50-Hour Handstands
Teacher Training
Italy | Sicily
2 – 8 November 2025
Welcome to the Move Breathe Academy & Shakti Bird 50-Hour Yoga Teacher Training on Handstands
Join us for a full week of immersive learning, practice, and exploration in the heart of Sicily.
This training is designed to deepen your understanding of inversions, with a special focus on handstands, anatomy, a lot of practicing and the art of teaching these empowering poses.
You can build confidence, knowledge and skills to share and practice the beautiful art of handstanding.
What are you waiting for?
Sign up today!
At Move Breathe Academy, we believe that yoga is not just a practice but a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and transformation.
Our 50-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training on Handstands, in collaboration with Shakti Bird, is a unique and immersive experience designed for those who are passionate about inversions, handstands, and the art of teaching these empowering poses. Whether you’re a handstand lover, a yogi, or simply someone who loves to move and explore the possibilities of your body, this training is for you.
This program is more than just a training—it’s an opportunity to deepen your understanding of inversions, refine your skills, and connect with a community of like-minded individuals in one of the most beautiful and inspiring locations in the world: Sicily, Italy.
This training is perfect for YOU if :
You would like to take your yoga practice and understanding to the next level
You are searching for authentic yoga in an environment designed for transformation
You dream of becoming a certified yoga teacher and turning your passion into a thriving career
Aspiring HANDSTANDERS
Adventure Lovers
Movement GEEKS
Professionals
COACHES
TRAINERS
Yoga Enthusiasts
personal trainers
Personal Development FANATICS
While this training is open to everyone, we recommend that participants have at least 1 years of yoga or any movement practice. You don’t need to be able to balance in a handstand, forearm stand, or headstand to attend — this training is about learning, growing, and exploring. However, a solid foundation of strength, body awareness, and a serious interest in inversions will help you get the most out of the experience.
Already an inversion pro? This training is also for you! Come to refine your skills, learn new tips and tricks, and deepen your ability to teach inversions to all levels of practitioners.
Key Notes:
You do NOT need a yoga teacher training certification to attend.
This training is open to both teachers and non-teachers.
What You’ll Learn
This training is a comprehensive exploration of inversions, with a special focus on handstands. Here’s what you can expect:
🤸 Master the Mechanics of Inversions 🤸
Understand the anatomy and alignment of inversions.
Explore shoulder and pelvic anatomy and their role in inversions.
Discover common risk factors and how to adapt inversions for different body types and abilities.
🧑⚕️ Become a Handstand Clinician 🧑⚕️
Diagnose imbalances in your own or your students’ handstands.
Learn how to prescribe precise corrections using Shakti’s Method.
This systematic approach cuts through trial and error, helping you identify weaknesses, tailor drills, and accelerate progress with clarity.
🙌 Deepen Your Handstand Practice with Shakti’s Method 🙌
Train daily with a structured framework that breaks down handstands into manageable components.
1. Dissect, 2. Diagnose and 3. Prescribe.
Daily handstand labs and practices with drills for beginners to advanced practitioners.
💪 Build Strength and Confidence 💪
Practice conditioning drills to build the strength and mobility needed for inversions.
Learn how to use props, partners, and walls to make inversions accessible and safe.
Develop the confidence to fall, recover, and try again.
🧠 Learn with Clarity and Precision 🧠
Learn how to apply Shakti’s Method to:
Break down inversions into step-by-step progressions for all levels.
Master hands-on adjustments and actionable cues inspired by the method.
Sequence drills strategically to address individual limitations.
💜 Explore the Philosophy and Purpose of Inversions 💜
Explore the mind-body principles behind the balancing discipline with play, precision with adaptability.
Dispel common myths and cultivate a sustainable, joyful approach to inversions.
Sample Daily Schedule
Each day is thoughtfully structured to balance movement, learning, and rest.
Here’s an example of what a day might look like:
Morning
7:00 – 7:30am : Meditation, Journaling, or Pranayama
7:30 – 10:00am : Morning Flow Class
10:00 – 11:00am : Brunch
Midday
11:00am – 1:00pm : HS Lab's + Workshop + Teaching Methodologies such as:
Anatomy and alignment for inversions
Handstand Practice and Lab's
Hands-on adjustments and assists
Afternoon
1:00 – 4:30pm : Break (rest, explore, or enjoy the surroundings)
4:30 – 6:00pm : Practicing , Follow-Up, and Recovery
Evening
7:00 – 8:30pm : Dinner and Community Time
During the week included in your price will be provided 2 Excursions
Stroll and granita in the UNESCO town of Noto.
Visit Rosolini, a picturesque location featured in many films.
Why This Training Is Unique
Plenty of Handstand Practice
Start each day with an inspiring and invigorating movement session.
Continue your day with pleanty of Handstanding!
Hands-On Adjustments
Learn how to safely and effectively move and progress in your handstand journey.
