Testimonials
I cannot say enough positive things about The Summers School of Yin Yoga! Every module, including the silent retreat, has far exceeded my expectations. I actually took the Foundations module twice and found that I learned more the second time around! I just completed my fourth module, the Yang module, and I feel as if I am finally practicing Yang yoga properly in my body, in a safer and more stable manner. Similarly, after taking the Meditation module, I finally felt comfortable meditating, after years of thinking I was doing it wrong! I am forever grateful to Josh and Terry for cultivating such a wonderful program of studies, and for sharing their knowledge in such a humble and respectful manner. I truly feel blessed and proud to be a part of the Summers School of Yin Yoga!
-J.H. in Massachusetts (Foundations, Mindfulness, and Yang Yoga Student)
Josh and Terry have put together a great training program. This training was well worth my time and money. I learned so many things during the 4-day foundations module that I am already incorporating into both my personal yin and yang practice and the classes I teach. I cannot recommend this training enough.
-K.R. in Illinois (Foundations Student)
This is by far THE BEST yoga training course I've ever taken. Josh is a joy to work with. He is a fount of knowledge with NO ego! A rare combination. I was able to implement my new knowledge immediately upon returning to teaching and my students enjoyed that additional information. It's all about tension and compression and a Dragon-A-Day!
-C.S. (Foundations Student)
Josh Summers has a wonderful teaching methodology and personality. When reviewing various yin teacher training options, I just knew the Yin Yoga Foundations Module with Josh would be the right one for me. It absolutely was – I learned so much more than I ever expected. Josh truly has a gift for presentation and I highly recommend his school and training.
- S.P. in Florida (Foundations Student)
Thank you, Josh, for sharing your time and energy with us in Freeport this past weekend. I enjoyed the workshop immensely, and the knowledge and understanding I gained through your teaching and insights are invaluable. Lots of raw material to chew on, issues to consider, concepts to emb ody and assimilate. Juicy, thought-provoking, and decidedly open-to-further-investigation questions and inquiries. Massive amount of deep reflecting and self-study. Practices to cultivate and thrive on. Expansive energy and animalistic hunger for more. Exactly what I needed.
-J.B. in Maine (Mindfulness Student)
Josh and Terry are dedicated, skilled, tremendous teachers who offer guidance without dogma. They don't force their hand, rather they offer a hand and allow their students to find their own path. I am so grateful for all I have learned.
-B.B. in New Hampshire (TCM and Yang Yoga Student)
The first time I participated in the Foundations Module in 2017, the study was new to me and the quantity of information daunting. I did, however, leave with what would become my growing Yin practice. Now, the new Foundations Module is an undisputed winner! The addition of an online course for preparation, an invaluable text (Your Body, Your Yoga by Bernie Clark) and an improved format have contribute to greater effectiveness. Josh has gathered many teachings and distilled them into what is immediately accessible and salient, all designed for health and well-being. I found this second foray into Foundations intensely meaningful and motivating. If you are new to the Summers School of Yin Yoga, you have come to the right place. If you have not yet participated in the Foundations Module, you have a treat in store. If you have previously done this module, revisit it – it’s different, dynamic and gets the job done.
-L.F. in Vermont (Foundations Student)
Josh's class changed how I approached my practice. What I was getting out of it. What I was bringing to it. How to ditch some attitudes that weren't helping me. Yes, Josh teaches poses. But more importantly, he invites his students to think about their Yin practice more intelligently, more pragmatically, more approachably and yes… more healthfully. It was good, good stuff.
-S.H. in Michigan (Foundations Student)
As a Mindfulness teacher, longtime Dharma practitioner, and acupuncturist myself, I was looking for a Yin Yoga teacher trainer deeply rooted in the Dharma, Chinese Medicine, and Yoga. Josh Summers is the teacher that I was hoping for and looking for. He is the genuine article. I loved his course content, his open non-dogmatic approach, his depth of knowledge on all three core areas, his clear presentation, and his skill, commitment, and relaxed humor. I genuinely cannot recommend him highly enough. I'm looking forward to the next module.
