best meditation teacher trainings Photo: Santosha Yoga Institute

The Best Online Meditation Teacher Training Certifications

Meditation is a powerful practice that can enhance your personal growth. By dedicating time to meditation, you can open the doors to a deeper understanding of yourself, allowing for the cultivation of inner peace and self-awareness. A meditation practice not only helps in managing stress and emotions but also contributes to mental clarity and overall well-being, encouraging you to thrive and grow.

meditation teacher training certification

Photo: Instagram @kierstie_payge

You may already be aware of some of the health benefits of meditation. Teaching meditation can be a natural progression of your practice, an enhancement to your role as a therapist or social worker, or even a request from those you are currently teaching and supporting.

As a meditation teacher, you can guide students through mindfulness techniques. You have the unique opportunity to support and nurture individuals as they achieve mental and emotional balance, knowing that the teacher’s guidance has positively impacted their lives. Embracing this role is both fulfilling and inspiring, contributing to the growth and well-being of others.

Let’s talk about some of the best programs out there that are helping to create teachers and spread this practice to all corners of the globe.

Article Topics

Choosing a meditation certification program

meditation instructor training

Photo: Instagram @nicolewildcollective

When selecting a certification, it’s crucial to consider what aligns best with your needs. Courses can vary in their level of commitment, with some demanding more time and dedication while others require less. Additionally, many meditation certifications have prerequisite courses that provide foundational knowledge in the specific tradition you intend to teach. Another essential step is to carefully review the descriptions of each certification course to understand the course requirements. 

During this decision-making process, you must assess what you can contribute to the course, future students, and, most importantly, yourself. Pursuing the path of becoming a meditation teacher entails acquiring techniques and engaging in personal growth and self-discovery.

Consider your existing practice as well. Are you already practicing within a particular tradition, or does your meditation have ties to a religious context? Reflect on your motivations for wanting to share meditation with others. The answers to these questions will serve as a compass to lead you toward the most suitable course for your aspirations.

The Best Accredited Meditation Teacher Trainings Online in 2024

Before we jump into the details about these courses, you should also be prepared to learn more about yourself. You are embarking on a journey to become your best self and to share this with others. You can expect some things to come naturally to you, and be prepared for some things to be quite challenging to learn and implement.

Below is a detailed list of our favorite programs. 

1. The School of Positive Transformation: Meditation & Mindfulness Teaching Certification

Photo: School of Positive Transformation

This meditation certification at the School of Positive Transformation, taught by Dr. Itai Ivtzan, offers insight and convenience at a reasonable price.

**Use code MindMaster10 for 10% off**

This course is designed for both new teachers who are not already practicing professionals in a related field, like yoga or coaching, and for those looking to add mindfulness meditation to their existing business. It’s also accredited by the Certified Professional Development (CPD) and International Meditation and Mindfulness Alliance (IMMA).

The program is entirely self-directed. You are given access to a library of videos, guided meditations, and exercises to complete, and your instructor will be available via email. While this program does not offer in-person learning, the course structure makes the program more flexible and an excellent option for those who cannot necessarily commit to a specific schedule.

Dr. Itai Ivtzan and his team have created a top-rated meditation coach training that gives you all the tools to thoroughly understand practices and confidently take those skills forward to teach.

Through this program, you’ll be given the following:

  • Training materials. Online videos, meditation scripts, downloadable audio meditations and worksheets. All of these items will be available to you forever.
  • Online group and email support. One of the best ways to continue to be a part of the meditation teacher community and help support each other is through the exclusive Facebook group set up to share techniques, discuss new ideas and opportunities, and support each other’s practices and teachings.
  • Meditation teacher training certificate. This training is accredited, recognized, and respected.

Read our School of Positive Transformation review to learn more about this school.

Review

“This training has taught me more than I could ever imagine….My meditation practice has never felt more meaningful. Now that I understand what I’m doing and the science behind having a meditation practice I feel I’m able to confidently share this with others. This class has given me a sense of freedom and hope for my future. Thank you.-Makenzie D (Direct review)

2. The Whole Health Project: Trauma Aware Meditation Teacher Training

Photo: The Whole Health Project

Join The Whole Health Project in their 35-hour Online Trauma Aware Meditation Teacher Training to deepen your practice, learn diverse techniques, and create a safe space for students. Empower yourself to confidently guide others and integrate meditation into your offerings for a broader impact. This Yoga Alliance certified training includes the free addition of their Trauma Aware Facilitation Training, so you can safely and competently support a wide range of students.

