Yoga Teacher Training is very important, however, there’s a lot more to consider than the training. Here are ten things you’ll need to be able to do after you qualify:
1. Live and breathe yoga, every day
At the moment, yoga may be a hobby that you enjoy and get lots of fulfilment from, but can you maintain this enthusiasm in the long-term? When you become a yoga instructor, it becomes your life. You’ll spend many hours planning your classes, researching theories and progressions, and getting to know people within your industry. You’ll also need to ensure you dedicate enough time to your own practice, to continue your own development.
2. Learn how to multitask
Regardless of ability, learning how to multitask is a challenge for all yoga instructors. The reality of this situation often doesn’t become apparent until you start training, but you should practice beforehand to get ahead. You must be able to communicate clearly whilst practicing each of the yoga poses – no matter how advanced they are. Yoga teaching involves a combination of demonstration and explanation, which often happen at the same time.
3. Make friends, fast
A good yoga instructor gets to know their students, so take time at the start of each class to welcome any new additions. You need to be friendly and approachable, and free from judgment. For most people, this isn’t an issue, but it’s something you need to be aware of.
4. Take control of your finances
To start with, making a living as a yoga instructor can be hard work. You need to be in control of your finances at all times, and work to a planned budget. Financial risk is one of the leading reasons people decide not to pursue their dream career as a yoga instructor, but this shouldn’t be the case. Set your rates to reflect what you’re worth, and find ways to increase your income by providing private tuition according to your schedule.
5. Work unconventional hours
As the majority of people attend yoga classes outside the core working hours of 9-5, you will be expected to work unconventional hours. This is something you must be comfortable with, or you may limit the number of opportunities available to you.
If you’d like to work more during the conventional hours, you’ll need to be creative to find the appropriate solutions. For example, contact local businesses to enquire about holding lunchtime classes at their office. Employers are now very mindful when it comes to health and wellness, so this could be a great way to add value for their employees.
6. Survive in a competitive market
The yoga community is now thriving in the UK, which means there are lots of excellent yoga instructors competing for students. To make sure you succeed, you need to commit to continual improvement. Learn new things at every opportunity, and look for innovative ways to grow your yoga business.
7. Provide excellent customer service
Never forget that you’re providing a service to your students. Keep this in the forefront of your mind, at all times. As your students for constructive feedback on a regular basis, and invite them to address any concerns with you as soon as they arise. This will help you to ensure your clients keep coming back to your lessons, and recommend you to their friends.
8. Expand your network
Take advantage of the UK’s growing yoga community, and connect with other yoga instructors at every opportunity. Meet to discuss your own classes, and learn from each other wherever possible. Attend relevant events and conferences, and don’t be afraid to share your knowledge with others – it will encourage them to do the same in return.
9. Own your style of teaching
All yoga teachers have their own, unique style of teaching. You’ll find yours as you complete your yoga instructor training, and discover the type of yoga instructor you’d like to be. Own your style of teaching. Be proud of it, let people know why you’re different, and don’t be afraid to stand out!
10. Prioritise our own happiness
When you’re teaching a variety of classes, life quickly becomes very full. Be mindful of how this makes you feel, and don’t take on more than you can handle. Focus on your own happiness, and don’t be afraid to turn down opportunities when they don’t feel right.
