Teaching Hatha Yoga: Prana and Pranayama
One Yoga teacher training intern remarked that prana could not be in his mat, since it was an inanimate object. After all, his mat was not a living…
Making Unrealistic Claims About Yoga
Yoga has many healing properties and can do many amazing things. From mind to body and the energy in between, it is a sacred practice for a reason. When a practice incorporates body, mind and spirit, it’s little wonder most of the claims have a base in truth.
What to Do with Difficult Yoga Students?
Much like all of your past training: Clear your mind, take a deep breath and relax. As a Yoga teacher, the time comes when one unique student causes unnecessary suffering in the classroom. Perhaps they come late to class, or question your every move. Some students may want to rush the lesson or answer phone calls in the middle of a Yoga class.
Avoid Financial Struggles While Teaching Yoga
Taking a part-time job may not seem like the best option, but there are many job opportunities that can complement the lifestyle associated with practicing and teaching yoga. Working in a health food store or a meditation tea shop can be both relaxing and enlightening. A part-time job related to a favorite hobby, such as working in a crafts store or in a bakery, may also provide a steady source of income and a comfortable and stimulating work environment.
The Dark Side of Spiritual Yoga Classes
Spirituality is a key feature of Bhakti, Karma, and Raja classes. However, physical based styles like Hatha and Vinyasa don’t need to touch the deeper aspects of spiritual beauty. Eventually, student who practice for physical purposes for years will find their own spiritual beauty based upon their own religion. Therefore, don’t sanitize your lessons by removing all traces of deeper meaning, but remember to stay safe. Make spiritual practices an optional part of your Yoga school. Keep your energy positive and welcoming to all who step into your studio and respect the diversity in all of your students.
Teaching Yoga to Young Athletes
Yoga can be of great benefit to young athletes, particularly for its ability to connect mind and body. Athletes, especially those in high school and college, tend to use and often to abuse their bodies.
Five Objections to Yoga Class
We all know a friend who would love Yoga, if she just gave it a chance. Here are five of the most common complaints that people have…
Common Yoga Student Misalignments
Yoga has been known to improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and enhance balance. However, if practiced incorrectly yoga can do more damage to the body than good. Misaligned poses can lead to injuries ranging from aching joints to pulled muscles. “Yoga injuries are often a result of not knowing or realizing your body’s limitations.”
Creativity in Yoga Sequencing
Generally speaking, most people are not used to sitting cross-legged. If you have problems with your knees, stiff hips, lower back pain you will find it easier to sit on a cushion with your legs stretched out in front of you. Alternatively, you can always practice yoga seated on a chair. If you are nervous about sitting on the floor, have a quiet word with your Yoga teacher before the class and she can advise you on different easy seated yoga postures.
Designing a Hatha Yoga Class or Session
Let us look at some ways to group techniques, within a Yoga class, and keep them interesting for each session. Please keep in mind that there are thousands of ways to design lesson plans. The only time a lesson plan is wrong is if it can potentially hurt a student.