yoga is meant to be fun and playful!”

“Very helpful! Learned more about the realities of working in these facilities.”


Margaret

Margaret "Maggie" Hancock

Jamestown, North Carolina | United States

Thanks again. You and these courses have been wonderful for me. Our chair yoga program at the Y has really grown and I am enjoying teaching a great deal. Namaste.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Exciting material and inspiring teaching. Nice to end with workshop with a blending of the practical and spiritual. Enjoyed the mythical art very much.”

“A beautiful end to a beautiful workshop. The depth of knowledge and thoughtful presentation were magical.”

“Teresa is extremely knowledgeable and I very much enjoyed hearing the stories, something I’ve wanted to know more about. I look forward to incorporating some of the stories into my class.”

“Magnificent presentation! Generous and loving presence, sharing her knowledge of the Hindu gods and goddesses and myths. Inspires me to want to read them in-depth and has given new meaning to the poses and their names. Beautiful Teresa!”

“I love story telling. Teresa did a great job fostering class discussions. I learned a lot from students experiences/ideas in this class. I loved honoring the gods and goddesses!”


Anita Whittle

Anita Whittle

Lincoln, Nebraska | United States

I just want you ladies to know how much I have enjoyed this course. You guys have done a fabulous job with organizing and teaching the materials. Thank you, Anita Whittle


Chair Yoga Certified

Kerry G., Holden, Massachusetts, USA

Chair Yoga Teacher

I have taught seniors many times in a yoga class but i took your course because OMG your anatomy, knowledge of diseases in the older population and how you empower the seniors to try different postures….I love love loved this course.


Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

Justine I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the amazing 6-page feedback to my final homework.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Lovely practice and beautiful presentation.”

“Nice sequence and presentation. I felt so refreshed.”

“Fabulous! Her sweet soft voice is PERFECT for Restorative. Great new ideas for my classes. I loved her guided meditation…. Wonderful journey.”


Jill Doughty, Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan, USA

Fitness Instructor

For what I love BEST: (besides YOU) The availability of online courses OR just viewing bits and pieces of classes for free or almost free!! I am not RYT, but Group Fitness certified through AFAA and need to keep up my CEUs for my accreditation. Your classes are so much more valuable to me than any AFAA classes I have taken over the many years as a group instructor. At age 63 I don’t know how much longer I can teach aerobics, but I am definitely looking forward to bringing yoga to our local seniors for many years!

Thanks for your generous sharing and inspiration. Keep up the good work!


Tammy Brinkmann

Tammy Brinkmann

Washington, Missouri | United States

I love the fact you are teaching us your methodology to teach our own dances. (this is what I signed up for)


Chair Yoga Dance - TrainedChair Yoga Trained

Smita Vyas

Smita Vyas

Santiago | Chile

My experience with the Corporate Yoga program was incredible! I’ll admit that there was some apprehension when I was deciding to do it as it is 100% online — needless to say, this was my first time getting my feet wet with the world of online Yoga courses. After completing the program, let me tell you just how extremely pleased I am today with having made the right decision 🙂 Sherry and the Yoga Vista team will leave you feeling more confident, knowledgeable and prepared to teach in the corporate setting. Upon completing my initial program to become a certified Yoga teacher, I felt that I could have learned a LOT more about anatomy and didn’t quite know the best approach to working with students who have a limited range of motion/flexibility. Glad to report that I now look forward to having a diverse population of students to work with and KNOW that I can be there to properly help them in their Yoga journey.


Corporate Yoga Certified

Eva Montalvo

Eva Montalvo

West Palm Beach, Florida | United States

Your wonderful training has helped my career progress tremendously, because with the training and experience I have the confidence to charge what I’m worth. I have become a Chair Yoga “expert” in the area, and turn down or refer so many offers to other teachers. My hourly rate has gone from about $40 to a range of $60 – 90!


Chair Yoga CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Judith Fitzsimmons

Judith Fitzsimmons

Franklin, Tennessee | United States

Having my Master’s Degree in Education, I am very particular about online training programs and I have to say that the Yoga Vista Academy Chair Certification program was exceptionally well-designed and informative. In addition, getting constant encouragement and support made the training very personalized. Thanks for a great job Yoga Vista Academy!


Chair Yoga Certified

Gerry Hurtig

Gerry Hurtig

Parrish, Florida | United States

Teaching “on the fly” happens all the time. Yesterday I taught my weekly Yin Yoga class. When I entered the room I had my normal group of students as well as two new students seated in chairs – (Enter YVA Chair Yoga and Yoga for Seniors training). I modified Yin Asana’s for the chair for these students. In addition, I had students with lower back-pain (Enter YVA Yoga for Low-Back Pain) and used certain movements for them. But wait – there’s more! I had a student that is 8 months pregnant (Enter YVA Pregnancy Yoga – STOP – there isn’t one!!), so I modified low-back and gentle yoga for this student. Total student population for this session – 27. One never knows what comes to them and we use the skills that we have learned over the years. THANKS Sherry Zak Morris and Justine Shelton for your teachings and instilling the confidence in us to address each class with a deep breath and confidence. You two R-O-C-K!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Cheryl W., Vienna, Virginia, USA

Gentle and Chair Yoga Teacher

I really enjoyed your workshop and I learned a lot. At this time in my yoga teaching life I am very picky who I study with. I want to learn something for my students, learn something for me, and get a good ROI (return on investment) of time and money. You both hit all of these requirements and much more. Also I really appreciated your extensive handouts. Being a former tech head in my past life who had to attend a lot of technical training classes, I really value a comprehensive handout.


Suzanne Oliver Gifford

Suzanne Oliver Gifford

Apex, North Carolina | United States

This is my first online course. I was skeptical (of myself) to remain engaged and motivated. But the course has so many components (reading, videos) that it has kept me engaged. I really enjoy the Deep Dives. I know that in a day I can block off a couple hours to complete a module and hopefully incorporate something into my next class.


Gentle Yoga Certified

Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

Omg both certifications have been the best investments that I have made in a long night time. You are amazing yoga treasures.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Laure Liverman

Laure Liverman

Boulder, Colorado | United States

I loved this program. It was above and beyond my expectations. What really captured me about this program – beyond the great content – is the integrity with which the program is delivered, the generosity and genuine caring towards the student development in service of preparing good teachers, and the love of seniors/working with seniors. It was so inspiring…and fun…and creative!


Chair Yoga Certified

Cheryl Harper, London, Ontario, CANADA

Wheelchair Yoga Pilot Program Teacher

This Program is a very valuable and much needed program, I recommend it for anyone passionate about teaching to an inclusive market. It definitely would be beneficial to instructors wishing to offer yoga services a demographic that is misunderstood, under valued and under served.


| United States

I just wanted to share with you what happened in my chair yoga class at the Senior Citizens yesterday. We had a regular class and I had been teaching the tray and tea cup exercises. At the end of class I passed out little battery operated candles and explained this would be our quiet restful closing. I turned off the lights as they turned on their candles and we did the tea cup. Everyone was quiet for a minute then they all broke out into the children’s Bible song “Let you little light shine”. It was such an encouraging and inspirational event. Thanks for showing me all the benefits and pleasures of chair yoga. Please keep it up! You just don’t know how many people you uplift and inspire!!!


Christina G., Vienna, Virginia, USA

Hatha Yoga Teacher

I truly believe that all YTT 200 programs should also include a course like this one for aging/older adult population. Even though I tend to have clients that are between 16-40 I believe that it would be beneficial to have this type of knowledge under your belt.


Blandina Peterson

Blandina Peterson

Fayetteville, North Carolina | United States

I really learned a lot about teaching yogas to seniors, the anatomy, how to make the classes more beneficial and effective for them, setting up and preparing my classes for recording, using the proper apps, equipment and devices to record my videos, & using YouTube to share my videos with others.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Barbara Ruvarac

Barbara Ruvarac

Naperville, Illinois | United States

It’s been a while since I last contacted you both and this past year has been a journey of ups and downs! I wanted to convey to you both that I would in no way be where I am today without the both of you! My yoga business has grown exponentially because of your trainings/teachings that I continue to go back to online; and frankly, my clientele eats it up! Even though I haven’t met you face to face, you both are such a force in my life which helps my teachings to others! In a world of people complaining, I LOVE that I am passing along Gratitude, Love, and Thankful to both of you.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Becky  Barnes

Becky Barnes

Moscow, Idaho | United States

Taking this class has been an amazing experience for me. I am impressed with the amount of past and ongoing research you have put into it. This is obviously a labor of love for you and you must know how many lives you have touched. The lessons are well constructed and easy to follow. Your positive attitude is infectious. I LOVE all the videos and watch at least one a day, whether it’s chair yoga, gentle yoga, somatics, or one of the educational clips. One of the things I most appreciate is the time you take to make the class personal. You responded immediately to every email I sent, answering my questions an offering encouragement. I also appreciated the time you took to thoroughly review my teachback and provide specific, helpful comments. Where do you find the time and energy for all this?!? I am amazed. Thank you so much for the work you do. You have personally blessed many lives, and your love and compassion is radiated to the world through all those you teach. You are a gem.


Chair Yoga TrainedGentle Yoga Trained

Pat P., Vienna, Virginia, USA

Yoga Teacher

I really loved the weekend with you and Sherry. About 5 years ago I was hired to bring yoga into a wellness center run by 4 orthopedic surgeons. They wanted to have a place for their patients to transition to after PT. I was asked to work with a lot of people with joint replacements and back issues. So my google search lead me to yoga vista academy. I learned so much from your newsletters and videos and was able to take that into the center. When Dawn said you were coming – I was so excited and grateful. That was the most inspiring weekend. Thank you for all the good work you do and your overwhelming generosity!!!


Dana Thiele

Dana Thiele

Rabun Gap, Georgia | United States

I have learned so much about the anatomy of seniors, [which I am One], and how chair yoga can help seniors become more mobile through strengthening their bones and muscles and stretching the fascia through movement and staying hydrated.


Chair Yoga Certified

Live Attendees: Deskworkers

High Tech Workers

WHAT I LEARNED THAT I DIDN’T KNOW?

“The different ways you sit and how that plays into your spinal posture and long term effects. It was a great Yoga Refresher on a calmer, more protective way of doing Yoga that is nurturing. And I learned about Breathing the pace, the connection and value that breathing plays into a good stretch.”

” That your muscles hold all your bones in place. I learned different ways to meditate and the best lying position for your spine.”

“How things work in my Anatomy. I want to remember to practice this and I know I need to relax. I need to practice – more!”

“I learned about the specific small muscles that impact the rest of the body, and about breathing/meditation.”

“I learned a whole lot about muscles. I realized how enjoyable Yoga and that it is a real benefit. I learned about the Breathing right left nostril thing.”

“How to open up and breathe!”

“I didn’t know anything about Anatomy! I learned the Breathing Effects of breathing through left nostril vs. right nostril.”


Smita Vyas

Smita Vyas

Santiago | Chile

One thing that I was not expecting from this Program was the effect that it was going to have on me — I benefited a great deal from doing the movements and felt the effects firsthand that my students will experience in my classes. Don’t go thinking that this won’t benefit regular practitioners — you’d be pleasantly surprised to find out just how wonderfully these movements complement an established asana practice. While my faith in online programs has been restored, it wouldn’t have been possible if there weren’t a team of people who not only are truly dedicated to helping others, but make sure that you as the student are learning and make sure to help you if you have any trouble. THANK YOU Sherry and the entire Yoga Vista team for sharing your valuable wisdom and for putting together such a comprehensive program. Definitely going to pursue the Chair Yoga Program next 🙂


Corporate Yoga Certified

Patricia Tavis, Howell, New Jersey, USA

Currently Enrolled

I enjoyed the course very much and learned a lot. My students have enjoyed all the new material I have been able to introduce.


Live Workshop Attendees

“James has such an engaging nature – he pulls you in to his enthusiasm. Will incorporate more somatics into my classes and look forward to more info on visualization.”

“I like James’ personal approach and openness. He explains concepts very clearly and skillfully alternates discussions with practice. I really appreciate that he demonstrated chair versions of somatic movements.”

“Awesome! It really brought home the idea of the fascia-so simple but such effects. Just so impressed.”

“James is so passionate about what he does. His energy shines thru his eyes and truly concerned about each and every individual.”

“Very good session. The energy was good, a lot of information that I can use for my students.”

“Learning about somatics today was so refreshing and opened a new world of opportunities.”


Marilyn M., AUSTRALIA

Yoga Teacher

I want to thank you for compiling The Online “Anatomy of Ageing & Movement Course.” It has been most beneficial. The course is comprehensive contains much valuable information and videos to inspire – most pertinent to our age group. Have completed the assessment. The videos are a great resource (still working my way through the videos). Well done to You, Justine and the Yoga Vista Family..


Deborah Forsblom

Deborah Forsblom

Bexley, Ohio | United States

I enjoyed the Anatomy Module. I knew a lot of the basic anatomy already, but I really appreciated tying that to the problems that Seniors have and then showing why certain poses helped with these problems. It is great to have all of this in a coherent, organized form. I will refer back to these chapters when I plan my lessons. Thank you for the user-friendly curriculum. I look forward to the rest of the course.


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga Certified

Jackie Currie, Avon Lake, Ohio, USA

Chair Yoga Teacher

One of your “aha” moments was particularly useful to me. I am going to begin applying the module suggestion. I think I was already sort of doing it, but when you explained it yesterday a light bulb went on for me. I don’t think I was truly taught how to go about adapting to different audiences quickly in my original training.


Gail Duncan

Gail Duncan

Sioux Falls, South Dakota | United States

Awesome on line course! Sherry has been so helpful – Great Hands on Guidance! I never expected Sherry to actually call me and walk me through the steps to get my Mac set up for the course! I truly felt welcomed and on my way to success! The video’s and written materials are spot on! Great resources to go back to again and again! I am grateful that my Yoga Journey has taken me down the Chair Yoga path. Thank you to everyone at Yoga Vista Academy. Keep up the great work! Namaste!


Chair Yoga Certified

Janet Rosoff

Janet Rosoff

Aventura, Florida | United States

I began this incredible journey of Chair Yoga Teacher Training 12 months ago with the goal of finishing by June. In April, when my accident occurred, I was not sure I would teach again and/or finish the training. As my recovery progressed, it became very clear to me that continuing with the training would not only benefit me with my healing but enable me to readily understand and relate to the many challenges specific to the senior population. The training was and continues to be invaluable to me personally and professionally and I thank you for the expertise provided in the training, the continued resources of newsletters and videos and your ongoing support.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Melanie Schmöller

Melanie Schmöller

Breitenberg near Passau, Bavaria | Germany

I felt very comfortable in the academy from the first day. I could ask anything that was close to my heart and the structure of the training was great. I would do it again anytime. Who knows, maybe I’ll be doing another training in a couple of days. Thank you for everything!


Chair Yoga Dance - Trained

Angie Zuliani Pedote

Angie Zuliani Pedote

Oceanside, California | United States

The Yoga Vista Academy means many things to me and has completely transformed my yoga teaching skills. Although some aspects of yoga are too subtle to be learned from books or lectures, I had absolutely no trouble developing a deeper understanding through all the videos and tools online with a variety of methods for attaining goals. The Yoga Vista Academy accommodates a wide range of lifestyles and values. The Yoga Vista Academy has changed my skills for the better and continues to transform them every day. I highly recommend this program!


Low Back Certified

Patty S., Dallas, Texas, USA

Currently Enrolled

I am learning a TON! This program is so fascinating, approachable, and immediately applicable. I’m loving it!


Chako, Orange County, California, USA

Yoga Teacher

I’ve started my Gentle Yoga Teacher Training about two weeks ago. I just wanted to tell u know that I’ve really enjoyed taking your course. I am just happy that i found you!!! I was not able to find a course like this in Orange County. Your course for Gentle Yoga is exactly what I was looking for past couple of months and thank you for offering us who like to learn, share and spread the love to others!


| United States

I’m really enjoying the teacher training and have already incorporated many of the dances in my chair yoga classes. My students really love them… My mom’s favorite is “Locomotion.” I love doing the dances! Thanks for creating the teacher certification program!! I can’t wait to create some dances… just waiting for songs to find me!


Jamie Ervin, Loveland, Ohio, USA

Staff Member at Magnolia Springs, Loveland, Ohio

The residents and I at Magnolia Springs Loveland in Loveland, Ohio love Chair Yoga and your videos every Thursday morning!


Kathleen Paton

Kathleen Paton

Canmore, Alberta | Canada

What I like about Yoga Vista Academy..

1. Something new for this part of Canada
2. The information given is perfect for seniors. The anatomy of aging is so helpful in planning my yoga sessions.
3. The library of asanas is the best thing ever!!
4. Sherry and Justine are so informative and extremely helpful
5. I feel so good about myself because I can teach yoga for many more years, also helping to keep myself fit and healthy
6. Thank you very much I am so glad yoga vista is in my life!! Hopefully I can come to Vista next October. ????


Chair Yoga Certified

Rachel Seward, Los Angeles, CA

Chair Yoga Dance Teacher

I am proud that Yoga Vista Academy keeps me motivated to move, learn and dance for myself and my classes. Your shared knowledge is amazing. Thank you, Sherry, for your inspirational, innovative, healthy Yoga Chair Dance Program and the Yoga Vista Academy community. Your fun way to fitness has brightened my spirits and those in my classes.


Kandi Furphy

Kandi Furphy

Laramie, Wyoming | United States

I must say I have learned so much over the year from you, what a gift you have been to me.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Charon Geigle

Charon Geigle

Wall, South Dakota | United States

The course is meeting my needs and expectations, thank you. I am pleased and excited to offer even more poses and information to my students. It is giving me added confidence and a good refresher on top of my 200 hour certification.


Chair Yoga Certified

Dana Thiele

Dana Thiele

Rabun Gap, Georgia | United States

Now having a different perspective after breaking my wrist, I began to investigate chair yoga online. I found Yoga Vista Academy, Sherry Zak Morris and Justine Shelton. Making the decision to sign up for Chair Yoga Certification has been life changing for me and my husband! I have learned so much about the anatomy of seniors, [which I am One], and how chair yoga can help seniors become more mobile through strengthening their bones and muscles and stretching the fascia through movement and staying hydrated. I am very grateful to you, Sherry and to Justine!


Chair Yoga Certified

Tina Carpenter, Carmel, California, USA

Yoga Teacher

Every night and morning I am spending at least two hours. I am so excited to finish and start practicing. I live in Carmel, Ca where we have a huge elderly population. I have been watching your videos since November in the middle of my teacher training. I love the way you teach all the anatomy tidbits. I find chair yoga so fascinating because anyone can do it! You are an inspiration!


Tammy Brinkmann

Tammy Brinkmann

Washington, Missouri | United States

You are an amazing woman. Thanks again for sharing your heart and beautiful spirit with the world! The world is definitely a better place with you in it. Someone came up to me today after class and said she got emotional during ‘I Hope You Dance’ because doctor’s just found a mass in her husband’s lung. He has been a long time smoker and they are just in the beginning stages of figuring everything out. She said he told her she had to come to class today because she needs to stay strong. Sherry, I don’t take your teaching for granted and will always do my very best to honor you and the work each and every time I teach.


Chair Yoga Dance - TrainedChair Yoga Trained

Jinhe Min, Seoul, KOREA

Director, Jai Yoga Studio in Seoul, South Korea

I want to thank you so so much for your wonderful class yesterday. The students {here in Korea} were so so so happy with your teachings. They felt really clear, gained confidence and were truly inspired by you and the teachings. All of them conveyed so much gratitude to you:)))) And I thought you did amazingly great!


Karen Naids

Karen Naids

Concord, Maine | United States

I am so excited to finish the chair Yoga certification. I loved every minute of it!!!! As a nurse, the anatomy was very informative and great to help anyone understand the body. The videos are amazing and the support you give is great. I cannot say enough good things about your program!!!! I was worried taking an online class, but it was as if you were there there the entire time!!!! I learned so much and will tell everyone how amazing this course was. I am going to take all the classes on your site, and continue to learn. Thanks again!!!! This was life changing for me!!!!! Thanks again!!!


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Loved Kat and her presentation. She gave me confidence that I can now offer a restorative class to my students, something they want and I want to do. Just have to convince them to buy some props! Her love and compassion is evident. She has a beautiful heart, and a great sense of humor.”

“Gentle Kat – so easy to trust. I melted into all her beautiful restorative poses. Great balance between explanations, answering questions, yet plenty of time to completely surrender in the poses – she was wonderful.”


Cindy Willis

Cindy Willis

Pueblo, Colorado | United States

Thought I’d check in after completing the “Teaching Yoga @ Senior Care,” course. I loved that you shared the meaning of “inspiration,” as being “in spirit.” Light bulb aha for me. You have a tremendous capacity for love and healing. Thank you for igniting my flame and making it shine a little brighter!


Chair Yoga Trained

Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

I truly love the fact that Yoga Vista Academy offers a platform where the materials and videos are always available. I am a big fan of e-learning through pre-recorded videos and written materials. I am currently enrolled in a children yoga teacher program that is offered by video conference. Although, it’s fun to be able to interact live with my teacher, I would much prefer to be able to watch the video a few times as I find that I forget information especially if it’s new. I need to hear and experience it more than once for it to sink in, hence the beauty of Yoga Vista Academy online certification programs.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Susan Rowan

Susan Rowan

Richmond Hill, Ontario | Canada

The mentoring program was truly a stroke of genius. I doubt I would have finished the course without it. The idea of online courses is great but personally I love live, in person learning (probably a factor of age!) The online learning is dry and isolating so the mentoring gave it back the human connection that was so special.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Trained

Hegulka S., New York, New York, USA

Yoga Teacher

The workshop was great, and Viki was terrific. I didn’t know stopping your pee mid stream was problematic. I remember my OBGYN and an instructor in another training talking about stopping your pee as an example of kegels. I liked how Viki structured the workshop, going from broad strokes to fine lines. Talking about what the pelvic floor is, why it’s important, and how to train it held my attention and made the information digestible. Viki’s use of props, such as the pelvic floor muscles made of felt, the bag of oranges, and the buttons, was brilliant. This combined with her sense of humor and humility made the workshop accessible and memorable. Thank you for offering this workshop.


Betty Wills

Betty Wills

Laramie, Wyoming | United States

While I got a lot out of the traditional online course, I kind of got hung up in the anatomy portion and the online mentoring program with Viki Boyko got me past that hurdle. The Teachback video was really hard for me to contemplate, and I’m not sure I would have gotten past that without Corey’s Live Mentoring class. Corey was fabulously supportive and also gave me a lot of ideas and a network of chair yoga instructors to work with.

Overall, the course taught me a lot – the fact that it took me a year and a half to finish might have had something to do with it! But, I do feel extraordinarily prepared to go out and teach!