-A.R. in Ireland (Mindfulness Student)
I'd happily recommend doing training with Josh – he is insightful, intelligent, funny, and very knowledgeable. His Yin Yoga and Meditation module has changed how I approach my Yin Yoga practice — and has happily turned my previous meditation work on its head! The skills you learn in Josh's courses are not just for your yoga practice and teachings, but for use in your everyday life as well. If you're thinking about whether you should do this training or not.... don't hesitate – just do it!
-M.G. in Ireland (Mindfulness Student)
I've just finished the Foundations and TCM modules with Josh and I'm delighted with both courses. He has a winning combination of clarity, knowledge, humility, and humour and a relaxed passion for what he does which he transmits so well. I began as a Yin Yoga ignoramus and return home with a real sense of its magic.
-J.Z. in Granada, Spain (Foundations and TCM Student)
It always becomes clear in any profession when someone has deep-rooted knowledge and can deliver it in a way that works – when it’s lasting, when it’s the real deal. That’s Josh. Over the past decade, I’ve watched Josh develop one of the most comprehensive and critically acclaimed Yin Yoga offerings – and now a complete Yin Yoga program with yinyogaschool.com. I’m in awe of all he has accomplished.
-H.S. in Connecticut
The Summers School of Yin Yoga and Mindfulness Training was an incredible, life-changing experience. This training has brought me from believing I was a meditation failure to joyfully anticipating opportunities to teach Yin-based meditation. Josh's humor, perspective, and outstanding preparation make him a tremendous teacher.
-B.B. in New Hampshire (Mindfulness Student)
Josh not only has an amazing depth of knowledge, but intellectual integrity as well. As a practicing physician, I appreciate that very much. Not many teachers can effectively convey what they know in an accessible and effective way, but Josh certainly does. He communicates in a way that not only attains the goals of each day's training in his program, but leaves you yearning for more.
I just gave my first Yin workshop after completing Josh's Foundations Module, and right after the 2-hour session, participants – including teachers – insisted that my Yin class would be put on the regular schedule. I owe that to Josh, and cannot recommend him highly enough. I very much look forward to attending more of his training programs.
-T.H.B in Connecticut (Foundations Student)
I’ve just returned from the Yin Yoga Foundations module and would highly recommend it! The whole structure of the training program works very well. The online course was very informative and gave a foundation of knowledge that was expanded upon in the live training. The layout of the live training was a nice mixture – fascinating and engaging lectures, with lots of time to explore the yin poses as well as practice time to integrate what was learned that day. The functional approach to poses that Josh explores is invaluable information for yoga teachers and I feel it will serve to improve my skills further as a teacher! The accompanying manual that we received in the live training is also very comprehensive.
Josh’s passion for his work comes across in the live training and he has a lovely teaching style that makes the training fun and enjoyable. He is a fountain of knowledge on Yin Yoga and I consider myself very lucky to have had an opportunity to learn from him. I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the training program and I'm looking forward to training more with Josh & Terry!
-S.K. in Ireland (Foundations Student)
I've been a student of Josh Summers for many years. I took Josh's Foundations Teacher Training Intensive in 2013 and the Mindfulness Intensive in 2015, both of which formed a solid foundation to teach Yin Yoga. I decided to repeat the Foundations Module as part of my 200-hour requirements for the Summers School of Yin Yoga because I was excited to experience Josh's new offerings. I am so happy I did! Josh's new format for this module is outstanding, comprehensively covering the basic theories of Yin Yoga practice and teaching with a pointed focus on the physical aspects of practice. The informative online course – a prerequisite for attending the in-person training – ensured that all attendees had a basic understanding of the material, allowing us to dive deep into the material. The format of the in-person training is genius. Each day includes in-depth and interactive investigation of Yin Yoga postures, interesting lectures, lively and on point group discussions, and solid practice time to fully integrate what we learned that day. The very thorough course manual, which includes pictures of all of the Yin Yoga postures plus many modifications, is now a go-to resource for me. Josh is an accomplished facilitator and trainer, deftly navigating group dynamics and complex topics. I rate this course 10+ out of 10, and recommend it to new and seasoned Yin Yoga teachers and practitioners, including those who have previously completed teacher training modules with Josh.
