What to Pack for a Month-Long Yoga Teacher Training in Goa

If you’re passionate about practising and teaching yoga, picking up yoga teacher training is probably one of the best career moves for you. Especially, seeking this training in a beautiful place like Goa. This beautiful beach city is renowned for its inspiring beaches, amazing architecture, calm and serene atmosphere, tropical climate and a place that is both safe and welcoming for international travellers to learn authentic and modern yoga styles that blends tradition with the contemporary requirements. One common question that most of the aspiring yoga teachers get troubled with is, what to pack for a month long yoga teacher training in Goa. Whether it is packing for a fun vacation or an educative course, it is important to keep in mind about things that you absolutely need and items that you can go without. With the right amount and right way of packing, you can not only stay organized throughout your training, but also stay focused and strike the right balance between comfort and practicality.

1. Study and tech items

Phone chargers (portable) and power banks

Adapter plugs for international travellers

Books of your choice or kindle for bibliophiles

Journal/ diary - for recording your emotions and experiences

Headphones for enjoying music or even guided meditations or sound healing

2. Yoga apparel

4-6 sets of yoga leggings and shorts

5-6 tank tops or light t shirts of good quality quick dry material that allows you to stay cool during practice.

Comfortable cotton t shirts for enjoying Pranayama and meditation sessions for comfortable breathing and focus.

One white dress to wear during ceremonies or visit to ashrams.

3. Footwear

During the yoga practice you'd be bare footed most of the times,

But you can keep good grip socks for avoiding skip and resistance on the mat.

Flip flops for the beaches

Sneakers or light shoes for jungle trekking and cycling

Light sandals for visiting local markets and cafes

4. Toiletaries and skin essentials

·        Goa has a tropical climate with humid days and cool evenings

·        Keep sunscreens - Spf 30 and higher

·        Aloevera gel to keep skin cool from sun burns

·        Lip balms (preferably with Spf)

·        Deodrants

·        Wet wipes and sanitizer

·        Shampoo

·        Mosquito repellent creams

5. Health and wellness items

Reusable water bottles

First aid kit (the yoga schools will probably have it, but it's better to have a personal first aid kit).

Generally, people who come to Goa can find maximum things at local market. They can carry their multivitamins or some other medications which are Geo specific and can be difficult to find in India.

6. Yoga Essentials

Yoga mat and props - Students generally get yoga mat and props at school. It is advised to carry personal mat as it carries person’s energy and keep them connected wherever they go but because of long travel plans if they don’t want to increase their luggage, they can easily get used mats at school. The props are also available at fully equipped yoga halls like AdiYogam school hall.

Mat cleaners are not allowed in air travel so it is better to avoid these things. Also, these are easily available at the school or ashrams.

7. Document essentials

·        Passport and visa

·        ID cards and few photocopies

·        Documents for travel insurance

·        Local currency and international debit/ credit  cards

·        Cross body bags and money pouches for safe keeping

8. Additional items

Tote bags for beach runs

Compact umbrellas and raincoats

Snacks - energy bars and electrolyte packets for staying upbeat amidst hunger pangs

9. For outside the yoga school

·        A swimsuit for enjoying at the beach

·        A scarf or light shawl for temple visits

·        Maxi dresses and shorts to enjoy the beach vibe

Tips before you finalize your packing list for YTTC

·        Avoid synthetic material in your clothing as it can trap heat and moisture.

·        Taking magnesium supplements will help prevent cramps after long practice sessions.

·        Do not carry multiple or heavy clothing.

·        Avoid bulky gadgets.

·        Avoid carrying large bottles of toiletries, small, refillable bottles will be best.

·        Also, avoid carrying expensive items and jewellery.

·        Pack light, as the local markets of Goa have everything catered for yoga tourists.

·        You can label your accessories, charger and personal items for convenience.

·        Come with curiosity and an open heart.

·        Be open to unlearn and learn new things.

Conclusion

Packing for a month long Yoga teacher training in Goa can not only be hectic but also a step in preparing you and your mind set for what is to come next. When you step foot in an immersive journey as teacher trainings, it is important to have discipline, joy and simplicity in your travel and day to day items. So that you can not only have things handy as per your requirements, but also have a practical approach towards what to carry and what to avoid. If you are wishing to enrol in a mindful and professionally sound Yoga courses in Goa getting attached with credible yoga schools like AdiYogam can be an ideal choice.