This training is for you if:

  • You desire to understand the fundamentals of ancient wisdom put into context for our modern-day climate
  • You are looking for a step-by-step approach to being able to guide both new and experienced meditators alike
  • You are passionate about deepening your practice so you can share from a place of direct experience and insight
  • You desire to have a broader perspective on the roots and relevance in the modern world
  • You are looking for a trauma-aware approach to teaching to make your teachings more accessible, safer, and more inclusive

The course offers a comprehensive 25-hour course with modules covering the brain and nervous system’s effects, teaching meditation to beginners, yoga tradition, non-duality teachingsmanifestation, visualization, and teaching ethics. After completing the course, you’ll become a certified meditation instructor.

The Whole Health Project also provides a 10-hour Trauma Aware Facilitation Training, including understanding trauma, stress, trauma-aware facilitation, creating safe spaces, and trauma-aware emotional first aid. As a bonus, they offer a business module to help you integrate your skills effectively. Join now to expand your knowledge and practice!

Receive a discount on practitioner bundles:

  • Breath & Yin Yoga
  • Meditation & Yin Yoga
  • Meditation & Breath
  • Meditation, Breath & Yin Yoga

3. The Path: Meditation Teacher Training Certification

Photo: The Path

The Path offers a long-running and highly respected Meditation Teacher Training certification for those looking to learn to teach meditation. The Path is known for providing small class sizes, personal attention from teachers, and live interactive classes.

This program fosters a deep sense of community and teaches its students various techniques. Students will explore how Buddhism can help us live with more relaxation, ease, and joy. (Lead teachers of The Path, Dina Kaplan and Leon Ford, are known for their ability to describe complex topics in simple, tangible language that is easy to grasp and internalize.)

You will gain experience on how to guide meditation sessions, so when you graduate, you will feel comfortable leading a variety of mindfulness and compassion meditations. Additionally, this program covers the neuroscience behind meditation and explains how and why it affects the brain so profoundly

Students rave about The Path‘s interactive, discussion-based classes. You’ll engage with accredited meditation teachers and classmates weekly, breaking down Buddhist wisdom and meditation techniques. You will have time to ask questions and find more significant presence, balance, clarity, and expansiveness within yourself.

This program is designed to foster community, so you graduate not just with classmates but also with friends. The Path is focused on creating a welcoming environment for all backgrounds, and classes include students of all ages and stages of life. 

In just 12 weeks, you will become certified by a recognized and respected meditation school and be ready to teach mindfulness and compassion meditation anywhere in the world. After graduation, you may have opportunities to teach at The Path (graduates lead all current programs).

Reviews

“Words cannot express how amazing my experience had been in The Path’s Meditation Teacher Training led by Cheryl and Michael. From the beginning I felt the warm welcome, genuine sincerity, and passion for teaching from both trainers. I felt that I was truly in a safe space throughout the entire 12-week program, and most important of all, I appreciated the constant reassurance that wherever we are in our meditation path is okay. I am grateful to have found this program as I treasured each opportunity to reflect, explore, find answers, and continue to grow in my own practice…I highly recommend this program to anyone who is looking to deepen their meditation practice or to develop the skills and confidence to teach and share the life-changing benefits of meditation. – Manching T (Google review)

Google reviews | 4.9 | 39 reviews
5/5

4. Sura Flow: Meditation Coach

Online-Meditation-Teacher-Training-Suraflow.png
Photo: Sura Flow

Become a Meditation Coach with Sura Flow’s Liberate Program, taught by veteran meditation coach Sura Kim. This 12-week course balances the program’s intensity and time commitment while providing one-on-one time with Sura Kim.

Sura Flow offers a comprehensive guide on what to expect from the class. You can plan for 15-20 hours of active weekly engagement with course materials. Some of that time will be on your own, going over course information or putting it into practice, and some time will also be spent in live sessions. It would be best to try attending as many live sessions as possible.

Similarly to the previous two courses, the Sura Flow Liberate program gives you permanent access to a network of other students and graduates that provide ongoing support. The program also provides continued learning materials after you graduate.In addition to the group sessions online, this certification program offers three one-on-one guided sessions with your online mentor to help demonstrate the skills and techniques, answer questions, and help you through challenges.