Anatomy and Alignment
Gain a deep understanding of the body’s mechanics in handstand.
Clinic Focus
This training isn’t just about doing handstands—it’s about learning them with confidence and clarity.
Meet your
Teachers
Meet our Amazing team of dedicated yoga teachers. With our different backgrounds from sports to professional lives we want to bring you the best training we can provide you. We have been training with the best teachers from their respective fields and have combined all that knowledge together to bring you a very complete YTT.
We can't wait to share our knowledge with you!
Shakti Bird aka Sarah Bonsall
Teacher
Shakti Bird is a dynamic and inspiring yoga teacher, movement educator, and handstand enthusiast known for her passion for inversions and her ability to make complex poses accessible to all.
With a background in dance, gymnastics, and yoga, Shakti brings a unique blend of strength, grace, and creativity to her teaching.
Her approach is rooted in anatomy, alignment, and empowerment, helping students build confidence and skill in their practice.
Shakti is celebrated for her ability to break down challenging poses like handstands into manageable steps, making them approachable for practitioners of all levels.
Shakti’s classes and workshops are a fusion of playfulness and precision, encouraging students to explore their potential while honoring their bodies. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner, Shakti’s guidance will inspire you to move with intention, curiosity, and joy.
Join Shakti for this transformative 50-hour training and experience her expertise, warmth, and infectious energy firsthand.
Patrick van der Pol
Teacher
Born and raised in The Netherlands, from a young age, Patrick has been deeply immersed in martial arts, beginning with karate at the age of eight before expanding into Kung Fu and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). It wasn’t until later in life that he discovered Yoga, a practice that profoundly transformed his perspective.
Unlike anything before, Yoga offered him a complete system, elements that are now fully integrated into his daily life, both on and off the mat.
As a professional firefighter, Patrick has experienced firsthand how Yoga enhances physical resilience, prevents injuries, and builds mental clarity under pressure. Teaching Yoga to fellow firefighters has reinforced his belief in its necessity, particularly for men who often lack awareness of proper breathing, focus, and functional movement.
With extensive studies in Pranayama and Breathwork, he bridges the gap between science and ancient wisdom, helping students understand the profound impact of breath on the body and mind. Holding advanced certifications in Hatha, Yin, Functional Anatomy, and Breathwork, Patrick continues refining his knowledge through specialized training and workshops with renowned teachers.
Eli aka Elisa van der Pol
Teacher
Born and raised in Italy, Eli has always been passionate about movement. Introduced to postural training at a young age due to scoliosis, she first fell in love with movement through competitive swimming before transitioning to middle-distance running and later martial arts like Taekwondo.
Despite sustaining serious injuries(after 2 bad car accidents), her dedication never wavered, ultimately leading her to Yoga and functional movement, which became both a tool for recovery and a deeper connection to the body.
With over 1000 hours of Yoga & Movement education, Eli is committed to continuous learning and sharing her knowledge in a comprehensive way. Eli's approach encourages students to challenge their comfort zones, play, explore their boundaries, and reconnect with their inner wisdom.
Beyond movement, Eli has a strong academic background, alongside certifications in Nutrition, Wellness, and Breathwork. Passionate about nature, chai, and playful exploration on the mat, she continues to refine her expertise through advanced training and workshops with some of the most respected teachers in the field. Passionate about movement, breath, and mindful living, she is dedicated to sharing these transformative practices with others.
Joshua Zimmerman
Teacher
Joshua Zimmerman, known as yogijoshua, started his journey as a competitive powerlifter. After breaking a national squat record in 2012, his dream was realized and he began seeking his next chapter.
After sampling movement methodologies such as calisthenics, capoeira, modern dance, parkour, and gymnastics, yogijoshua found the practice of yoga.
Shortly after he fell in love with the practice, he took a pilgrimage to India to study the authentic system of yoga from the illuminated swamis, rishis, and yogis nestled between the Himalayas and Ganges River.
Since his return, and his own experience of illumination, Joshua has amalgamated his passion for strength, hand balancing, and traditional yoga into a transformative, unique experience, that each of his students carry with them for the rest of their lives.
In this current season of Joshua’s teaching, he is blending the energy of love, poetic expression, and passion into his movement practices, inspiring the hearts of his students to “fly in a special way” - the true definition of vinyasa. He remains eager to share his experience with you, embracing you exactly as you are.
Yoga Alliance Certified
This 50-hour training is Yoga Alliance certified, making it a valuable addition to your teaching credentials. Whether you’re looking to advance your personal practice or expand your teaching toolkit, this training offers a comprehensive and recognized certification that will elevate your skills and deepen your understanding of inversions, anatomy, and movement.
Location: A Sanctuary in Sicily
Our training takes place in a stunning Zensicily, nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Sicily. Surrounded by olive groves, citrus orchards, and the sparkling Ionian Sea, this location offers the perfect blend of tranquility and inspiration.
