About the IYTA The IYTA is an international organisation founded in Australia in 1967. The Association has branches, contacts and members in more than 20 countries. The IYTA aims to promote the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual benefits of yoga for everybody, regardless of age, sex, ability or disability, ethnicity or religion. The IYTA's primary activity is to conduct yoga teacher training. Its highly regarded course has been running for over 30 years. Over 2,000 students have graduated from it. The IYTA also provides excellent professional development programmes. The IYTA upholds the highest ethics of yoga teaching and professional conduct for its members. Vision statement The IYTA's mission is to bring and deepen awareness and practice of Yoga in the lives of many thousands of people in Australia and around the world. To help achieve this, the IYTA aims to be pre-eminent in the training of Yoga teachers, particularly in Australia. We stand as a beacon for an inclusive and welcoming approach to Yoga - bringing light on the principles and practice of Yoga to all who seek it.  IYTA positioning statement  The IYTA stands for a holistic, practical, safe and inclusive approach to Yoga. Its primary activity is to conduct Yoga teacher training. The IYTA is a well-established and highly regarded international organisation, with members and graduate teachers in many countries as well as Australia. The IYTA promotes Yoga's many benefits - physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. It aims to increase understanding and application of the principles and philosophy of Yoga. The IYTA's aims and objects Included amongst the aims and objects for which the Association was established are to: Promote the growth of the understanding and practice of the principles and philosophy of Yoga throughout the world. Promote discussion, consultation and co-operation within the Association. Ensure Yoga is available to all persons regardless of age, sex, ability or disability, ethnicity or religion. Promote and develop teaching standards that are consistent throughout Australia and provide a model for overseas branches, with observation of safe practices. Provide courses and examinations whereby teachers may reach the required professional standard. Establish IYTA as pre-eminent in the training of Yoga teachers and to promote IYTA qualified teachers to employing organisations. Increase understanding of the underlying philosophy and mythology of Yoga. Provide ongoing support and training for members Benefits of belonging to the IYTA  Membership of a professional teaching association Fellowship and community with like-minded peers; including IYTA teachers around the world Eligibility to attend on-going professional development courses, workshops and seminars Use of letters IYTA after name, by full members Listing as an IYTA certified teacher including on the IYTA website Access to reasonable rates for teacher's insurance Opportunity to sponsor own students through the Teacher Training Course Subscription to IYTA journal 'International Light' and to State newsletters, where published

Click here to download the article about IYTA which appeared in Australian Yoga Life in March-May 2010