2 Years of Teaching Yoga: A Letter to Myself and Insights for Aspiring Yoga Instructors
This last April marked the two-year anniversary of teaching public yoga classes in person! I wrote a letter to my future self to commemorate this milestone—a reflection to read in a year. I also wanted to share this with you, hoping it might inspire other fellow yoga instructors who are getting started on their journeys. So here are the lessons and insights I've gathered along the way:
1. Have Fun! Nothing Else Matters If You Are Not
Joy is the heart of teaching yoga. If you're not having fun, it reflects in your classes. Enjoy every moment, and your students will too.
2. Think Less, Feel More
Your body knows more than you think. The more you connect with your feelings, the more authentically you can teach and share your practice.
3. Focus on the Process, Not the Outcome
Embrace the journey of teaching yoga. Each class is an opportunity for both you and your students to grow and learn.
4. Use the Most Lost Student as Your Guide
Direct your attention to the student who seems the most lost. Tailor your cues and class structure around them. Some of the most memorable classes for me as a beginner were those where I felt seen and supported by the teacher, even though I had no idea what I was doing.
5. Communicate Clearly and Compassionately
Your words matter. Strive for clear, non-violent communication. Even if English is your second language, you're improving every day. Keep practicing and stay patient with yourself.
6. Never Stop Learning
Be confident in what you know, but remain open to new knowledge. Continuous learning is key to becoming a better teacher.
7. Teaching Requires Energy—Fill Your Cup
Teaching yoga is energy-intensive. Ensure you recharge by doing activities that energize and inspire you. Self-care is essential.
8. Be Selective About Feedback
Not all feedback is valuable. As Brene Brown says in "Dare to Lead": “If you are not in the arena getting your ass kicked on occasion, I’m not interested in or open to feedback.” Be very aware of who you take feedback from.
9. Respect Students' Space
Always ask for permission before physically assisting a student. Respecting their space and autonomy is a non-negotiable.
10. Bring Your Authentic Self
Share your stories and experiences. Your authenticity can make students feel seen, heard, and understood.
11. Teach from Your Own Experience
Teach what you believe in and have personally experienced. Authenticity resonates more than anything else.
12. Embrace Your Creativity
Your creativity is your strength. Don’t shy away from creating unique classes, even if it means things might get a bit messy sometimes. Art isn’t meant to be perfect.
13. Accept That Not Everyone Will Like You
You are not everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s perfectly okay. Focus on giving your best and let that be enough.
Why This Matters
Reflecting on these lessons can provide valuable insights for anyone looking to start or improve their yoga teaching journey. Each point is a reminder that the path of teaching yoga is as much about personal growth as it is about guiding others. If you're inspired to start your yoga journey or enhance your teaching practice, remember that it's all about connection, authenticity, and continuous learning, and that integrating these principles into your teaching practice, you'll not only grow as an instructor but also create a more enriching experience for your students. Here's to many more years of learning, teaching, and connecting through yoga!
Sending much love on your journey,
