How to Pick a Yoga Teacher Training Program

By Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, YACEP and Faye Martins

There are many different types of Yoga, each with its benefits. When deciding how to pick a yoga teacher training program, it’s important to pick a style that speaks to you. If you’re looking for a challenging workout, Vinyasa, Power, or Hatha Yoga might be right. Restorative or Yin Yoga might be better if you’re interested in a more meditative practice. There are many other Yoga styles to choose from, so take time to explore what’s out there. Once you’ve found a style that resonates with you will be much easier once you find the right teacher training program.

Which Style is Most Popular Around the World?

Each has its devoted followers, and some styles don’t practice postures. However, some styles are more popular than others around the world. Hatha Yoga is one of the most popular styles, and it is practiced in countries all over the world. This style emphasizes physical postures, meditation, and breathing exercises. Bikram, Iyengar, Kripalu, and Sivananda are among the many Hatha sub-styles. Hatha is known for holding poses and its dynamic sequences of poses (Hatha Flows). This style is often taught in a group setting, with each student working to keep a common pace. Finally, Hatha Yoga can be therapeutic. Restorative and Chair Yoga are also Hatha sub-styles. Therefore, Hatha Yoga gives teachers a lot of flexibility to reach students of all ages and physical conditions.

Training Hours That Fit Your Lifestyle

When deciding how to pick a yoga teacher training program, one important factor is the number of hours required. Some programs are very intensive, requiring 40 or more hours per week, while others are more flexible, allowing you to complete the training at your own pace. If you have a full-time job or other commitments, you’ll want to make sure that you choose a program that allows you to complete the training on a schedule that works for you. One of the most important factors is the schedule. Make sure you choose a program with hours that fit your lifestyle. If you have a full-time job, look for a program that offers classes on weekends or in the evening. If you have young children, look for a program that offers child care. Some programs offer online courses, which can be a great option if you have a busy schedule.

What is the Cost?

The cost of a yoga teacher training program can vary widely. It all depends on the length of the program, the location, and the amenities included. For example, a two-week program in India might cost around $2,000, while a month-long program in the United States could cost closer to $5,000. It’s important to research and find a program that fits your budget. Online programs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so it’s important to have a budget before you start your search. Several ways to save money on training include opting for an online program or finding a scholarship. However, be sure to do your research before making any decisions.

What About Additional Costs?

When choosing a Yoga instructor certification course, it’s important to be aware of any additional or hidden costs. For example, some programs may require you to travel, pay for food and lodging, purchase materials, or join a student club. Others may require you to participate in additional teacher training sessions or attend retreats. Make sure to ask about these requirements before signing up. Membership, study materials, and application fees are common and are usually posted as requirements before signing up.

Online or Onsite Training?

There are two main types of Yoga teacher training programs: online and onsite. Online programs offer the convenience of completing the training at your own pace, while onsite programs provide the opportunity to learn from and interact with a qualified instructor in person. Both programs have advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your needs before deciding. Traditional distance learning courses shipped directly to you still exist. Aura Wellness Center may be one of the few training centers that still carry them as an option.

Yoga Vacation or Weekend Intensives?

Let’s say you have decided onsite training is for you. Another important factor is whether you want a more immersive experience, like a Yoga vacation, or a more flexible program, like weekend intensives. Yoga vacations typically offer more hours of training per day and often include other activities, such as meditation and hikes. Weekend intensives may be a better option if you have a full-time job or other obligations that make it difficult to commit to a longer program.

How Experienced are the Teacher Trainers?

If you’re looking for a Yoga instructor certification program, it’s important to find one that’s been in operation for a long time. This way, you can be sure that the teachers teaching your class have a lot of experience and are well-qualified. Sometimes, Yoga studios have been in operation for ten or more years, so look for that indicator when researching programs. Also, ask the studio how long they’ve been training teachers. You want to find a program with qualified teachers who will be able to help you grow as an instructor. Aura Wellness Center has been training teachers for three decades.

Evaluate the Course Syllabus

Another critical step is evaluating the course syllabus when deciding how to pick a yoga teacher training program. Ensure the program has the teaching skills and techniques you’re looking for. Look for programs with valid certification from respected organizations such as Yoga Alliance. You also want to ensure that the program is accredited and meets high-quality standards. Finally, ask about the teacher training program’s philosophy and approach to teaching Yoga. This will help you decide if it’s a good fit for you. Aura Wellness Center’s primary objective is to help teachers keep students safe.

