Embark on a transformative journey in the lush tropical paradise of Costa Rica. Our 14-day yoga teacher training will elevate your practice to new heights while immersing you in the breathtaking beauty of the rainforest. Guided by experienced instructors, you will deepen your understanding of yoga philosophy, anatomy, and teaching techniques, and receive a Yoga Alliance certification upon completion. This training is not just about strengthening your asanas, but also about developing a strong connection to self, community, and nature. With daily yoga classes, workshops, and opportunities for adventure and relaxation, this experience is designed to nourish both body and soul. Join us for this life-changing adventure and leave with a new sense of purpose, clarity, and confidence as a human and a yoga teacher.
Peace Retreat is located in the town of Playa Negra, along the stunning Pacific Gold Coast in the Province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, near Tamarindo. It is a thriving, intimate, boutique-style retreat center. Just over an hour drive from Liberia International Airport (LIR), Peace Retreat caters to yogis, wellness enthusiasts, surfers, and tourists looking to reset, refocus, restore, and explore - all in a safe, supportive environment that is surrounded by nature.
Peace Retreat is a wellness center designed to enhance the experience of nature that surrounds it by using an increased proportion of open-air common areas with simple and well-appointed accommodation options. The resort aims to support guests to comfortably immerse themselves within the vast open space and stunning scenery; to explore and connect with nature in a tropical setting; to achieve the right balance of peace and rejuvenation.
Peace Retreat's grounds are ripe with bountiful mango and lime trees, monkeys frolic everywhere, and the pool awaits for a relaxing dip. Additionally, Playa Negra beach is a short, 20-minute walk from the retreat center.
There are four room options at the Peace Retreat training:
Dorm: $4,900 USD
Cabina: $5,650 USD
Shared Bungalow: $6,400 USD
Single Bungalow: $8,250 USD
If electing for a payment plan, a $500 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot. Payment in full is then required within 60 days of receiving your deposit. If you register within 75 days of the start of training, payment in full is required.
All of your meals – 3 per day on full days and dinner on arrival day and breakfast on the last day.
Tea/coffee from 7am-10am each morning
Linens, bath towels and daily housekeeping
Transportation to/from airport when you arrive within with the other trainees in our arrival window
Teacher Training Manual
Airfare, spa services, extra food/drinks from the bar, excursions like surfing and SUP.
Peace Retreat does not provide soap, shampoo or conditioner.
Two additional required books.
Casa Verde (Dorm): A shared space, which is designed with seven distinct and private quarters. Each space includes a single bed, side table, lamp, Wi-Fi, and direct access to beautiful outdoor stone showers, sinks, and community washroom facility. All linens, towels, and daily housekeeping service included.
Shared Cabinas: Eight well-placed and lovingly constructed cabinas. Cabinas are constructed with reforested teakwood and contain very simple yet comfortable furniture also constructed of reforested teakwood.
Each cabina has been situated in a way that maximizes the experience of the Costa Rican breezes. The cabinas have screened windows which further support the experience of being fully immersed in nature while feeling comfortable. Cabinas have two single beds, lighting, a ceiling fan, a safe for personal belongings, and an open-air closet for storage space.
Bungalows (Double or Single): Wake up to the sounds of monkeys in the trees above you. Grab your coffee and sip it as you watch the sun rise on your private terrace overlooking the jungle.
Our brand new bungalows feature air conditioning, handmade teak wood furniture, two single beds, an en suite bathroom, and a large private terrace. All bungalows are also equipped with outdoor and indoor showers, ceiling fans, hot water and a safe for valuables
Peace Retreat is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from the Liberia airport. We offer a shuttle service to those who arrive within the designated window of arrival to the Liberia airport.
Power Life’s training is based in Power Vinyasa Yoga. During training you will also have opportunities to explore other styles of yoga to give you a broader understanding of the practice.
At Power Life, we like to call our teacher training programs Better Human Training. Through the leadership training and personal development provided, you are sure to end training a better partner, friend, coworker, sister, brother, daughter, son… and human!
We will offer two special ceremonies during the training:
The Sweat Lodge, also known as Temascal or Inipi, an ancient and pure medicine ceremony, is a temple to honor the elements of earth, fire, water, and air. An opportunity to experience a spiritual reunion with the creator and a respectful connection to the earth itself. The intention is to clean the mind, the body, and to find balance within.
