Prepare For Your Journey to Blue Osa for Yoga Teacher Training

Welcome to the Yogi Club’s Yoga Teacher Training at Blue Osa with Yogi Aaron! We are so honored you have chosen this yoga teacher training immersion and can’t wait to meet you in person!

Make sure you BOOKMARK THIS PAGE so that you can easily come back to it again. It has everything you need to know about your journey with us. This experience will be very transformative. The more you are able to prepare, the more benefits you will receive.

Refer to the appropriate section below to find the information you need:

• Join Our AYAMA Facebook Group
• To-Do ASAP
• Payment Details
• Certification Requirements
• YTT Required Reading
• Self-Study Modules
• Daily Schedule
• Preparing for your visit to Blue Osa
• Traveling to Blue Osa
• Your Stay at Blue Osa

We look forward to meeting you soon!

To-Do ASAP

Review This Entire Page

During the YTT at Blue Osa, we often hear students say they didn’t know they needed a certain book or were unaware of a certain aspect of the training or life at Blue Osa. We created this page to eliminate any confusion. It contains all of the information you need to know to be prepared for the journey you are embarking on.

Please bookmark this page and review it thoroughly.

If anything is not clear to you, simply shoot us a message at [email protected] and we’ll get back to you shortly.

Complete Your Registration

If you haven’t already, complete your registration by filling out this form. (Please note: this page may not work on some mobile devices.)

Join Our AYAMA Facebook Groups

1. We have created a Facebook group that we are certain EVERYONE needs! 

We invite you to like and join this group where you will learn exactly How to Live a Pain-Free Life with AYAMA

The muscle activation tips Yogi Aaron (Blue Osa Owner) will demonstrate can and will help you decrease your pain and increase your strength. 

This group will be an open forum for questions and answers.  All are welcome, especially those who are passionate about becoming active participants in their own health and wellness journey.  

A pain-free future is at your fingertips! Join our Pain-Free Group on Facebook!

2. Join our exclusive Blue Osa Community Facebook group. This is a place where community members share their experiences, ask questions, and recommit to their yoga practice.

Meet Yogi Aaron

Yogi Aaron, author + yoga trainer, is the owner, operator, and lead yoga facilitator at Blue Osa. During his 30 years of study, Yogi Aaron has developed an intrinsic understanding of yogic philosophy, anatomy, and the subtle body. He has studied under yogic masters such as Alan Finger, Bryan Kest, Genny Kapuler, Rod Stryker, Swami Rama, and David Swenson, among others.

Creator of Applied Yoga Anatomy + Muscle Activation™ Yogi Aaron brings three decades worth of study, mentorship and experience into his teachings, with a strong emphasis on yoga therapy and alignment.

His passion is rooted in a desire for each person to tap into their limitless potential and develop the confidence to embody yoga, both on and off the mat.

Throughout his journey, Aaron has made several pilgrimages to the Himalayas where he sought a deeper understanding of the Vedic tradition and Tantric pathways. These experiences blessed him with the opportunity to mentor under several spiritual masters and inspired him to create a yogic community in the lush Costa Rican jungle. And so, Blue Osa was born!

Learn more about and follow Yogi Aaron:

www.yogiaaron.com, Instagram, Facebook, Youtube

Begin to Plan Your Trip

To get to Blue Osa, you will need to take a short 45-minute domestic flight from the San Jose International Airport to the Puerto Jimenez Airport. Once you arrive in Puerto Jimenez, our shuttle will pick you up and drive you to our resort.

Our in-house travel agency ‘Blue Osa Travels‘ will help you plan your trip so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy! (Contact Blue Osa Travels here – [email protected]

Follow these steps to begin your booking process:

1. Determine Your Travel Dates

• Consider your retreat start/end dates and times

• Decide if you want to add additional vacation days to explore more of Costa Rica (see next step)

2. Choose A Blue Osa Travels Adventure Package (Pre or Post-Retreat)

Check out these guest favorites! Let our trusted tour guides give you an up-close and personal Costa Rican experience!

