Yoga is a holistic practice that involves breathing exercises, stretching, and meditation. It has gained popularity because of its benefits, and people from all walks of life practice it. It helps improve flexibility, boost energy levels, and enhance overall health. Yoga is also considered a great stress reliever.
There are two main types of yoga practitioners: Yogis and Yoginis. Yogis focus on achieving spiritual enlightenment through meditation and breathing exercises, while Yoginis focus on improving body strength and flexibility.
Becoming a yoga instructor is not difficult. However, it requires both skill and knowledge. Here are the basic steps needed to teach yoga.
1. Sign Up for Online Courses
To teach yoga, you need to know the ins and outs of the meditation practice. This way, your students can develop their skills and enhance their learning experience.
In this digital era, you can easily learn the basics of yoga in the comfort of your home using online courses. They’ll most likely begin with short lessons on the basics of anatomy and alignment. Then, you’ll master postures and sequences and develop empathy, discipline, patience, and confidence to instruct people effectively.
However, you need to decide what type of practice you want to focus on before taking a course. It could be strength, flexibility, or both. Your practice choice will help you choose the right courses.
2. Get Your Certification Online
Once you learn the basics, you’re ready to be officially certified. You can choose to get a certificate only or have pocket certification as well from an accredited online provider. As your career grows, you can then get advanced yoga certification.
You can also get a specialty area certification, like a prenatal yoga teacher certificate. Whichever specific group you choose to teach yoga to, ensure to get the necessary certificate.
3. Register as a Yoga Teacher
You also need to register yourself as a yoga teacher. This yoga certification is internationally recognized and allows you to teach yoga anywhere in the world. In addition, it shows that you have met the standards set by the Yoga Alliance.
Most of the time, you’ll need a 200-hour yoga training program, application fee, and readiness to pay annual dues to register as a yoga teacher.
4. Look for Fitness Studios/Gyms to Work
Start offering yoga lessons in your local gyms or fitness studios. Once you establish yourself as a professional, you can start your own practice. You can also teach yoga at popup shops or community events.
5. Maintain your Certifications
Some certifications need to be paid for annually to be relevant. Also, you can enroll in courses teaching advanced steps or renewal coursework to keep you up to date with the changes in the yoga niche.
Conclusion
You do not need to have any previous experience or qualifications to teach yoga classes. All you need is passion, determination, and a great online school to succeed. The good thing is, once you’ve learned the basics, you can branch out into other styles.