Chair Yoga Certified

Donna Wasneski

Donna Wasneski

Grand Junction, Colorado | United States

I really needed this class. I am tone deaf. I struggle to find 8 counts ( and I teach low impact aerobics 8 times each week). I took all of your strategies to help me! Your visuals of lyrics were a new helpful approach for me.


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Amanda B., AUSTRALIA

Chair Yoga Teacher

I’d like to say how much I appreciate your commitment and sharing of your knowledge to enable newer yoga teachers like myself to learn and benefit from your wisdom so we may spread the love and benefits a little further into our own communities. I feel truly blessed to be teaching yoga and so grateful to have found you and the Yoga Vista Academy.


Smita Vyas

Smita Vyas

Santiago | Chile

Based on what I have seen in your YouTube videos, throughout the Corporate Yoga program and most certainly during your live Chair Yoga class — I definitely see what you’re doing, and can feel that you genuinely pour your heart and soul into the connections you have with others. Since changing career paths, I want to invest my collective skills and experience in something meaningful for people and spreading that goodness all around.


Corporate Yoga Certified

Linda Koewers

Linda Koewers

Gulfport, Mississippi | United States

This chair yoga training was my first real experience receiving good knowledge and training. I loved it so very much!!! Sincerely thanks for doing what you do, and I’m just so blessed that I found you. A big fan.


Chair Yoga Trained

Camilla Clawson

Camilla Clawson

Hurricane, Utah | United States

I have loved this chair yoga online training! The website is so thorough and easy to use I was never in the dark on what was expected from me. I felt like I was set up from for success from day one. The handouts were vital to my success as well as the videos.


Chair Yoga Trained

Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Very comprehensive information and fun! The research and statistics were eye-opening. I’ve found seniors love fact-based information about yoga. Can’t wait to share.

“Love, love, LOVE the posture project!!! Can’t wait to do this with my students. Thank you gazillions for sharing this with us. You are so gracious!”

“Sherry’s work with senior posture issues presented a wealth of knowledge that provided a comprehensive education on the issue. Her expertise, enthusiasm and love of what she does made her presentation extremely enjoyable and informative.”


Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“I loved looking at the case studies because that makes it real and relative. Looking at the issue and then having prescription is great.”

“The project was well planned, researched, and carried out. The postural observations, structural analysis of misalignment causes, together with specific asana and strengthening exercises to correct specific misalignments were insightful, well though out, and rigorously documented. The methodologies were clearly explained and documented, making the process accessible to yoga teachers wishing to implement the principles in their individual teaching niches. Sherry’s enthusiasm and effervescent personality are
contagious and inspiring.”


Anita Whittle

Anita Whittle

Lincoln, Nebraska | United States

Personally, I thought the program was GREAT, WONDERFUL and AWESOME. I teach a variety of classes and I have used all I have learned in every single class. Whether it is with my Assisted Living clients or my 30 year olds. The anatomy portion was more than I could have expected. I learned so much. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.


Chair Yoga Certified

Jackie Currie, Avon Lake, Ohio, USA

Chair Yoga Teacher

I am only halfway through Dr. Bell and am AMAZED!!! This information is invaluable not only for our yoga classes but anyone that is alive.
Thank you for making the workshop online so available. I am anxious to share some of the findings with one person in particular in my class. This may be life changing for her.


Gail Pickens-Barger

Gail Pickens-Barger

Nederland, Texas | United States

The handouts, example flyers, the pacing of the material, the coaching sessions, the one on one interactions, the videos accompanying the specific modules were great! Then the practice video and the interaction with the course creator, plus the online coach and interaction with other course participants – was a great way to learn Gentle Yoga for Low Back Care. I plan to take more training with the folks at Yoga Vista Academy!


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedLow Back Certified

Laure Liverman

Laure Liverman

Boulder, Colorado | United States

I loved this program. It was above and beyond my expectations. The icing on the cake… what really tied it together for me, helping me stay on course and and gain the confidence to teach, was the mentorship program. I don’t think I would have done as nearly a good job on my teachback nor felt the confidence that I do (even if it’s at the sappling level ) if it hadn’t been for this part of the program and Corey.

Corey helped us build our skills and confidence session by session in a safe and affirming way, offering great feedback and sharing her wisdom as well. I feel blessed to have her as my mentor. Having a cohort of other students was also important aspect of the program. It gave me a sense of having a community in which to grow and develop as a teacher, and I really appreciated being able to learn from and share with the other students.


Chair Yoga Certified

Jacob Fuller

Jacob Fuller

Dallas Metro Area, Texas | United States

I learned so much from your videos, style, instruction and care! Thank you both from the bottom of my heart!


Gentle Yoga Certified

Joyce Herman

Joyce Herman

Millstadt, Illinois | United States

I do so enjoy the people that I share yoga with. We have a marvelous time. And I use your videos to learn and share even more. Thank you so much I feel so blessed to have been a part of your program.


Chair Yoga Trained

J.D.

YogaFIt Instructor

I am a AFAA certified group fitness instructor with YogaFit training. I love all of your fabulous tips, DVDs and Utube productions. They have given me so much very important information to make me a better yoga instructor! I began teaching a chair class 5 years ago because I saw a need to modify for my seniors. It has become the largest growing segment of all the various classes I teach!! I feel so much more confident since watching your Youtube classes and DVDs.


Jim A., Florida, USA

Senior Chair Yoga Teacher

You guys are really ahead of the curve on this whole area of yoga instruction. I also think your online videos and discussions are just great and are a great contribution to the profession.


Diana Brockman

Diana Brockman

Ballwin, Missouri | United States

I have only positive things to say about Yoga Vista Academy’s Online Chair Yoga Teacher Training course! I found the course to be well organized and thoughtfully constructed down to the last detail. Sherry is very knowledgeable with the aging body and yoga, and energetically shares that knowledge in her writing and videos. She was so responsive, offering assistance and feedback throughout the entire process. Her positive energy and attitude shine through in this online course.


Chair Yoga Certified

Amparo Kelly

Amparo Kelly

Edison, New Jersey | United States

I am very happy with the course it is great and I highly recommend it to anybody. I improved my regular yoga classes and right now I am teaching two chair yoga classes one at the “Y” and the other one at the Seniors Center I absolutely love it. Seniors are great and the good part is that they appreciate it. I want to take this opportunity to THANK YOU. I was lucky to found you!


Chair Yoga Trained

Donna Wasneski

Donna Wasneski

Grand Junction, Colorado | United States

My gentle class has doubled in size, I had 29 last week!


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Karen Wexler

Karen Wexler

Delray Beach, Florida | United States

One of my favorite things Sherry is your great enthusiasm! It is very contagious! And anytime I am watching you with a group of people doing the class together, my heart melts…it’s so heartwarming watching those seniors following along and moving to the beat. I absolutely love it.


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedChair Yoga TrainedLow Back Trained

Susan Rowan

Susan Rowan

Richmond Hill, Ontario | Canada

Just wanted to let you know I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this pilot Chair Yoga Dance project.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Trained

Gerry Hurtig

Gerry Hurtig

Parrish, Florida | United States

Many thanks to Justine, your students and yourself for the continued support that I received throughout the learning process. It is easy to become overwhelmed with all that there is to know, but you kept the information so well organized and consistent throughout the process. It was also easy to see the relationship between the chair yoga and gentle yoga materials which helped to make the dual-certification process even more rewarding for my students and myself. I highly recommend both for anyone who may be on the fence.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Lynda Sandoval

Lynda Sandoval

Fredonia, New York | United States

After getting my Academy certification, I immediately started a chair yoga class at my studio that is always full. Full enough that I’ll be adding two more in September. One of my students gave me a card recently that said, ‘Thank you for caring enough to remember us older folks. Honey, you are a born teacher.’ I also teach private classes for a married couple, 87 and 88. The other day, after class, the wife looked at her husband as he stood from his chair and exclaimed, ‘Oh, Lynda, look at his posture! I don’t see an old man anymore. I see the dashing young man I fell in love with.’ So, was this training course worthwhile for enhancing my yoga teaching repertoire? For enhancing my LIFE? A million times over. I can’t recommend it highly enough.


Chair Yoga Certified

Margaret

Margaret "Maggie" Hancock

Jamestown, North Carolina | United States

I really like the diverse learning opportunities offered through Yoga Vista Academy which I can enjoy without leaving home. I have a passion for teaching seniors and am one myself in addition my career as a nurse and nurse practitioner currently part time. Sherry is very passionate about her work with this group of clients and it is reflected in every class and workshop which she teaches and I have also enjoyed listening to her story on the Yoga Alliance website.

Hopefully, I will be signing up for the chair and gentle yoga certification soon!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Cindy Willis

Cindy Willis

Pueblo, Colorado | United States

I cannot say enough about the quality of this program. Excellent and Praiseworthy!!


Chair Yoga Trained

Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Monique’s presentation was so pertinent with the population I work with as they become more sedentary. I loved the use of Yoga and specific poses as disease intervention. The concept that Rest and Relaxation in Yoga allows the body to de-stress and benefit the issues of metabolic syndrome is my biggest takeaway form this presentation and will share it with students, friends and family. Thoroughly enjoyed the practice!”

“10+ Monique is great at explaining things and making it easy to understand. She is way knowledgeable and calming.”

“Loved Monique – MORE MORE MORE! Her presentation was SO simple, clear and easy to remember. Loved the part about prana, apana and brahmacharya. What else can we learn from Monique? LOVED the practice at the end! Thank you!!”

“Monique’s wonderful illustrations and making something so intricate understandable.”


Jyoti Nanda

Jyoti Nanda

Haryana | India

I am Jyoti Nanda from India, and I have enrolled in the Gentle Chair Yoga For Seniors online course. Just wanted to say that this is an amazing course. I am a RYT 200 and an Ananda Yoga trained teacher. I am committed to making yoga accessible to as many seniors as possible.


Chair Yoga Certified

Barbara Ruvarac

Barbara Ruvarac

Naperville, Illinois | United States

I now have bi-weekly 30 min yoga session with an 87 year old sweetheart, named Lily, in her home. Thanks to Sherry’s business marketing tools which HAVE BEEN EXTREMELY helpful! Your comment about “not selling yourself short” is SO true!! I wasn’t sure what to provide for a rate when asked and used your reference guide. However, I was nervous I was asking too much! And guess what – It was accepted!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Carol Daly

Carol Daly

Jackson Heights, New York | United States

I have found so much joy in incorporating dances in my yoga classes. The dancing really changes the routine and the addition of the music and familiar songs makes the class a little jewel in the day for the seniors I teach and for me! I use the songs at the beginning, end and middle of the class.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Certified

Anne Merrill

Anne Merrill

North Monmouth, Maine | United States

I did love the program itself, I love all the information, chapters, etc., and how I was able to print out everything and make a large binder to keep forever for reference. Any time I had questions while going through the information, Sherry was just an email away with the answer, and always very prompt.

One of the biggest things I like about this program, is that I almost feel like I know you all, after watching videos, studying, phone calls and emails. That is very important to me!


Chair Yoga Certified

Kerry Cannell

Kerry Cannell

Upland, California | United States

I totally loved the handouts and videos and will use them for years to come. I have two private clients right now. She has SI joint instability and he has chronic sciatica! This info makes me look like I know what I’m doing. Thank you!!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Francesca Cooper, UNITED KINGDOM

Currently Enrolled

I am enrolled on the Chair Yoga programme and am finding it a real source of inspiration in teaching my seniors classes.


Kim O’Brien

Yoga Teacher

At first I was hesitant about online training. But after taking a course I realized just how valuable YVA training is. Not only are the trainings jammed packed with posture, anatomy and teaching strategies, I can pause, rewind and go back again and again so that I don’t miss one juicy detail. Looking forward to my next training.


Jayne Meldrum, AUSTRALIA

Yoga Teacher, Currently enrolled in Chair Yoga Dance Training

Thanks for all your beautiful chair dances & other wonderful yoga stretches which I also bring to my gentle yoga classes. You are an inspiration!


Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Fabulous presentation and info as ALWAYS. I really liked the focus on desk workers as I plan to offer Yoga to desk workers…..SOON! I SO appreciate the detail in the manual as I refer back to them again and again and again!”

“Sherry did an awesome job. I feel like I am confident to help technology age workers.”

“Very energetic and engaging. Content is SO applicable to weekly teaching, to personal life, to people to people I know.”


Nelda Eserin

Nelda Eserin

Cincinnati, Ohio | United States

I have loved this training! This training has instilled more confidence in working with low back issues, not only in teaching, but in personal practice. In fact, my own sense of self-esteem has strengthened with the empowerment of better understanding the nature of the problems that can involve the spine and how I can personally work with these issues in my spine and feel confident in teaching yoga to others with loads of low back pain. Chronic pain is a drain on life energy, but having the right tools to work with pain is pure gold!


Chair Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Karen K., Vermont, USA

Currently Enrolled

I enjoyed James’ class very much and have been incorporating some of the flows into my sessions with clients and group practices…and…oh yes…have weaved some of them into my own practices as well.


Cindy Willis

Cindy Willis

Pueblo, Colorado | United States

Sherry I cannot express to you how much my report card means to me. Last week was an exceptionally challenging week for me (we all have those!). So, receiving your assessment of my TeachBack came at just the right time. I admire you so very much, and the positive feedback I received from you, was a balm to my soul. I want to be the Yoga Instructor who makes you proud, and is representative of the Yoga Vista Academy’s excellence.


Chair Yoga Trained

Peggy Aveyard

Peggy Aveyard

Dayton, Ohio | United States

Thank You for the awesome tips and honest feedback!


Chair Yoga Certified

Lee Terryberry

Lee Terryberry

Round Hill, Virginia | United States

I am currently enrolled in the Senior Chair Yoga Program and I am really liking it. The payment plan is so helpful and affordable.

Although I am only into the third chapter, I am finding the program quite user friendly. I was a bit apprehensive about taking an online class to begin with. Chair yoga is hands on stuff, how can this be done? I am completely confident in the completeness of the course and its contents, and I am ecstatic about the unlimited resources at my fingertips. The videos are great!! No actors here, just reality.

I also thought an online class would be lonely, but it’s not. Sherry is right there with me, as well as Norma or Lou and so many of the Seniors from the limitless videos. I get excited to see their progress and to know that what I do from this program makes a difference in people’s lives.

I drive a school bus during the week, having the opportunity to have a printed manual to take with me to study and practice from is essential. I can’t possibly remember everything, so to have the quick reference is handy too. I like how the program is laid out, and how it builds upon itself. It is very obvious how much time and research has gone into this program. I’m gobbling it up.

From being encourage to wear bright colors, have fun in teaching things like “picking fruit” or “how much money, honey” really gets ya going. I can’t wait to show you “Pirate Pose!” for balance. It makes my Seniors smile, giggle and confident. I even teach “Turkey Yoga”. I hope you are curious here.

Thank you for such an affordable, current and applicable program that is like having a personal trainer with me all of the time. I feel more and more confident each day because I am being equipped to provide my Senior students with the tools they need to be safe, active, and independent for as long as they can be, and to have fun along their journey.


Chair Yoga Certified

Diana E., Delray Beach, FL, USA

Currently Enrolled

I would like to thank you for offering such a wonderful course online. As I am going along and studying the material, I am learning so much about the body and the way to structure classes to help the older adults to stay active and live a more happy and healthy lifestyle.


Lynn Woodbury

Lynn Woodbury

St. Paul, Minnesota | United States

I think you did a masterful job of outlining, covering, explaining and repeating the cogent points. The best thing about the Program is the attention to detail of the cadence of the songs, the TIPS to watch for when the action is changing or pausing, the way to map out the songs. My village is so excited about adding dancing to our chair class that I feel empowered to mess up and still have fun.


Chair Yoga Certified

Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

I truly appreciate all the teachings from Yoga Vista. You got me hooked on anatomy, chair yoga, vini yoga and soon…somatic yoga. They all compliment each other so well and allow us teachers to quickly adjust a class (getting away from teaching with a script…one-size-fits-all).


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Elizabeth  Richmond

Elizabeth Richmond

Gurnee, Illinois | United States

I have loved the training and look forward to feedback from both you and Jane. Someday I hope to get out your way and would love to take a class with you. I am tickled to share with you that since retiring I am now teaching 4 classes a week! I teach chair at State of Mind Yoga on Fridays, I also teach basics there on Monday nights, and a basic class at a very posh retirement center, where they are eager to bring chair yoga back. On Saturdays, I teach a basic at the park district in a nearby town. I could not be happier and owe so much of my success to you and Jane and all my other teachers along the way and to come.


Chair Yoga Certified

Katie Brandes

Katie Brandes

Gainesville, Florida | United States

I finished the Anatomy Section of the training. I just…. I have no words for how amazing it is. I’m working on formulating a review of this program. It’s just…. well. I’m sure you know. My confidence has increased. When I teach my yoga classes, I actually feel as if I KNOW WHAT I’M TALKING ABOUT! Not just repeating something I learned. That’s what’s amazing about this. The understanding that lies underneath her teaching. I’ve been yearning for something in yoga… something I couldn’t explain or even understand. But now I know. I just needed the answer to the question WHY. Now I know so many more answers to why we teach what we teach in yoga… why we do certain movements in certain ways. Even my students have noticed a difference.


Chair Yoga CertifiedLow Back CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Cheryl Harper, London, Ontario, Canada

Currently Enrolled

I am a retired school teacher… and I just wanted to let you know that I have begun your Anatomy course and I am really loving it. I’ve taken many courses in my life and I wanted to tell you that I really like how you’ve laid that out. Your handouts are very professionally put together , easy to follow but rich with content. I can’t wait to get started again this morning. Suffering from mobility issues myself, I Know that your courses are going to benefit me enormously both Professionally and personally.. Your programs go far deeper than other ones I have taken.


Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Pertinent, energized presentation of LOTS of material in an understandable, ‘digestible’ manner. Especially appreciated thoughts about accessing your corporate wellness possibilities. Sherry, you absolutely walk your joyful talk.”

“Always fresh, creative and inspiring! This is such a relevant concern in today’s world. Not a day goes by that someone doesn’t present with tech based pain issues.”

“Loved it! Very thorough, fun, enjoyed the stretching exercises. Really appreciate the sample flyers to use for my own marketing.”

“So much useful information! This is such an important topic that is useful not just on a teaching level, but for family, friends and myself. It is always wonderful to practice while learning.”


C.C., Encinitas, California, USA

New Teacher Graduate

Ever since you left us with your business presentation from our yoga training; it’s all I could think about! I’m amazed at how successful you are and how you manage so many occupations at once.


Cheryl Weise

Cheryl Weise

St. Joseph, Michigan | United States

I am offering a Chair Yoga for Vets on Veterans Day and am confident with my ability and looking forward to the challenge. Thank you for everything!


Chair Yoga Certified

Janet Rosoff

Janet Rosoff

Aventura, Florida | United States

I completed my 200 hour Yoga Alliance Training in 2009. Since then I completed trainings at Duke for Integrated Yoga for Seniors and with Yoga Vista Academy for both Chair and Gentle Yoga. The Low Back Care training has taken me to a whole different level of knowledge and teaching skills providing me with a solid understanding of low back conditions, the poses that empower and help my students improve their back conditions, the associated risks, as well as an ability to use that knowledge and teaching skills for creating a safe and effective yoga practice for my students.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

John Conroy

John Conroy

Ennis | Republic of Ireland

I am studying the Corporate Deskworker I must compliment you on such a fantastic course I am really enjoying it. It’s so interesting with lots of additional information I am now passing on to my students .


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Kate Regan

Kate Regan

Brisbane | Australia

My love & excitement for what I’m doing with chair yoga is all down to your ‘generosity of spirit’ Sherry, and your willingness to share all that you believe is good with your students & trainees the world over. You are truly inspiring !


Chair Yoga Certified

Christy Hill

Christy Hill

Orlando, Florida | United States

While preparing for a chair yoga class I was presenting at an ALF for International Yoga Day I stumbled upon Sherry and YogaJP on YouTube. Needless to say, I was HOOKED. Now when I come across other chair yoga classes, they’re very vanilla in comparison.


Chair Yoga Certified

Carol Willard, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA

Currently Enrolled

I can not thank you enough for offering this amazing class on line. I am so thankful. I enjoyed it so much and learned so much.


Susan Rowan

Susan Rowan

Richmond Hill, Ontario | Canada

I had 28 people in my chair class Monday 🙂 I might have to cap it soon….Thank you Sherry, for creating such a valuable program, which enables us teachers to go out and help others XOXOXOX


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Trained

Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Excellent presenter, very knowledgeable. First time I have actually learned in-depth about the meaning behind the poses.”

“Amazing! The very first class I’ve ever heard of on myth and asana. Inspired to create a class using this.”

“WOW! The asanas will never be the same. So much to share and absorb. Beautiful!”

“So interesting! A great summery of some of the stories and their relationship to the poses. I can share this historical information with my students.”

“Very knowledgeable. This was my first introduction to the “story” of the myths. Beautifully done!”


Susan Whitmer

Susan Whitmer

Denton, Texas | United States

The Chair Yoga training was beneficial in so many ways: self-paced, practical anatomy lessons, accessible format.


Chair Yoga Certified

Phoebe I., London, UK

Chair Yoga Teacher

I live in London and I work full time but spend my other hours coming up with creative ways to educate students and further their practice. Although I am a trained teacher, I am just starting your aging anatomy course and have already learnt so much after module 1. Wanted to let you know. Look forward to the modules to come. Thank you for all of your work and dedication to this field of chaired yoga.


Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

Thanks for sharing your indepth personal knowledge of low back pain and for creating a superb teacher training program that prepares us teachers to safely serve our students. Feeling blessed to have discovered you two 🙂


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Anne Merrill

Anne Merrill

North Monmouth, Maine | United States

I would definitely recommend to other students what a fine mentoring program you have. I still remember the day I received Sherry’s email regarding the program and how I could join in. As you could probably tell, I really needed the motivational perks to keep me on task and get it done! Phew!!


Chair Yoga Certified

Gabriella Burnham

Gabriella Burnham

Coldstream | Canada

I really enjoyed taking your course. I chose it because of your focus on anatomy and I learned so much. The course was very thorough.


Chair Yoga Certified

Maryann O’Brien, West End, North Carolina, USA

Currently Enrolled

I feel so blessed to have found you and Justine and your program. You have enriched my life and through the knowledge I have gained in your program, I can pay it forward.


Susie D., United Kingdom

Currently Enrolled

I just wanted to let you know how much I am enjoying this course so far. I have been teaching Seniors exercise to music for about 7 years for a nationwide UK Seniors charity (Age UK) as well as open Yoga classes and have always wanted to bridge the two. I found you on YouTube and I find your classes so much more fun and interesting than most of the more sombre classes I see online!! There are not many chair yoga courses in the UK as it’s not a very popular area at present so it’s great that I can get certified through your course. I’m finding it really useful and learning a lot!