One of the last steps to certification is seeking at least three pro-bono clients you will guide for up to three months. These clients will provide feedback and help you settle into your new role as a meditation instructor.

5. The Veda Center: 200 Hour Online Meditation Teacher Training

Photo: The Veda Center

Charlie Knoles, a leader in the mediation industry, teaches this 200-hour Online Meditation Teacher Training certification by The Veda Center. Whether you are currently a yoga teacher or meditation practitioner or want to enhance your skills and contribute to the expanding consciousness of the world, this program is a great option.

As a graduate of the Vedic Center’s program, you will be able to:

  • Build a career teaching meditation workshops
  • Teach and consult throughout yoga studios
  • Improve the quality of life

The Veda Center’s at-Home Meditation Course consists of:

Learning to Teach 4 Categories

  • Present Moment Awareness
  • Calm Focus
  • Energized Body & Mind
  • Transcendence/Self-Discovery

Clear, Complete Training

Charlie and his team understand that every student is different. “Not everyone resonates with the same form of meditation.” – Charlie Knoles.

The Veda Center relies on a ‘MindType’ to understand how to facilitate and teach meditation. Their method involves identifying the ‘MindType’ of each student as a means to engage with various aspects, including meditation. This approach informs the most effective way to train the mind. Subsequently, these new instructors will implement this approach with their students, leading to more practitioners acquiring a style that aligns with their thought processes.

Rapid Transformation

During this training, you will engage in extensive meditation practice, releasing deeply entrenched stressors and enhancing your ability to instruct the techniques effectively.

This training has been designed to be as close to in-person training as possible while still providing the flexibility to learn from home. The Veda Center’s program takes about 100 days to complete, and students should expect to dedicate about two hours each day. This program is known to be very thorough and well organized, ensuring you are walking away well-prepared to teach your first meditation course successfully.

6. Meditation University

Photo: Meditation University

Meditation University offers a thorough and diverse MTT-200 online teacher training program. What sets this program apart is its inclusive approach. Instead of focusing solely on one meditative tradition, Meditation University’s MTT-200 explores meditations from around the world – from ancient and spiritual to modern and secular.

The program boasts twelve master trainers from various meditative traditions worldwide, providing a comprehensive education in different meditations. You’ll explore mindfulness, breathwork, concentrative, spiritual styles, and many others.

Moreover, the MTT-200 program at Meditation University is data-driven, science-based and trauma-informed. It features a trauma specialist with over twenty years of experience. It includes world-class training in teaching meditation to children, leading corporate workshops, organizing retreats, and building a sustainable career as a teacher.

Meditation University’s MTT-200 empowers you with extensive knowledge and offers substantial benefits that set it apart from other courses. Extensive teaching practice helps build your confidence as a meditation teacher. It sets the foundation for your meditation teaching career by providing cutting-edge digital marketing strategies, a wide array of business models, and personalized guidance to help you build your unique career path.

With accreditation from the International Mindfulness & Meditation Alliance (IMMA) and The Meditation Organization (TMO), you can rest assured that your certification is recognized worldwide. Today, embark on your journey to become a world-class teacher with Meditation University.

Review

“This course is filled with a variety of types of meditations and mindfulness. I really enjoyed learning from different instructors and their unique journey’s and experiences. The Sunday Q&A sessions helped to integrate what I was learning while helping me feel like part of a beautiful community.” – Kimberly M (Meditation University direct review)

7. My Vinyasa Practice: Foundations of Meditation Certification

Photo: My Vinyasa Practice

My Vinyasa Practice’s Foundations of Meditation Certification is an extensive online meditation certification program that provides a self-paced learning opportunity, enabling you to explore the intricacies of meditation at your convenience. The program is led by the founder, Michelle Young and Tara Cleven (E-RYT 500, C-IAYT). In this program, learn Buddhist principles and sound healing techniques.

This course covers:

  • Mindfulness Meditations
  • Vipassana Meditation
  • Ethics and Business
  • Dharma
  • Sound Healing

This is a self-paced course with lifetime access across all devices. Upon completion, students receive their Advanced Certification in Meditation and are eligible to teach and lead training internationally.

To learn more about the fundamentals, read this article on the best online meditation courses for beginners.

