Why I Chose to Do My Yoga Teacher Training in Lisbon and How It Changed Everything

This post was written by Sarah Kelly, a graduate of the Power to Lead 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Lisbon, Portugal.

Stepping into Trish Corley's yoga teacher training in Lisbon was more than a commitment to deepen my practice. It was a leap into a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and authentic connection with likeminded people. Amid the vibrant energy of Lisbon and the grounded presence of our newly established yoga community, I found myself unraveling old patterns, building new strengths, and learning to teach from a place of purpose. This training was not just about learning poses or perfecting sequences. It was about embodying the essence of yoga both on and off the mat.

Why I Chose Lisbon for My Yoga Teacher Training

Lisbon felt like the right place for this chapter of my life. I had just gone through a big life transition, and there is something special about this city's energy that feels grounding and inspiring. I wanted to do something that was purely for me. I wanted to step out of my usual routines and learn something completely new.

As someone who has always loved sport, I had spent years training hard, pushing limits, and inevitably getting injured. Yoga helped me recover, not just physically but mentally too. It gave me the tools to move better, to understand my body on a deeper level, and to approach movement with curiosity rather than competition.

Choosing to do my training in Lisbon meant I could immerse myself in that learning while also practicing how to stay present amid the city's constant motion, reminding me to stay balanced both on and off the mat.

Highlights of My Training

One of the biggest highlights for me was deepening my understanding of anatomy with Trish, who brings her background as a physical therapist into every aspect of the training. Coming from a sports background, I have always been fascinated by how the body moves and sometimes how it breaks down when we push too hard. Learning the why behind the poses helped me connect the dots between strength, mobility, and longevity in a way that felt both practical and empowering.

The real highlight for me, however, was not just the science. It was the sense of play that came with it. As a primary school teacher, I spend my days encouraging children to explore, take risks, and discover new things. Yet as adults we rarely give ourselves permission to do the same.

During this training that changed. With the support of a kind, open group and a learning environment that truly encouraged curiosity, I found myself playing again; trying new things, pushing through fears, and enjoying the process rather than chasing perfection. It reminded me that growth does not have to be serious. Sometimes it just starts with showing up, staying curious, and letting yourself explore.

Tips for Future Students

If you are considering doing your yoga teacher training in Lisbon with Trish, my biggest piece of advice is to come with an open mind. You do not need to be able to touch your toes, balance on your hands, or know every Sanskrit word. You just need to be curious, willing to listen, and ready to learn.

Every day will challenge you in different ways, both physically and emotionally, but that is part of what makes the experience so meaningful. Give yourself permission to slow down and really absorb everything - the teaching, the city, and the other participants.

Lisbon, with its beautiful tiled buildings and hidden miradouros, has a wonderful way of reminding you to pause, look up, and appreciate where you are. And if you are anything like me, you will finish the training not only with new knowledge and skills but also with a deeper sense of connection to yourself, to others, and to the practice of yoga.

AreYou Ready to Take the Next Step?

Discover the Power to Lead 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Lisbon, Portugal. The only yoga teacher training in Portugal led by a Doctor of Physical Therapy. [Learn More About Power to Lead]

About the Training

The Power to Lead 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Lisbon, Portugal is led by Dr. Trish Corley, a Doctor of Physical Therapy (Physiotherapy) and yoga teacher trainer with over two decades of clinical experience. Visit the program page for upcoming cohort dates and details.