Your Home for Transformation
2 practice spaces included one open-air yoga shala with panoramic views.
Fresh, organic, plant-based meals prepared with love by our chef.
Comfortable accommodations in a traditional Sicilian country house.
Proximity to Noto, UNESCO World Heritage site, and the pristine beaches of the Vendicari Nature Reserve.
The Training House 🏡
A beautiful and spacious rural house with natural light, high ceilings with wooden beams, and breathtaking views your home away from home during the training.
✅ Cozy living spaces including a large living room and a space for your study time.
✅ Thoughtfully designed rooms with en-suite or shared bathrooms, and loft spaces.
Every corner of our house is designed to enhance relaxation, connection, and inspiration, making it the perfect setting for your yoga teacher training journey.
The Yoga Shala 🧘
Our minimalist, bright, and serene yoga shala has been carefully crafted to provide an authentic and immersive experience.
Overlooking the mountains, olive groves, and Mediterranean Sea, this sacred space allows you to fully embrace the peace and beauty of your surroundings. In addition you will find:
✅ Indoor & Outdoor Yoga Spaces – Experience practice in nature or in our light-filled studio.
✅ All the Equipment for Yoga & Meditation – Mats, bolsters, pillows, and more.
Additional Amenities 🌿
To enhance your well-being and provide the ultimate experience, we also offer:
✅ Two distinct areas designed for yoga and other practices.
✅ A cozy dining room serving meals prepared with fresh, organic produce from the garden.
✅ Explore the on-site organic farm and enjoy the surrounding nature.
✅The venue features vegetable gardens, an aromatherapeutic labyrinth, and multiple relaxing areas furnished to unwind and immerse in nature.
✅Daily Shuttle to the city of Noto, UNESCO heritage
✅Massage - We offer different kinds of treatments with expert of various disciplines, so that you can choose the option that fits better for you, according to your free time and to your body and mind needs.
✅15 minutes from the pristine beaches of the Vendicari Nature Reserve.
This is more than just a training space, it’s a place of transformation, inspiration, and connection. Whether you’re here to deepen your practice, step into your role as a teacher, or embark on a new path, every detail has been designed to support your growth and evolution.
🌿 Are you ready to embark on this life-changing journey? 🌿
50-Hour Handstands
Yoga Teacher Training
Tuition:
€ 650
Limited Time Offer:
First 5 sign ups access a 150€ discount on this flat tuition rate!
No hidden fees.
No upselling.
Two easy payments.
Possible Installments on request.
Personal application process.
Access to instructors pre-arrival
Room and Board for the 7 days of your stay it’s not included in the training price, and you can choose from the options below
Here's what you get:
Full access to all facilities: Wifi, Salas, Olive groves and citrus orchards.
All Materials : Classes, academic fees, text books, work-books and diploma.
2 Excursions : Stroll and Granita in the UNESCO town of Noto; Visit of Rosolini, location of many movies
Healthy Meals : Delicious, healthy brunch, dinner and afternoon snack every day of your YTT.
Certificate : Receive a Yoga Alliance 50 H YTT certificate upon completion.
Graduation : Our graduation parties are epic and unforgettable!
Future : MB Academy helps you with your Yoga Alliance registration. Plus opportunities to collaborate with us.
Choose Your Accomodation
Room and Board for the 7 days of your stay it’s not included in the training price, and you can choose from the following options:
SINGLE Room
Early Bird € 1,850
Regular Price € 2,050
Single room
En-suite bathroom
Towels and bedding
DOUBLE Room
Early Bird € 1,550
Regular Price € 1,790
Shared room (2 pp in each room)
En-suite bathroom
Towels and bedding
Apartment ROOM
(SHARED)
Early Bird € 1,250
Regular Price € 1,490
Shared Room (4 pp in each room)
En-suite bathroom
Towels and bedding
What will I eat?
We provide you with healthy food to fuel your body for optimum performance.
We believe the way we eat and make food matters. Your food choices greatly affect your well-being and your future. Establishing the right eating habits is the first step to self-mastery.
During the your teacher training you will enjoy the amazing healthy meals together with your fellow students. Our chef will be sure to cook your meals with great care and love. Making sure to provide you with health-conscious delicious vegetarian/vegan meals.
Join Us for This Transformative Experience
This 50-hour training is a rare opportunity to deepen your practice, refine your skills, and connect with a supportive community in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Whether you’re a teacher looking to expand your knowledge or a practitioner eager to explore the world of handstands, this training will empower you to take your practice to new heights.
Limited Spaces Available
Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the art of handstands.
Reserve your spot today and take the first step toward mastering the upside-down world of handbalancing.
For more information or to register, contact us at [email protected]
Move Breathe Academy & Shakti Bird
Empowering You to Move, Breathe, and Thrive