Cacao ceremonies aim to re-balance the energies within us and restore good health. For centuries, cacao has been used to heal the mental, physical, and spiritual body. Native shamanic tools like drumming, feather cleansing, smudging, and shamanic sound journeys may be used in the ceremony.
6:30-8:00a: Practice of meditation, breathwork and asana
8:00-9:00a: Breakfast
9:30a-12:30p: Lectures and discussion on yoga philosophy and history, meditation, breathwork and anatomy
12:30-1:30p: Lunch
1:30-2:30p: Self study (Break)
3:00-6:00p: Posture breakdowns, practice teaching, sequencing, theme and assisting
6:30-7:30p: Dinner
7:30-8:30p: Community circle
There are few schools that can claim the same level of experience as Power Life. We have been leading yoga teacher trainings for over 10 years. In that time, we have trained over 2500 yoga and fitness professionals. Our trainings are highly regarded in the yoga community, as evidenced by our ranking of 4.71 out of 5 stars on Yoga Alliance.
Combined, Kirk and Christen have 30+ years of experience teaching yoga and have been leading trainings for 20+ years. They have trained nearly 900 people to be better humans… And, oh yeah, how to teach yoga!
The food is amazing! We offer a healthy, local, and sustainable culinary menu, and all food is prepped by a local chef. We can also cater to special dietary needs. The food is generally vegetarian, with fish available on occasion.
Many visitors do not require a visa to Costa Rica for tourist stays of up to 90 days. You can use this link as a guide to determine the requirements of your country.
Generally, you must have a valid passport and a return or onward ticket out of the country.
Liberia International Airport (LIB) is 75 minutes away from Peace Retreat and the recommended airport to fly into. We will provide transportation to Peace Retreat from this airport. You may also fly into San Jose International Airport (SJO). You can either arrange transportation on your own from SJO to Peace Retreat or take a quick flight from SJO to LIB.
You can email Kirk at kirk.lautensleger@powerlife.com or use this link to schedule a call with him to get all of your questions answered.
"Out of my training, not only did I gain a better understanding of yoga, but I also gained several new friendships that have made my life richer."
- Matthew R."I was so nervous to begin teacher training and had no idea what to expect. After day one I instantly felt a part of the community and like I belonged. I met an incredible group of people and was able to experience Power Life's values firsthand."
-Spring 2023 Trainee"If you are questioning whether you want to go for this, I encourage you to do so! This was by far one of the most challenging yet rewarding processes that I've ever been through. I gained so much knowledge and some great friends too!"
- Spring 2023 Trainee“One decision truly can change your life! Going through teacher training was an amazing experience, and I'm so glad I made the decision to do it!"
-Mallory A.No. All we advise is that you have an active yoga practice and that you are looking to deepen it. Whether your practice started a couple months ago or ten years ago, all we ask is that you come with an open heart and a willingness to learn.
You don’t have to be sure! Many trainees take training to elevate their personal practice, connect deeper with themselves, develop a skill set like public speaking or meet new likeminded individuals.
Yes! Once you’ve successfully complete the requirements of training, you’ll be awarded a graduation certificate. You can then register with Yoga Alliance as an RYT-200. This designation is recognized around the world as having met the criteria of completing a training program of the highest quality.
Yes. All payment plans require a $500 non-refundable deposit as your first payment. The remaining balance is to be paid via four equal payments over the next 60 days. Payment plan options will be unavailable 75 days before the start date of training. Please contact us directly if you need a special exception to this 75-day rule
To be considered for a partial refund, all withdrawals must be received in writing by Power Life. If a trainee withdraws, a refund will be issued in accordance with the following table:
If a trainee withdraws 90+ days from the start of training, they will be refunded 75% of the balance (minus a deposit).
If a trainee withdraws 60-89 days from the start of training, they will be refunded 50% of the balance (minus a deposit).
If a trainee withdraws 30-59 days from the start of training, they will be refunded 25% of the balance (minus a deposit).
If a trainee withdraws less than 30 days from the start of training, no refunds will be given.
Please note, if a trainee withdraws 30-90 days from the start of training, they may be given the option to defer payments toward a future training. This option will be offered only once. If a trainee enrolls in a future training and is once again not able to complete it, they will need to pay any required deposit and full tuition should they wish to enroll in a different training in the future.