• OPTION 1
Coffee, Volcanoes &  Cloud Forest (Day-long Tour):

Immerse yourself in Costa Rican riches! Our tour starts with a delicious breakfast at Doka Estate, followed by a fascinating coffee tour. Learn how experts create world-class coffee and explore the lush coffee plantation. Next, we journey to Poas Volcano National Park. Experience the dramatic temperature shift and vibrant cloud forest teeming with life. Witness the impressive main crater with its sulfur fumaroles and hike to the beautiful Botos Lagoon. This unforgettable adventure includes the tour and a comfortable 1-night stay at the Holiday Inn. All for just $309.62 (taxes included)!

• OPTION 2
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
(Day-long Tour):

Explore lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, vibrant wildlife, and educational exhibits on a guided walk through La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Spot exotic birds, butterflies, monkeys, and more! Afterward, savor a delicious 4-star buffet lunch featuring traditional Costa Rican cuisine. Your adventure includes the tour and a comfortable 1-night stay at the Adventure Inn for just $325.44 (taxes included).

• OPTION 3
Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs
(2 Days):

Witness the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano and unwind in the natural paradise of the Ecotermales Hot Springs. Immerse yourself in thermal waters amidst the lush La Fortuna rainforest for ultimate relaxation. This 2-night adventure includes comfortable accommodations at the Adventure Inn for just $561.61 (taxes included). 

3. Book Your Trip! (International + Domestic Flights + Tours with Blue Osa Travels)

• International flights to Costa Rica: Our agent will help you book the perfect flight

• Domestic flights within Costa Rica: We will book your domestic flights at a discounted cost and offer extra customer service in case of flight delays and/or cancellations.

• Pre and Post-Retreat Adventures: Book one of our trusted and top-rated tours to explore the magic of Costa Rica before or after your retreat at Blue Osa.

• Email [email protected] to start the booking process. (Note: Please book early to ensure your desired flight time is available!)

Please note: If you book independently or with someone else, Blue Osa Travels will not be able to assist you with any traveling issues that may arise (delays, cancellations, etc.) while you are at Blue Osa.

For more information on traveling to Blue Osa go here: www.BlueOsa.com/How-To-Get-Here

Payment Details

Payments and Due Dates

Since you are HERE, it means you have already submitted your $300 non-refundable application fee. Thank you!

Your remaining payment due dates are:

1. A $500 non-refundable payment is due *2 months before your YTT program start date. (You will receive an email from us with a link to make this payment at that time.)

2. Your final non-refundable payment (remaining balance) is due two weeks before your YTT program start date. (You will receive an email from us with a link to make this payment at that time.)

*Please note: Blue Osa reserves the right to request advance payment of your $500 non-refundable deposit if the YTT program you’ve enrolled in sells out.

Refund Information

Your YTT Application Fee and Payments are non-refundable and non-transferrable.

Certification Requirements

Attendance

To receive YTT certification from Blue Osa you must attend ALL sessions and yoga practices.

  1. • If you are late or miss a session please be aware of our make-up protocols:
    Attendance and hours missed are recorded by the teaching assistant and submitted to Yogi Aaron and other lead teachers upon completion of the training.
  2. • If you arrive late and/or miss a session, you will need to schedule a make-up date post-training if you wish to receive certification.
  3. • Being late (even 1-minute) will be calculated as 15 minutes.
  4. • Make-up sessions will result in an extra fee and extra homework/assignments.
  5. • It is the student’s responsibility to contact Yogi Aaron after the immersion to find out what makeup work must be completed to receive certification for the training.

Self-Study Modules + Assignments

To receive YTT certification from Blue Osa you must complete all of the self-study work and final assignments and book reports.

See “YTT Required Reading” section for more information.

Class Instruction

To receive YTT certification from Blue Osa you must demonstrate that you are able to teach the yoga postures safely and clearly. You will receive a formal evaluation of your performance after instructing your final class.

YTT Required Reading

14 Day, 200 Hour

The Heart of Yoga a book called four chapters on freedom. stop strething - a new yogic technique to master your body and live pain free

If available, you may download your books on iBooks or Kindle. If downloaded, you do not need to bring them in hard copy.