Reviews

“My Vinyasa Practice was a wonderful online program. The staff and teachers were attentive and responsive. The weekend workshops were informative and well designed. The curriculum was very involved and went well below the surface of learning the basics of yoga. I would definitely recommend this program.” –Natalie B (Yoga Alliance review)

Google reviews | 4.9 | 277 reviews
4.9/5
Yoga Alliance reviews | 4.79 | 3,700 reviews
4.79/5

8. Breathworks Miracles: Meditation Facilitator Certification

Photo: Breathworks Miracles

The Breathworks Miracles Meditation Facilitator Certification is a training program tailored for individuals in holistic fields eager to expand their knowledge and skills. It uniquely marries hypnotherapy, NLP, chakra, aura knowledge, and other modalities. Crafted by Julie King, a transcendental Vedic psychologist, this meditation training extends beyond the basics.

Program Benefits:

  • Guiding meditation expertise: Simplify your meditation leadership skills. Develop engaging stories, aid trauma recovery, and create empowering guided sessions for confidence, self-love, and chakra healing.
  • Chakras and aura mastery: Master the basics of masculine and feminine chakras, energy balancing, functions, and connections. Add aura brightening and healing to enhance your chakra meditation.
  • Advanced techniques: The program blends hypnotherapy, NLP, chakra, and aura knowledge in a unique way not found elsewhere.

How this training helps you:

  • Meeting needs & setting goals: You will get a handbook, five guided meditations, and homework to write your meditations.
  • Creating a plan: The five guided meditations cover various themes like “offering up to the sacred fire,” manifestation meditation, down-trance physical body relaxation, a 50-minute seven-chakra guided meditation, and a 45-minute astral travel guided meditation with Lemurian language, Gregorian chants, binary beats, and Shamanic drums.
  • Putting it into action: The program is crafted to support your self-healing journey.
  • Assessment: As you complete the program, quizzes will check your knowledge and ensure you’re ready to become a successful meditation facilitator.

At $497, this online teacher training is an excellent value. You can take this course at your own pace for up to six months, and payment plans are available for those who cannot make a one-time payment. Breathworks Miracles is also an accredited school by the International Breathwork Foundation (IBF) and Global Breathwork Practitioner Alliance (GPBA).

9. Loka Yoga School: Online Meditation Training

Photo: Loka Yoga School

Discover the profound tranquility and personal transformation of meditation teacher training with Loka Yoga School. This course is a holistic, seven-week guide to transforming habits and embracing positive change. With self-paced learning, you can fit the course into your schedule and move through it at your own pace. Their course is designed to provide an in-depth exploration of practices in a structured ten-hour curriculum. 

This program explores an impressive array of over 25 different meditation techniques, including:

  • the profound stillness of yoga nidra to the mindful presence of mindfulness meditation
  • the heart-expanding practice of Loving Kindness to the rhythm of breathwork

This training will equip you with the tools, insights, and techniques to guide meditation sessions effectively. Upon successful completion of the course, you’ll receive a meditation instructor certification, and you will be accredited with the Yoga Alliance. In the bustling chaos of modern life, find moments of tranquility and inner peace with Loka Yoga School.

Reviews

“I was at the August 2022 Loka Yoga Teacher Training with Loka Yoga school and it was one of the best experiences of my life. From the booking process through to the end the care and dedication shown by Tarryn and Yann is above and beyond. The quality of education we received was simply first class. Taryn has such a wealth of experience and knowledge of yoga teaching and is such a caring and helpful teacher…Overall, Loka Yoga is an incredible school and I would recommend anyone come here. You will have an amazing experience.” -Danny L (Trip Advisor review)

Trip Advisor reviews | 5.0 | 101 reviews
5/5
Yoga Alliance reviews | 4.81 | 37 reviews
4.81/5

10. The Peaceful Warriors Yoga School: Meditation Immersion and Teacher Training

Photo: The Peaceful Warriors

The Peaceful Warriors 25-hour Meditation Teacher Training is a self-paced online program that provides accreditation by Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider® (YACEP®). This training equips you with the know-how and tips to become a guided meditation teacher. By participating in this program, you will embark on a journey to explore the vast possibilities of meditation beyond its conventional perception as a stress reduction technique.