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As a former dancer, Jess has always been passionate about staying active. After her freshman year in college she decided to try Power Life as a way to stay in shape. She was immediately hooked! She loves the workouts and community Power Life has to offer. She can't wait to share her passion and practice with you!
I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance at the University of Iowa, a minor in Health Promotion and a 200 hour yoga certification in Hatha yoga. After spending a few years dancing professionally in Colorado, I moved to Omaha to be closer to family. Additionally, I have been working as a massage therapist since 2016. My favorite hobby is to take fitness classes and spend time outside playing with my two dogs, Rufus and Rylee. I love teaching students new ways to be active, so I can't wait to challenge you in my class!
Ally discovered Power Life in Kansas City. It was her first yoga experience and she immediately was hooked from the high energy and challenging workout. Outside of the studio, you can find Ally teaching third grade. In her free time, she enjoys running, reading, and playing with her two dogs. She has upbeat music and wants her students to leave feeling challenged on and off the mat.
Hiya, my name is Renae! I enjoy being outside (hiking, biking, camping, paddle-boarding, etc.) music, adventuring & spending time with my partner & our people. I love that Power Life creates a safe, inclusive, welcoming space and encourages community. I cant wait to sculpt or flow with ya!
I began my yoga journey in 2018 at Tulivesi in Marquette, MI, while receiving my Bachelor's in Psychology. Since May of 2021, I began teaching at Power Life as a 200 Hr RYT. Yoga is a humble-some melting pot for me - uniting mind, body, and spirit - while also connecting me to new friends and opportunities. Off the mat you can find me digging into the metaphysical side of life with a pocket full of crystals, essential oils, and maybe even a Tarot deck.. or 2! In the studio, I offer a space of freedom to be as YOU are to ground, explore, and grow. Come get your flow on with me in a mind-opening and soul-warming class.
I started my yoga journey during the off season for college basketball. It gave me a sense of balance and ignited a passion to continue the practice. When I moved from Denver to Omaha I knew it was time to make the jump to become an instructor. Since then yoga has been my outlet. I could not be more excited to share this passion with fellow yogis both on and off the mat!
Brianna recently graduated from college with her degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science. Bri loves spending her extra time running, baking, adventuring and Brunching all over KC. She recently fell in love with Power Life and thought what better way to connect with and energize as many people as she can than by teaching Power Barre classes. Brianna strives to create a Fun, Fit, Fabulous atmosphere through her classes, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and motivation.
Hi friends! I'm Emily- I'm a yoga/fitness enthusiast, foodie, and an avid reader. I love teaching yoga because it combines so many of the things I love- movement, connections, and people. My favorite things to include in a class are great music, high energy, and the chance to listen to/honor your body. I can't wait to practice with you!
YOU are why I show up onto my mat to teach! First yoga experience, years in, whether I know you or meeting you – you mean something to me, and I appreciate you for making it onto your mat. I hope you’ll experience an energetic challenge (not a scary challenge), one that is safe, fiery, loving and keeps you realizing YOU do hard things! Together we’ll experience multiple options for your body to experience based off what your body needs that practice. Laughs? We’ll absolutely get that in too! I started my practice at Power Life to make friends and find a community - years later my want hasn’t changed, but now I hope you’re a part of it. Come sweat with me in; Power 2’s, Sculpt, Barre or FIT classes.
My yoga practice began in 2017. I was diagnosed with scoliosis and a doctor recommended yoga to help with my pain. I soon realized along with the physical benefits I was also obtaining mental and spiritual benefits as well! I have a natural love for learning and teaching on and off my mat. Off my mat I received my Bachelors in Elementary Education from UMKC and my masters in Teaching English as a Second Language. On my mat I’m certified to teach Power and Hot Yoga. Come take one of my classes for growth mentally and physically and leave with a sense of belonging, empowerment, and peace.
Amy Morrison, E-RYT 500, has been teaching yoga since 2013. She did her first Power Vinyasa teacher training in Costa Rica just to learn something new and ended up falling in love with the practice. Since then, she has done multiple trainings with world-renowned teachers specializing in Vinyasa and meditation. She is a teacher’s teacher as she currently runs the 200-hr teacher training at Power Life. Her classes incorporate intelligent and invigorating sequencing, good music, and calming energy. Amy hopes to help students let go of stress and tension, while building strength and flexibility. Join her for a fun and liberating class!