1. Stop Stretching! A New Yogic Approach To Master Your Body and Live Pain-Free by Yogi Aaron (This is the ONLY book you are required to bring with you to Blue Osa for your training.)
2. Four Chapters on Freedom by Swami Satyananda Saraswati.
3. The Royal Path by Swami Rama
4. The Heart of Yoga by T.K.V. Desikachar

You must complete a book report each for The Heart of Yoga, The Royal Path, and Stop Stretching!

OPTIONAL – You may replace The Four Chapters on Freedom with The Secret Of The Yoga Sutra and The Practice of the Yoga Sutra. These books are ONLY the first and second chapters of the yoga sutras (there are four in total). Yogi Aaron will refer to them a lot during our sutra discussions.

See “Book Report Guidelines” below for details. 👇🏻

28 Days, 200 Hour

stop strething - a new yogic technique to master your body and live pain free The Heart of Yoga  

If available, you may download your books on iBooks or Kindle. If downloaded, you do not need to bring them in hard copy.

1. Stop Stretching! A New Yogic Approach To Master Your Body and Live Pain-Free by Yogi Aaron (You are required to bring with you to Blue Osa for your training.)
2. Perfect Health by Deepak Chopra (You are required to bring with you to Blue Osa for your training.)

You are not required to bring these books with you.

3. The Royal Path by Swami Rama
4. The Heart of Yoga by T. K. V. Desikachar

You must complete a book report each for The Heart of Yoga, The Royal Path, Perfect Health, and Stop Stretching!

OPTIONAL – Add The Secret Of The Yoga Sutra and The Practice of the Yoga Sutra to your library. These books are ONLY the first and second chapters of the yoga sutras (there are four in total). Yogi Aaron will refer to them a lot during our sutra discussions.

See “Book Report Guidelines” below for details. 👇🏻

300 Hour

  

The Song of god - the bhagavad gita stop strething - a new yogic technique to master your body and live pain free

If available, you may download them on Kindle as well. If downloaded, you do not need to bring them in hard copy.

Books you are required to bring to Blue Osa

1. Stop Stretching! A New Yogic Approach To Master Your Body and Live Pain-Free by Yogi Aaron
2. The Song Of God By Christopher Isherwood

 

Books you are NOT required to bring

1. The Path of Fire and Light: Volumes 1, by Swami Rama (You are NOT required to bring this book with you to Blue Osa for YTT)
2. The Art of Joyful Living, by Swami Rama (You are NOT required to bring this book with you to Blue Osa for YTT)

You must complete a book report for The Path of Fire And Light: Volume 1, The Art of Joyful Living and The Song Of God.

See “Book Report Guidelines” below for details.

Book Report Guidelines

Your completed book report must include the following:

1. Your name.
2. Title of book.
3. 2 – 4 paragraph overview of the book.
4. What are the most compelling points of the book to you?
5. How has this book impacted your view of yoga, your yoga practice?

Book reports are due within three months of your YTT end date. For example, if the completion of the YTT is November 16, then the assignments will be due by February 16.

The book reports need to be completed in order for us to award you the 200 or 300 hours Yoga Teacher Certification.

Additional Recommended Reading + Helpful APPS

Here are some additional books we suggest adding to your yoga library and reading:

1. Autobiography of a Naked Yogi by Yogi Aaron
2. Living with the Himalayan Masters by Swami Rama
3. At the Eleventh Hour by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait
4. The Chakras: Energy Centers of Transformation
5. The Art of Joyful Living – by Swami Rama
6. Aghora: At the Left Hand of God – by David Svoboda
7. Kundalini Tantra – by Swami Satyananada Saraswati
8. Perfect Health by Deepak Chopra
9. Bhagavad-Gita: The Song of God by Christopher Isherwood
10. Trail Guide (The perfect Anatomy Book for beginners.)
11. Hatha Yoga Pradipika by Swami Satyananada Saraswati

There are also four APPS we recommend downloading and using during your training. (Note: There is NO WIFI access in the studio or during the sessions.)

a) Evernote allows you to add notes, pictures, and recordings into documents and it immediately uploads to the server so you can share between all of your devices. FREE.
b) Notability allows you to write or type notes, take pictures, and add audio to your documents. FREE.
c) Essential Anatomy allows you to get a detailed look at the body and how it works. We will be referring to this APP throughout the training.
d) Kindle which can be used on iPad is fantastic because it allows you to bookmark and make notes on any section which you can easily refer back to.