**Use code MITM25OFF for 25% off at checkout **

Highlights of the 25-hour meditation teacher training:

  • Comprehensive accreditation. The program is accredited by Yoga Alliance, a prestigious organization in yoga and meditation, ensuring the value and recognition of your certification.
  • Holistic approach. Explore Mindfulness Meditation, Somatic Meditation, and Yogic Meditation. These practices can be transformative on their own, but their combined power creates a comprehensive approach.
  • Personal growth and exploration. Transcend your everyday existence and discover the limitless aspects of your true self. Go beyond stress reduction and find a deeper understanding of who you are and what you can become.
  • Lifetime access and community. Gain lifetime access to the course materials and become part of a virtual community where you can connect with fellow students, graduates, teachers, and experts from all around the world.

Take a significant step with The Peaceful Warriors Yoga School, becoming a certified meditation teacher and exploring the vast potential  for personal growth and transformation.

11. Full Circle Yoga School: Become a Certified Meditation Teacher

Photo: Full Circle Yoga

Become a certified meditation teacher with Full Circle Yoga School, who leads students through 15 comprehensive modules designed to provide a collective understanding of 30 techniques. From traditional practices like mindfulness and Loving-Kindness meditation to more specialized methods like kundalini and chakra meditation, this course ensures that you are well-equipped to cater to the unique needs of their future students.

Led by Jolie Wilson, this course offers an exceptional learning experience with prompt support and guidance. A collection of 30 PDF meditation scripts allows participants to integrate the teachings seamlessly into their personal and teaching practices. Access to versatile resources, including videos and PowerPoint presentations, enhances learning, catering to diverse learning preferences. As students engage the different  styles, they can unlock a multitude of benefits for both body and mind:

  • Boost immune systems
  • Supercharge energy levels
  • Elevate moods
  • Strengthen intuition
  • Reduce stress, anxiety, and depression
  • Improve well-being and mental clarity

This course is excellent for:

  • Beginners
  • Experienced practitioners
  • Yoga and wellness enthusiasts
  • Aspiring teachers
  • Healthcare professionals
  • Stress and anxiety management seekers
  • Self-development enthusiasts
  • Wellness coaches and instructors
  • Individuals seeking inner peace

The benefits of this course extend beyond personal growth as students graduate with the ability to teach multiple styles. Course graduates enjoy unlimited lifetime access, ensuring continuous learning and refinement of skills.

12. Santosha Yoga Institute: Certified Meditation Teacher Training

Photo: Santosha Yoga Institute

Open the door to a world of self-discovery and heightened awareness with Santosha Yoga Institute. Benefit from the same exceptional teaching, unwavering support, and expert guidance that Santosha is renowned for in their online meditation training. This 50-hour course is tailored for individuals seeking to enrich their understanding of meditation, as well as for aspiring and established yoga teachers.

Gain access to a wealth of resources, including:

  • User-friendly online learning portal
  • Santosha meditation manual
  • Access to comprehensive course video modules and lectures with downloadable course notes
  • Library of 14 guided meditation practices spanning different styles and themes

For Registered Yoga Teachers (RYT 200), this course is a valuable opportunity to earn 50 hours of Continuing Education Units recognized by Yoga Alliance. You will dive into the philosophy and core principles that underscore meditative potential and learn how to adeptly lead others through various practices while simultaneously deepening your meditation journey.

The course is structured into six comprehensive modules:

  1. Intro
  2. Philosophy and meditation
  3. The subtle body
  4. Your practice
  5. Styles and approaches
  6. Teaching

For just 575 AUD, you can unlock the potential of meditation from your own home with Santosha Yoga Institute and receive a certificate.

Reviews

Every teacher was extremely kind, knowledgeable, and helpful. Every week I look forward to Julie’s class on yoga philosophy.” -Samantha Fitzgerald (Google review)

Google reviews | 4.8 | 128 reviews
4.8/5
Yoga Alliance reviews | 4.81 | 1,186 reviews
4.81/5

Final Thoughts on the Best Online Meditation Certifications

Becoming a meditation teacher is a deeply personal and transformative experience. It requires dedication, self-discovery, and a commitment to guiding others toward inner peace and mindfulness. This exploration of the best programs has shown that various options are available, each with unique strengths and approaches. Whether you choose a traditional in-person training or a comprehensive online program, selecting the one that resonates with your goals, values, and teaching style is critical. Remember that earning an online meditation certification is not just about acquiring skills; it’s about embodying the essence of mindfulness and compassion to inspire and guide others on their profound journeys of self-discovery.