Yoga has become an incredibly popular practice over the past few decades. What was once seen as a mystical or fringe activity is now a mainstream wellness routine for millions of people worldwide. As yoga has become bigger, more people are becoming yoga teachers and going through yoga teacher training programs. So, what makes someone go from really liking yoga to actually teaching it? There are many motivations, but the path to becoming a yoga teacher inevitably starts with one's own committed personal practice.

Discovering The Power of Yoga:

Many future yoga teachers start out as yoga students who are simply looking to add a new workout to their routine or find relief from stress. As they learn and practice yoga more and more, it starts to become like a real spiritual journey. This happens when they feel how yoga changes them inside. Through their personal journeys on the mat, they connect more deeply with their bodies, minds and inner selves. They notice reduced stress, increased mindfulness and improvements in strength and flexibility. 

As their practice deepens, yoga stops being just a physical activity and becomes a vital part of their self-care and inner growth. This motivates them to seek out more knowledge and dedicate more time to their sadhana (spiritual practice). Their lives start to be influenced by yogic philosophy and they feel drawn to live more consciously, honestly and compassionately.

Answering The Call to Teach:

For many dedicated yogis, the desire to teach often arises naturally at a certain point. They feel abundantly grateful for all that yoga has given them, and they feel called to share the gifts with others. After experiencing firsthand the peace, vitality, healing and self-awareness that yoga cultivates, they are inspired to guide others on this illuminating path.

A few people might be ready to teach after practicing regularly for a year or two. But some might need to study on their own for 5 years or more before they feel ready to teach others. There's no specific time you have to wait. What really matters is that you practice a lot by yourself and really want to help others if you want to be a teacher.

Choosing A Yoga Teacher Training Program:

When the calling strikes, the next step is finding a teacher training program that provides the knowledge and skills to properly teach yoga classes. There are countless options, from quick 1-month intensives to in-depth 2-year programs. Things to consider are:

  • Style of yoga - Does the program's style align with your practice and teaching goals? Popular styles include Hatha, Ashtanga, Iyengar and Vinyasa.
  • Philosophy - Does the program cover yogic history, lifestyle, ethics and philosophy adequately? This knowledge informs good teaching.
  • Practical experience - How much hands-on practice teaching and adjustments training is included? This experience is invaluable.
  • Faculty - Who are the instructors? Senior teachers with years of experience are ideal. 
  • Cost - Teacher training ranges from $1000 for basic intensives to over $5000 for advanced, extensive training.
  • Credentials - Will you receive a respected teaching certification upon completion? 

Embarking on Teacher Training:

Teacher training is often described as a transformative crucible - intensely challenging yet ultimately illuminating. Expect long hours, emotional and physical demands, and ample growth opportunities. Most programs involve:

  • Asana practice - Deepening your own practice and understanding proper alignment and adjustments
  • Teaching methodology - Learning how to safely and effectively teach students of different levels
  • Anatomy - Studying the body's structures and kinesiology
  • Yoga philosophy/lifestyle - Exploring yogic texts, history and living a yogic lifestyle
  • Pranayama - Understanding the energetics of the breath and learning breathing techniques
  • Meditation - Establishing a strong meditation practice
  • Practicum - Practice teaching observed sessions with instructors providing feedback 

The intensive experience bonds trainees into yoga "families" who provide community and support during training and beyond. Be prepared to work hard, but also form deep connections and have profound realizations.

Transitioning to Teaching:

After completion, the real integration work begins as new teachers start sharing their gifts with students through classes, workshops and private sessions. Teaching yoga is incredibly rewarding but also quite challenging, requiring dedication, energy and constant self-improvement. Key aspects of the teaching journey include:

  • Developing your voice - Learning how to express your unique teaching style authentically.
  • Keeping inspired - Maintaining your own personal practice to stay connected to yoga's purpose. 
  • Continued education - Taking advanced training and workshops for ongoing development.
  • Finding opportunities - Building your reputation and getting teaching opportunities at studios, gyms, etc.
  • Connecting with the community - Finding mentorship and support from fellow teachers.
  • Living yogically - Remembering that how you live your life matters just as much as what you teach on the mat.

Conclusion:

The path of yoga is a lifelong journey of learning and self-discovery. Guiding others along the way is a noble endeavor that asks much of the teacher but also offers immense rewards. With patience, humility and commitment to self-improvement, training to be yoga teacher continues their growth, touching the lives of many students along the way.