Dana Thiele

Dana Thiele

Rabun Gap, Georgia | United States

I am so grateful to be a part of this yoga community! I have learned so much about anatomy, thanks to you and Justine. I really like the way the course is designed. Taking the a test after each section is brilliant! I have three notebooks full of information that you guys provided throughout the course. Wonderful to have to refer back to. Having access to the teaching videos is something that I take advantage of on a regular basis. A chair yoga teacher who attends my gentle yoga classes when in my area, is so impressed with what I have learned is going to take the chair yoga course you offer.


Chair Yoga Certified

Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

I watched the Yoga Therapy for Metabolic Syndrome module of the Gentle Yoga Program. Monique Lonner has a lovely way of explaining the conditions (pre-diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol etc) in an easy to “digest” (haha) way. The accompanying manual is also very are easy to follow and reference.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Saffron Murray

Saffron Murray

Tramore | Republic of Ireland

I just wanted to share with you that today I did my first full chair yoga in a nursing home. Todate I’ve taught to the Parkinson Association, then set up my own chair yoga class in my home town for the active retired, but today I took it to a whole new level where every one was in wheelchair, several amputees, deaf and even one blind man. Now! you’d swear I was doing this all my life as it was one of the most enjoyable, rewarding and humbling class, and boy our seniors love a laugh, they had me sing Joe Dolan-More And More, Neil Diamond-Hands Touching Hands. It was fantastic! Everyone engaged and love it.

So I guess I was so excited about it all that I just wanted to share it with you. This was all possible thanks to you, your team and all your invaluable handouts, videos, tests and teachbacks even though it’s an overwhelming amount of material. Love, love, love you and your Vista Team xxxxx


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Martha White

Yoga Teacher

What I like about Yoga Vista Academy is that they want the world to know that yoga can benefit Everyone, and can be modified for all populations.


Kristine  Amey

Kristine Amey

Lenhartsville, Pennsylvania | United States

I could never have completed this course in an in-person class situation. Both my husband and I are lucky enough to have our 90+ year old mothers alive and living on their own. Most of our weekends get spent with one or the other; they are a fabulous focus group on what works and what doesn’t for some of my classes! They love all I’ve learned as much as I do.


Chair Yoga Certified

Gerry Hurtig

Gerry Hurtig

Parrish, Florida | United States

First, let me tell you how much I am enjoying the overall course. I have learned so much and am able to take the information and relate it to the classes I teach; a few chair as a sub, Hatha and restorative.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Shirley K., San Diego, CA, USA

Retired Nurse, Chair Yoga Student

I have been attending Sherry’s Chair Yoga classes twice a week for 7 years. I will be 75 in April and I feel extra energy, happiness and a positive attitude. Sherry is a ray of sunshine!


Sara SwartzWeinberg, UVM Medical Center in the Psychiatry Department

Currently Enrolled

I just wanted to check in and let you know how much I’m enjoying the chair yoga teacher training! I really appreciate the mix of written material and video presentations. Also, I wanted to share with you how impressed I am with the handouts. They are so comprehensive and unlike anything I’ve ever received in any yoga training that I’ve done in the past.
I currently work at UVM Medical Center in the Psychiatry Department as a licensed mental health counselor in a partial hospitalization program for mental health. I’m also a yoga teacher at a few yoga studios locally (certified at the 200 hour level). I’m super passionate about combining those worlds.


Judy Harder

Judy Harder

Kerrville, Texas | United States

Just want to let you know I did the chair yoga dance “Forever Young”. It was very well received so I will give it a try this week again.😃. I will think about pursuing the chair yoga dance program. Thanks very much for all you do for the advancement of chair yoga. Without you we would all not be where we are today in spreading chair yoga to so many people.


Chair Yoga Certified

Louise Curran

Louise Curran

Wicklow | Republic of Ireland

The course is so professionally done and it was an amazing collaboration across the globe – a very positive example of how we are all connected.


Chair Yoga CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Jacki C., Avon Lake, Ohio, USA

Senior Chair Yoga Teacher

“There are those whose lives affect all others around them. Quietly touching one heart, who in turn touches another. Reaching out to ends further than they would ever know.” Your story today, your Yoga Vista e-mails, your you tube videos and CDs, your observations, and sharing, are a true example of the thought written above. I share what you share, my class members share, and so on….reaching out to ends further than we will ever know.


Beverly Davis-Baird

Beverly Davis-Baird

Little Silver, New Jersey | United States

Thank you very much for the detailed feedback. It is very helpful. I’m really enjoying the course, especially the practice videos. Thanks for all the time and effort you put into creating this. I can only imagine the many, many hours that went into planning, filming, and editing it. I’m grateful to have them as a resource even after I complete the certification.


Low Back Certified

Lanny Carlson

Lanny Carlson

Estherville, Iowa | United States

I am confident that I could give a class, I already do.
I use a wheelchair myself (not 100%, these days i can walk a bit again, i have ms) and that is why i know a bit more about how to use the wheelchair in poses and how it is if you can’t move and how to adapt. I used to cycle in the hand-biket-eam and there I got to know teammates with different types of paralysis and mates without legs etc.  Knowing disabled people and being disabled yourself makes you not afraid to give lessons to disabled persons, I think that is half the work. Every lesson you learn more and more about the different ways to move and how you can adjust everything, which I love.
But i missed the more science know how … something your lessons gave me.


Chair Yoga Certified

Helena, San Diego, CA, USA

Gentle Yoga Teacher

What I love about all that you do is that you validate what we do as chair, gentle and senior yogis. Even if we cannot stand on our heads or balance on our arms, we are no less yogis. What you have done to promote {this} style of teaching and practicing is amazing. Thank you!


Alison Partridge

Alison Partridge

Oxford | United Kingdom

Thank you for the course – it’s so comprehensive ! I’ve encouraged several other local teachers to consider taking the course – seated yoga is much less developed in UK than it clearly is in the US. But with our changing population I have no doubt it will grow fast – I certainly hope so – I’m a huge fan!


Chair Yoga Certified

Jeanne Valenti, River Vale, NJ

Chair Yoga Teacher

I turned 82 yrs young this past Aug. I opened up a yoga studio in my home. Word is slowly leaking out about me and I can’t even imagine what my days will be this coming year. Because of you, I found somatic yoga. I’ve taken James’s course and have been doing this for myself for two years. I feel great, better than ever! So I decided to incorporate as much of somatics into my senior chair yoga classes as I could. Miracles have been happening for me and my clients. Everybody has been so excited that they can move and feel so much better. My students range in age from early 60’s to 94.


Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

In 4 months, at the age of 53, I will finally leave my federal government job in order to follow my true passion of teaching chair, gentle and low back yoga. I am extremely grateful for your teacher certification that is allowing me to transition to a new chapter in my life. I continue to be impressed with your materials and teaching as each time I reread or repeat a video, I pick up something new.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Denise Harcourt, Toronto, CANADA

Chair Yoga Teacher

Every yoga teacher would benefit from this training.


Betsy Laban

Betsy Laban

Duarte, California | United States

I recently took a course from Justine in Yoga for back care. It is one of the most wonderful courses I have ever taken. She takes such great care in explaining every step, every movement, every modification in a way that makes perfect sense.

More than her amazing way of teaching, she inspires me to be the best instructor I can be. Her humor, knowledge and obvious care for others is priceless. I am forever grateful for the gifts she gave me.


Low Back Certified

Margaret Johnson

Yoga Teacher

Yoga Vista academy emails are always packed with information, videos and inspiring insights from Sherry and her students and staff. I can always count on learning something new. Your generosity and willingness to share this knowledge with others so freely is a blessing and truly speaks to the true meaning of yoga!


Saffron Murray

Saffron Murray

Tramore | Republic of Ireland

I recently gave up my job to teach more classes and set up a lovely chair yoga class in my home town Tramore for the active retired, and a nursing home has asked me to start this Tuesday so I start your module on Teaching Chair Yoga in Senior Care Facilities before I started on the Teach back. It’s so great to have each and every module, handout and video to help us yogis along in their journey to help others. I will be eternally grateful to you and all your time, effort and love in creating these online courses.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Kim Stabbe

Kim Stabbe

Fremont, Nebraska | United States

Thank you so much again for your wonderful Chair Yoga course!! I especially enjoyed the great review on Anatomy. I greatly appreciate that your resources will be my wonderful library of information to refer to when needed. The online setup worked great for me too. I also gave my feedback via Yoga Alliance.


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga Certified

Eva Montalvo

Eva Montalvo

West Palm Beach, Florida | United States

Currently I’m offering 7 chair yoga classes a week (plus a twice-monthly healthy brains with yoga segment) and am loving it. I often hear from students how much they appreciate the variety of movement and themes from class to class, and I know that I’ve been able to offer that as a result of this training. One of the best compliments I have received from people who used to practice mat yoga was that they still felt as though they were practicing “real” yoga!


Chair Yoga CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Jo Willis

Jo Willis

Axbridge | United Kingdom

I have been asked to teach at a Nursing Care Home for the Elderly and was feeling very nervous about it. Your course, however has reassured me and I found lots of points useful. For example- starting the class by checking which joints are moving, instead of starting with a quiet meditation. I loved the video showing how you do the shoulder and neck massage. Its something that I do not normally do in my yoga class, but will now be added as I feel much more confident with it. I also like the idea of greeting every student prior to commencing the class. I loved the course!


Chair Yoga Certified

Susan  Martin

Susan Martin

Oceanside, California | United States

Your dedication to helping all of us become better instructors is amazing and I am so grateful to be a part of this program. The special niche of helping seniors (and really anyone any age) to use Yoga to help us move through the problems of injury and aging and to get such positive results is unparalleled. Not only that but you do it with such grace, accessibility, vitality and fun. ❣️ Five Stars each to Justine, Sherry and Yoga Vista Academy⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


Low Back Certified

Saffron Murray

Saffron Murray

Tramore | Republic of Ireland

Sherry Zak Morris is an absolute amazing woman. She oozes positive energy, she is highly knowledgeable in her craft as a Chair Yoga Teacher and Gentle Senior Yoga Teacher and her presentation skills are exceptional. Sherry has also being very supportive. She is bases in the USA and I’m her student in Ireland and I’ve had more heart warming email from her with positive encouraging words and she is never too busy to reply. Her teaching methods has me in awe of her and I hold her in a very high regard. Sherry is a true inspiration and so lovely inside and out.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Irene Bruckner

Irene Bruckner

Lockport, Illinois | United States

It means a lot to be certified as a teacher leading chair yoga. I feel like you helped me fill in the gaps from my yoga training. It’s harder than it looks to teach to adults who cannot get to the mat. Feels so much clearer to me now.

I appreciate all of the video shares and the sequences. I learn better by watching than reading from a text.

This certification was more than I expected and I learned so much. Thanks for the gentle coaching and the cheerleading. As a senior myself, this was very helpful.


Chair Yoga Certified

Kandi Furphy

Kandi Furphy

Laramie, Wyoming | United States

Viki is so engaging before I knew it the hour was over and I was wanting more!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Katie Brandes

Katie Brandes

Gainesville, Florida | United States

Content… The amount of information in the course was unbelievable. It was well-delivered. The PDF documents were organized perfectly. And I appreciate the videos throughout. Applying different learning methods really helped it all come together for me. Testing… I actually felt like I got real feedback. This is so unusual this day and age and I feel like I am a better teacher for it. The course made me stop and think about who I am as a teacher.


Chair Yoga CertifiedLow Back CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Gillian Isvan

Gillian Isvan

Isle of Arran, North Ayrshire | Scotland

Since I graduated and got certified, I m starting another chair yoga class in another village and was approached by a local care home to do a class there too. I am seeing if I can fit it into my schedule as the local high school asked me to do a yoga class there for the students and one for the teachers so it is all full steam head!! Thank you Universe.


Chair Yoga Certified

Vicki Salisbury

Vicki Salisbury

Wynnum (Brisbane), Queensland | Australia

I plan on celebrating my completion and certification (your honest and comprehensive feedback is amazing). Really I had an absolute ball last year with this course. Learning the dances, practicing them with my students has completely changed how I approach my chair yoga classes. I always include two yoga dances, and the end of the month culminates in an entire hour of yoga dances. The majority of my students, don’t miss a week and I am finding a significant retention of my students. I know it is due in part, to including yoga dance. But watching your delivery, and learning all the factoids and other bits you add to a class, including naming the postures, has helped to develop my teaching skills. I am a very good teacher because of what I’ve learned from you.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Certified

Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Wonderful info on how to get into corporations. Clear explanations of the ramifications of repetitive postures at work.”

“Sherry is a fabulous presenter. Her enthusiasm and passion is infectious. The material presented was concise, sequential and extremely practical. I felt there were so many tips that I can immediately put into practice. Thank you!”

“Excellent information! I have a ‘bucket sitter’ student at home. I can’t wait to offer him exercises to help with head and neck tension and to stretch those tight hamstrings.”

“Loved all the ideas to bringing Yoga to the desk world… they need it so much!”


Jerry Loewe

Jerry Loewe

Rio Grande, New Jersey | United States

Yoga Vista’s educational courses have allowed me to speak from a place of knowledge to my own students. I truly believe that once someone understands the “why” the effort becomes greater. Sherry and her team are a wealth of knowledge and even better, are happily willing to share it. I’ve learned and continue to learn so much!


Chair Yoga Certified

Live Workshop Attendees

“Excellent presentation skills and cuing for the exercises. I learned some new moves to help my senior students. I liked the way Sherry related the moves to the muscle groups and the reason why we should do the movements.”

“Tremendous – when is the book coming out!! A wealth of info. Could not say enough, what you are doing for the profession with your teaching and online videos is just great. You are a Yoga hero!”

“Great as usual. Every time I listen to you, Sherry, you are fun and you are always add so many new things. Thank you.”


Judy Rycombel

Judy Rycombel

Inverness, Illinois | United States

Before this project, I never REALLY looked at peoples’ posture very much. It’s amazing what I saw and learned from having to observe people and write this paper. Seems like everywhere I go now, I’m looking at a person’s posture and trying to figure out what the issues are and how to improve them. Thanks Sherry!


Chair Yoga Certified

Colleen Sengpiel

Colleen Sengpiel

West Des Moines, Iowa | United States

I thoroughly enjoyed this project. I have been observing postures & various physical conditions since I received my RYT certification 7 years ago, but this course has taken me to the next level of observations, ie. I better understand the ripple effect to the ENTIRE body when a “load bearing” joint is out of alignment.


Chair Yoga Certified

Jill D., Michigan, USA

AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor

I am a AFAA certified group fitness instructor with YogaFit training. I love all of your fabulous tips, DVDs and Utube productions. They have given me so much very important information to make me a better yoga instructor! I began teaching a chair class 5 years ago because I saw a need to modify for my seniors. It has become the largest growing segment of all the various classes I teach!! I feel so much more confident since watching your youtube classes and DVDs. I just took your “Posture Project” online course and loved it! So many great tools and tips to help me instruct an effective, safe and appropriate chair yoga class.


Maryann O., West End, North Carolina, USA

Currently Enrolled

I am working with a Neuropsychologist on a 10 month program for Stroke Recovery Survivors, offering yoga at the end of each of her rehab sessions. I was “bold” as you said and approached her and the next thing I knew I was involved with hospital recovery groups, her program, and teaching stroke survivors at a healing house designed to support family and caregivers. It has been one of the biggest blessings in my life.


Aki O’Leary

Aki O’Leary

Venice, California | United States

I have absolutely LOVED your training and knowledge and have learned so much!! I could not have made this change in my work life without you!!! I have brought the two things I love and are passionate about together – Seniors and Yoga!! (I am a former Activity Professional and Activity Director)


Chair Yoga Certified

John Conroy

John Conroy

Ennis | Republic of Ireland

I live in Ireland and have over 350 students. I don’t have a gym of my own so I travel throughout the County on a daily basis to rural areas with low levels of population to Community Halls where Students come once a weekly and get their exercise in with an age profile of 6o – 92. I really mean this Sherry you have played a huge part in helping me get this going with the vast knowledge, great ideas and variety gained from your online tutorials, Dvd”s and courses completed with you.


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Sabrina G., CANADA

Chair Yoga Teacher

I want to tell you how much I love your seniors classes and how you are a source of inspiration to me.


Angelina  Nikolic

Angelina Nikolic

Dryden | Canada

I love the wealth of experience and knowledge offered by the instructors at Yoga vista academy! I love the variety of poses and progressions that the trainings provide! I know as soon as I learn something that it is going to have a tremendous impact on my students, and I am always excited to share what I have learned with them!

Yoga Vista Academy is helping me to help others and prepare them for longevity!


Chair Yoga Certified

Gail Pickens-Barger, Port Neches, Texas, USA

Yoga Teacher

As I have challenges with my scoli back and various issues, this foundation for low back yoga workshop helped me tremendously in teaching me how to do the proper yoga poses, how to teach the poses and explained thoroughly the anatomy of the body.


Tracy Stephensen

Currently Enrolled

I am really enjoying the course. I was an elementary school teacher and I have attended many yoga training where there is not even a manual. I am impressed with the amount of thought, effort and pedagogy that has gone into the online chair yoga program.


Cynthia Collins

Cynthia Collins

Evergreen Park, Illinois | United States

During this time of isolation, most of my thinking has focused on how I can serve more and supplement my income. My confidence has increased, due to this training. There is a good balance of scenarios and the variety of content which should suit all styles of learning. Now I am committed to building a small business (verses the one facility I serve twice per month) and this certification motivates the new initiative.


Chair Yoga TrainedWheelchair Yoga - Trained

Kim Stabbe

Kim Stabbe

Fremont, Nebraska | United States

I have really enjoyed and learned great information especially on anatomy taking your Chair Yoga certification. Thank you so much for providing such a wonderful experience!


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga Certified

Patty Scheibmeir

Patty Scheibmeir

Frisco, Texas | United States

I love this training program! There truly is NOTHING I would change. I could work at my own pace, study offline (handouts), study online (videos) watching as the material was discussed/ practiced and real, live class instruction demonstrated, then take the tests when I was ready. Since I tend to be more of a visual learner, this approach really fit my preferred learning style perfectly! There were plenty of real examples provided and lots of bonus extra videos to supplement my learning. I have all the handouts in one big binder and still refer to it for ideas, yet love the idea that I can go back to the website whenever I desire. After course completion, I felt well prepared to teach classes on my own…and I have!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Vicki Salisbury

Vicki Salisbury

Wynnum (Brisbane), Queensland | Australia

An area that I have been investigating is how positivity and happiness affect health, and the relationship between health and the positivity of Chair Yoga Dance. I am confident that every teacher who uses Chair Yoga Dance witnesses students having fun, laughing and increased smiles. It has been my experience that student’s level of happiness increases during Chair Yoga Dance and my students report they feel the psychological and physical benefits.

Dr. Barbara Fredrickson, a leading researcher at the University of North Carolina in the expanding field of Positive Psychology wrote, “When people get excited about their physical health potential it is possible to thrive in life, even in the face of illness.” I believe it is empowering for yoga teachers to understand the medical evidence underpinning the potential benefits of Chair Yoga Dance. This is especially true in the field of positive psychology and aging. I incorporate more of elements of positivity, eye contact and reassuring smiles during Chair Yoga Dance sessions, my students love the classes and keep returning for more.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Certified

Margaret

Margaret "Maggie" Hancock

Jamestown, North Carolina | United States

Just to let you know I am loving this course and so glad to have the Crown membership. What a wealth of information! I had originally wanted to do a 500 hr program but impossible to find one that fits the focus of a chair and gentle teacher who wants to focus on baby boomers and seniors and your program is the perfect solution. Thanks again and I am really enjoying it!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Eileen Tremarco

Eileen Tremarco

Brick, New Jersey | United States

I found this course to be well designed/formatted and very comprehensive.
It flowed nicely from one area of the body to the next.
The Anatomy section was very detailed, and loved learning about the mechanical aspects of the human body.
The Conditions sections associated with the different areas of the body answered a lot of questions I already had about working safely with a wide variety of ailments that seniors may be experiencing.
The Poses section was filled with great step by step information, which gave me confidence, ensuring I was delivering the information to the class appropriately.
The videos were a fun and inspirational part of the class, seeing various members of the Yoga Vista Community sharing their knowledge.


Chair Yoga Trained

Susan Whitmer

Susan Whitmer

Denton, Texas | United States

My chair yoga classes are in high demand at Texas Woman’s University (TWU). Students, faculty, and staff are asking for classes. I have so much ambition for chair yoga and the investment has paid off in a number of ways: the Dean of Libraries wants private lessons, the library staff have increased morale because they see monthly chair yoga activities as fun, my TWU Fitness & Recreation supervisor wants to add Chair Yoga to the Group Exercise schedule.


Chair Yoga Certified

Kathy Fulgione, Tappan, New York, USA

Gentle Yoga Teacher - Early Access Team

I have found the material very helpful. It is informative, clear and easy to understand. I only wish I had this info during my 200 hr YTT! It is filling in the missing gap of my anatomy knowledge, especially as it applies to yoga!


Melanie Fichtenberg

Melanie Fichtenberg

North Port, Florida | United States

I had started this training to help my mother who is 85. She had a chair yoga class she attended in Michigan before we moved to Florida. We looked for a chair yoga class and there was none so I decided to take the training myself. It has been both wonderful and beneficial to myself as well as my mother. I have lost 48 lbs and increased my strength, flexibility and banished my back pain through the training and practice of chair yoga. I have severe scoliosis – and my posture has also improved. I am a musician (pianist/singer) who was struggling to sit at the piano and practice because of pain but now can sit and rehearse with no problems.

I have had the privilege to be mentored by Viki Boyko who was absolutely delightful and a wonderful teacher. She suggested that I start to teach while I was training. I have been working with a group of senior citizens. We meet at a church in the area twice a week. Many have shared with me that there doctors are delighted with the results from their chair yoga classes. My favorite story is about a retired gentleman who says his golf game has improved by practicing chair yoga. He says he relaxes his toes before he swings and it has made a great impact on his game. Thank you again for the opportunity to train. I think this is a marvelous program!


Chair Yoga Trained

Pam Burdgick, Florida, USA

Chair Yoga Teacher

What I like best about Yoga Vista Academy is that it inspires me to be authentic in teaching my chair yoga classes, taking new ideas and putting my own personality into them so that they all ring true with my class members and feel good to my spirit as well. I hope that someday workshops will be offered in Florida so I can attend and become even more deeply involved.


Alison Partridge

Alison Partridge

Oxford | United Kingdom

The course has really helped me to gain confidence in teaching seated yoga, by basing it so strongly in the context of the physiology of ageing. The depth of information about anatomy, injuries, philosophies and yoga modifications to work alongside everyone’s particular body issues, is really exceptional. I’ve found it so helpful and I know that it will continue to provide endless stimulation and ideas.


