Yoga Instructors for Level 1
Ananda Yoga® Teacher Training


Gyandev McCord

Director of Ananda Yoga Teacher Training

Gyandev McCord is the Director of Ananda Yoga Worldwide and Ananda Yoga Teacher Training.

He is also a founding board member of Yoga Alliance, the organization that has developed standards for yoga teachers nationally.

Gyandev has coauthored these books:

… and has also produced two videos:

“Through [Gyandev’s] dedication and commitment, many souls will be touched by true yoga.

“I have been touched – I am filled by my last experience and will come as soon as I am able for the next!”

– J.M., Cincinnati, Ohio


Maitri Jones

Instructor in Asana, Director of Ananda YTT Assistantship

Maitri Jones is a Level 2 Ananda Yoga Teacher and one of the two primary teachers in Ananda’s Yoga Teacher Training program.

She also teaches the AYTT Assistantship, a Level 2 program in which AYTT graduates refine their skills in adjusting students in the asanas.

Maitri has an enduring love for Ananda Yoga and has been practicing for over 30 years. As a yoga and meditation teacher and a nurse, she has a special interest in using yoga as therapy for body, mind, and spirit.  She has shared yoga postures and philosophy through many classes at The Expanding Light, the local community college, private yoga sessions, and leading yoga stretch breaks on Ananda's Internet Radio. Maitri enjoys supporting others as they discover the physical, mental, and energetic benefits, as well as the spiritual essence of yoga and meditation.

“I had heard the name ‘Maitri’ before I spoke with Maitri for the first time on the phone. It is a Sanskrit name, which I had read means ‘loving kindness.’ That is exactly who Maitri Jones is, in my experience of her—the embodiment of loving kindness. When I took Ananda’s Radiant Health Training, Maitri became my personal coach, and taught me who I really was—not my ego self, but a child of God with unlimited possibilities for happiness, good health, and peace in a challenging world. She gently nudged me in the direction that has brought me peace of mind and gratitude. I will always be grateful to have Maitri in my life—she has helped to forever change my life, teaching me loving kindness toward myself and everyone else.”
—K.C., Chico, CA

“I had heard many wonderful recommendations about the Ananda Yoga Teacher Training Program, but it was my initial meeting with Maitri Jones that made me decide to take it. She graciously and generously spent time answering my questions and explaining the program. Our personal connection continued throughout the course as she encouraged each one of us, took time to individually assist us in the poses, shared her experiences, and helped us to stay on track. I truly appreciated her medical background, as it helped clarify our questions with actual experiences.”
—R.C., Granite Bay, CA


Diksha McCord

Instructor in Yoga Philosophy and Asana

Diksha is a Level 2 Ananda Yoga teacher and one of our most popular teachers. A powerful and dynamic woman, she teaches a wide variety of courses at The Expanding Light, and co-directs Ananda’s Meditation Teacher Training and Spiritual Counselor Training courses.

Diksha is also an outstanding chef and very knowledgeable about the yogic diet and Ayurveda, an Indian system of natural health and healing, and is the author of:

Each year, Diksha and Gyandev lead a yogic healing vacation to an five star Ayurvedic clinic in India.  

“Diksha’s knowledge and conviction are inspirational. She is a master teacher and human being.

”I feel that I have a clearer path ahead of me. I can only thank her for who she is and all that she gave me.”

– J.G., Templeton, CA


Barbara Bingham

Instructor in Anatomy & Physiology and Modifying Asanas

Barbara brings all of her training together in her yoga teaching and helps people enjoy using their bodies in the healthiest way possible.

Known for her playful, approachable style, Barbara finds the greatest joy in making yoga accessible to everyone.

Barbara is the producer of the video, Yoga for Menopause (watch a free excerpt), and is working on a book of the same title. She has also produced two other videos: Sadhana and The Energization Exercises.

“Barbara made the program. Her background in Western medicine made what she taught logical and believable.

”Her knowledge of each movement will allow me to take home a newfound confidence in knowing the limits of my body and its potential.”

– C.S., Pomona, CA

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200-hour certification in one month

Yes, you can split the course into 2 two-week segments

Next Training:

  • Oct 24 – Nov 21, 2010
  • Jan 9 – Feb 6, 2011
  • Mar 27 – April 24, 2011

Registered Yoga School for 200 and 500 hours

Nursing CEU Eligible: 100 hours CEU


“This was the best month of my life – truly a life-transforming experience…”

– C. S., Fresno, California



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“My 4 weeks of Ananda Yoga Teacher Training was one of the most fulfilling and spiritually transforming periods in my life. All of the instructors, along with the entire Ananda community, were very supportive and nurturing.”
– R. F., Lake Bluff, Illinois



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