Kathy L.
This was the BEST thing I’ve done for myself in so long! I never imagined I could teach yoga-I started the course to just learn more and have a community to practice with-but I have already started teaching and I can’t imagine not!
The Restorative Yoga Teacher Training by YogaRenew is a fully online program rooted in the philosophy and science of restorative yoga. It introduces students to the practice of slowing down — using props, breath, and stillness to support the parasympathetic nervous system. Graduates leave equipped to lead deeply relaxing, meditative restorative classes.
This training is open to anyone interested in restorative yoga — no prior teaching experience is required. It suits yoga teachers seeking to expand their offerings, wellness practitioners, and students who want a deeper personal practice. Existing teachers can use the hours toward Yoga Alliance continuing education. The course is described as accessible for all levels, from new teachers to experienced practitioners.
The curriculum covers the philosophy, technology, and practice of restorative yoga, including its origins and modern influences, the underlying science, and how restorative postures support the parasympathetic nervous system in counter to the fight-or-flight response. Students learn pose setup, verbal guidance, and how to adapt postures with bolsters, blankets, blocks, straps, sandbags, and eye pillows.
The training then moves into teaching methodology — sequencing principles, class management, and the use of harmonizing tools — alongside pose variations, creative sequencing, and a self-care lens for both teacher and student. Specific focus is given to stress management and trauma-informed, trauma-sensitive teaching approaches, so graduates can hold space for students who may be navigating difficulty.
The program is led by Joanne Silver and Keely Garfield. Joanne is an E-RYT 500 teacher, certified reflexologist, and Reiki practitioner who has been teaching since 2002, with specializations in prenatal, therapeutic, and restorative yoga and Urban Zen. Keely is an E-RYT 500, YACEP instructor, Urban Zen Integrative Therapist, Reiki Master, and board-certified hospital chaplain.
The training is fully online, on-demand, and self-paced. Students work through video lessons supported by downloadable workbooks, sequencing templates, cueing guides, and recorded guided relaxations. Materials are accessible from any device at any time, with lifetime access included. A 30-day full refund guarantee is offered.
The 30 hours count toward Yoga Alliance continuing education through YogaRenew’s YACEP (Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider) status. Existing Yoga Alliance-registered teachers can apply the hours toward maintaining their RYT credential. Graduates leave with the practical toolkit to lead restorative yoga classes for stress relief, trauma-sensitive teaching, or general well-being.
Meet your teacher
E-RYT 500 yoga teacher, certified reflexologist, and Reiki practitioner teaching since 2002. Specializes in prenatal, therapeutic, and restorative yoga, with training in Urban Zen. Teaches corporate and private clients in Manhattan.
Read more about Joanne