4 Teaching Tips For New Yoga Instructors
I’ve been teaching for a little over four years now, so here’s my four biggest tips for new yoga instructors.
First, congratulations! This is no small feat. I know you probably feel really confused and overwhelmed by now. If you’re anything like me, you feel even MORE confused than you did before starting. Really, it’s kinda crazy TBH.
Let’s break this down for a minute. Sometimes it’s nice to reflect on all you’ve just accomplished. You were just thrown SO MUCH about yoga history and MODERN changes that you have to somehow not only gain a deeper understanding on it all, but comprehend it enough to share with your soon to be students.
You also just learned a lot about yourself, and your practice too. At least I hope so. You might have learned what yoga speaks to you, where your deeper interests are, and where you want to take your future! You’re entering a world with limitless possibilities which could be good, and good be bad. Let’s dive in.
You’re going to make mistakes, so learn to own them and not fear them. Can we also just say this applies to literally everything else in life too (lol). When you step into a teaching role, you’re going to encounter A LOT of different students. Not everyone is going to vibe with your classes and THAT IS OK. What will make students like and respect you, though? Being transparent. Tell them you’re new! Laugh at yourself when you make a mistake! We’re all human, and they’re going to understand.
TRY EVERYTHING. TEACH EVERYWHERE. Yes I mean try teaching that class your co worker asked you about, try teaching park yoga, try teaching a community class to practice TEACHING. If you only knew how much I hated public speaking. I know how daunting it seems to put yourself out there and talk for an ENTIRE HOUR, but it will get easier. Too many yoga instructors let ego and what other people are doing get in the way of what doing yoga looks like for YOU. I have and will continue to say yes to new chances to teach that come my way simply for the exposure and the practice. I suggest you do that too. Let’s say you hate it after teaching for the first time? Great, don’t teach there again. The more you know.
Keep it simple, to start. Don’t jump into your first class with your most creative and complicated flow you can think of. Remember, you have to somehow, with words, explain to a room full of strangers how to get from point A to point B. Most of the time you need to explain this efficiently, and effectively so they know where they are going fast! Gain insight and confidence on less complicated classes to start. Think about the basics! Less is more here. I promise you will grow away from this stage.
Give yourself a damn break. Really, that's all. :) Remember you are still a human under all this yoga wellness madness. You can rest. You can make mistakes. You can be mad. This special place you’ve found yourself in is meant to continue enhancing your life. Not take away the pieces that make you, you.
I hope you’ve gained something from this, even if it’s just inspo to get yourself out there. Share your journey with me on socials! I’m already cheering you on.