Self-Study Modules

How, When, Where, and Why?

The Online Self-Study Modules are a unique element of Blue Osa’s Yoga Teacher Training that sets it apart from other programs available today. It allows you to dive in and start learning before you even arrive on retreat!

Here’s what you need to know:

• How:  Upon receiving your $500 non-refundable payment (due *2 months before the start date of your YTT), you will receive an email with instructions on how to gain access.

• When: Two months before starting your YTT program, you gain access to the Self-Study Modules. As a YTT participant, you receive FREE access for 6 months. If you’d like to continue to receive access after the initial 6 months, it is only $9.99/month. This includes access to our entire resource library of yoga support material.

• Where: Online! Once you gain access, you can log in from any device to engage with the material wherever you have the internet.

• Why: During your YTT training at Blue Osa, you will be steeped in the practical and philosophical teachings of yoga and receive direct experiences of practicing and teaching. The Self-Study Modules allow you to not only prepare in advance of your training if you wish but also continue to learn, absorb, and embody the teachings after you leave. Previous students have found this resource extremely valuable in developing their teaching once back home.

Downloading Videos: We generally have great internet at Blue Osa, but streaming and downloading videos can take extra time, which can be frustrating. We highly recommend downloading all the videos in the Self-Study Modules before arriving to eliminate any delay in being able to watch them.

The ManualWe will NOT be providing you with a printed copy of this manual. Please print it before you come to Blue Osa if you desire a printed copy. (You may access the manual in the self-study section of the training.)

*Please note: Blue Osa reserves the right to request advance payment of your $500 non-refundable deposit if the YTT program you’ve enrolled in sells out.

Daily Schedule

What your day will be like?

Attending YTT at Blue Osa is an immersion experience into the art of teaching yoga.

Here is a sample of your daily schedule:
4:55AM – 6:15AM | Morning Meditation
6:15AM – 8AM | Breakfast
8AM – 11:30AM | Practice
11:30 – 3:30PM | Lunch/Free time/Self-study
3:30 – 6:00PM | Training
6:30 – 7:30PM | Dinner
7:30 – 9:00PM | Free time/Self-study

The 28-Day YTT has every 6th day off. The above-mentioned schedule is an approximation and is subject to change.

Preparing for your visit to Blue Osa

What is it Like to Live in the Jungle, Off-Grid?

Blue Osa is an oceanfront, jungle retreat center. We share our property with an array of bugs, birds, and wild creatures. Additionally, there are some modern-day conveniences that you may be used to that we go without to conserve energy and resources.

Check out these articles to learn more about our sustainability practices:
• The Realities of Being in the Jungle and Off the Grid
Water Is Life at Blue Osa
• Download the latest copy of our special edition Blue Osa Magazine

Be sure to also check out our YouTube page to see our video library highlighting life at Blue Osa!

What Will the Food Be Like?

We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and supporting local farmers. With this in mind, Blue Osa offers a variety of fresh, farm-to-table vegan meals.

In catering to the needs of a variety of guests, we do offer eggs for breakfast as well as animal protein three times per week.

Please note that while we do our best to accommodate the individual needs of our guests (including gluten-free options), we cannot customize individual meal requests or Kosher options. Additionally, we are not a gluten, dairy, or nut-free kitchen.

Finally, while our portion sizes are large, if you’re concerned about being hungry, we would encourage you to purchase extra snacks for your stay. (Be sure to bring ziplock baggies to keep your snacks from attracting ants/bugs into your room.)