Chair Yoga Certified

Corey Stiles

Corey Stiles

Thornton, Colorado | United States

I’ve been a life coach for nearly 20 years. The mentoring through YVA is among the most rewarding coaching I’ve ever done. It’s incredibly inspiring to encourage aspiring chair yoga teachers to help them discover the strength, the creativity and the confidence of the teacher voice inside. The mentor program in combination with the online course provide a solid structure that delivers strong, capable teachers.


Chair Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

| United States

Thank you for your very thorough and well thought through courses.


Louise Curran

Louise Curran

Wicklow | Republic of Ireland

THANK YOU so very much for everything – knowledge, info, support. I feel like this course is now one I will keep referring back to – without it being yet another dusty yoga book on my shelf. I know I’ll be dipping into the manuals and talks for a very long time.


Chair Yoga CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Terra Kirsch

Terra Kirsch

Calabasas, California | United States

I am happy to provide feedback on this great program. You are an innovator in this field.


Chair Yoga Certified

Marcela Kohn

Marcela Kohn

Punta Pacifica | Panama

Your video: the business and marketing of Yoga was very clarifying, I realized all the mistakes I made when doing it, so great learning, I have to put it into action. How to use sponsorships to grow……. a video of Shelly Anderson. It was incredible, I thought about everything I did not do, it was because I did not look for sponsors I did not know how, now I do. For me all this videos were so clarifying, I always review them because there is always something that escapes me because of the language, and I must see them more than once.


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedChair Yoga Trained

Karen Naids

Karen Naids

Concord, Maine | United States

I am now teaching Gentle Yoga near Sarasota Ina country club with retired women and chair yoga at an assisted living. I am also seeing private clients and I love it!!!!! I Thx to your program I changed my career. I can never thank you enough!!!!


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Gerry Hurtig

Gerry Hurtig

Parrish, Florida | United States

I have been so blessed to have a great support system when studying both the chair and gentle yoga modules. I can’t begin to tell you how much I have used what I learned in both studies – much of which I use in current classes. But above all, thank you so very much for all that you have instilled in me. Your inspiration and support is priceless. And I know it will continue to be ongoing as my yoga journey as a teacher continues!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Cindy Willis

Cindy Willis

Pueblo, Colorado | United States

Thank you Justine for your encouraging words! You and Sherry, together, are gifts to all of us who have completed the certification program. You are truly gifts that keep on giving! The knowledge you have provided for us is so deeply appreciated. Not only knowledge, but wisdom that you both are so generous in sharing with us. I truly love and admire both of you. Cannot thank you enough.


Chair Yoga Trained

Pepper Duran

Yoga Teacher

What I like best about YVA is that the online training is very user friendly. I like that it’s geared towards many learning styles like visual, audio, and of course hands on. With this format you have a better chance in retaining information. Thank you! I’m very excited to be on this journey and to share this with my community once I’m certified.


Peggy Nelson, Portage, Wisconsin, USA

Hi Sherry, Thank you for the wonderful program. It is so well organized, clearly a labor of love.


Rebecca Layne

Rebecca Layne

Incline Village, Nevada | United States

I want to thank you for offering the mentoring program. I don’t know if I ever would have finished my program without the motivation, deadlines, and help offered in the program. I’m going to start by offering free classes at some of the homes and senior centers until I feel comfortable with this population.


Chair Yoga Certified

Kathleen Paton

Kathleen Paton

Canmore, Alberta | Canada

The course was so helpful and appropriate for teaching seniors yoga. I felt very supported and have enjoyed my teaching so much more. The library of asanas, I’m sure is every yoga teachers dream. I understand the aging body so much better. Helping to understand the asanas and why we do them. I also feel that the people who attend my classes are benefiting from that knowledge.


Chair Yoga Certified

Beverly Davis-Baird

Beverly Davis-Baird

Little Silver, New Jersey | United States

A BIG thank you to all of you! I learned so much through this program and now I have great resources (videos, manual, YOU) I can turn to when needed.


Low Back Certified

Maryann O'Brien

Maryann O'Brien

West End, North Carolina | United States

I feel so blessed to have found you and Justine and your program. You have enriched my life and through the knowledge I have gained in your program, I can pay it forward.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Letty Rivera

Letty Rivera

Stamford, Connecticut | United States

I was encouraged by my family to embark on this wonderful adventure. I realized I would need to dedicate a lot of time and energy into this Yoga Vista Academy Program. However, Sherry Zak made it so easy and fun. She was there every step of the way (almost holding my hand). As I began the Program, I became more and more engrossed. It was so easy for me — the good music and fun dancing movements kept me engaged and motivated. In no time, I was able to choreograph my own dance. I am proud to say I was able to accomplish my goal sooner than I had anticipated. Thank you so very much Sherry for helping me achieve my dream.


Chair Yoga Dance - Trained

CEU Weekend Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“I have nothing but gratitude for this amazing workshop. Heart, wisdom, practicality, sharing…wonderful gathering of beautiful Souls! Thank you! Hope to attend another workshop in the future.”

“I enjoyed the opportunity to meet with other Yoga teachers and learn about their training, their classes and their ideas about changing and modifying gentle/restorative and chair poses.”

“I loved this workshop last year – and tho I knew there would be new, wonderful changes and additions this year, it surpassed my expectations all the way around.”

“LOVED the format and all presenters. Thank you :o)”

“Wonderful class-inspiring, educational and fun. Thank you all!”

“I really enjoyed this whole 4 day workshop with really nice other teachers and you all worked hard for this whole presentation was just excellent.”

“Well organized, presented with nice mix of knowledge and enthusiasm for sharing. Great practicality to take into teaching and practice.”


Helen Rigby

Helen Rigby

Vista, California | United States

I really loved Sherry’s video where she discussed teaching a chair yoga class vs a wheelchair yoga class. Learning about these key differences were very insightful & extremely helpful!


Chair Yoga Certified

Lisa  Apeltauer

Lisa Apeltauer

Frankston South, Victoria | Australia

I have loved doing your course and pushing myself to video and look back at the way I run classes, I must admit I have enjoyed the learning experience and pushing myself out of my comfort zone, I now do cd’s and working on getting a proper video camera to make dvd for me to sell. A big Big thank you for the opportunity to learn about myself as well as the wonderful world of chair yoga.


Chair Yoga Certified

Kayleen Deaves, Australia

Currently Enrolled

Very much enjoying the course and have been teaching ‘Catch a Falling Star’ and ‘Forever Young’ to the children in the village school where I live. They love it and great opportunity for me to practice also.


Lorrie Denning

Lorrie Denning

San Pedro, California | United States

I am very grateful for your course. The information provided throughout the course was great! I learned a lot and a couple of my friends from LMU YTRX program have shown interest in taking your course. I speak highly of you and your Yoga academy…


Chair Yoga Certified

Terri R., San Diego, California, USA

SAYCO Chair Yoga Teacher

Justine’s delivery is so casual and down to earth, I hope to be like that when I teach. I came home right away and shared these concepts and new postures with my husband who has a hereniated disc in the lumber area.


Judith Fitzsimmons

Judith Fitzsimmons

Franklin, Tennessee | United States

I have to say that I am THOROUGHLY enjoying this course. As a technical writer and instructional designer for the past 25 years, I have to admit that I am a bit “snobbish” about participating in training programs as an attendee. The design of this course is fabulous. I love that you provide the options of auditory and visual means for learning (I happen to be visual).

The size of each module allows a person to successfully complete the modules even within the time constraints of their personal and professional lives. I particularly like having the PDF files (not only because I’m visual) but because I can print them and highlight things that warrant my personal attention further.


Chair Yoga Certified

Cathy B., AUSTRALIA

Chair Yoga Teacher

I am learning so much from it, and am enjoying it a lot. I’m finding the “Conditions and Injuries” sections invaluable, because it has finally put a real “everyday” human slant on anatomy study!


Cheryl Mason, Santee, South Carolina, USA

Yoga Teacher, Currently enrolled

Justine’s low back certification has been some of the best training I have done to help students with a myriad of back issues.


Doris T., The Netherlands

Currently Enrolled

I have so much enjoyed the course. You are an amazing teacher and why ? not just your knowledge, but more so your open and cheerfull fun personality. I never get bored watching you.
I just wanted to let you know. Thanks for the fun time.


Margaret Johnson

Yoga Teacher

The course was marvelous! The information and presentation was organized but not at all dry (no pun intended!)…Viki displays lots of spontaneity, sensitivity and humor which kept me engaged. In addition, I was amazed by the prevalence of the problem of urinary incontinence and since completing, have been on a quest to learn more. (As it turns out, the more people I talk to about this training, the more are coming forth to share their own struggles with stress or urgency incontinence.). Needless to say, my personal bathroom habits have begun to evolve in an effort to maintain my pelvic floor health. (I know this sounds odd, but every time I pee, I can’t help but think of Viki!) Thank you for hosting this very informative workshop. Kegel on!


Anita Spragg, Sydney, AUSTRALIA

Yoga Teacher

I am organising activities at a 40 bedroom age care facility in Sydney. I have probably watched all your free videos and am very impressed by how you present your classes. I love your tone of voice, how down to earth you are, the fun, the inclusiveness … it gives anyone the feeling they can give yoga a go.

Thanks for your wonderful work, it has had a great impact on my Tuesday morning exercise Classes and I instruct movement to my ageing residents with more insight and care. The oldest is 104 years old and still runs up and down stairs!


Lisa  Apeltauer

Lisa Apeltauer

Frankston South, Victoria | Australia

I have learnt so much from doing your Chair Yoga online course, I have been a teacher for 5 yrs now and a student for over 22yrs and I learnt so much than I did in my main teacher training, I would encourage anyone that is interested in teaching not just seniors but any form of chair yoga to invest in this amazing course. A friend asked me why did I choose Yoga Vista Academy and my answer was easy, I felt like Sherry and I taught along the same path, I like to think I teach from my heart and allow people to shine in their own light and that’s how I experienced doing my training during this amazing course. Absolutely LOVED the whole course, thank you for the experience and sharing your love of yoga with me.


Chair Yoga Certified

JoAnn Johnson

JoAnn Johnson

Hickory, North Carolina | United States

I am very much enjoying the course. Learning so much. The class I presented this morning was based on this course. Thank you, Sherry, and all who work with you.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - TrainedGentle Yoga Certified

Carla Niblick

Carla Niblick

Celina, Ohio | United States

“Yay for yoga!” And “Yay for Yoga Vista and you, Sherry, as well as Justine and everyone else who contributed to your chair teacher training program! I learned so much from this teacher training and I am so enjoying my chair yoga classes. They give me some of the best moments of my week. I love working with seniors!! We laugh and learn and practice yoga together – and most are learning about yoga for the first time in their lives. And your program has given me so much to share with them. I now have a good, solid foundation to rely on and so many wonderful and fun sequences and movements to use. I appreciated learning in detail about the anatomy of the body and the conditions that seniors can experience. I am planning to go back through these sections – they are so helpful. I have a much better understanding of how the human body works. I can’t thank you enough for this program and want to tell you it has opened up new avenues for me, as well as bringing many new friends into my life.


Chair Yoga Certified

Allison Akre, Chilliwack, Canada

Yoga Teacher

I’m a new Yoga Vista student and I’m loving the ease of working at my pace. The best part is the comprehensive immersion into Gentle and chair yoga in such a way that I feel like I’m really a part of the class. The student participation and their sharing their experiences in the course information is very helpful to me. Thank you!


Karen Roberts

Karen Roberts

Port Macquarie | Australia

I love what I do and your courses and guidance have given me an amazing range of insights into ensuring those who attend my classes are given the best support I can give. I hope that I teach with confidence based on knowledge and a growing skill basis. Your courses are so well structured and detailed and I love the detailed functional anatomy understanding I now have.

I also like to imitate your approach of being in partnership with the students, sharing my knowledge so we can all be happier and healthier. I thought I was going to be ‘lost’ once I retired from teaching but have found a new satisfaction in life, knowing I am making a difference in the lives of others, even at my age. I turned 65 last month.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Mary Helfeldt

Mary Helfeldt

Dunkirk, New York | United States

I would like to extend my thanks to you. I appreciate that throughout the program you touched base with me/us as students. I always felt that I could reach out to you if I needed to do so because your welcoming personality shines through, even in emails! Your program is a wonderful, comprehensive program.


Chair Yoga Certified

Joanne Puglia

Joanne Puglia

Indian Harbour Beach, Florida | United States

Almost done with chapter 1 and I love everything about this already! I loved your introduction and the picture of your half lotus pose is me!
I feel at home! The way you talk and present yourself totally draws me to this program!


Chair Yoga Certified

Moon Price

Moon Price

Eastport, Michigan | United States

The chair yoga training course was informative, easy to follow and well organized. The continual updates are so helpful to give our students new information and keep our classes fresh and fun. Sherry has a special way of making movement joyful and challenging. Our 4 times with our mentors helped us share new ideas and experiences.


Chair Yoga Trained

Karen Gabriel

Karen Gabriel

New Bern, North Carolina | United States

I have been teaching Yoga for 10 years and Chair Yoga in gyms, wellness centers and nursing facilities for several years. I have had numerous wheelchair users in my classes. I feel I intuitively knew how to carefully and safely cue and I frequently invited the physical therapists to sit in. With that said, I still felt I was lacking the skills to assist me in creating classes with enough material to include “every body.” While I was/am sensitive to limitations, I had concerns that I may not be using appropriate verbiage. This course has given me the knowledge and confidence I was hoping for! Now I go into my blended classes with plan A, plan B and a plan C…just in case. 😊. I now feel I am as ready as I can be.


Wheelchair Yoga - Certified

Pelvic Floor Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

” Enjoyed presentation, good mix of theory, fun and interactive. Great information and hand out.”

“Exceptional! Fun, useful, informative, relevant, applicable, good practical demonstration, interactive, a bit of a good time!!”

“It is such a fascinating topic. Viki = you did an awesome job!”

“Loved the interactive session – learning through movements to strengthen the pelvic floor. She made everything so understandable – definitely will incorporate into my practice and into teaching.”

“Viki has woven together an amazing body of information and has presented it in a way that was hands-on and entertaining. She made an embarrassing topic accessible and easy to understand. Thank you!”

“SO AMAZING! Love all the hands-on experience and handmade props! SO important to know this! She is such a play-filled teacher. So grateful for all of her expertise.”

“Oh my gosh, loved, loved, loved Viki and her style of teaching. I will remember her pelvic model (that she handmade last night) whenever teaching to my students! The best! The whole lesson was outstanding.”

“Viki was amazing. I never realized and never paid attention about the pelvic. Learned a lot – excellent information – and workshop. Was great, will share and use some information in teaching.”


Live Workshop Attendees: Bell

“10 At first I was trying to figure out what Dr. Bell was doing by spending so much time going around the room. Then the story unfolded as she wove the discussion through all of our personal stories. Brilliantly creative. A topic that I learned so much more about.”

“10 Fabulous format – I too was skeptical that it would work, but it did! Wealth of information, presented from a very heartfelt space.”

“10 This was amazing! Kimberley was extremely knowledgeable, appreciated her energy, answering everyone’s questions in an easy manner was huge for me. Incredible!”


Tammy Brinkmann

Tammy Brinkmann

Washington, Missouri | United States

The first time I learned about YOU was on-line. I was researching ideas on yoga training and with the click of a button found you dancing to Living on the Corner of Joy and Gratitude. I felt your big heart and love for your students come through the computer screen that day. As I danced along and couldn’t quit smiling, I knew you had something special to offer and had to find out more. Fast forward to today and I have completed the on-line Chair Yoga training as well as my Teachback. I include several of your dances in my current Silver Sneakers classes. ‘The River’ is their favorite.


Chair Yoga Dance - TrainedChair Yoga Trained

Marybeth  Bastian

Marybeth Bastian

Parker, Colorado | United States

I really enjoyed going through the course at my own pace and found that I learned and re learned many things—using your manual. I totally appreciate all that you share and promote. I continually add and learn things from the newsletter and reviewing the manual. The quizzes were helpful.


Chair Yoga Certified

Marilyn M., Crotonville, New York, USA

Yoga Teacher

Thank you so much for your amazing feedback and suggestions!!! You have no idea how happy I am right now. Your positive and encouraging words give me the confidence to move forward with my teachback class. This course has exceeded my expectations. It is so informative and wonderful. I have learned so much. Thank you both, for the inspiration.


Live Workshop Attendees: Bell

“10 Wow! She was such a world of information, and her teaching technique of asking for personal stories worked so well.”

“10 Loved her approach! So many new bits of info. Appreciate her ability to remember names. So helpful in understanding how balance works in general.”

“10 Excellent presentation on a very relevant topic for senior Yogis. Technical information presented in an easy to understand manner. Very effective presenter.”

“10 You rock Kimberley Bell! I have referred 2 clients to her.”


Pat P., Vienna, Virginia, USA

Yoga Teacher

I subbed a beginner class yesterday and when i checked in with everyone – one man told me he couldn’t do very much as he had spinal stenosis. Told him i had just done a workshop with you and i guess i asked him all the right questions. He did everything in the class with no pain. Thank you – sometimes you never know where your ripples lead. He left saying his back felt so much better – Thank you!!!


Olga Danilevich

Olga Danilevich

Toronto, Ontario | Canada

To be a witness of the whole adventure of dance creation was a sheer fun! Step by step instructions, made learning this dance such a enjoyable experience!


Donna Wasneski

Donna Wasneski

Grand Junction, Colorado | United States

I found the pelvic floor workshop so good that I have mentioned my source of new knowledge to several fitness oriented individuals. My recommendations will help grow your business in the best way, word of mouth recommendations!


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Anna Wagner

Anna Wagner

Mt Wolf, Pennsylvania | United States

I do enjoy your instructions, information, routines, dances, and laughter. You really make me feel I am there and a part of your family. I have fun while learning.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Almas A., Vancouver, CANADA

Chair Yoga Teacher

Thanks Sherry for selflessly sharing your dance moves and videos. I watch and learn a lot from them. I do teach Karma Chair Yoga (all voluntary) as an healthy alternative to different cultural groups and I incorporate a lot of dance and moves related to the music and the classes are so popular. I am a singer too so it helps in the movements.

Once again, I wanted to acknowledge you and your sharing of your contributions and your beautiful ideas and moves to benefit all our aging families, friends and communities.


Lynn Woodbury

Lynn Woodbury

St. Paul, Minnesota | United States

I did the workshop over the weekend and taught many of the stretches using reasons and knee anatomy in both my chair and mat classes. So grateful to you both for my updating, understanding and variety in teaching.


Chair Yoga Certified

Margaret

Margaret "Maggie" Hancock

Jamestown, North Carolina | United States

Really enjoying the Chair and Gentle online program.. This has made such a difference in my teaching! My students love the work I have shared with them and feel its made such a difference in their lives. I have a student who has had surgery for breast cancer and she feels the poses and stretches we do have made more difference in her life than the PT she had after her surgery which was a couple years ago.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Pattranooj (Nooj) Saengchantr

Pattranooj (Nooj) Saengchantr

Bangkok | Thailand

I like the way you break down the modules and provide separate sections on anatomy and conditions, which give me a deeper understanding about the seniors. It is also inspirational to watch various videos and observe amazing classes and see how seniors enjoy moving in each postures.


Chair Yoga Certified

Kate  Arnold

Kate Arnold

Loveland, Ohio | United States

I can honestly say that I’ve never had such a pleasant learning experience. I feel as if I have learned so much more through your program than I did in my 200 hour teacher training. The content was well presented, pertinent and informative. As someone who has struggled with figuring out how she best learns this program was very accessible.

Combine that with the incredible feeling of support, enthusiasm, and downright compassion that comes through in all that you (and all those involved in the program) do .. and you have one heck of a program!


Chair Yoga Certified

Linda

Senior Yoga Teacher

Thank you hugely for sharing your professional insights and business savvy. As a yoga teacher working with fellow seniors, I find your gentle, healing style of teaching, coupled with your va-voom personal style, both inspiring and joyful.


Corey Stiles

Corey Stiles

Thornton, Colorado | United States

I have LOVED this course!!! And already have used much of what I’ve learned on myself and on my husband. Thank you so much for another terrific course!!!


Chair Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Dana Thiele

Dana Thiele

Rabun Gap, Georgia | United States

I am so enjoying taking the chair yoga certification course! Once completed hope to visit “Yoga Vista Academy” You guys are awesome!!!


Chair Yoga Certified

Paula Waring, Vista, California, USA

Wheelchair Yoga Pilot Program Teacher

The content in the handouts and the videos were complete and thorough. Seeing the videos of the different teaching styles was very encouraging for me to explore. Be ready to study and learn. There is so much science and practice that makes this program completely comprehensive. Thank you for such a brilliant effort!


Deb Mix

Deb Mix

Wenonah, New Jersey | United States

I had my doubts last winter if I could make it through with everything going on in my life but I will say with no doubt that you inspired me, Corey, to finish. After you helped me with the timing and schedule I was re-energized.


Chair Yoga Certified

Susan Rose

Susan Rose

Tarpon Springs, Florida | United States

I really love the Chair Dance, it is my favorite part of the class now!  I have a background in gymnastics and dance (Ballet, jazz, modern and tap).  I used to choreograph floor routines and local musical theater, so the Chair Dance comes very naturally to me.  I love watching my classes smile and get into the movements.  One of my students, who has MS, said to me,” You don’t know what a gift it is to people that can’t move well to be able to dance!”  Made me cry…


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Certified

John Conroy

John Conroy

Ennis | Republic of Ireland

Yes, most definitely enjoying the course. I have learned so much new material. You have a fountain of knowledge.


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Evelyn, California, USA

Yoga Teacher

During my 25+ year teaching career, I’ve loved the challenge of discovering creative postural modifications to help students. I was inspired to be in the company of you 2 yoginis who are committed to sharing yoga knowledge and positive energy on a large scale with instructors and students. Your Light-Bearing service is a gift to the community!


Paula Montalvo

Paula Montalvo

Vista, California | United States

I took the Online Pelvic Floor Workshop with Viki. I think this kind of workshop that you offer to teachers is very valuable and an experience that yoga teachers are rarely offered. It gave me some very valuable awareness information about a part of my body that I thought I knew. I think that much of what we already do in chair and standing yoga incorporates many good pelvic movements, and I am still studying some of the exercises in the workbook to try to adapt them to the chair.


Marcela Kohn

Marcela Kohn

Punta Pacifica | Panama

It was very useful the indications of how to teach in places like homes, where there are patients in wheelchairs and special conditions, since I had felt frustrated, and I understood thanks to your recommendations that even if that although there is apparently a small exchange of energy and others continue sleeping that is amazing, that they understood me even though they could not express themselves, and that reminded me of my father, an intellectual who lost his speech and his mobility due to an illness and I realized that everything was in our eyes and everything is expressed through them, it was very mobilizing. So for me this recommendation was wowwwww, and bring me up a lot of memories.


