Lakshmi Voelker Chair Yoga Teacher Training

A residential training retreat focused on accessible yoga teaching

With Liz, Julie, Fra & Steph (please click on the teachers' names to find out more about them)

25th-29th November 2026

For the first time, the Lakshmi Voelker Chair Yoga (LVCY) Teacher Training will take place as a residential retreat at Mandala Yoga Ashram. Drawing on more than 40 years of adaptive yoga tradition, this training is designed to give you the confidence and practical skills to share yoga with people who may otherwise be excluded from it — including older adults, people with disabilities, those with limited mobility, and anyone who cannot access floor-based yoga.

"The trainers on the course are inspirational, kind, approachable and full of knowledge and passion for the benefits of chair yoga. I would highly recommend this course to anyone with an interest in supporting people to be kind and gentle with their mind and bodies, whilst supporting an increase in functional capacity and strengthening emotional wellbeing."

Supported Rate £515 | Standard Rate £620 | Benefactor Rate £720

The Lakshmi Voelker Method

Established in 1982, the LVCY method is recognised internationally for its clear framework, strong structure, and adaptability. Its carefully designed “Levels of Flexibility” system helps teachers meet each student exactly where they are, so every practice feels safe, accessible, and empowering.

You will explore how to teach chair yoga in a variety of environments, including community settings, healthcare contexts, specialist groups, and private sessions. The training also covers adaptations for wheelchair users and people living with chronic health conditions.

What This Retreat Includes

• Five days of immersive group practice
• Partner and small-group practice
• Self-study and reflective elements
• Practical and written assessments
• One-to-one mentoring and personalised feedback
• A 200-page training manual (digital copy) and access to a video library
• Guidance in sequencing, adaptation, breathwork, and additional modalities such as acupressure and Do-In self-massage

Required Reading:

Get Fit Where You Sit: A Guide to the Lakshmi Voelker Chair Yoga Method by Lakshmi Voelker and Liz Oppedijk is required reading for this course. The book must be purchased separately and is not included in the retreat fee.

Who the Training Is For

This retreat is open to:

• Yoga teachers and therapists
• Healthcare and wellbeing professionals
• Carers and support workers
• Exercise specialists and community facilitators

Those without a yoga teacher qualification will need to complete an 8-hour Basic Yoga Techniques prerequisite, which is not included in the retreat fee.

"Thank you again for this very complete high-quality yoga training. … It gives room for my creativity to flourish in my classes, and I feel I have the tools to teach in a safe, accessible, and fun way from now on"

The Ashram Setting

Set within the peace of Mandala Yoga Ashram, this training is supported by the ashram’s living yoga tradition. During your stay, you can expect:

• Daily meditation and shared practice
• Mouna (sacred silence) from 9pm until breakfast
• Karma Yoga as part of integrated learning
• Freshly prepared vegetarian and vegan meals
• Time for rest, reflection, journalling, and walking in the peaceful Welsh hills

Accommodation is provided in shared dormitory-style rooms, encouraging simplicity, connection, and community.

Accreditation

This course is accredited by Yoga Alliance. For Minded Institute students, it forms Part 1 of the IAYT-approved Accessible Chair Yoga CPD Pathway and contributes to professional development recognised by the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT).

Further Information

Places are limited to ensure high-quality mentoring. Costs include all tuition, shared accommodation, food, and unlimited hot drinks. Arrive by 5pm to settle in and enjoy supper, served at 6.00pm.

Join us for Lakshmi Voelker Chair Yoga at our unique spiritual sanctuary in the heart of Wales.

Our residential retreats offer a rare chance to go deeper into the mysteries of yoga in one of the few authentic ashrams outside India, surrounded by natural beauty, experienced teachers, and a supportive community.

Teachings

Deepen your understanding of core yogic teachings with experienced teachers.

Practices

Learn authentic practices that support a direct experience of yogic teachings.

Community

Share the journey with a like-minded group of sincere seekers and ashram residents.

About the Ashram

As one of the few authentic ashrams outside India, the Ashram offers a living connection between the teachings of the yogic sages and modern seekers. Founded in 1986, it has supported profound learning and transformation for thousands of people from many different backgrounds.

Nestled in the green hills of Wales, UK, the Ashram provides a quiet, safe, and nurturing environment for deep study and practice.