Written by Emily Kane – owner of Yogacara Whistler and staff member of the Yogacara Yoga Teacher Training program
I used to think Yoga Teacher Training was out of my grasp. Seeing the respect that yoga teachers had for leading classes with confidence, awareness and grace is what drew me towards yoga teacher training, but life seemed to get in the way. Becoming a yoga teacher was always put on the back burner. When I finally took the leap, it was like I found the place I was always meant to be. I was making a commitment to myself – the start of a lifelong journey. Even if I had decided not to teach public classes, it would still be one of the most important decisions I’ve ever made. So why did it take me so long? There are some common misconceptions about yoga teacher training that could hold someone back from doing what they love. Here’s why anytime’s a great time to start your next journey.
1.) You think you’re not good enough
I started practicing yoga just before I turned 15 years old, but it took me years to complete my yoga teacher training. Why? I didn’t think I was good enough. I couldn’t really do anything “crazy,” my warrior II felt like it needed some work, and from time-to-time, I fell out of balancing poses. If you think you need to do EVERY pose, think again. Yoga’s much more than asana (or poses) and just like the lessons we’re taught in class, we’re encouraged to work wherever we’re at in that moment. Honoring your body and letting go of the ego should be a priority, which sometimes means letting go of that pose you’d really like to master. That doesn’t mean you’ll never achieve it, that just means re-framing your thinking. Rather than focusing on outcome goals, strive to be your best self.
Tip for yoga teacher training: Once you have a consistent yoga practice and familiarity with many of the typical yoga poses, you’re ready for physical aspect of yoga teacher training.
2.) There’s never enough time
For me, there was always something else in the way. Luckily, these days there are tons of options that can suit anyone’s busy schedule. Whether you work, go to school, have kids, or travel, there is a way to fit in yoga teacher training. It can even be a great excuse to travel and see the world! There are many amazing opportunities to study abroad that will quench your thirst for wanderlust. Go to school or have a busy work schedule? Look into part-time programming that requires a few times a month over a longer stretch of time.
Tip for yoga teacher training: Use yoga teacher training to plan your next vacation and be sure to plan ahead!
3.) I don’t know if I want to teach public classes
You don’t have to want to be a teacher to do yoga teacher training. Doing a 200 hour program can strengthen your commitment to your practice and give you a deeper understanding of yoga. There are a few people I know who never planned to become yoga teachers, but after completing their training they couldn’t wait to share the knowledge with others. You never know where yoga teacher training will take you!
Tip for yoga teacher training: Be open minded. Want to teach? That’s great. Not sure? Be open to the possibility!
Want to learn more about how to become a yoga teacher? Check out Yogacara Yoga Teacher Training!