Check out these articles to learn more about our cuisine:

What Is Costa Rican Food? and What Kind Of Food To Expect at Blue Osa
• What you need to know about Cold Pressed Juicing
• Download the latest copy of our special edition Blue Osa Magazine

Rituals at Blue Osa

The rituals of Blue Osa were designed to enhance your journey inward and help you go deeper and discover a more yogic way of life.

Check out these articles to learn what daily rituals we practice at Blue Osa:

• The Rituals Of Blue Osa
• How To Start A Healthy Morning Routine
The Power Of Silence: How Silence Can Free Us

Traveling to Blue Osa

When does the YTT start?

These Yoga Teacher Training Immersions officially begin the first day, at 3:00 PM. You will need to make sure you are at Blue Osa by then.

We might have space for you to come one or two days early. Please click here to check availability. If you would prefer to stay in Puerto Jimenez, (11 KM from Blue Osa), our Blue Osa Travels desk can help you book your stays.

We highly recommend that you plan to arrive in Costa Rica 1 or 2 days early, and plan to arrive in Puerto Jimenez on Friday so that you may arrive at Blue Osa on time. Anytime missed will require you to make up hours if you require certification.

When does the YTT end?

Blue Osa’s Yoga Teacher Trainings officially end on the final evening, Friday, allowing you to leave any time on Saturday morning.

Check out at Blue Osa is 10:00 AM on Saturday. If you would like to stay at Blue Osa one or two days longer, please check availability here.

Please note: If you make a reservation to stay longer, but decide to cancel it, we do not make refunds.

Book your flights!

To get to Blue Osa, you will need to take a short 45-minute domestic flight from the San Jose International Airport to the Puerto Jimenez Airport. Once you arrive in Puerto Jimenez, our shuttle will pick you up and drive you to our resort.

Our in-house travel agency ‘Blue Osa Travels‘ will help you plan your trip so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy! (Contact Blue Osa Travels here – [email protected]

Follow these steps to begin your booking process:

1. Determine Your Travel Dates

• Consider your retreat start/end dates and times

• Decide if you want to add additional vacation days to explore more of Costa Rica (see next step)

2. Choose A Blue Osa Travels Adventure Package (Pre or Post-Retreat)

Check out these guest favorites! Let our trusted tour guides give you an up-close and personal Costa Rican experience!

• OPTION 1
Coffee, Volcanoes &  Cloud Forest (Day-long Tour):

Immerse yourself in Costa Rican riches! Our tour starts with a delicious breakfast at Doka Estate, followed by a fascinating coffee tour. Learn how experts create world-class coffee and explore the lush coffee plantation. Next, we journey to Poas Volcano National Park. Experience the dramatic temperature shift and vibrant cloud forest teeming with life. Witness the impressive main crater with its sulfur fumaroles and hike to the beautiful Botos Lagoon. This unforgettable adventure includes the tour and a comfortable 1-night stay at the Holiday Inn. All for just $309.62 (taxes included)!

• OPTION 2
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
(Day-long Tour):

Explore lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, vibrant wildlife, and educational exhibits on a guided walk through La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Spot exotic birds, butterflies, monkeys, and more! Afterward, savor a delicious 4-star buffet lunch featuring traditional Costa Rican cuisine. Your adventure includes the tour and a comfortable 1-night stay at the Adventure Inn for just $325.44 (taxes included).

• OPTION 3
Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs
(2 Days):

Witness the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano and unwind in the natural paradise of the Ecotermales Hot Springs. Immerse yourself in thermal waters amidst the lush La Fortuna rainforest for ultimate relaxation. This 2-night adventure includes comfortable accommodations at the Adventure Inn for just $561.61 (taxes included). 

3. Book Your Trip! (International + Domestic Flights + Tours with Blue Osa Travels)

• International flights to Costa Rica: Our agent will help you book the perfect flight

• Domestic flights within Costa Rica: We will book your domestic flights at a discounted cost and offer extra customer service in case of flight delays and/or cancellations.

• Pre and Post-Retreat Adventures: Book one of our trusted and top-rated tours to explore the magic of Costa Rica before or after your retreat at Blue Osa.

• Email [email protected] to start the booking process. (Note: Please book early to ensure your desired flight time is available!)