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedChair Yoga Trained

Karen Naids

Karen Naids

Concord, Maine | United States

Thanks for all that you do!! You have changed my life, I quit my nursing job, I am teaching 2 classes, and possibly one more and I have started to take a course to become a yoga therapist. I could not have done this without your classes and your knowledge and support. Thanks to you and Justine!!


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Janet Rosoff

Janet Rosoff

Aventura, Florida | United States

Most of my teaching is in independent and assisted/step-up living facilities so I was very happy when this course was made available. As you know teaching the assisted and memory unit population is challenging but so rewarding. I absolutely loved when you expressed your mistake in trying to do a centering at beginning of class. No way does that work with this population and I love using your joint movements to begin class along with your playful suggestions.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Loved this session incorporating lots of cactus arm use for back strengthening and holding flat back. Sherry’s energy and generosity is so inspirational.”

“Very interesting ‐ especially survey results. Your students are almost the same age as mine with similar issues. So great to see the improvements!”

“It gave me ideas to photograph my students.”

“Awesome information. A great baseline to be more information with students issues (structurally) Excellent.”

“Sherry, love your teaching style! You connect with students in a beautiful way. Keep spreading the love!”


Kate Regan

Kate Regan

Brisbane | Australia

I know that you value our great news, we mortal Chair Yogi students of yours! For the past five months, each Tuesday morn I have been teaching at the Elenora sixties & better community Center’ and I’m growing in confidence as the class grows! A local retirement Center has given me the go ahead to teach every Wednesday morning there after I gave a Complimentary class to their residents Thanks once again for all your wonderful support!


Chair Yoga Certified

Vicki Salisbury

Vicki Salisbury

Wynnum (Brisbane), Queensland | Australia

I’ve been fortunate to participate in her on-line pilot Yoga Dance project with teachers across the world, to collaborate on this innovative movement program. This is a well-conceived, unique and comprehensive course, with quality resources, well produced videos, that are supplemented with useful handouts. The course includes information from anatomy of aging, to song structure, from the how’s’ and whys’ of choreography to teaching safely to seniors. Sherry provides plenty of examples, complete with scenic backdrops, to communicate the information needed for yoga teachers to incorporate Chair Yoga Dance into our tool kit.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Certified

Karen Wexler

Karen Wexler

Delray Beach, Florida | United States

I love how you have those diagrams to make the song structures easy to understand, and how you have the whole thing broken down with the different formats of songs. The way each module was separated and built upon also made sense to me as far as the order of learning each lesson.


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedChair Yoga TrainedLow Back Trained

Janet Rosoff

Janet Rosoff

Aventura, Florida | United States

I have completed the studying and testing of the low back course now preparing to video sequences and send them in. I am excited to say that I was asked to teach a gentle yoga class with an emphasis on low back care to physical therapists and have now been asked to teach a class at their facility for their clients. This physical therapy facility is who I treated with following my accident (it will be 3 years in April). I am so grateful for their treatment and care and the opportunity provided by Yoga Vista to study online to receive my Chair Yoga, Gentle Yoga and now Low Back Care Certification. What a Journey it has been! Thank you Sherry and Justine.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Melanie Schmöller

Melanie Schmöller

Breitenberg near Passau, Bavaria | Germany

Greetings from Germany. I am so happy with the Training Chair Yoga Dance. You are a great Teacher and it is so much Fun.


Chair Yoga Dance - Trained

Moon Price

Moon Price

Eastport, Michigan | United States

Thanks for my report card, your kind and empowering remarks and certificate. Made my day!!! Today going to see an Egoscue practitioner for my knee deviation. Been sharing the book PAIN FREE with my classes. Life has taught me to be open to healing not fixing. Your holistic way of teaching and thinking is a powerful message for all. So glad you are a part of my life. Love, Moon


Chair Yoga Trained

Karen Naids

Karen Naids

Concord, Maine | United States

I just want to thank you so much again for all you have given me. Thanks to you starting with chair yoga certification, I went on to study yoga therapy with breathe deeply program. And nowI am in Florida and teaching gentle and chair yoga to women 60 and over. I also have three private clients. I can’t tell you how great the information is that have given me. The anatomy of aging body is amazing! I watch your videos over and over. Your programs are so thorough there is nothing else out there!! I’m just preparing for my class and looking over some of your videos and I’m so happy to have them as a resource. Thank you again both so much for everything!!. I don’t think people say thank you enough to other people so thank you again for bringing your knowledge to us! I no longer have to go back to nursing and I feel so good that although I’m not a nurse, I’m still helping people.


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

TinaMarie Connelly, Shirley, New York, USA

Yoga Teacher

I’m in the middle of a course I purchased from Yoga Vista Academy…Fundamentals of Chair Yoga with Sherry Zak Morris, Anatomy of Aging & can I just say how much I’m loving it! I never thought after my teacher training I’d find myself teaching chair yoga but here I am & I LOVE it. Thank you for your wonderful content & fantastic teachers.


Linda Guerra

Linda Guerra

Bakersfield, California | United States

Thank you so much for the nice comments and thank you for sharing your knowledge of chair yoga, it is truly appreciated. Everything that I have learned from you has made me a more confident instructor and I will continue to research and learn more on your website. Thanks again for everything you do and for being my saving grace.


Chair Yoga Certified

Bill Miller

Bill Miller

Wausau, Wisconsin | United States

Justine has a down-to-Earth approach to passing her wisdom on to others. Her language is simple and direct and her humor frequently erupts, making learning less a chore and more something to look forward to. The use of videos enhances the class, especially because the videos, for the most part, are those of Justine’s presentation to a class of students. Something that I appreciated was her use of a skeletal model of the spine and of the pelvis. I have incorporated much of what I have learned from Justine into my own yoga classes, taught primarily to older adults. I am a more knowledgeable and a more insightful teacher as a result. I highly recommend this course for yoga teachers who want to vastly expand their knowledge of proper low back care when teaching a yoga class.


Low Back Certified

Sheri Templeton

Sheri Templeton

Stanwood, Washington | United States

The course was great, I would certainly refer your course to everyone! I can’t say it enough at how gracious you are in all your teachings.


Chair Yoga Certified

Kay Jensen, Pt. Townsend, Washington, USA

Yoga Teacher

How JAZZED I am to have met so many folks committed to the true Path that is the Yoga Vista “way”!

And, as I said in my evaluation, each presentation, all by itself, was TOTALLY worth the price of admission, on so many levels. Thank you, Justine and Sherry, for your incredible modeling of leadership, mentorship, and friendship, and gratitude as well for encouraging all of us to push through the challenges (mostly self-imposed!) as guides on this Path. It’s exciting, and VERY fun.

What an honor to have spent time sharing The Practice with you!


Nell R., AUSTRALIA

Currently Enrolled

As you will see I have commenced my online Chair Yoga Certification and I am loving every second of it. I have completed the first module an have navigated my way through beautifully with your lesson plans and comprehensive information and videos and can I just say what an amazing journey it has been so far. I work in the Disability sector primarily mental Health and I have been sharing my newfound Knowledge with the Residents who have all embraced Chair Yoga. Management are already making plans for me to incorporate chair yoga into the day program for Residents once I am Certified and I can’t wait.


Linda Koewers

Linda Koewers

Gulfport, Mississippi | United States

It was such a blessing for me to come across the Yoga Vista Academy online program. It’s inexpensive and easy to work. I was able to recieve such detailed knowledge on the aging process and all the main issues that can contribute to pain. Learning about the anatomy was so helpful. I appreciated the information to print and videos to reinforce what you are learning. I loved Sherry’s style and she really inspired me to become the best chair yoga teacher I can be.

There are different types and styles of yoga and working with students on this program that brings such variety and benefits. All the teachers are dedicated and inspiring. You become a part of that community, with the ability to use the videos as often as you desire. I could go on and on about Yoga Vista Academy online program. I plan on continuing going through some more of the many workshops and programs, for there are many! I recommend it highly!


Chair Yoga Trained

Maryann O., West End, North Carolina, USA

Currently Enrolled

I am almost done with the course work. I have been really enjoying the quality and thoroughness of the curriculum. I am currently teaching Gentle Yoga to students who are in their 50s- 80s in the community clubhouse here in N.C.. The course information has been so helpful. I have about 25-30 students that faithfully attend my classes and have fallen in love with benefits of Gentle Yoga to keep their aging bodies, minds, and spirits healthy.


Maria Zervas, Montgomery, Powys, Wales, UK

Yoga Teacher

Sherry, Justine are such authentic, caring people reaching out to a worldwide community. I am just one of them, and so very grateful for all of the support they have given me. Having their manuals would be a fantastic asset to share with all of my Creative Yoga Motion students here in Wales, as we can’t fly weekly to attend your classes and workshops in Vista, CA.


Margaret

Margaret "Maggie" Hancock

Jamestown, North Carolina | United States

I have really enjoyed both programs and my teaching has really benefited and have a good following and credit to all I have learned from you!!. I am subscribed to your video channel which I admit is a great resource.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Sawako, Los Altos, California, USA

Yoga Teacher

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for sharing your knowledge and passion through your courses and videos. I teach seniors at a senior center close by (volunteer) and I often refer your videos. They gave me a lot of good ideas and inspiration! I really enjoy teaching seniors and learn a lot by teaching them. (I just turned 50 a few month ago.)


Lisa McInnes

Yoga Teacher

I am eagerly following the information from yoga vista academy. I’m returning to yoga after decades without its benefits (why did I ever stop?) and really appreciate the gentle and chair yoga ideas. I have a short group activity session I lead at work in which I try to incorporate some very gentle stretches. Thank you for the information you share.


Renay Bayer

Renay Bayer

Chicago, Illinois | United States

Your occasional personal emails were great for staying motivated and finishing the course. If you didn’t send me that final email checking in to see how I was and letting me know how close I was to finishing (just needed the final teach back), I would still have it hanging over my head. Your personal touch made it much more than an impersonal online course for yoga.


Chair Yoga Certified

Julie McGreal-Kyte

Julie McGreal-Kyte

Kettering, Northamptonshire | United Kingdom

I am so delighted to have passed my Chair Yoga Dance programme. It was a most wonderful experience and I am so pleased I decided to do my training with you.
I learnt so much from your very comprehensive programme and feel more confident in being able to put together routines and exercises in a safe and professional way.
The whole course was fun and very enjoyable from beginning to end and although we have never met I feel as though I know you personally.
Thank you Sherry, for sharing your skills and your extensive knowledge with your students. It is so appreciated and invaluable.


Chair Yoga Dance - Trained

Maria Perez

Maria Perez

Miami Lakes, Florida | United States

Seriously though, thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words! I’m very happy to have found you on YouTube and absolutely love that we’re working together! Looking forward to many more dances together.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Jayne Meldrum, Melbourne, AUSTRALIA

Yoga Teacher

Love Justine Shelton DVDs! I’ve used the lower back sequence in another class I teach & 3 people came up to be & said that their back feels much better. I’m planing to do knee & hip sequence this week. Thanks heaps for the great resources


Janet Rosoff

Janet Rosoff

Aventura, Florida | United States

I am truly unable to fully express how much I appreciated your feedback on my sequences for Low Back Care. I did not want to write back to you until I read each one of your reviews more than several times while reviewing my videos. Watching my videos (which I will admit again was not easy for me) while reading your feedbacks was an invaluable learning experience as I continue this journey of teaching yoga. I am so appreciative of all of your detailed descriptions of the poses, suggestions and corrections. Justine, I know I will be a better teacher because of your guidance, knowledge and wisdom.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Lucy Valente

Lucy Valente

Hazleton, Pennsylvania | United States

I am so grateful to you for all your support. Coming from a career in education I know that your course presentation and organization was a perfect way to learn all that material. I most appreciate access to the video library and use it often. I am now teaching chair in an assisted living community and a gentle class at a studio…..One more thing……..You were SO RIGHT about the nursing home population. Everything you said was true-EVERYTHING.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Janet Rosoff

Janet Rosoff

Aventura, Florida | United States

My journey teaching seniors has and continues to be influenced by your knowledge and guidance. As you know, I have completed your chair certification, very close to finishing the gentle yoga certification and once I have completed I will be signing up for Justine’s Low Back Courses. Having a Crown Membership with access to YogaJP has provided me with invaluable resources that I have been able to provide to my students who range in age from mid 60’s to 97. You are both an inspiration to me and I thank you.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Sandra Price

Sandra Price

Hobe Sound, Florida | United States

The layout of the course work is very cohesive. Completing the course has greatly enhanced my teaching skills and helped me to become more confident in my abilities as a Yoga teacher not only to seniors, but other populations as well. Thank you so much for the effort you have put into creating this course. I will be a devoted follower of Yoga Vista Academy in the future!


Chair Yoga Certified

Tami  Ridley

Tami Ridley

Escondido, California | United States

I am a quadriplegic that had been seeking out a yoga class to meet my needs and found Sherry. She is internationally recognized for senior yoga – a population filled with disabilities and restrictions. Her online Chair Yoga Certification Program introduced me to other disabled class enrollees in England that are teaching yoga there.

Sherry is fun and approachable. For teachers interested in including people with disabilities and seniors in their class or for someone wanting to gain this knowledge and teach a chair yoga class, I strongly recommend this program.


Chair Yoga TrainedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Viki Boyko

Viki Boyko

Stamford, Connecticut | United States

Super glad and grateful for the opportunity to test pilot this fabulous comprehensive training from Yoga Vista Academy. Such a well thought out course and a great collaboration of teachers who are wheelchair users together with the ever generous Sherry Zak Morris. Thank you for such a wonderful and unique opportunity to offer something so special to the community. What a gift. Blessings to you all.


Chair Yoga CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Hazel O'Hara

Hazel O'Hara

Waterford | Republic of Ireland

Thank you so much for supporting me through the Chair Yoga Certification course. I completed my 200 hour course a year ago and have been teaching online and in studios since then. This course has now filled in many gaps in my knowledge and competence that I was not even aware existed. In particular the course was excellent on anatomy and safety. My existing students have noticed and appreciated the more in-depth focus in my lessons. I am now doing the Gentle Yoga course and already feeding what I am learning into my lessons. Thank you all so much. Namaste Hazel


Chair Yoga Certified

Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Delightful! So sweet! Loved the yoga nidra. I was not expecting restorative Yoga. I think this was my favorite part of the weekend.”

“Kat seems to have the perfect personality for Restorative Yoga. Enjoyed her presentation and her poses were very relaxing.”

“A beautiful practice and I learned a lot about the physiological conditions necessary for relaxation.”


Lee Terryberry

Lee Terryberry

Round Hill, Virginia | United States

I just wanted to say thank you for recommending that I look into the online Intro to James Knight’s Gentle Somatic Yoga that you offer. I have been using all of James Knight’s GSF’s daily off his YouTube channel as the major source of physiological therapy for my SMA and injuries. All have been a key of my success and healing, as well as an integral part of my daily routine or lifestyle. I am very eager to start the remainder of the 100-120 hour online GSY. Just as with your online Chair Yoga program, I know it will be almost like being there, on the mat or chair, learning. Thank you for the detail that goes into providing such excellent, excellent teaching and for the invaluable resource of information through your handouts and outstanding videos (So many videos!!!). I can hardly wait.


Chair Yoga Certified

Camille Cronfel

Camille Cronfel

Elk Grove Village, Illinois | United States

I had 48 seniors this morning! They keep coming back for more!


Chair Yoga Certified

Laure Liverman, Boulder, Colorado, USA

Yoga Vista Academy Certified Chair Yoga Teacher

I appreciate all the time, effort, collaboration, and years of learning that were so evident throughout this course. The course was structured really beautifully, introducing material that built from the ground up what it means to be a chair yoga teacher for seniors at all different levels of health/fitness. The Methods and Philosophy section communicated the essential elements of teaching and structuring a class so that I had a nuanced lens through which to view all the great video material and really learn from them. The Anatomy of Aging section was so rich. I thought having the three sections on anatomy, conditions and poses for each general body area was very helpful. The yoga aspects included in the anatomy and conditions section reinforced each other, and having a separate pose library because it made pose ideas easily accessible for constructing a class. The program was full of so many great pearls!


Susan Rowan

Susan Rowan

Richmond Hill, Ontario | Canada

I followed along with the lyrics, noting the beats per segment. Creating movements for each section seemed logical and fun and I could visualize some alternate patterns that I might want to use with my students. I was doing the dance along with the videos and was surprised by how energetic it felt even though the movements are so simple and slow. I like the format.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Trained

Kate Regan

Kate Regan

Brisbane | Australia

I feel blessed each and every day that I stumbled across your online Yoga Vista Academy Chair Yoga Course. Sherry you were so gracious in accommodating me and enabling me to do your course. I haven’t forgotten!!

Having left school at barely 15 years, my only subjects then we’re Reading, Writing and Arithmetic. Since doing your course I’ve studied anatomy. But not just Anatomy! Your Chair Yoga course gave me the fullest respect for my own body and a deep understanding of how we can offset and relieve the myriad of health issues that can be helped by practising a Chair Yoga Class. This knowledge learned is extraordinary for me. I found it challenging at times, but with the support and constant feedback from Sherry and all at Yoga Vista Academy, I never felt that it was not achievable!

Finishing this online course and receiving my certification to teach Chair Yoga, I feel absolutely confident in my understanding of what is the safe practice required of me to pass on to my Seniors or anyone with limited Mobility. I recommend this online Yoga Vista Academy course highly.


Chair Yoga Certified

Jacob Fuller, Dallas, Texas, USA

Gentle Yoga Teacher

I use a lot of your suggestions and really love your training. I am happy to be a part of the Yoga Academy community, and thanks for you all and your hard work with the training, it sure helps my teaching!!!


Julie Bolton

Julie Bolton

Watchet, Somerset | United Kingdom

Thank you for putting all of this great information together in one place. I just finished the hip anatomy section. I wanted to tell you that it is one of the best, most concise explanations of the hip joint I’ve seen.


Chair Yoga Certified

Jacki Currie, Avon Lake, Ohio, USA

Yoga Teacher

Your online classes and posts are such a wonderful support for me. I am two years into teaching at a 55 and over community. I love it, but as my own manager I often have questions and concerns about my classes. Inevitably, your site will have guidance for me. I feel as though I know your teachers personally from the videos. Thank you is not enough for all you offer to those of us teaching a senior audience.


Pattranooj (Nooj) Saengchantr

Pattranooj (Nooj) Saengchantr

Bangkok | Thailand

I also like the way that you try to encourage us to be creative, which shows both on your handouts and videos. One of the many best things in this program is that there’s no time limit, which doesn’t put much stress on the students (like me)! All in all, I have to say that I do love this fruitful program!


Chair Yoga Certified

Karen Roberts

Karen Roberts

Port Macquarie | Australia

Once again I found Sherry’s Dance Program an excellent professional training program. The videos were presented with a high level of technical expertise while the actual content was creative and imaginative, detailed and very easy to understand. The variety of dances means everyone can find dances and music they really like and respond to. People in my classes absolutely love these dances.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Vicki Salisbury

Vicki Salisbury

Wynnum (Brisbane), Queensland | Australia

I can’t thank you enough for the joy and creative ideas you bring me. All the very best to you, I wish health to you and your family, and appreciation to all of the wonderful and innovative yoga teachers who contribute to Yoga Vista.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Certified

Jeana Seidelman, Traverse City, Michigan, USA

Currently Enrolled

I want to thank you and the team at Yoga Vista Academy for this Program. Well done. I commend you for the information, the technical approach, the direct projection of issues into actual lives, the poses that relate to individual body conditions. The videos are exceptional. Different teachers with their various disciplines and personalities are a great teaching tool. The program has refreshed and further educate me on various levels. Thank you so very much.


Julie Poast

Julie Poast

Chicago, Illinois | United States

I thoroughly enjoyed the Gentle Yoga training – especially the focus on conditions and ailments that students may bring, and the poses that may help them feel better. I feel like I am a much better teacher after taking the Yoga Vista Academy training…and that was after already having 500 hours of teacher training! I also appreciate that I have “life long” access to the training materials and videos – I find myself referring back to videos and other information as I prepare my classes for the week. I am also grateful for the in-depth responses to questions I have posed – the answers are friendly, informative, and so helpful.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Edith Mildner

Edith Mildner

Winterberg | Germany

Now I have also completed the next Yogavista Academy course. 1000 thanks to Justine and Sherry!! In this training the anatomy and background of the lower back was explained so wonderfully again! Lots of tips, tricks and informations to help and support students with back problems with yoga.
Sherry and Justine, thank you from the bottom of my heart for the wonderful trainings! The opportunity to participate in your trainings online from Germany enriched the year 2020 so much to me


Chair Yoga Dance - TrainedChair Yoga TrainedCorporate Yoga TrainedGentle Yoga TrainedLow Back TrainedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Workshop Attendee

Yoga Teacher

Thank you hugely for sharing your professional insights and business savvy. As a yoga teacher working with fellow seniors, I find your gentle, healing style of teaching, coupled with your va-voom personal style, both inspiring and joyful.


Kim Wemer

Kim Wemer

Grinnell, Iowa | United States

The online class was perfect for me. It was easy to stop and start when I needed to and thanks for the extension from 6 months to almost a year! The videos made the experience more real and helped with ideas for my own class. As you know I have been borrowing and using you ideas for a long time!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Diane Zarzecki

Diane Zarzecki

Syracuse, New York | United States

I currently teach 3 chair yoga classes, and my students have commented on how much they like the new format! I have been shamelessly stealing your dances off the videos and have created a 2 of my own (honestly, just rearranging your movements, mostly). The dances are my seniors’ favorite part of the class.


Chair Yoga Certified

Gail Ann W., Neenah, Wisconsin, USA

Currently Enrolled

The courses I have taken have been terrific . Not only did I learn a lot, it was information I could USE. Additionally the way the material was presented I have been about to recall it (sometimes spontaneously) or been able to look up something I wanted to refresh.


Suzi Mahler

Suzi Mahler

Santa Cruz, California | United States

I have thoroughly enjoyed your program. I will be doing the final assignments and teach back in the coming months. I can’t wait to say I have completed this and say I am a certified chair yoga teacher! Your program was well thought out and easy to follow. Thank you!


Chair Yoga Certified

John Conroy

John Conroy

Ennis | Republic of Ireland

The first course I completed in the area of working with Seniors was through University of Limerick which gave me a good base and foundation but having completed both Chair and Gentle Courses along with online material , youtube clips, dvd sets, and so much more information from the video libraries it has given me the opportunity to continue exercising and pass on a wide range of knowledge and advice to my students in 17 weekly classes I have on a weekly basis, so huge thanks and blessing Sherry for continuing to pass on your invaluable knowledge and skills.


