Yoga, an ancient Indian practice of disciplining the mind and body through proper breathing, exercise, and meditation, is steadily growing in popularity in every part of the world. A recent study revealed that one out of ten or around 37 million people are yoga practitioners in the United States alone, and the number is expected to continue to rise in the coming years.
The practice is attractive as yoga practitioners discover that yoga is not only good for improving flexibility and general fitness but for relieving stress and boosting mental clarity as well. If you are among the millions who vow to the many physical and psychological benefits of yoga, the thought of taking yoga teacher training may have crossed your mind.
If you are seriously considering the idea, here are essential things you should know when looking for the right teacher training program:
Look Beneath the Surface of the Program
Beyond the vivid and unique promotional posters, you must dig deeper and learn more about the program offering. For one, you should find out if the mission, vision, and goals of the program are aligned to your personal beliefs and principles in life. Knowing the program’s framework is crucial because it would be difficult to internalize what you are learning if every fiber of your being is rejecting what is being taught in class.
Secondly, try to learn more about the history of the training program. When did it start? What are its accomplishments so far?
Apart from finding answers to these questions, it would be best if you also learned what happened to those who previously took the course. Are they still teaching yoga? If most of those who graduated from the program are no longer involved in yoga in any way, then you should consider it a sign to move on and continue your search.
Confidence in the Instructor is Crucial
A critical aspect of choosing the right program is searching for a credible instructor. Keep in mind that this person will not only serve as your teacher but your mentor as well. Your training instructor will influence practically all the things you will share with your future students.
Instead of merely reading the teacher’s yoga background, you should take some of his/her classes to have an accurate idea of their competence and style. Ultimately, you can learn better and faster if you are confident in the ability and skill of your teacher.
Do Not Forget to Consider Your Current Situation
As you look for the right yoga teacher classes, make sure to factor in your current situation. Think about your budget, schedule, limitations, and other factors when you search for programs.
While you may be tempted to travel several miles to attend a popular class, find out first if you can get a similar program in your area. The idea of traveling may seem doable at first, but you will most likely feel the burden when you are stretched thin at work, and you have no time to rest.
You should find a program that blends well with everything you are doing at the moment. When you do, you can absorb better, and you will look forward to every class.
Given how the majority of Americans believe in the numerous benefits of yoga, now is a good time as any to enroll in a yoga teacher training program. This program will not only allow you to guide others toward overall self-improvement, but it will also help you become a better version of yourself as well. Keep in mind, however, that finding the right program is vital to experiencing all the benefits of becoming a yoga teacher.