Please note: If you book independently or with someone else, Blue Osa Travels will not be able to assist you with any traveling issues that may arise (delays, cancellations, etc.) while you are at Blue Osa.

For more information on traveling to Blue Osa go here: www.BlueOsa.com/How-To-Get-Here

Staying Extra Nights at Blue Osa

If you would like to extend your stay on the front or backend of your YTT, please email us.

Our reservation system typically has a 4-day minimum stay, thus not making it possible for you to book an additional one or two nights.

If there is availability, we will be more than happy to help you book an extended stay with us.

Your Stay at Blue Osa

What to Pack

Check out this blog that was written by a past attendee of a 28-Day YTT on what to pack!

Read our packing list for yoga teacher trainings.

In addition to what you’ll find on that list, we recommend bringing along these items:

1. Any special pillows or props for your meditation and yoga practice. Blue Osa provides straps, blocks, yoga chairs, sandbags, blankets, and yoga mats. Many people prefer to bring their own mat.

2. A notebook and pen and/or iPad and/or computer to take notes. There will be A LOT of verbal information given. (Bring extra notebooks and pens in case of any electronic issues!)

3. A computer or iPad to work on the online self-study portion of the training while you are at Blue Osa.

4. We strongly encourage you to add some supplements to your diet before coming, and during your time at Blue Osa. Supplements will help your body and immune system deal with the stress of traveling to a new environment. This is really important for those participants who are either leaving their home for the first time or rarely travel outside North America. Read Yogi Aaron’s suggested supplements to bring with you to Costa Rica. Additionally, it can be helpful to:

a) Consult with your doctor before coming to bring any medication that you think you might need.
b) Consider what kind of herbal supplements may be beneficial for you that can support stress caused by traveling, the climate, new water source, different sleeping cycles, etc.
c) Start taking healthy bacteria supplements and bring them with you. (Make sure you bring bacteria that does not need to be refrigerated.)

Get To Know Costa Rica

If you would like to travel around Costa Rica after or before the Immersion, please check out these two resources.

Click here to discover Costa Rica.

Go to this link to discover some hidden gems.

How to travel here?

We suggest you work with Blue Osa Travels to help you plan your trip. If you allow Blue Osa travels, we can make sure that you get to where you need to go.

There is a lot you made do in Costa Rica before or after your training. Blue Osa Travels can help you with your plans.

Additionally, Blue Osa Travels can

1. Help you with all of your domestic flights.
2. Take care of any additional nights you need in San Jose or Puerto Jimenez.
3. Book any day trip tours you would like to do in San Jose.
4. Help you book your accommodations in San Jose.

Please take note that if you do book independently or with someone else, Blue Osa travels will not be able to provide a service to you while you are at Blue Osa. If you would like Blue Osa Travels to take care of you, please emails us hereand include:

1. Your international travel itinerary. (Please kindly remember that you need to be at Blue Osa NO LATER than 3:00 PM on Saturday.)
2. If you will need us to book any nights for you in Puerto Jimenez.
3. If you will need any additional nights in San Jose?
4. If you you would like to book any tours in San Jose?
5. Do you need us to help you with any other travel needs in Costa Rica.

Is Laundry Included?

Laundry is not included. The cost is $29/bag of laundry.

However, if you purchase the “Staff Appreciation Tips” you will receive one bag of complimentary laundry per week. Prices are as follows:

• 14-Day: $150 (includes 2 bags of laundry)
• 28-Day: $250 (includes 4 bags of laundry)

Please note: You may have selected this add-on when you made your initial $300 application fee payment, however, the fee will not be charged to your credit card as only cash is accepted for tips. Please bring the appropriate amount in cash to submit upon arrival.

To have your laundry washed please bring a bag (it can be any type of bag) with your name on it.

Laundry service follows this protocol:
• Your clothes will be taken from your bag and put into the washing machine.
• The clothes are washed with biodegradable soap, in cold/warm water.
• The clothes are placed into the dryer.
• From the dryer, they are folded and returned to you, within 24-48 hours.