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Barbara Hamilton, Danville, Pennyslvania, USA

Chair Yoga Teacher

I learned a lot! So many great ideas to share with the nursing home residents I’ll be working with! Several great tips – especially about the music. I hadn’t even thought about them not being able to hear me over the music. And I love the names of some of the poses — makes it fun! For example, “Monkey” is just adorable…and something I am sure they will relate to! Thank you so much. Great course!


John Conroy

John Conroy

Ennis | Republic of Ireland

The online course was of a very high standard under the expertise, guidance and professionalism of Sherry Zak Morris. The course itself was online but any questions or queries on any aspect of the course were expertly dealt by Sherry who always returned any of my queries very efficiently and in a quick response. There was in depth material and on line classes that suited the needs of all the requirements of my students.The course has been invaluable in increasing my knowledge and expertise to many groups of Seniors.


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Christy Hill

Christy Hill

Orlando, Florida | United States

I was concerned about taking an online course because of my need to ask questions. It’s not like you can just raise your hand and say, “excuse me, I don’t understand”, if that’s you, don’t let that hold you back. Whenever I had questions, I emailed Sherry and she responded within a couple of hours, and often even sooner. Her accessibility is remarkable and made me feel as though I had someone right next to me the whole time.

This course really fit my learning style perfectly. My teaching confidence in both chair and gentle yoga has soared since taking this course. I would highly recommend it.


Chair Yoga Certified

Live Workshop Attendees

“Totally met and surpassed my needs and expectations. I received the reminders I needed in feeling his postures inside out and received new insights in translating the poses to the chair. As always, James both spoke and listened in a personable and understandable way. He brought out the best ideas from all of us!”

“New concept for me. What an enthusiastic and positive guy.”

“Challenging and useful information. Very nice presentation.”

“I learned so much! He is such a gigantic ‘heart’. This was my 2nd time to experience his work, and it’s starting to settle into my slow brain! 🙂 Can’t wait to learn more!”

“Your passion for your work radiates! It was so helpful to receive experience of your teaching of the somatic movements – it will make my presentation of them to my students much easier. Love your work, love your teaching. Appreciated the chair demo’s.”

“Content well organized.”


Linda Sala

Linda Sala

White Plains, New York | United States

This was a fantastic program. The online piece was very informative. The resources are of tremendous value, and can be used for reference over and over again.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Anna Wagner

Anna Wagner

Mt Wolf, Pennsylvania | United States

I have people who have disk problems, low back pain, shoulder problems, heart problems, Plantar Fasciitis, and of course you noticed how crooked my fingers are. Your training certainly helps me to incorporate moves that relieve their pain. There isn’t a class where I don’t have one of my students come up after class and tell me how much better they feel since they started taking Yoga. Actually it gets embarrassing when they keep thanking me for teaching the class. I am sure I get more out of the class then they do.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Lauren Hunt

Lauren Hunt

Ann Arbor, Michigan | United States

It was helpful that I was teaching one or two classes a week of chair yoga already, and could practice new ideas on my students!! This course increased my confidence and knowledge and helped me to shift my perspective on sharing yoga. What I learned from Sherry and Peggy is how to empower my students to be life long learners and students of the body.


Chair Yoga Certified

Kayleen D, AUSTRALIA

Currently Enrolled

As a visual learner the presentation format of video clips of Sherry talking suited me. On the other hand the layout of the scripted format (cheat sheets) were very well set out and great support. I also appreciated Sherry’s almost immediate and personalised responses to my questions.


Suzanne Gifford, Cary, North Carolina, USA

Yoga Vista Academy Certified Gentle Yoga Teacher

I enjoyed working with Gerry. He is probably one of the most positive minded people I have ever met. 🙂 He made himself available via phone & email. He was our greatest cheerleader in the Facebook group, always offering encouragement. I would encourage any student who needs that extra bit of encouragement or motivation to use the Mentor Program. Sometimes doing a course online can be lonely. Having the Mentor and the group, really helps to bring the students together. The Facebook Mentor group were also very encouraging and helpful with their support and ideas. We all wanted each other to succeed.


Joanne Puglia

Joanne Puglia

Indian Harbour Beach, Florida | United States

I fell in love with the videos when I would search for new ideas for my chair exercises. I am currently taking the online Chair Yoga course. Before I made the commitment, I spoke to Sherry over the phone. I was so excited to speak to her and hear her voice. Her enthusiasm is contagious! She was so kind, friendly and nice on the phone. I felt an immediate connection. She is someone that you would love as a friend!

I have been taking the course for two months now and I am in awe on how beautifully this course is put together. I am learning so much about anatomy and how yoga ties in to help seniors. The videos come with a wealth of information. I love watching the different styles of the yoga teachers. The ideas on what you can bring to the table are endless!


Chair Yoga Certified

Fastie Murphree

Fastie Murphree

Kauai, Hawaii | United States

The amount of time you spend organizing really shines through in every aspect of the program! Mary Cavanaugh would be amazed at how far you have carried Chair Yoga and YogaVista Academy! You encourage your students to go at their own pace and develop their own style.  And, the way you so generously share your knowledge goes beyond the  requirements for offering these courses.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Dianne C., Rome, New York, USA

Currently Enrolled

I have learned so much in the Gentle Yoga Class. I am teaching a gentle flow class tonight and they will definitely be doing goddess arms in Warrior 1!
What prompted me to register for your gentle yoga program to begin with was I had students with hip, knee and shoulder replacements. My real concern was the woman attending class while getting spinal injections. I was so afraid I was going to break them that I wanted specialized training.


Pattranooj (Nooj) Saengchantr

Pattranooj (Nooj) Saengchantr

Bangkok | Thailand

I found this program very resourceful. It’s been my pleasure to be a part of this program as doing something good for senior people has been my passion during the past ten years, not to mention Thailand is coming towards the aging society sooner or later.


Chair Yoga Certified

Louise Tracey, Oklahoma

Currently Enrolled

I am completely loving the training. I’m so grateful I found you and Yoga Vista! I’m currently volunteering- teaching seniors chair yoga at our senior center in my town. I have my 200 our RYT and I am completely loving the journey into Chair yoga. Hope to get certified and to keep growing and learning.


Cheryl Todd

Cheryl Todd

Escondido, California | United States

I’ve learned so much from Sherry and her Chair Yoga Certification course. After teaching chair yoga for a number of years, I felt a little stale and in need of a fresh approach, to bring to my students and a brush up on my anatomy knowledge. The course gave me that and more. It is full of detailed pictures, videos, poses and instruction, and is easy to follow along. I liked the fact that I could work at my own pace around a rather hectic schedule.


Chair Yoga Certified

Tammy Brinkmann

Tammy Brinkmann

Washington, Missouri | United States

This is my fourth week teaching my chair yoga classes. I am doing three a week and everyone is loving it. We did the dance to ‘What a Wonderful World’ this week. THANK YOU. Sherry, I am HAVING SO MUCH FUN AND CANNOT THANK YOU ENOUGH. I hope I get to hug you one day in person. You are a blessing to me and so many others!!!!


Chair Yoga Dance - TrainedChair Yoga Trained

Marcela Kohn

Marcela Kohn

Punta Pacifica | Panama

I´ve watched your program it´s amazing like your videos….I´ve been using what I´ve learned in your videos, and that´s was really great, all my students said wowwwww wonderful, because nobody here in Panamá teaches like this!


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedChair Yoga Trained

Vicky Welch

Vicky Welch

Durham, North Carolina | United States

Thanks so much for everything. You don’t know what this program has done for my self confidence. I am so motivated working with the seniors and I just keep learning more. My gratitude also to Justine and Viki for all of their cheerleading and kind words.


Chair Yoga Certified

Vicki Lynch

Vicki Lynch

San Marcos, California | United States

I truly found the Chair Yoga Program to be beyond informative. You offer SO many resources to the student. I loved that a mentoring program was offered, studying at your own pace, yoga videos, modules, and “spot on” yoga lessons. I learned so much regarding anatomy and the aging of our bodies and how to correct and decrease pain. I liked the emphasis on how to cue and speaking loud and clearly. Honestly, I would highly recommend this training to any one that wants to incorporate these important subjects. For me personally, I have become a better version of myself.


Chair Yoga Certified

Karen Roberts

Karen Roberts

Port Macquarie | Australia

I love learning about the ‘mechanics’ of problems we may have and her course gave me lots of easily understood new information. E.G. location of vestibular system (thought it was more inside the head), that vertigo can sometimes be cured, stamping/marching after uttanasana.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Monika Schweizer

Monika Schweizer

Männedorf | Switzerland

I learned so much from Sherry Zak Morris and her Yoga Vista Academy team during the six-month online Mentor Chair Yoga Program! The most impressive results for me are: I have more participants in my classes – my energy is in the flow! I used to get very tired after the sessions. Now I’m filled with energy, love and grace which the students give me back!

The Videos and Online Modules are very exciting; you learn Yoga poses and anatomy from a different perspective. Yes, and I found out that I’m an entertainer! We laugh and giggle a lot more during Chair Yoga! Thank you Sherry Zak Morris, Corey Stiles and Justine Shelton!

Namaste from Switzerland


Chair Yoga Trained

Dana Thiele

Dana Thiele

Rabun Gap, Georgia | United States

I enjoyed the Posture Project, feel like I am more aware of the misalignments in the yoga students and just in the general population! I catch myself looking at people everywhere I go with attention to their posture. I loved the idea of the questionnaire and the before and after photos of the students. The Fascia-nation sequence is a fun way to introduce the students to the fascia netting of our bodies.

I am learning so much thru this certification program! So grateful that I found You and Chair Yoga. I love the gentle yoga classes I teach and look forward to teaching Chair Yoga!


Chair Yoga Certified

Karen Wexler

Karen Wexler

Delray Beach, Florida | United States

Today a woman in the community where I live asked if I would teach her and her husband privately in their home. YAY!!! I am certainly thrilled for this opportunity.


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedChair Yoga TrainedLow Back Trained

Live Workshop Attendees: Bell

“10 Oh my God! I never realized what a horrible thing vertigo can be. Information of BPPV – so timely and well explained.”

“10 What a master teacher Kim is! This info is so relevant and important to me individually and for all of us as teachers. I now have the language to explain BPPV in a clear, easy to understand way. Knowing where to go for help is a HUGE relief!”

“10 I’ve never seen a Q&A format work SO well – masterful, informed, compassionate teaching. Thank you! “What you thought of as deficits are truly your gifts to the world….” LOVE THIS!”


Sabine Riviere, FRANCE

Chair Yoga Teacher

I enjoyed it so much. For me, the anatomical part with the homemade fabrics was brilliant. A lot that I learned at the “De Gasquet Institute” is similar but Victoria’s style is so much impactful, with lots of great exercises and super creative ideas! I’m amazed by the quality of the pdf document too. What a work!! It’s full of care, respect and engagement… I’m touched in my heart !


Charon Geigle

Charon Geigle

Wall, South Dakota | United States

Yoga Vista Academy continues to embrace and evolve teaching criteria and information for accessible asana. I chose Vista Academy’s Chair Teacher Program because they acknowledge the style of yoga I teach (Anusara) which tells me they are connected to other styles of yoga and collaborate with other related studies (somatics, massage, physical therapy, etc). Yoga Vista Academy is all about community which is manifested in their newsletter. They are willing to share the art of accessible asana through their newsletter and through this Chair Yoga Teacher Training.


Chair Yoga Certified

Marilynn Freeman

Marilynn Freeman

Silver City, New Mexico | United States

I taught my first class today, (even though I’m still working in the “Shoulder” chapter!) I had 11, which for this town, is a miracle, and I expect it to increase next week. I got a standing ovation when we were finished and endless kudos. I owe all my success to your course, your teachers, and your large cache of videos on YouTube. I can’t say enough THANK YOU’s!!!!! I’m on fire again – thanks to everyone at Yoga Vista Academy!!!


Chair Yoga Certified

Camille Cronfel

Camille Cronfel

Elk Grove Village, Illinois | United States

The Park District thought it would be a great idea to partner up with the local hospital and to offer my class for free for 6 weeks! I already get around 20 people every Tuesday, and yet, they allowed 50 people to sign up! Over 60 people showed up!


Chair Yoga Certified

Tina Carpenter, Carmel, California, USA

Wheelchair Yoga Pilot Program Teacher

One should consider this Program if they are interested in learning how to expand their teaching and want to work with a new segment of the population or If they want to expand their knowledge of anatomy, sequencing and disabilities. This course has it all.


Cathy Mikles

Cathy Mikles

Auburn, California | United States

It is extremely well organized and I can see how much time this has taken you. Also, I appreciate your teaching philosophy which is totally aligned with the way I have been teaching. Thank you!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Irene Sunn

Irene Sunn

Sunshine Coast | Australia

I truly enjoyed doing my Chair Yoga Certification Online Program with the Yoga Vista Academy. The content and the professional manner in which it is presented was excellent. I learnt more in the past months than I ever did from my past 3 year Yoga training here in Australia, and feel I have achieved more, especially with anatomy. Being able to view the many and varied videos was great for me and Sherry’s support throughout the course was always there. A great motivator. I can highly recommend the Course to anyone who is considering undertaking it.


Chair Yoga Certified

Melissa W., Strongsville, Ohio, USA

Yoga Teacher

Sherry was so knowledgeable in chair yoga and how to teach a yoga class to seniors or people with physical limitations. I learn many poses/techniques to incorporate in my chair class that could really benefit my students range of motion and make their daily routines smoother.


Smita Patel

Smita Patel

Lawrenceville, Georgia | United States

I am doing my on line chair yoga certification course with you right now. And I must tell you that it is very well planned. I have learned so…. much from you! I would like to thank you for all the hard work you’ve put into it. I have completed my 200 hours yoga training in 2015 and have been teaching since then. For past two years, I have been teaching chair yoga at an adult day care center to seniors. I had watched some of your YouTube videos and you inspired me to do the chair yoga certification course. Again, thank you for that!


Chair Yoga Certified

Hope Carroll-Rizzo

Hope Carroll-Rizzo

Oronoco, Minnesota | United States

Cute story from our Polar Vortex Minnesota winter. Last week temperatures dipped into the -30° and less range. I cancelled most of my classes, but my boss convinced me to teach one of the Chair Yoga Classes, totally against my better judgement. I am not a Minnesota native at all, and this weather challenges me, so, I had no desire whatsoever to teach or be out. I sat in an empty classroom for quite some time, until finally 5 brave souls arrived. As I was so stressed about getting to the class, I did not prepare for the class. So, I asked, “What would you like to do today?” Immediately, I heard “Chair Yoga Dancing!”


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Trained

Tracy Fitzgerald, Ireland

Currently Enrolled

I’ve already started teaching chair dance yoga. Here in Ireland, I teach a couple of classes a week to wheelchair users through Irish Wheelchair Association. I did the course to liven up the classes and it’s worked a treat. A lot of them are over 60 or 70 and I did Que Sera Sera this week. They absolutely loved it! They’ve loved all of them but particularly this one.


Angie Zuliani Pedote

Angie Zuliani Pedote

Oceanside, California | United States

I highly recommend this course with Sherry Zak Morris. She will give you the support you need and guidance along with the tools to be a dynamic yoga instructor. The information provided gave me the knowledge and teaching skills I needed. This is an online course where you can work at your own pace.


Low Back Certified

Lynne G., Portsmouth, Rhode Island, USA

Chair Yoga Teacher

I want to thank you for the suggestion to take The Anatomy of Aging and Movement Course. It took me almost all year to complete it — with balancing it along with my daily life and lots of travel this year. I also took the opportunity to take a look at Pain Free by Pete Egoscue and Natural Posture for Pain-Free Living by Kathleen Porter based on your suggestions.


Gillian Isvan

Gillian Isvan

Isle of Arran, North Ayrshire | Scotland

What I like best about Yoga Vista Academy is…. the constant offering of interesting and new knowledge to add to the enormous wealth of knowledge that it already provides. The learning never stops. Thank you!!!!


Chair Yoga Certified

Suzi Delve

Suzi Delve

Bristol | United Kingdom

The course is so creative and different and allows for individual teaching styles whilst keeping safety and health an utmost priority. I feel confident to walk into any situation with a whole bag of tricks up my sleeve to keep the classes inclusive and accessible to everyone so a big ‘THANK YOU!!’ from me.


Chair Yoga Certified

Josee Madison

Josee Madison

Columbia, South Carolina | United States

I just loved how thorough the anatomy part was and also the videos included in the material. I’m a visual person and it was so cool to see an actual class and a description of a sequence or pose video-style. I love your team! James, Justine and others. Really such a great group of professionals. So well done. Both you and Justine were such a hoot to watch. Really showing your true selves and it made me feel like I was already part of the Yoga family without even having met you. Very welcoming presentations. Thank you for this amazing course!!


Gentle Yoga Certified

Colleen Sengpiel

Colleen Sengpiel

West Des Moines, Iowa | United States

Thank you for the specific feedback on my Teachback. Clearly you took some time to provide that type of detailed feedback and I REALLY appreciate that.


Chair Yoga Certified

Cheryl Todd

Cheryl Todd

Escondido, California | United States

I’m thoroughly enjoying the course and learning so much. I’ve worked with seniors a number of years and have been teaching chair yoga for about 10 years. I started this course as a refresher and to learn some new ideas, but this course is so much more than I expected it to be! Love it! You’re a great teacher.


Chair Yoga Certified

Mary Helfeldt

Mary Helfeldt

Dunkirk, New York | United States

I’m enjoying the Live Mentoring Chair Yoga Training Program for many reasons:
1. We can get immediate answers to any questions. Also, as we practice with one another, we can ask specific questions pertaining to poses we are doing as we are doing them.

2. We can share ideas and learn from others. It is nice to meet people that are taking the class and building relationships with them over time. In addition, we can practice in front of people.

3. The sections are divided and manageable. Having a small test after each one is helpful because there is a lot of information to absorb. The coursework is set up for our success.

I feel like I am learning and have such an abundant assortment of resources. And of course, amazing teachers!


Chair Yoga Certified

Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

This program was like a delicious piece of carrot cake that I wanted to make last which explains my 3x go through. Fortunately my binder and the yoga vista platform with the videos are close at hand. Thanks again Justine for pulling this one of a kind program together and for offering it to the yoga teacher community around the world.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Julie Hamilton

Julie Hamilton

Edwardsville, Illinois | United States

I teach people Parkinson’s disease and dementia. Your certification was a turning point for me. It has changed my life. So grateful for you!


Chair Yoga Certified

Laure Sears

Laure Sears

Newhall, California | United States

I wanted to thank you again for the fantastic workshop yesterday. When I taught today, I felt so inspired to try new poses with my students as well as doing a bit more explaining. The way you wove the workshop together made it so informative, kept us moving and gave us relevant information that we will be able to utilize daily in our classes.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Trained

Jeanine Faith

Jeanine Faith

Bend, Oregon | United States

I taught at my first nursing home, and it was very challenging! They could only do a fraction of the movements. I found myself with a one-hour class and 15 minutes worth of material. Made it through okay, but realized I have a lot to learn 🙂 you have a really great program, and I’m continuing to watch your YouTube videos for more info. Thank you for your Compassionate Heart!


Chair Yoga Certified

Helen Rigby

Helen Rigby

Vista, California | United States

The course is wonderful, the mix of videos and reading is a great way to study no matter what learning style someone prefers. I loved this course and ever since I’ve started, I’ve been telling my yogi friends about your studio, certifications, classes, and workshops.


Chair Yoga Certified

Pelvic Floor Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Relevant, superbly presented. Clear, concise information. Wonderful humor, Ahimsa, great imaginative visualizations. Lots of ideas to bring to class. Thoroughly delightful. So much information!”

“Wow! Viki is a delight! Her topic was also so relevant to the senior population and working on creating awareness to the pelvic floor health will definitely be a goal of mine. I especially enjoyed the various activities that targeted ‘getting to know’ the various parts involved and the poses and how to use them in this journey. Wonderful Energy!”

“Viki is an awesome presenter and very informative. I just loved her!! :)”

” What a delightful presentation! Loved the humor! Loved the up and down physical practice! Made everything we were learning stick more. Thank you Viki!”

“Viki- Not a moment too soon! I think I can begin to work with my pelvic floor. ”

“FANTASTIC info and presentation. The tools you created and used to teach very complex info WERE GENIOUS! Now I have so much info to use as I move forward on my on-going journey to pelvic floor health.”

“Oh my gosh! Once again, topic presented in such a fun and engaging manner! Viki’s eye contact was outstanding – manual content organized and easy to access….(Actually, the entire manual is SUPER! Thank you!)”

“It was a really interesting education on the pelvic floor and conditions that can be associated with dysfunctional states. Her props were great! Her enthusiasm was contagious!”


Marilynn Freeman

Marilynn Freeman

Silver City, New Mexico | United States

I’m impressed with the feedback you have given me, and it is valued and appreciated. What makes it special is that I feel like I have a personal relationship with you – that I am NOT anonymous. Your whole course is written from a place of caring and educating, and your feedback has always been the same. Thank you!!


Chair Yoga Certified

Pam Chin

Pam Chin

Sarnia, Ontario | Canada

I just wanted to let you know I am finishing up my first Happy Back workshop class. It was seven weeks of back education and exercises specific to each persons condition. I start my next one on Oct. 31st and it’s full! I am so happy and grateful that I had the opportunity to do your course. It has given me new passion for my yoga teaching.


Low Back Certified

Joanne Stark, San Diego, California, USA

Chairman, Silver Age Yoga

Thank you so much for the absolutely amazing talk you gave on osteoarthritis yesterday for SAYCO. You are a fantastic teacher! Everyone in the room was engaged. I can see why so many of the SAYCO teachers were thrilled to have you provide the CEU workshop; you are such a great speaker. You gave us solid content, made it personal, and made it fun. You are an absolute inspiration!


Deb Jeannette, Bay Shore, New York, USA

Currently Enrolled

I’m very grateful to have had this opportunity to participate in your Yoga Vista Chair Yoga Program. It’s been so very beneficial in providing me the much needed skillset so that I could offer modifications and sequences so my students could move safely through the various ranges of motion in their joints and muscles.


Jennifer Hilton

Jennifer Hilton

Woodstock, Georgia | United States

Yoga Vista Academy has a way about making you feel like you are a part of the yoga family. I couldn’t get enough of the videos and information. I am a visual person so having the videos were essential to my learning. Not only are they informational, they are enjoyable to watch and see the different personalities of each teacher. One day I called Yoga Vista to ask a question and I was thinking I would get an answering machine or something like that. Low and behold Sherry picked up!! I was so impressed and a little shocked. I can not say enough about the Academy. Well done from start to finish!!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Ryan Kuehl, Chicago, Illinois, USA

Instructor at Elim Christian Services

We use these songs and Chair Yoga dances each week where I work. I work with special needs adults and they absolutely love doing these together! Thanks for all that you do in making and sharing these videos!!!!! Elim Christian Services is a special needs school in Crestwood near Chicago and I work in Adult Services.