-G.K. in Massachusetts (Foundations and TCM Student)
I took Josh’s intro to Yin Yoga in 2014. Back then, it was just a two and a half day weekend, and I was introduced to the philosophy and practice of Yin, all Yin poses, traditional Chinese medicine, and meditation. This past January, I took his new module called Foundations of Yin Yoga, which is now a four-day intensive course on just the physical aspect of Yin Yoga. This module is a complete and comprehensive overview of what Yin Yoga is, as well as all Yin poses and its target areas and modifications. Packed with information, this course will answer all your questions about Yin Yoga and get you inspired to further pursue this wonderful practice. I learned so much from this new version of Foundations.
-M.G. in Massachusetts (Foundations Student)
I recently completed the Josh Summers' Mindfulness Module – it was brilliant! It was so interesting to look into the Buddha's teachings and explore a new approach to meditation, but I think perhaps even more enlightening was Josh's way of teaching. The course was interactive and experiential, with time to practice, reflect on, and discuss our experiences with Josh and the other trainee teachers. Josh's passion for the subject is contagious, his classes are well-planned and well-executed, and he encourages us to question what we "know" and discover new ways to practice. We were all disappointed when the course came to a close, eager to share what we learned with our students, and to learn more! I'm really looking forward to completing the next module, and can not recommend Josh's courses enough.
-A.N.M. in Ireland (Mindfulness Student)
Although I felt fully capable to teach Yin after taking Josh's Foundations Module (and have done so for the last 4 years), I am really happy I decided to re-take it. I found the updated module to be a much more in depth and comprehensive look into the physical aspects, mechanics, and benefits of the yin yoga practice and I believe it will enhance my teaching immensely. Looking forward to taking future modules and the Retreat this Winter 🙂
-P.N. in Boston, MA (Foundations Student)
Great class. It completely upended my thoughts on what "good" meditation was (or wasn't). Most importantly, Josh and Terry didn't try to change the way that I meditate… but they gave me the tools to better understand HOW I meditate... and what I might want to consider in making my meditation practice more effective, more compassionate, and more resonant.
-S.H. in Michigan (Mindfulness Student)
The yang module was one of the best continuing education trainings I have ever done. I really enjoyed learning with Terry. Her delivery of the information was clear and thoughtful, and we had great group discussions all weekend. I enjoyed all of the practices so much and really appreciated all of the functional movements we explored, as well as the strength/stability we brought to foundational yoga poses. This was an excellent training.
-A.G. in Massachusetts (Yang Yoga Student)
Terry is one of the most knowledgeable and well-rounded yoga teachers I have ever studied with. She brings in her extensive knowledge of the body and the skeletal/muscle functions as well as a deep knowledge of body conditioning outside of yoga. I don't think I will practice or teach the same way ever again!
-A.K. in Massachusetts (Yang Yoga Student)
Terry's enthusiasm and commitment to the Yin path are contagious. I confess I had become a "yinster," only getting my Yang exercise at the gym or on the road, but after the past few days I see the benefit of putting the Yang building blocks into my practice and my teaching. I especially can't wait to share those isometric exercises.
-A.M.B. in Maryland (Yang Yoga Student)
What a wonderful training experience! Plenty of theory and instruction – and the best part was putting it into practice. LOVE the asana that was taught. Terry is bright and engaging and very knowledgeable! She was able to answer every question put to her during the training. I hope to be able to take more training with Josh Summers and Terry Cockburn in the future.
-M.C.G. in Ohio (Yang Yoga Student)
I chose to attend this training as I was interested in Yin Yoga, also loved the fact that Terry is a marathon runner and yin instructor – a combination of Yin and Yang. The Foundations module was very detailed, informative, and practical for teaching Yin classes and deepening your own practice. I would highly recommend Josh and Terry's Yin Yoga trainings to anyone.
-M.L. in Illinois (Foundations Student)
I loved learning new approaches to poses, thinking about the intention, and recognizing that bodies differ greatly. This training was so well organized and rich in content. I would recommend the Yang Module to any yogi.
-B.B. in New Hampshire (Yang Yoga Student)
I truly enjoyed and benefited from the Yang Module. Terry was clear, non-judgmental and interesting. She provided useful demonstrations and broke down postures in a way that provided me with a clearer picture of the intent of an overall posture. I was skeptical at the beginning since I am not a fan of Vinyasa but came away with a deeper understanding of the body and movement within different body structures.