Know What You Want

If you’re looking to learn how to teach Yoga, it’s important to choose the right program. There are two main types of Yoga teacher training programs. Boot camp challenge programs require interns to complete a series of physical and mental challenges to graduate. These programs are difficult, but they can also be very rewarding. On the other hand, focusing on student safety trains teachers to safely conduct the class and adjust their lesson plans based on individual student’s needs. If you’re interested in how to teach safety-oriented classes, this program might be the best option for you. There is no right or wrong decision, but one of these teaching methods will come naturally to you.

Which Style is Best for a Yoga Teacher?

As a yoga teacher, you will likely be asked to teach many different styles of yoga. Which style is best for you? There is no right answer, as each style has its benefits and challenges. If you’re unsure which style to choose, speak with a studio manager or research the various styles online. Once you have decided on a style, find a program that meets your specific needs. There are many excellent Yoga instructor certification courses, so choosing one that will fit your learning style and goals is important.

How Do I Prepare for Yoga Teacher Certification?

If you are interested in becoming a Yoga teacher, you should do a few things before beginning your training. First, make sure you are physically and mentally ready. You should be comfortable stretching and holding poses for a long period. Second, research the different types of teacher training programs available. Make sure the program is accredited. Finally, choose a program that fits your schedule and budget. Many programs are available, so it is important to find one that will fit your needs and goals.

Previous Experience

Before becoming a yoga instructor, practicing for a certain amount of time is important. Some conservative teachers recommend that students should practice at least two years or 500 hours before they attempt to become an instructor. This includes both practicing regularly and receiving training from a certified teacher. Generally, two years of experience as a student gives one a taste of the basics, which is the bare minimum for training to become an instructor.

Yoga Alliance Approval

Suppose you’re looking for a yoga teacher certification course that the Yoga Alliance approves. In that case, it’s important to look closely at the program and ensure that it meets all of the organization’s requirements. The Yoga Alliance is a nonprofit organization that sets standards for Yoga teacher training programs and schools. All programs that want to be approved by the Yoga Alliance must meet certain guidelines aligned with the Standards of Practice for Yoga Teacher Training. Suppose you’re unsure whether or not the Yoga Alliance approves a Yoga teacher training program. In that case, you can check the organization’s website to see if it has a certification or registration page. You can also contact them directly by phone or Email.

Does the School Offer Continuing Education?

Looking for a school that offers Continuing Education (CE) credits is important. This will allow you to keep learning and growing as a Yoga teacher. So look for signs that the school is committed to providing you with quality education and continuing learning opportunities. This way, you can stay abreast of the latest Yoga teaching techniques and learn new ways to improve your classes. Some schools also offer online Continuing Education courses, so you can take them at your own pace. Be sure to ask about this before enrolling in a program.

Is Yoga a Good Career?

Yoga is a great way to exercise and reduce stress. It’s also a popular form of therapy. So, is Yoga a good career choice? There are many types of Yoga that you could pursue as a career. You could become a certified yoga teacher, which would require training and certification. You could also pursue other careers in the health and wellness industry, such as massage therapists or personal trainers. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in Yoga, it’s important to research the options available to you. Talk to your friends and family members about their experiences in the industry. Go online and search for job listings. Remember that some online Yoga teachers work in studios that are geared to produce video classes and specialist sessions.

What Does a Yoga Teacher Need to Know?

There is no single answer to this question since what a yoga teacher needs to know will differ for everyone. Each of us has different strong and weak points to work on. However, there are some things that all Yoga teachers should know to be successful. Perhaps the most important thing a yoga teacher needs to know is how to listen. When a yoga student is talking, the teacher needs to understand what they’re saying and respond in a way that facilitates growth. Additionally, a yoga teacher should be able to stay calm under pressure.

Anatomy and More

A yoga teacher should have a strong foundation in both anatomy and physiology. They should also be knowledgeable about the principles of Yoga, including asanas (positions), breathwork, and meditation. To teach effectively, a Yoga teacher must be able to sense when someone is struggling and provide the right level of support. Finally, teachers must have excellent public speaking and communication skills.

Is there any Future in Yoga?

Consider this: Yoga is an inexpensive method for maintaining good health. There is no doubt that Yoga has been around for centuries, and there are many people who swear by its health benefits. However, is it still a viable wellness option in the modern world? Some people believe that the days of Yoga being a mainstream activity are numbered, while others argue that it has only just begun to gain traction. It will likely continue to grow as people become more aware of its many health benefits. If you’re interested in pursuing Yoga as a fitness activity, it’s important to research and find a program that fits your needs and expectations. Additionally, there are many styles, so it’s important to find one that calls to you.