Gerry Hurtig

Gerry Hurtig

Parrish, Florida | United States

I am so very happy and honored to be a part of Yoga Vista Academy and to be able to help others along their journey. I certainly would not have guessed when I first starting following the two of you and then taking classes thru certifications that I am doing what I am doing now… being an Academy Mentor Teacher!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Julie Hamilton

Julie Hamilton

Edwardsville, Illinois | United States

I am happy to say that because of your course I am able to teach people with confidence at nursing homes, offices, yoga studios and memory care facilities.


Chair Yoga Certified

Judy Rycombel

Judy Rycombel

Inverness, Illinois | United States

I do love the course materials, You Tubes, newsletters, etc. but somehow I became, in Corey’s nice word, “stalled.” A few days after Corey emailed me, I finished the section on the spine and took the tests. Thank you for creating the mentor/cheerleader position. I feel I’m not alone now.


Chair Yoga Certified

Jennifer Lake, New Hampshire, USA

Active Yoga DVD Teacher

Sherry’s enthusiasm, positive energy, combined with her industry experience and knowledge led me to create a higher standard product as a result of the direct advice and mentorship I received from her. I felt like someone finally GOT ME on all levels!”


Jane Waterman

Jane Waterman

Ladysmith | Canada

It’s nice to come home to the library and know there’s so much expertise I can draw on as I reorient myself in this new year, and learn new tricks to care not only for my students but for me too. And everything looks smashing too!


Chair Yoga Certified

Dustin Huff

Dustin Huff

Pueblo, Colorado | United States

I think just helping people realize that their posture unconsciously becomes their real physical body is my imperative take away from the Posture Project and what I try to relay to people in my class. I have not tried to just tell my fellow man or woman at the grocery store that their hip leaning is creating an imbalance in their body and it shows, however I do think telepathy is a growing trend, and people are picking up on the unified field of thought. So, maybe if I just starting projecting posture corrections onto people they will begin to find new breath in the unconscious faults that become crystallized in their physical vessel.


Chair Yoga Certified

Heather Niznik Cullins

Heather Niznik Cullins

Chester, Virginia | United States

The way Viki helped us think of putting things together was really helpful. She is extremely knowledgeable! And it helps to have someone to connect with in a group and to be held accountable to to finish.


Chair Yoga Trained

Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

Let me see…there is so much to choose from. First of all I enjoy your newsletters that keeps us connected to new and practical approaches to teaching gentle and chair yoga. I also enjoy the structure and platform of your online programs that allow me to go at my pace yet feel like I am part of a live course. I often return to materials that I read and practiced from your programs and learn something new from it each time.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Saffron Murray

Saffron Murray

Tramore | Republic of Ireland

This 60 Hr Chair Yoga Teacher Training course with Sherry Zac Morris of Yoga Vista Academy was a highly informative and most enjoyable course. Each topic is discuss in full detail and is backed up with a full color handout and backed up again with full educational videos. There are test at the end of the units that put you to the test but excellent to do. It has made me highly knowledgeable in Teaching Methodology, Techniques, Training & Practice, Anatomy & Physiology, Yoga Philosophy and Lifestyle & Ethic which I now carry with full confidence to my own classes that I teach.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Judy D’Agostino

Judy D’Agostino

Derwood, Maryland | United States

Yoga Vista Academy’s Gentle and Chair Yoga Teacher Training was beyond my greatest expectations. So much detailed information on anatomy, aging and yoga was presented in such an accessible format. The factual information combined with practical applications and a multitude of resources will guide me for years to come. What a great investment in my yoga journey!


Gentle Yoga Certified

Deborah Forsblom

Deborah Forsblom

Bexley, Ohio | United States

If someone were to ask me where to find the best information and lessons about Chair Yoga, I would (and have, many times) send them to Yoga JP and Yoga Vista Academy. Even though the training is remote (as in, not in person), I felt as if I knew Sherry and Justine and the regular teachers and could go to any of them if I had questions. The information provided in the training is comprehensive, and having text and videos plays to everyone’s learning style. I could not recommend this program more. I already was teaching Chair Yoga, but this has made me a better teacher. Thank you to Sherry and the crew.


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga Certified

Raquel Jex Forsgren

Raquel Jex Forsgren

Chicago, Illinois | United States

Oh my gosh! What didn’t I learn! I think that twenty hours was more in depth than basic teacher training 🙂 For me, I have a pretty extensive background in Anatomy and Physiology. What I really learned were the variety of postures “to do” and “not to do”. I thought going in that it would be just modifications on traditional but there are so many other important adjustments.

The other thing I learned was to really not be afraid to work with seniors. I love them and have always had a desire to work with them at a deeper level than I have in the past (pharmaceuticals) but I was nervous in not wanting to hurt them so your course helped me so much. You are seriously awesome and so are all of the other teachers you had do the videos and I loved the fun little sayings that popped up thru the videos too 🙂


Chair Yoga Certified

Connie S., Fuquay, North Carolina, USA

Currently Enrolled

It is very interesting stuff and it all makes so much sense!! I think back through my career and maybe if I knew all this I wouldn’t have all the back issues that I have, who knows!! You did a great job on this! I can see the potential to bring this Series into Start-ups, HR Departments and Facility Departments who focus on ergonomics.


Cheryl Harper, London, Ontario, Canada

Currently Enrolled

I have been following you and Justine now for a couple of years now and really love your caring and engaging teaching style. You are both so knowledgable!


Jane Musgrave

Jane Musgrave

Chicago, Illinois | United States

Great Stuff! The content is world class, and I loved the option to read and watch the video at the same time. Super organized and easy to follow. The sections build on one another nicely. Definitely felt like a good value. Super glad that I can go back and watch the videos whenever I want to. That is a huge selling point.


Gentle Yoga Certified

Dawn Deratany

Dawn Deratany

San Diego, California | United States

This Low Back Care Foundations Course is the harbor cruise, providing a high level understanding of types of back pain, causes, contraindications and recommended yoga poses and modifications. As a graduate of the Low Back Care Certification Program, I found that it builds on this Foundations Course as it goes into even more detail and prepares the student to create class plans whether 1:1 or teaching groups.


Low Back Certified

Live Attendees: Deskworkers

High Tech Workers

WHAT DID YOU THINK ABOUT THE LECTURE/YOGA PRESENTATION SERIES?

“I liked that we were able to get a brief intro in the beginning of class to learn about what and why we were practicing in class and how it affects us everyday. ”

“There was so much to learn. It was much better than being fire hosed with everything all at once. Breaking it up into several sessions was a great idea.”

“Can’t wait to get Sherry’s videos and do these on a nightly basis at home.”

“The lecture helps me visualize what muscles I am working.”

“I liked all the explanation throughout the entire Series. So much new information I did not know about.”

“What she was teaching in lecture is what we focused on in the class. It tied it all together. “


Gerry Hurtig

Gerry Hurtig

Parrish, Florida | United States

I never imagined that I would someday be a mentor to such a dedicated group of students who share a desire to help our seniors. I have been able to use this unique opportunity to share my knowledge, experience and passion for yoga in a new way. Getting to know everyone and seeing their excitement as they grow in their own personal yoga journey thru this program has been thrilling and such an honor.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Elizabeth Clifford Little Rock, Arkansas, USA

Currently Enrolled

Your course is outstanding. I feel much more knowledgeable and have so many more tools to help me create chair yoga classes that people enjoy and also receive maximum benefit. I also learned very important information about how to make sure NOT to hurt people – very important! I downloaded the materials to continually reference but I will continue to go back to the videos.


Tomme Fent

Tomme Fent

Gresham, Oregon | United States

I give the Yoga Vista Gentle and Chair Yoga courses my highest recommendation! Sherry and Justine have perfected the art of online teaching. The written materials are comprehensive, detailed, and some of the best reference sources in my entire yoga library. The many hours of videos are equally outstanding, offering a variety of teaching styles, methodologies, and information. I expected to receive outstanding instruction in Gentle and Chair Yoga. What I didn’t expect, but received in abundance, was these courses making me a better teacher overall, as well as a better teacher trainer. These courses truly have been a highlight of my ongoing yoga education!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Gerry Hurtig

Gerry Hurtig

Parrish, Florida | United States

I can’t believe how in-depth and complete the material was for the Gentle Yoga Low-Back Care certification program. The videos were wonderful and were a great addition to the written portion of each section. I was able to immediately apply the information from each chapter to the yoga classes I teach. Justine is so amazing in her ability to provide both the lecture and demonstrations in the videos. She is such a great cheerleader. Thanks for an outstanding and fun program!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Jacob Fuller, Mesquite, Texas, USA

Currently Enrolled

Learned a whole lot, and really appreciate all the hard work you have done to get this all online to help other teachers such as myself!!


Karen Gabriel

Karen Gabriel

New Bern, North Carolina | United States

You have provided knowledge on various reasons for wheelchair users, numerous sequencing examples, fun moves and great advice. I was introduced to the “sticks” with Nina. I printed the materials so I have my manual and notes to review when needed. I have played the videos over and over and love that I’ll have them forever! I appreciated the diversity in the styles of all the instructors in this course. Each instructor is so different. I love that!


Wheelchair Yoga - Certified

Beverly Davis-Baird

Beverly Davis-Baird

Little Silver, New Jersey | United States

Gerry, I appreciate your weekly “Gerry Hugs” as well as your guidance in making my video. It was the scariest part of the course for me, and your guidance made it much easier.


Low Back Certified

Karen Roberts

Karen Roberts

Port Macquarie | Australia

Loved the connection to other yoga concepts such as the yamas and nyamas, fantastic and easy to understand description about how these diseases start, info about the role of the diaphragm and it’s movement and beneficial effects on the organs, lots of useful extra pointers in the stretches and breathing. the simplicity of restorative poses.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Janis Phelps

Janis Phelps

Queen Creek, Arizona | United States

Thank you so much for the time, effort, and passion you offer to your students. The comprehensive feedback/Final Report was so positive and uplifting…and extremely helpful–not just the accolades, but also the suggestions for improvement. I’ll implement those important recommendations immediately. Excellent.

You are truly the teacher’s teacher, a brilliant role model, and a shining example of what true yoga is really about.


Chair Yoga Certified

Camille Cronfel

Camille Cronfel

Elk Grove Village, Illinois | United States

Despite this being an online class with no direct contact, I felt completely supported throughout the process. You were there to answer any questions, and I felt comfortable asking for help. I enjoyed the mix of readings, quizzes and videos. It is user friendly and comprehensive.


Chair Yoga Certified

Lucy Valente

Lucy Valente

Hazleton, Pennsylvania | United States

Yoga Vista Academy‘s Chair Yoga Certification Program provided a written PDF to accompany the video presentation which I found beneficial to the student to read and follow as well as a great reference source to keep. I have already referred back to the PDF notes several times. The library of postures is also a good reference source for poses and their unique names. I found the videos to be very helpful especially to see the students go through the asanas to the best of their ability with modifications provided to accommodate each body and level of ability.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Viki Boyko

Viki Boyko

Stamford, Connecticut | United States

Wow! That’s fantastic. I’ve really enjoyed this fun and informative course. Especially found the age related symptoms info useful and how to work around these. Also, so many ideas for fun routines to do with seniors. I would love to be involved in anything you have going on.


Chair Yoga CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Lucie Blanchet, Quebec, CANADA

Yoga Teacher

I bought videos, manuals and an online workshop from the Academy and each time I was amazed by the quality of the material. I like the information on the anatomy it helps me to understand more deeply the benefits of the posture. The illustrations are explicit and facilitate the learnings.

Please Excuse my writing I am a francophone and I do not get to write in English very often.


Lien, Baltimore, Maryland, USA

Senior Nursing School Student

I’m a senior nursing school student and we are currently doing a clinical rotation at senior apartment homes. Part of our rotation consists of holding a weekly dancercise class for the residents who wish to participate. We’ve been using many of your videos as a part of our class and the seniors (and we) are enjoying them. Thank you so much for this resource and for your joy in encouraging dance and yoga at all ages!


Kim Hayes

Yoga Teacher

What I like best about Yoga Vista Academy is your warmth, integrity, sincerity & authenticity. You are the real deal! You walk the talk. Your nurturing & caring nature radiates out and can be felt even on a video medium. Every now and then you share glimpses of your honest concerns for a student that’s absent or struggling. Your keen eye picks up those subtle events.

You continually challenge your students and you generously share medical knowledge that improves our personal lives. Plus you do it all with professionalism. Bravo!


Zoran V., CROATIA

Currently Enrolled

It’s all going smooth and sweet so far. And such a great training! Really good work. Many practical advices, examples, testimonies, shared experiences, all knowledge good and precisely presented, easy to follow (nice handouts!) and very practice oriented. Well done indeed.


Cathy Ireland

Cathy Ireland

Brighton, Ontario | Canada

Every class I get compliments and my class sizes are steady and growing. Love it! So much to learn. I hope that I can figure out a way to do this full time!


Chair Yoga Certified

Loredana Zagami

Loredana Zagami

Torino | Italy

When they worked my eyes and told me that I could no longer do the positions on the ground I was destroyed … I had waited a lifetime to become a yoga teacher and suddenly 4 retinal interventions stop me! To discover that someone had given the importance of yoga even when sitting, made me born again … so thank you!


Chair Yoga Certified

Evelyn T., San Diego, California, USA

SAYCO Chair Yoga Teacher

Your handout is well organized, well written and easy to understand. The photos and anatomy charts are very helpful. I appreciate that you included suggested modifications of poses and sample class sequences for our study. Justine, I admired your personal mix of ‘gravitas’ and humor, command of the subject, and skill in giving clear instruction for poses.


Gillian Isvan

Gillian Isvan

Isle of Arran, North Ayrshire | Scotland

And a huge thank you Sherry for putting this course together. I don’t really have anything but praise for it. I found it very, very informative, well planned, easy to follow, and hard and extensive enough I’m sure, to ensure only those really interested in the training/qualification would put the time and effort in to see it through. Great course. PLUS I was also soooo lucky in being able to come and meet you all and join some of the classes at Vista.


Chair Yoga Certified

Kate Regan

Kate Regan

Brisbane | Australia

I left school at 15 years of age, never having touched on anatomy at all. So I found this to be challenging but thanks to this course I feel grateful to be so enlightened about The body and my own body also!


Chair Yoga Certified

Sabine Rivière Barrière, FRANCE

Yoga Teacher

What I like best with Yoga Vista Academy? So many things!! First and most of all, they teach a form of yoga that doesn’t hurt your body (ahimsa). From France, I can download valuable videos and workshops (last one on pelvic floor-amazing). I discovered chair yoga with Sherry’s Videos. It was new for me because we don’t have this approach here, so a great source of inspiration. I love Justine’s work too, with this bio-mechanics aspect, so brilliant!! And for sure, I will take time to discover the other teachers who seem so interesting too! Thank you Sherry to answer so kindly to my mails! Your personality and opening heart is a delight and an inspiration!


Karen Wexler

Karen Wexler

Delray Beach, Florida | United States

Yes, I love the course!! So thorough and inspiring, I want to eat it with a spoon and digest it all immediately. But I know that’s not possible! I wish I had found you a year ago, but at least I am with you now.


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedChair Yoga TrainedLow Back Trained

Sharon Cavanagh

Sharon Cavanagh

Calgary, Alberta | Canada

Thank you so much for putting together this wonderful program, which has brought so much to my chair yoga teaching.


Chair Yoga Certified

B.N., New South Wales, Australia

Currently Enrolled

I was brave and enrolled. I just wanted to tell you how much I am enjoying the course so far. I have only just started and it’s going to take a while as I work as well. But I can’t wait to get home at night and read or listen. Your knowledge is so inspiring. I just wanted to say thank you for running this course online. The videos and notes are amazing.


Dustin Huff

Dustin Huff

Pueblo, Colorado | United States

I am absolutely enjoying every moment of learning, and I am very impressed with your team’s skill-set in these videos, and how much information there is to try and soak up. I have added quite a bit to my personal practice as well as sprinkling a bunch in my chair yoga. I am not sure if you have heard this one yet, but the one module that brought some tears to my eyes, was the business and marketing of yoga video that you teach. Thank you for all that you do. We are all so very lucky that you took the baton.


Chair Yoga Certified

Cathy, San Diego, California, USA

SAYCO Chair Yoga Teacher

I learned many new things and I especially liked the fact I didn’t have to take notes, I could sit and listen! I learn and retain information better by experiencing. The PDF handout is a gem.


Hope Carroll-Rizzo

Hope Carroll-Rizzo

Oronoco, Minnesota | United States

The online material not only helped me learn it faster, but I felt more confident.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Trained

Karina Gough

Karina Gough

Masterton | New Zealand

Thank you so much for all your help. I feel like you have been there beside me! Your course is very thorough and I feel empowered to keep learning and also to get creative with poses. Thanks for your ongoing support.


Chair Yoga Certified

Caroline Meeks

Yoga Teacher

I had done Somatic yoga before but more about sensory amnesia and pandiculation. The videos are great quality. Overall I love it. I look forward to Friday when I get paid and can sign up for level 1.


Lesley Levy

Lesley Levy

Canberra and Queanbeyan, NSW | Australia

Thank you for providing such a comprehensive course. I found it so easy to work through the modules because of the way the course was designed. The information on how to sequence and to better understand the physiological issues, that seniors may present with, was invaluable. I felt fully supported throughout the course, and I will continue to refer to the course materials ongoing.


Chair Yoga Certified

Sabrina G, CANADA

Chair Yoga Teacher

I called you last Wednesday to tell you how much I love your seniors classes and how you are a source of inspiration to me.


Sara, Alaska, USA

I’m learning so much more in this anatomy training than I did in my teacher training. The training we got was way too much for beginner teachers. At least it was for me. Your teaching is so clear and applicable. Thank you!


Simone Price

Simone Price

Glenfield | New Zealand

I have thoroughly enjoyed this course and learnt so much. Information that I can use for my Chair Yoga Classes but also for my regular yoga practices as well. Everything was explained so simply and was easy to understand, its also great that I can keep going back over information and re watch the videos when I need to. I would not hesitate in recommending this course to anyone who is looking to teach chair yoga or yoga for seniors.


Chair Yoga Certified

Lori B., Oregon, USA

Exercise Physiologist

I teach in a Fear of Falling Study for the Oregon Research Institute and use so many of your ideas in my classes. Teaching a seated stretching class for 60 minutes is the hardest thing I have ever done! The participants are 70+. There are 3 classes randomly computer generated, 1 class is strengthening, 1 is stretching and the other is Tai Chi. I teach both the strengthening and the stretching. You have helped me so much for ideas for stretching for 60 minutes. I am not a yoga teacher, I am an exercise physiologist and I love your ideas. The class loved the Bob Seger song, ‘Listen’.


Lynda Sandoval

Lynda Sandoval

Fredonia, New York | United States

Someone asked me recently if I thought my Chair Yoga training through Yoga Vista Academy was worth the price. Let me explain it this way: I always wanted to teach yoga for seniors (and disabled veterans) but I was always afraid to even approach it, afraid of accidentally hurting a senior, afraid of senior anatomy and health issues…until I saw some of Sherry’s videos and thought, ‘THAT is the kind of senior yoga class I want to teach.’ I developed a level of confidence with designing classes and teaching seniors that I truly hadn’t expected.


Chair Yoga Certified

Gail Pickens-Barger, Port Neches, Texas, USA

Yoga Teacher

The handouts, the pacing of the material, the videos accompanying the specific modules, then the practice video and the interaction with the course creator was a great way to communicate foundations of yoga for low back challenges. I plan to take more training with the folks at Yoga Vista Academy! Gail Pickens-Barger RYT500.


Dustin Huff

Dustin Huff

Pueblo, Colorado | United States

“Hundreds of people walk outside our doors throughout the year, and we pay no attention them. We only pay our attention to those that knock on our doors.” I think of our minds like that with energy and intuition. Intuition brought me to your online class. I am grateful for the intuitive knock.


Chair Yoga Certified

Karen Langevin

Karen Langevin

Summerside, Prince Edward Island | Canada

I am so grateful to all of you. Gerry has been an exceptional mentor.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Sue Miller

Sue Miller

Bluemont, Virginia | United States

THANK YOU so much for your excellent program. It has been a life changer for me and many of my students. I hope to continue growing and helping those in this community.


Chair Yoga Certified

Jane Waterman

Jane Waterman

Ladysmith | Canada

Corey is a treasure – I am SO glad to have had her support in this journey. Thanks to her encouragement, I am through the final exam. I just need to spend more time watching videos and continuing to build on what I’ve already done, and in the next month or so, I can record my teachback. I already know what I will be writing for my field assignment, based on two friends in my class.


Chair Yoga Certified

Vicki Salisbury

Vicki Salisbury

Wynnum (Brisbane), Queensland | Australia

I incorporate Yoga Dance into every senior’s chair yoga classes. Once a month I offer an all yoga dance hour. I have witnessed significant increases in student numbers. I am sure this is because it introduces a physical activity to seniors that is fun, socially engaging and imaginative. Seniors love to dance and the feedback is always positive.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Certified

Dawn Deratany

Dawn Deratany

San Diego, California | United States

I wanted to reach out and thank you for putting together such an awesome, awesome training. It not only met but exceeded my expectations around the content that was within each section.


Low Back Certified

Karen Hughes

Yoga Teacher

There is a lot I like about your information but lately I’m especially enjoying the YouTube videos created by the teachers working on their certification for Chair and Gentle Yoga.


Tami Malin

Tami Malin

Webster, New York | United States

I am thrilled I took this program! Your On-Line Program was so informative and I have learned so much. The addition of upgrading this program to the “LIVE” option including a qualified/seasoned Yoga Teacher and Location to support, encourage, and educate me made this opportunity complete. Not being a 200 hour, I had my reservations on whether I would be able to complete this program with a successful Teachback. I know I could have not succeeded at the level I did with out the compassionate and honest feedback and support of my Mentor Teacher, Lynda! She watched me come into the program like a deer in headlights and with gentle but firm direction, she never gave me the feeling that I do no less than succeed if this is what I wanted.


Chair Yoga Trained

Cheryl Weise

Cheryl Weise

St. Joseph, Michigan | United States

The course was great. I really enjoyed the live portion with Jane and learned so much in the few times the group met. Love the videos with the various teachers and styles. The thing that I learned most is to remove EGO and that not all bodies are the same. I really love all of the feedback.