-S.R. in New Hampshire (Yang Yoga Student)
The Summers School of Yin Yoga boasts two exceptional educators. The considerable wealth of information they impart is solidly backed up with hard won experiential knowledge and a real passion for research. Terry and Josh deliver this information in a typically humble and forthright fashion. Students from the School are armed with all they may need to make the best informed decisions for their own practice or those of their prospective students.
-B.O. in Ireland (Yang Yoga Student)
The opportunity to take the Yang Yoga module has been transformative for me. During the course of my career, I have taught physical therapy, been involved in research, and been to many conferences and high quality continuing education courses. The Yang Yoga module is on par with some of the best courses I have taken. The readings, online work, and live training were of the highest quality and much appreciated. As a physical therapist with 35 years experience and a new yoga instructor, I have struggled to integrate yoga into my physical therapy practice. I was able to return to work the day after the training and immediately put into practice many of the concepts from the module. I feel that I have been provided resources and a community that will further facilitate this growth and benefit my clients and co-workers. Many thanks to Terry and Josh for all of your efforts. I have already reserved my spot in the next training!
-C.B. in Ohio (Yang Yoga Student)
Very informative, practical, and usable information. Terry is a great instructor and generous in sharing her knowledge. Loved it!!
-N.P. in Illinois (Foundations Student)
I am grateful for all of the wonderful aspects Terry shared in the integration of Yang with Yin. The cueing, intention, and reasoning behind each action was impeccable. Not only has this module affected my own practice but also my thoughts around how I use language and intention within my classes.
-C.E. in New Hampshire (Yang Yoga Student)
Terry led such an incredible, high quality training – it was well thought out and provided such useful and applicable information. I love Terry’s verbiage, as her explanations are understandable and relatable. Thank you so much for the purposeful way you teach – your knowledge and practice are evident.
-D.S. in Massachusetts (Yang Yoga Student)
This was a wonderful training in Milton, MA. It inspired both my yin and yang practice and gave me a lot to think about and to explore. It was well worth the trip from Ireland.
-N.M. in Ireland (Yang Yoga Student)
I appreciate Terry's knowledge of movement and anatomy, clearly she enjoys what she does! I enjoyed the many opportunities to share with the other participants during class discussions. Active participation was encouraged and warmly received by Terry and her light-hearted humor was ever present. This training has renewed my interest in learning more, as I see just how much there is that I haven’t explored yet!
-B.M. in New York (Yang Yoga Student)
The Yang Yoga training module with Terry Cockburn is overflowing with immediately useful knowledge on functional alignment, as well as much more to just chew on and mull over. Terry is generous in freely sharing her own studies and experience, and took time to speak to students one-on-one to address unique situations. She never once suggested functional alignment as a replacement for the yoga style we each practiced, instead she spoke specifically and thoughtfully about weaving it into how we are already teaching. Our group discussions were thought-provoking, and workshopping the physical practices together really helped to solidify what we were learning. I will recommend this 4-day training to anyone looking for a unique viewpoint of practicing and teaching yoga for individual bodies.
-H.M. in Ohio (Yang Yoga Student)
I enrolled in this class wanting to be able to offer my clients something new and different. After taking the online module to prepare for the class, I realized entering this "World of Yin" was exactly the balance that I needed for myself. I came in with almost no knowledge on the topic and left feeling confident with a strong understanding of what's going on at the cellular level when we practice Yin Yoga. Well planned, well instructed, and a fun teaching environment made this an incredible experience. Terry was really great with answering questions and concerns in class. I can't wait to incorporate everything I've learned into my classes and personal practice.
-H.S. in Illinois (Foundations Student)
On Josh's Online Courses
"The Body Sublime: Functional Elements of Yin Yoga" suggests a comprehensive overview of the practice – and it delivers. Naturally, the course begins with a working definition of Yin Yoga and then advances through some pretty interesting stuff – Connective Tissue, Fascia, Fibroblasts, Extracellular Matrix, Collagen, GAGS, and more. Best of all, Josh (with a demo by Terry), gives us not one – but two solid practices! The Posture Practice is all about the exploration of what we feel and the identification of tension and/or compression. This segment of the course requires a little soul and body searching but is worth the time and effort. The Sequence Practice is rich with take-homes, especially in the "Playing, Observing, Sensing" section. Bottom line – this is not a required study to hurry through and pass the test – but to chew on a bit, take time to digest, and then move forward better-nourished than before.