We do not deviate from this system at all. In other words, please do not bring clothes that you do not want to be damaged, placed in the dryer, or need special attention. We are unable to accommodate ANY special laundry requests. If you do bring clothes that need special attention, we do have an area you can hand-wash them yourself. Bring your own soap.

How Much Cash Should I Bring?

We suggest bringing $400 – $1000 for a month-long stay.

Here are some things to consider when deciding how much cash you will need:

• If you take a taxi into town, go on excursions or receive spa treatments, the cost of these services will be charged to your room (excluding tips). You can pay for them using a credit card upon check-out.

• If you take a taxi into town, go on excursions, or receive spa treatments and wish to tip your guide or masseuse, you will need to have cash to tip them directly.

• If you plan to leave a tip for the Blue Osa staff when you leave, they are only accepted in cash. See “Do I have to Tip” for more details.

• Credit cards are readily accepted at most stores and restaurants in town.

• There are two banks in town that you can withdraw cash from. Please note: ATM’s will dispense Colones, not dollars.

• Juice, beer, or wine purchases at Blue Osa will be charged to your room and can be paid for upon check-out with a credit card.
Blue Osa accepts cash, Visa, AMEX, Mastercard, and Discover.

See “What other expenses should I be aware of” below for more information. 👇🏻

Do I Have to Tip?

Our staff work very hard to make your stay comfortable while you are at Blue Osa. Leaving a tip is the best and most effective way to show your gratitude. While it is not required, we do encourage it. And, of course, our staff greatly appreciates it.

If you do choose to leave a tip, here are some things to consider:
• We only accept cash tips
• Tips can be dropped into the blue tip box at the manager counter upon check-out
• All tips are pooled and divided evenly among our staff of about 18 people who work in the kitchen, garden, office and housekeeping staff.
• If you would like to tip individually, you may do that also at check-out.
• As a guide, we suggest a tip of $20 -$40/day.
• Tips for individually booked spa treatments, eco-tours, and taxis are left to your discretion.

YTT participants are invited to purchase “Staff Appreciation Tips” which includes one bag of complimentary laundry per week. Prices are as follows:

• 14-Day: $150 (includes 2 bags of laundry)
• 28-Day: $250 (includes 4 bags of laundry)

Please note: You may have selected this add-on when you made your initial application fee payment, however, the fee will not be charged to your credit card as only cash is accepted for tips. Please bring your chosen amount in cash to submit upon arrival.

See “Is Laundry Included” for more details. 👆🏻

What Other Expenses Should I Be Aware Of?

Accommodations, meals, and training classes are included in your YTT fee.

These expenses are not included:

• Tips for Blue Osa Staff. See “Do I have to Tip” for more information.
• The shuttle service from and to the airport is NOT included. The fee for this service is $45 each way.
• Laundry service, which is $29 a load. (See “Is Laundry Included” for details.)
• Store items such as bug spray, sarongs, artisan crafts, sunscreen, etc
• Taxi rides into town.
• Drinks (beer, wine, smoothies, sodas, etc.) from the bar at Blue Osa. We do not allow outside alcohol in our dining area or bar. These will be charged to your room and paid at check-out.
• Spa services (everyone receives a $50 gift certificate as a gift if you review Yogi Aaron’s book on Amazon) to be used towards three separate services (not including acupuncture and reiki). These will be charged to your room and paid at check-out. Check out our spa menu here for pricing.
• Eco-Tours / Adventures – click here to see what we offer.

Here’s a helpful article to understand the costs associated with living in the Osa.

Making a grievance

To report a violation of the Blue Osa Yoga Teacher Training Code of Conduct, please submit the following form. This Grievance Reporting Form must be filled out completely, within 1 month of the date of alleged misconduct, to be accepted for review. Blue Osa will not act upon anonymous complaints. Upon receiving your completed form, Blue Osa management will reply within five business days with the next steps.

Please click here to access the form.

Meet Alex, Blue Osa's General Manager

Take A Tour Of Blue Osa

Teaching methodology + practicum

  • Learn how to lead and market successful yoga retreats
  • Learn the principles of demonstration, observation, assisting/correcting, and instruction.