Chair Yoga Certified

Jan F., Kansas City, Missouri, USA

Yoga Teacher

The Gentle Somatic Yoga course with James Knight was fantastic. I was not familiar with him and now have found another yoga teacher to follow. His teaching style is wonderful and very engaging. The content of the course was exactly what I’m interested in and he does a great job of explaining and coaching the various movements. I will be looking for more educational offerings with him in the future. Thank you so much for what you do and the love and enthusiasm for yoga with an aging population that you display.


Susan Rowan

Susan Rowan

Richmond Hill, Ontario | Canada

I enjoyed the course material. Even though I took a long time to actually finish I started using the poses in my classes from the get-go. Every time I log into the course I find something fresh that I’d forgotten about. I loved the way you married the poses and conditions with the anatomy. My original YTT didn’t do that and it was a huge frustration. I do really love getting your little videos each week and have definitely lifted some of those vinyasas and used them.

Thanks so much for all the endless hours it must have taken to produce this course. I’m sure everyone one of us who have taken it has benefited tremendously from all your effort, experience and dedication.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - Trained

Lee Terryberry

Lee Terryberry

Round Hill, Virginia | United States

I was prepared to take human anatomy at my local community college as an enrichment to my yoga teacher training, but the anatomy of the aging body is more than I would have had. I wanted to know the how’s and why’s of aging. These are the tools that allow me in depth understanding and compassion for Seniors and for those with limited mobility. The medical names are important to know, and are delivered in such a way that I remember terms and how they fit into my daily work of teaching chair yoga. I’m not going to just read and take a test, I’m retaining so much of what I am learning, and applying it. Your program has so many pictures, sequencing, cue tips, and practical helps. It just goes on and on.


Chair Yoga Certified

V.W., Washington, DC, USA

Teacher and Yoga Alliance Conference Attendee

I had the pleasure of attending a Workshop with Sherry in DC. What a powerhouse, filled with knowledge, humor and a joyful way of imparting her know-how.”


Gina Thrane

Gina Thrane

Monrovia, California | United States

I just wanted to let you know how much I am enjoying this low back care training program. It has helped my husband tremendously. It has taken me years to get him to do yoga. My students are enjoying the information that I bring also.


Low Back Certified

Linda Smith

Yoga Teacher

And thank you for the posture project. I have learned so much from that and have a much stronger core as a result. I sit away from the backs of chairs for entire meals and or meetings. I observe more carefully others’ posture and can see how positively it has helped increase awareness in the members of my classes.


Diane Zarzecki

Diane Zarzecki

Syracuse, New York | United States

I would highly recommend the Live! program to any aspiring chair yoga teacher, or to any yoga teacher who wants to add chair classes to his/her repertoire. I found the line on the cover of your Teaching and Certification Training Manual to be true: I have indeed been empowered with knowledge, skills and confidence! For me, the live element was key to my decision to do this training. I know from experience that I don’t finish most of the online learning I begin. Lynda is a fantastic teacher with much to share. In addition, I know that I learned a great deal from the other student teachers in our live group. My experience was more than worth my 6 hour round-trip commute.


Chair Yoga Certified

Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Tough topic – but she explained everything in “Yoga” terms – so very easy to comprehend. Learning about the cells, cytokines, LDL and plaque, etc., etc. and explanation of Yoga Therapy intervention excellent.”

“Loved her calm and energy, soothing voice. Another knowledgeable teacher. Fascinating and complex topic taught at an understandable level. Something I didn’t think I would ‘get’ but she made it very simple to take in. Loved that she included an hour of asanas!”


Janet Rosoff

Janet Rosoff

Aventura, Florida | United States

I am taking your posture online class and I have now been asked to do a class specific for posture. So grateful for all that you and your staff do to educate me so my seniors can benefit.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Karen Roberts

Karen Roberts

Port Macquarie | Australia

I felt that I understood the theory of how you got to the finished product and felt confident I could then teach the dance. There was enough information backed up by very effective video support. It was enough to get me on the way to completing the steps myself


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Raquel Jex Forsgren

Raquel Jex Forsgren

Chicago, Illinois | United States

What I loved about the Online Chair Yoga Program! 1. The written PDF’s that went with most of the Video’s. 2. I liked the exams throughout because it kept it very fresh. 3. The PDF’s are fantastic reference documents, so those are so nice to have. 4. The video – MOST all were very good. 5. Library of postures is great to have with the handout’s as well, because the names are different than we use in other yoga classes! 🙂 6. In the video’s themselves, one thing I really like was being able to see the seniors do it with you. It gave me an idea of what those postures look like for them because I find myself wanting to correct their form when it may be all they can do.


Chair Yoga Certified

Jan Trezise, Halkirk, UNITED KINGDOM

Wheelchair Program Pilot Teacher

My favourite thing about the program (2 actually) was being able to download the handouts in order to compile the manual, and the videos – just loved them. So clear and concise and explained many things for me. I found the course extremely user-friendly.


Vicky Welch

Vicky Welch

Durham, North Carolina | United States

Ever since the day I first called you when I signed up for the class because I had trouble getting on the website. You actually answered the phone, on your way to teach. I was amazed that I talked to you in person and you remembered me signing up. It was so personable. I know you are growing but if you can keep that intimacy it really makes a difference. I really feel how true and passionate you are in wanting to create great teachers. It is amazing how you link your students together creating a community. This helps so much especially with the distance learning. Thank you for all you do and I plan on getting more certifications from you in the future.


Chair Yoga Certified

Jennifer Hilton

Jennifer Hilton

Woodstock, Georgia | United States

The Yoga Vista Academy Chair Yoga Training Program to me is like getting your 200-hour yoga certification and the Wheelchair Yoga Program is like getting your 500-hour yoga certification. You are building on the knowledge from the Chair Yoga Program and learning more in-depth ways to use props and modifications, Also, you are learning so much more about the different disabilities that one may have. I feel that I have way more confidence from taking the Chair Yoga Program first.


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Karen Wexler

Karen Wexler

Delray Beach, Florida | United States

The Chair Yoga Certification course was totally amazing in the content offered and the way in which it was presented. I really love how you have the main portion of the program to complete, but there is also so much additional information to continue to study long after completion of the program. The anatomy section to me, was not at all “too much” because this is vital information for a yoga teacher. I also loved how you feature some of your teachers/mentors and their work, i.e. Somatic approaches with Erhard R. and James Knight. Justine’s videos were super helpful too. The program just covers so many areas but does not bog down in anything.


Chair Yoga Dance - CertifiedChair Yoga TrainedLow Back Trained

Sue Richard, Greeneville, Tennessee, USA

Currently Enrolled

Thank you, thank you, thank you for creating this training for yoga teachers. I am a 200 hr trained teacher and I am enjoying all of this training, especially the anatomy. Well designed, well done. I currently have a chair yoga group I work with at an assisted living facility, and I get to practice on them. They love it! These classes are so needed for our senior population. I like to give them encouragement, for example, balance can improve, flexibility can improve. I get lots of hugs and compliments. I have found what I want to do in retirement. Thank you for helping me!


Alice Caple

Alice Caple

Ansonia, Connecticut | United States

I though the Program was Amazing. All the advice and learning compliment the materials. The videos are a great resource for class ideas.


Chair Yoga CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

John Conroy

John Conroy

Ennis | Republic of Ireland

I am so delighted to have finally completed the advanced chair yoga teacher training. I really appreciate the time and effort you have put in to helping me getting over the line and complete the course. You are so correct with the information you sent back on the feedback. I definitely need to work on, and thanks for such a detailed report on my final teachback.


Chair Yoga CertifiedCorporate Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Amber H.

Currently Enrolled

I am LOVING the program!

It’s always a challenge living in a remote location – being unable to access many ‘live’ training programs.

This one truly is amazing!


Anna Wagner

Anna Wagner

Mt Wolf, Pennsylvania | United States

Sherry, your exercises are helping to correct 30 years of computer abuse. I love your “Sleep Well Yoga” – floor exercises to relieve stress in your body. It is helping my rounded shoulders. I can now get the back of my hands to touch the floor when I am in Cactus pose. Today I presented your Strengthen your core with breath to my Senior Chair Yoga Class. My class loved it.


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Mary Helfeldt

Mary Helfeldt

Dunkirk, New York | United States

Since I graduated from your Program, I am happy to say that I teach Chair Yoga at Lynda’s studio every Saturday and Wednesday nights for a community program. People really enjoy the class. Thanks again for providing such a cumulative and informative course!


Chair Yoga Certified

Kathie Walsh, Buena Vista, Colorado, USA

Chair and Gentle Yoga Teacher

Thank you for all of the fantastic online and DVDs you have shared with myself and so many others! My classes are great because of your hard work, ideas and input even though we have not met in person.


Annerie Verploeg

Annerie Verploeg

Hagestein | The Netherlands

It is clear that Sherry has put lot of time, effort and passion in creating this course. I was amazed by all the information that is in this course. It is so complete, detailed and thorough. And it’s fun!


Chair Yoga Certified

Ellen Y., Columbia, South Carolina, USA

Yoga Teacher

It was such a joy to be with you both in Cary. You compliment each other so well. Sherry, I love your energy and uniquely generous spirit of sharing your experience and knowledge in working with others. I could see first hand how you reach a wide audience. Justine, your calm approach and clear knowledge of the human body is solid and refreshing.


Debbie Pedersen

Debbie Pedersen

Peoria, Arizona | United States

The wheelchair program has a lot of great information to give you quality training so you can be confident to teach wheelchair yogis. The videos are extremely helpful and it would definitely not be the same without videos in the training program. You will see how different abilities may affect how you modify poses and also to be creative with each teaching situation. I highly recommend this course so you can expand your chair yoga program not only to offer something that may not be available in your community but to further understand people who use wheelchairs so you can empower them to do yoga which can benefit their well being.


Chair Yoga TrainedWheelchair Yoga - Trained

Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Comprehensive and well‐presented. Inspiring to include posture enhancing asanas and facts in each class. Convincingly presented to inform that posture is foundationally important.”

“Very in‐depth! Loved all the visuals. Appreciated all the different angle/shots of REAL bodies. Gridlines helps me see more. I appreciate so many poses shared in the manual.”

“The case studies were informative and very applicable to teaching yoga safely. Sherry’s knowledge of body alignment presented in a user‐friendly manner was just great.”


Susan High

Susan High

Buckeye, Arizona | United States

I’m so glad I took Gentle Yoga for Low Back with Justine. She is an amazing instructor and human being who genuinely cares about her students. The concepts and principles I learned from Justine changed the way I teach, and I believe all of my students are safer for it. Probably the best yoga instructor I have ever worked with. #genuine #safetyfirst #awesomeinstructor


Low Back Certified

Kristen Orsini, New York, USA

Enrolled Student

Truth be told I refer ALL of my students to you and your amazing team-whether they are chair yoga students or chair yoga teacher training students because you are amazing!!! You are truly offering some incredible things to our community and I know when I first started out, you (your videos) were there for me every step of the way. I’m deeply grateful for the support they gave (and continue to give) me.


Sara Howard

Sara Howard

Fairhope, Alabama | United States

I knew the moment I saw the 1 hour Chair yoga dance recital that I wanted to learn how to teach this magic. The training was in depth and easy to follow. Sherry’s videos were like learning from a friend. I have done several different online trainings from other sources. Yoga Vista and Sherry make their trainings feel very personal. I loved the quick responses from Sherry herself to emails that I sent. Also, it’s great to get the encouraging emails every time one finishes a module. Positive reinforcement is welcome always. This training definitely equipped me to not just teach CYD, but to also create my own dances which is fun and fulfilling! Thank you!


Chair Yoga Dance - Certified

Kate Regan

Kate Regan

Brisbane | Australia

The videos are fantastic and the best learning tool ever! I have had many a late night watching all of you Justine, Mary, James, and of course your kind wonderful self. love how you interact with the seniors!


Chair Yoga Certified

Cathy Schaffer

Cathy Schaffer

Louisville, Kentucky | United States

This was a very valuable course and one I can keep referring to. It was an excellent experience working with Peggy, Nelda, Lauren, Kristi, and Moon. I learned something from everyone.


Chair Yoga Certified

Jasmine M., Queensland, Australia

Yoga Teacher/Yoga Therapist

I really enjoyed it. Learnt a lot and feel much freer in my body already. I am very keen to do the full 100 hr course so please let me know when it is released, as I am in Australia so will have to be online. I am a yoga teacher and yoga therapist and have already started to use little snippets in my classes with great response. After about a week and a half of practicing GSY every other day, I did my regular personal home practice this morning and am feeling like I have a lot more space in my body. This work is amazing!


Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“I learned more about metabolic syndrome than I ever have! And I have it. I can’t wait to download it! I LOVED her practice.”

“Good presentation – cohesive, followed structure, handled complicated topic in easily accepted format. Visuals excellent. ”

“Interesting and presented in an understandable format – a topic that affects many seniors – so information is vital for a safe practice.”


Helen D.M.

Currently Enrolled

I am really learning amazing things about yoga and the aging process.


Camri McAvoy

Camri McAvoy

Boulder, Colorado | United States

The course was so well organized and informative. I’m really glad that I decided to expand on that weekend workshop with you in Chicago and pursue the full certification.


Chair Yoga Certified

Marilyn F., Ohio , USA

Registered Nurse

Enjoyed the presentations, handouts and videos. I got started watching and couldn’t stop! This was very helpful.


Patty Tavis, Howell, New Jersey, USA

Chair Yoga Teacher

I think this is one of the best online courses I have ever taken. I do teach chair yoga already, and I have already gotten so many new ideas! I am passionate about my seniors, and I know this wonderful course will make me an even better teacher!


Joanne Puglia

Joanne Puglia

Indian Harbour Beach, Florida | United States

So in love with teacher training. I am reading about the Posture Project right now. Everything is so well done.
I have a fantastic group of people in my chair exercise class that are loving all the new exercises I am teaching them. I tell them they are my guinea pigs as I go through Chair Yoga training. We are having so much fun!


Chair Yoga Certified

Amy Ritchie

Amy Ritchie

Barrington, Illinois | United States

Loved the program and have been recommending it big time. I learned a lot from it and have brought many things I learned into my regular classes as well. I feel so much better about teaching seniors and chair yoga after taking this course. You probably were able to tell I have mastered the tea cup and finally figured out how to cue it. All my students love that one and many others. My feedback is all positive. Being able to do it on my time table was extremely helpful. I did everything! The videos were great as well as the anatomy PDFs.


Chair Yoga Certified

Denyse Le Fever, Falls Church, Virginia, USA

Yoga Teacher

Sherry – This week FB reminded me it’s been two years since I took your training when you came to VA. What a wild and crazy two years it has been. I believe I told you before, it was your training that was pivotal to re-igniting my love of yoga and reminding me why I had elected to become a teacher at such a late stage of my life. Since June 2017 I began subbing a chair yoga class in a residential retirement community – just a few classes at first, because I couldn’t commit too much time as my hubby was healing. This class as well as a gentle class I taught brought joy back into my life. Flash forward 2 years, I now have a pretty good portfolio of chair yoga dances, both those I learned from you and those which students asked me to design a chair yoga dance to tunes of their favorite songs.


Jodi M., Massachusetts, USA

YouTube Viewer

Where I work is a day habilitation center for adults with multiple kinds of disabilities. About a month or so ago, we decided to try to find some morning exercise routine in which to start our day. While searching google for ‘chair yoga’, we came across your videos. Now every single morning from 8:30-9 am, we all pull out some chairs, set up YouTube, and work out to your videos! The people I work with, clients and staff alike, love your videos. A couple of fan favorites are “Can’t Stop the Feeling”, “I Can See Clearly Now”, and we always conclude with “Amazing Grace”.


Paul Reavis, Vienna, Virginia, USA

Chair Yoga Teacher

A combination of experience, peer reviewed knowledge and a desire to spread the word. One of, if not the best trainings I have ever attended.


Live Workshop Attendees

Yoga Teachers

“Love! More please! I didn’t even remember this was part of the line-up. Thank you!”

“OMG! Kat! I LOVE! BEST restorative class … Ever! Let’s stay in touch – even though I said “Don’t ask!” I’d love to learn more about your Oregon retreat… xoxox”

“Very nice overview of restorative and the fundamentals. Helpful, useful and enjoyable. Kat is very knowledgeable and it was rewarding to learn many variations.”

“Best restorative practice I’ve ever attended!”

“A beautiful, healing practice. Kat placed much needed tender stitches in my newly broken heart.”


Francesca C., UNITED KINGDOM

Currently Enrolled

I’m a trained yoga teacher with some 18 years experience and now feel that working with older folk is going to be my forte. I honestly don’t know which way to go – if I could afford it I’d do them all! I am so much enjoying the Anatomy of Aging course and truly can say that your work and motivational videos have changed and inspired the way I teach. Despite my two year yoga training and continuing professional development I feel I have gained more from Yoga Vista.


Denyse Le Fever, Falls Church, Virginia, USA

Yoga Teacher

Yesterday, six women aged 50 – 75 (some of whom had never done yoga) joined me at a local yoga studio as models for my photo shoot. A highlight of the session was learning Chair Yoga Dance. I taught them your version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow and one of my dances, (put together at the requested of an 80+ retired Army Colonel) – Rock Around the Clock.

The group had so much fun yesterday afternoon. None of them had ever tried Chair Yoga, let alone Chair Yoga Dance! I was more relaxed and joyful than I’ve ever been for any photo session. So, thank you for restoring my love of yoga and helping me find a joyful “retirement” career which is more rewarding than I could ever imagine.


Jayne Meldrum, AUSTRALIA

Yoga Teacher, Currently enrolled in Chair Yoga Dance Training

I just love the song by Rob Thomas. I’ve been learning it all day today & will do the dance in my seniors class tomorrow morning.


Kandi Furphy

Kandi Furphy

Laramie, Wyoming | United States

I loved the anatomy module, I learned so much it took me awhile to get through it but truly is was time well spent. I believe you and this program came at exactly the right time in my life. A BIG THANK YOU!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Edith Mildner

Edith Mildner

Winterberg | Germany

By chance (are there coincidences? 😉) I finally found at yogavista what I was looking for at least 7 years: training for wheelchair yoga. A lot of information about possible clinical pictures of wheelchair users and what opportunities these students have to do yoga. A very important moment for me: wheelchair users can not only perform upper body and arm movements, but also partial leg movements! I’ve never thought of that. The training offers so much information in text form and the videos show an impression of how and what is possible in a wheelchair. If I had any questions, Sherry was always there for me with advice and help!

If you’re worried about wheelchair yoga: stop thinking! Book this training! You will never regret it! Although I wasn’t entirely convinced that I had the courage to really teach yoga classes for wheelchair users after completing my training, my certification teachback made me confident and happy. I found my dharma! Blessed love to Sherry and the team for this experience.


Chair Yoga Dance - TrainedChair Yoga TrainedCorporate Yoga TrainedGentle Yoga TrainedLow Back TrainedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Rachel Baer

Yoga Teacher

You continually offer interesting, informative & educational tips; videos for a wide range of health issues as well as the aging population. I bring something new to my classes every week 🙂 thank you.


T. Rex, submitted comment on YouTube

Occupational Therapist Assistant

I’m a Occupational Therapy Assistant and I started doing this dance with selected patients to address upper extremity range of motion and endurance and they LOVE it! Thank you so much!


Joanne Puglia

Joanne Puglia

Indian Harbour Beach, Florida | United States

I want to let you know that I think Victoria (Viki) is wonderful. I feel her energy through the screen. She is a motivator for sure.


Chair Yoga Certified

Barbara Ruvarac

Barbara Ruvarac

Naperville, Illinois | United States

Thanks to your business training, I just landed a private senior (she’s 86) 30 min yoga session every Tuesday and Thursday!


Chair Yoga CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Katie Brandes

Katie Brandes

Gainesville, Florida | United States

After taking this Program, my confidence level is 10. I am already working with a wheelchair user and feel ready to work with many many more in the years to come. This Program provides an understanding of the needs of a wheelchair user regarding yoga as well as ideas for group classes, anatomy, props, and sample classes.


Chair Yoga CertifiedLow Back CertifiedWheelchair Yoga - Certified

Patti Krogman, Saginaw, MI

Yoga Teacher

I am loving Yoga Vista Academy!! I went through this class a few years back and decided to re-visit. So glad I did!! Sherry and the teachers are incredibly positive and the anatomy is presented in an easy-to-understand manner with just enough information to get it. I have taken way too many trainings (😆😆) and this, by far, is the best.


Maryann O’Brien

Currently Enrolled

I have learned a great deal from your program and it served as a great resource for me. My niche is teaching Gentle and Chair in a retirement community, as well as teaching Chair Yoga for Stroke Recovery to support a program developed by a Neuropsychologist. Every week I add new movements and sequences thanks to your classes.


Alice Bongiovanni Wisniewski

Alice Bongiovanni Wisniewski

Flemington, New Jersey | United States

I do not have the words to explain how much I have learned through this program. It is awesome! (Not easy, but awesome.) I find myself using the information and recommendations in my regular and corporate classes that I teach. It has really provided another dimension to my classes. Thanks to you and Justine for an excellent program.


Chair Yoga Certified

Anna Wagner

Anna Wagner

Mt Wolf, Pennsylvania | United States

I selected a pop/hip hop song to create a dance routine. If I hadn’t taken this course, I would never have tried a song like “Dark Horse.” No knowledge provided in this course is wasted. Actually very useful!


Chair Yoga CertifiedChair Yoga Dance - CertifiedGentle Yoga Certified

Ruth Piper, Newbury Park, California, USA

Just wanted to let you know how much I am learning from the how to make yoga videos course. The best thing is that you have taken away my fears of the camera, the computer and the finished product! Thank you!


Nelda Eserin

Nelda Eserin

Cincinnati, Ohio | United States

Gerry Hurtig is a real jewel! He is a great motivator and support for getting on with the plan. This is such a wonderful course you have put together!


Chair Yoga CertifiedLow Back Certified

Pam Chin

Pam Chin

Sarnia, Ontario | Canada

I recently took Justine’s Low Back Teacher Certification Program. I have been teaching yoga since 1974. I started my career as a physio therapist and I am also a Qigong Instructor. I’m giving some background information on myself so you know Justine, how deeply and sincerely I mean this compliment. In my humble opinion, every yoga teacher should take this course. I have been studying in one form or another most of my life, but this class was a great blessing for me. Your teaching method and your knowledge of the subject matter, not to mention your sense of humour made this course a joy to participate in but more than that, taught me a great deal. I feel that I will be a better teacher for it. What a blessing it was to find you!


Low Back Certified

Raquel Mantilla

Raquel Mantilla

Miami, Florida | United States

Thank you for your teachings. Your chair yoga course is very thorough and student friendly course to take. I learned a lot watching the videos as well.


Chair Yoga Certified

Alison Partridge

Alison Partridge

Oxford | United Kingdom

The course has really helped me to gain