By: Steph Ball-Mitchell, ERYT500, RPYT, RCYT, YACEP, CAADC.
Yoga isn’t just a physical practice; it’s a holistic discipline that seeks to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit. Aspiring to become a yoga teacher is a significant step in deepening your understanding and commitment to this ancient practice.
We’re here to provide you with a few valuable insights and practical tips for preparing for yoga teacher training so you feel ready on day one with a positive outlook for the journey ahead. Here’s what you should know.
Understanding the Commitment
Embarking on a yoga teacher training course necessitates a significant commitment of your time, energy, and resources. It’s not just about developing asanas (yoga poses) but also about diving into yoga philosophy, anatomy, and teaching methodologies. Therefore, understanding the depth and breadth of this commitment is crucial before you begin so you can navigate the demands appropriately.
Physical Preparation
While you don’t need to be a master yogi to enroll in a teacher training course, a certain level of physical fitness and familiarity with basic yoga poses is helpful. Regular practice before starting the course will help you build strength, flexibility, and endurance. This physical preparation can make the intense training schedule feel more like an extension of your practice rather than something entirely foreign.
Mental and Emotional Preparation
Yoga teacher training can be as emotionally intense as it is physically challenging. Engaging with yoga philosophy can prompt self-reflection and personal growth. Try techniques such as meditation and pranayama (breath control) to help cultivate mental resilience and emotional balance before training begins.
Financial Preparation
Investing in a yoga teacher training course can be a substantial financial commitment, depending on your personal finances. Be sure to consider the tuition cost, accommodation, meals, and other expenses like books and materials. It’s also prudent to have some savings for unexpected costs during the training.
Alternatively, finding an online yoga certification program is one of the more affordable ways to achieve your teacher training aspirations. These online platforms and schools offer more ease and access when it comes to their offerings. If finances are snug, an online program is your best option.
Choosing the Right School and Style
With myriad yoga styles and schools available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Consider factors like the school’s reputation, the experience of the teachers, the style of yoga they teach, and the course curriculum. Ensure that your chosen school aligns with your personal yoga philosophy and teaching aspirations.
Our Closing Thoughts
Preparing for yoga teacher training is a rewarding journey of self-discovery and skill development. But what you should know is that it requires thoughtful preparation and commitment. Remember that this journey is not just about becoming a yoga teacher; it’s also about deepening your personal yoga practice and understanding of this profound discipline. Join our transformative community here at Online Yoga School when you’re ready to embark on your journey. Enroll today to begin!