-L.F. in Vermont (Foundations Student)
Testimonials On Josh's Podcast
Josh Summers has created something unique; something every Yin Yoga teacher should be aware of: A series of podcasts on the teaching and nuances of Yin Yoga called Everyday Sublime. Josh is a licensed acupuncturist and a meditation instructor who leads workshops, trainings, and retreats throughout the United States and Europe. He offers an uncommon perspective to the practice and education of Yin Yoga, due to his 15 years of practicing acupuncture and being a dedicated dharma practitioner for 20 years. His podcasts illuminate the theory and practice of Yin Yoga, Chinese Medicine, and meditation as three interwoven tools for apprehending the "Everyday Sublime."
Brilliant simplicity – well worth the listen! Josh has a great ability to share his teachings in a simple, easy to follow way that can perhaps lead us all to a path of light and peace. I've had the pleasure of taking two of Josh's Yin trainings and was blown away each time.
-Brandy at Banyan Tree Yoga
Great podcast! As a teacher and practitioner of Yin Yoga, I find Everyday Sublime to be a valuable resource and motivator for my teaching. It has introduced me to viewpoints about Yin which I haven’t fully considered, and I’ve incorporated these into further refining my practice and teaching. Thank you Josh for giving such thoughtful time and care to Yin Yoga, it’s truly a service to our community!
-Mint Shoes
I was completely delighted to learn Josh - a favorite teacher and person of mine is sharing his work through this podcast. He speaks with an "earthy" kind of wisdom that is both rare and refreshing and his intelligence, like his work, is multipronged. I've been following his work for years and find endless inspiration anytime I get to hear from him. I'm so glad that this podcast will make it possible to hear from him more!
-Kath Hartsell
I love this podcast! Josh clearly and concisely explains the principles of Yin yoga and offers lovely insight into the benefits of incorporating Yin yoga and meditation into one's practice and/or teaching.
-JenLeopold
Wisdom for Life: Josh Summers offers daily wisdom into the world of meditation. His thoughtful guidance and calm approach are the antidote to modern day madness. I'm thankful every time I listen.
-MsLaur
As a self-confessed podcast addict, I was over the moon to find one that was: a) informative and clear; b) not too long; and c) inspiring. I love how Josh so succinctly states in a clear fashion the most salient points of Yin Yoga and its application to Traditional Chinese Medicine. If I need inspiration, these podcasts are my "go-to" before I teach. A treat for new and seasoned teachers and students wanting to learn more about Yin Yoga.
Love this podcast. Look forward to every episode. Insightful and thoughtful—masterful!
-zulumom
Whether you are new to meditation and/or Yin yoga or a seasonsoned practitioner, Josh has valuable insights to share in a straightforward, accessible and understandable way. His approach to meditation has really helped me feel successful as a meditator and has stopped me from beating myself up about less than perfect sessions.
-leswal
I'm so happy this podcast exists so I can tune in when I am in need of Josh's wisdom and calm presence!
-JillBeauBaggins
I liked the podcast because it reminds me of the two four day trainings I have taken with Josh. It also allows me not to have to wait until my next training, and it reinforces what I have learned. Such a great resource for someone who has been practicing or has been trained by Josh. As well as a good introduction for anyone who is curious about yin, meditation, and Chinese medicine.
-DSuger
Josh Summers has graced the podcast world with digestible insight on yin yoga and its far reaching practice. His calm tone delivers direction through our fast-paced lifestyles… giving us the tools to understand our everyday as truly sublime. As a yoga teacher and meditation practitioner, Josh’s podcast takes precedence in my queue for its unmatched wisdom of the yoga practice. Thank you Josh!
-A Millennial Yogini
If the opening notes of the piano don't immediately hook you, then the topic certainly will. Josh Summers, a leading expert in this paradigm, 'sheds light' in these short, digestible episodes, which are chock full of pertinent information on yin yoga and meditation. As a yoga teacher, I find these to be a valuable refresher, and also a great resource to pass along to my students. As a practitioner of yin yoga and meditation, I am grateful for this extremely useful podcast, and its role in my practice and ongoing study.
-Yoga to Run