How do I Become a Successful Yoga Teacher?

To become a successful Yoga teacher, you must choose the right training program. Many different programs are available and deciding which is best for you can be difficult. Here are some tips to help you choose the right program: 1. Evaluate your goals. What are you hoping to achieve by becoming a yoga teacher? Do you want to teach a specific style of Yoga? Or do you want to teach meditation or relaxation classes? 2. Consider your level of experience. Are you new to teaching Yoga? Or have you been teaching for years? If you’re new to teaching, consider enrolling in a foundational teacher training program.

Experienced Teachers

If you’re already an experienced teacher, look for programs that offer more challenging levels of instruction. Find a teacher who inspires you. It’s important that you feel comfortable with the teacher and that he or she can provide guidance and support during your training. Ask around and find teachers who have positive reviews online. Think about location and affordability. Do you want to study with a local instructor or learn from an online program? How much does the tuition cost? Is the school located in a comfortable environment?

Can You Make a Living Wage?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the income potential for Yoga instructors will vary depending on their experience and level of training. Additionally, some Yoga instructors are driven to market themselves, while many are not. However, it’s important to remember that becoming a certified Yoga teacher does not require a lot of formal education. You can often train to become a Yoga instructor without much bureaucracy. Instead, you’ll need to develop the necessary marketing skills and business knowledge through instruction from qualified professionals and your experience.

Marketing Your Skills

Sometimes, teachers resist helpful marketing tips because they see marketing as selling out. Since a few instructors will try marketing, here are a few tips. Any place where people gather is a potential location for Yoga classes. Chairs make classes accessible in tight office places and auditoriums. Corporate opportunities exist in companies of any size. Many Yoga teachers earn a living by teaching private and online classes. Therefore, when an instructor makes a respectable wage and has made teaching a full-time job, this doesn’t happen by accident.

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Yoga Teacher Training: The Neck

By Faye Martins

If one graduated from yoga teacher training and never taught a class for life, he or she would have many yogic solutions to common ailments. Among the requests to reduce pain in specific areas, the cervical spine is among the top ten most afflicted areas. Neck pain ranges in severity from mildly annoying to severely debilitating. Neck muscles are often a landing spot for tension, stress, and anxiety.

Causes and Relief of Pain

Many inadvertently tense these muscles while working at the computer or concentrating on something. The results are pain and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. Yoga training can relieve some of this tension and pain by decompressing the neck muscles. If we continue to stretch the neck muscles regularly, the pain and discomfort will subside. When performing Yoga asanas, keeping the neck in line with the spine is always important to protect it from injury. Some asanas will specifically target the spine and neck, helping to relieve tension, improve posture and prevent future neck discomfort. Try some simple neck stretches to keep it flexible and free from tension.

Easy Pose

This yoga pose is commonly used for meditation. It allows you to focus on your posture by keeping your spine straight, shoulders down, and neck elongated. As you practice the Easy Pose, you will find that better posture comes more naturally throughout the rest of the day.

Shoulder Stretch

Shoulder stretches relieve tension in the shoulders and upper back. As these muscles begin to relax and stretch, they allow the neck to do the same. Shoulder stretches also allow you to concentrate on pulling the shoulders down and back, opening the chest, and creating length in the neck.

Half Spinal Twist

Like the Half Spinal Twist, a seated twist lengthens and stretches the spine. As you twist, concentrate on extending the spine up through the neck to lengthen and straighten it.

Neck Roll

A neck roll is like a mini massage for your neck that you can do without the aid of another person’s hands. Roll slowly forward from side to side, and then gradually incorporate a full front roll in each direction. Incorporate breathing by inhaling in one direction and exhaling in the other direction. Neck rolls will release tension felt around the entire neck. Never tilt the head back during this exercise.

Chin-to-Chest

Provide a gentle stretch to the back of the neck with chin-to-chest. This asana is easy to do anytime, anywhere. Take a break at the office and do it several times in your chair or even while you’re stopped at a stoplight on the way home from work.

Ear-to-Shoulder

As you gain flexibility in this asana, your ear can get closer to the shoulder. Breathe deeply as you tilt your ear to one shoulder, then slowly lift your head back to a neutral position. Repeat on the other side.

Are you deciding how to pick a yoga teacher training program?