  • Learn different teaching styles.

  • You’ll learn specific techniques that will enable you to easily teach all levels

  • You’ll also learn how to sequence your asanas to create a natural, therapeutic and transformative arcs in your classes

  • Learn the qualities of effective teaching

  • Learn the business aspects of being a yoga teacher and gain the building blocks of how to build a thriving yoga career

Development of the Professional Essentials

History, Philosophy + Ethics

  • Identify your spiritual stance so you can step into it as a source of strength
  • Identify walls and develop strategies to take them down
  • Create a support network and support strategies and have them in place when you leave
  • Complete a physical and spiritual adventure challenge
  • Learn the business aspects of building a thriving yoga career
  • How to bring the practice of yoga into your everyday life and make it work for you
  • The science and application of mantra
  • An overview of the history of the yoga tradition
  • The ethical standards of teaching yoga

Yoga Humanities

Applied Yoga Anatomy + Muscle Activation™

  • Receive training in Applied Yoga Anatomy + Muscle Activation™ training for Yoga Teachers
  • Go further in your anatomy training
  • Learn how to access muscle function
  • How to sequence transformational yoga classes
  • Learn the energetic and deeper sublime effects of asana
  • The science and application of Mantra
  • Design classes based on Ayurvedic principles
  • Knowledge of both human physical anatomy and physiology (bodily systems, organs, etc.) and energy anatomy and physiology (chakras, nadis, etc.).

Anatomy & Physiology

Techniques, Training and Practice

  • A breakdown in the anatomical and energetic categories of postures
  • Develop a daily meditation practice
  • Learn pranayamas, kriyas, chanting, mantra, meditation, and other traditional yoga techniques
  • How to sequence and structure transformational 60 and 90-minute classes
  • Practical experience teaching postures, classes, and meditation
  • Learn deep relaxation techniques
  • Yoga Nidra, as taught by the Himalayan tradition and Western tradition
  • Learn how to conduct and lead fire rituals
  • Kundalini Yoga techniques
  • Learn the subtle energetic aspects of yoga like the Koshas and chakras
  • Kriya Yoga and Laya Yoga

Advance Your Own Practice in Yoga

Techniques, Training and Practice

  • A breakdown in the anatomical and energetic categories of postures
  • Develop a daily meditation practice
  • Learn techniques in pranayamas, kriyas, chanting, mantra, meditation, and other traditional yoga techniques
  • How to structure and sequence transformational classes
  • Practical experience in teaching postures, sequencing, and meditation
  • Learn deep relaxation and meditation techniques that come from the Himalayan tradition

Develop a Rock Solid Practice in Yoga

Applied Yoga Anatomy + Muscle Activation™

  • Receive training in Applied Yoga Anatomy + Muscle Activation™ training for Yoga Teachers
  • Develop an understanding of basic anatomy
  • Learn about muscle function and how to improve it (something you will not learn in any other YTT)
  • Knowledge of both human physical anatomy and physiology (bodily systems, organs, etc.) and energy anatomy and physiology (chakras, nadis, etc.)
  • The study of both the subject and application of its principles to yoga practice (benefits, contraindications, healthy movement patterns)
  • Skills to teach yoga classes suited to all levels of practice.

Anatomy & Physiology

History, Philosophy + Ethics

  • An in-depth study and application of the Yoga Sutra
  • How to bring the practice of yoga into your everyday life and make it work for you
  • The science and application of mantra
  • An overview of the history of the yoga tradition
  • The ethical standards of teaching yoga

Yoga Humanities

Teaching methodology + practicum

Get hands-on practice teaching so that you’ll be able to teach on day one after the training is finished. You will:

  • Practice teaching in small and large groups

  • Be ready to teach yoga as soon as you leave the yoga teacher training

  • Get hands-on experience teaching and give/receive feedback

  • Practice assisting students

  • Learn the principles of demonstration, observation, assisting/correcting and instruction

  • Learn different teaching styles

  • Learn qualities of effective teaching and adjust to the student’s process of learning

  • Learn the business aspects of how to build a thriving yoga career

Development of the Professional Essentials