On a personal note... Amy loves to travel! She is a kid at heart and loves spending most of her free time playing with her two boys, ages 1 and 5. She loves to create new things whether that be working on her clothing line or converting her sprinter van into a tiny home. She loves exploring new places with her family and dog, Frankie, reading books, going to concerts, and painting. Oh, and she loves pizza...
After graduating from Iowa State University, I needed a change in scenery and decided to make the move to Des Moines. Being a part of the Iowa State Track and Field team and being involved in multiple sports my whole life, I was searching for something new and challenging. After a few months of taking classes at Power Life Yoga I was hooked! I fell in love with the intensity Power Sculpt classes bring by incorporating weights into yoga and the encouraging community we are surrounded with. When I'm not at the studio you can find me cooking, biking, or hanging out on the nearest patio with a glass of wine, surrounded by family and friends!
I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 2017 and moved to the Des Moines area. I have always loved being active, so I decided to give Power Life a try and fell in love! I love to help others achieve their goals and bring a positive vibe.
Kelli began practicing yoga in her home with an app on her iPad. She wanted more out of her yoga practice, so with encouragement from her husband, tried PLY in 2015. She was immediately hooked by PLY’s positivity, community, and atmosphere. She discovered yoga’s physical and mental benefits. Kelli completed her 200 hour teacher training in 2018. She was inspired to share yoga’s ability to heal and grow physically and mentally with others. Off her mat Kelli is a high school math teacher and coach. She loves spending time with her husband, daughter, and miniature goldendoodle Orly. Going on walks and enjoying summer nights on the deck with a glass of wine are her favorite activities.
Summer had been dedicated to a treadmill-hopping, DVD-led, self-motivated workout routine for years. Not only was it boring, but after having a few babies, it seemed impossible. That’s when she found PLY and it was exactly what she had been looking for-- a versatile practice that is as much about mental and emotional health as it is physical. And while the physical work IS amazing, it’s the community of people that have inspired her to practice and teach.
Off her mat, Summer is a wife, mom, graphic designer, organization junkie, clean freak, knit and crochet enthusiast, and Christmas fanatic.
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You read that correctly! Until 10/1/23 you can save $1000 on either of our upcoming International Teacher Trainings. Tap the button below to submit your info and get the discount links.
Kirk was working 80-hour weeks and wearing his shoulders as earrings when he found yoga in 2005. Forever the competitive athlete, he loved the physicality of yoga. When the spiritual and philosophical side of yoga were exposed to him, Kirk was hooked. Yoga provided him with what other activities couldn’t -- the ability to foster the benefits of practice both on and off of the mat. Yoga was something that Kirk could bring into all aspects of his life.
Kirk knows that yoga can be intimidating, so he crafts a class that is playful and inviting, while still being challenging and safe. His creatively planned classes build strength and flexibility in your body and mind while establishing clarity, giving you more confidence to overcome obstacles in your life, and keeping you injury-free. His classes are themed with a message that is relatable and will inspire you to take it with you off your mat. Kirk has been teaching yoga since 2008 and lead his first teacher training in 2012. Where Kirk truly shines is in coaching, developing and bringing out the best in others.
Kirk enjoys traveling (40+ countries to date!), snowboarding, and cherishes time with his wife and two daughters.
Christen Bakken’s yoga journey began in 1998 in a Bikram studio that provided a safe and secure place to practice. She saw the yoga mat as a place to remember her purpose and a place to play. As she continued her studies and began her journey to teaching in 2006, Christen infused yoga classes with devotion and the yoga mat became a place of personal transformation and healing. Her classes are filled with laughter, song, sweat, and usually heart openers. In 2013, Christen began training yoga teachers. This is the place where she finds the most joy - in community with folks looking to grow and be of greater service in their homes, on their mats, and in the world. Over the years, she has led trainings in Denver, the Midwest, Florida, and now abroad. She has trained in continuing education modules, 200-hour, 300-hour, and 500-hour programs. Beyond the mat, Christen is a passionate adventure seeker - she loves to bike, snowboard, and spend time with her husband and pups. She sees each day as a blessing and hopes to remind all who interact with her of this truth.