Starting a career in yoga is exciting, courageous, scary and about a million other emotions I could list here, but most of all, rewarding. It is to date one of the best experiences I’ve ever had and continues to be throughout my short time as a teacher. I went into teaching and training blindly. I didn’t have a plan, one main goal or any certain way to get there. While I definitely wouldn’t take this back for the world, it wouldn’t have hurt to have a few tips and tricks along the way.

Whether you’re new to teaching, thinking about becoming a teacher, or somewhere in between, below is a list I’ve put together throughout my journey that I discovered might be helpful for someone who’s on their journey of self-teaching discovery.

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1. Get to know your teaching strengths

Getting to know your own style will only strengthen your classes and also educate you on what you do best. Some people love Vinyasa, others like Hatha. Some like music during class, others don’t. Some people like teachers that demo during classes, others prefer verbal cues. There will always be a variety out there and if you’re a people pleaser (like me) you’ll never be happy with yourself because you can’t please everyone. So find your own teaching style and stick with it. Own it! Now is the time to play around and get to know yourself and what makes you glow as a teacher. It’s exciting and new, but also scary and intimidating. I encourage you to take it all in. Those whose vibes match yours will find you and keep coming to your class.

2. Try a class you wouldn’t normally take

It opens your mind to things you wouldn’t think of. I’ve accidentally signed up for a yoga class that turned out to be different than planned but I was happy I did because I learned something new about the practice and my body. Worst case, you find out what you wouldn’t teach, and that’s learning too!

3. Embrace messing up, and then embrace it some more

I was (and still am) so hard on myself. I’ve learned throughout teaching that things aren’t going to go according to plan. You may plan out a sequence and then when the time comes teach something completely different. No one is perfect, so you shouldn’t expect your class to go perfectly either. What helped me when I would get down on myself or get nervous before teaching (which I still do) was reminding myself that this isn’t about you. You’re guiding students through a sequence that you’re passionate and excited about and want to share with others. It should be fun! And if you mess up, laugh it off and move on. Another point I continue to remind myself is that you’re probably the only person who knows you’ve messed up. Putting less pressure on yourself and having fun with your practice will help more than you know.

4. Find a studio that matches your vibe

Finding a studio whose values match up with yours is super important. It’s kind of like finding the right home. You’ll just feel it when you walk into the space. It won’t be forced, you’ll just know when you know. And it’ll make it that much easier for the owner to see that and want you to be apart of the studio too! 

5. Teach what you practice, practice what you teach

This one has been huge for me as a new teacher and a continual student. If you don’t personally like a pose or a certain flow that doesn’t feel good in your body, don’t teach it. That being said, only teach what you practice. If you’re still working on arm balances or haven’t yet mastered a headstand, I don’t recommend teaching it in class as you’re still learning how it feels in your own body.

6. Enjoy the journey and have fun!

Sadly, I have to remind myself of this one every now and then. It’s so easy to get caught up in the little things and the ‘what if’s’- but at the end of the day students are coming to your class because they like your teaching and want to relax and unwind from their day. Whatever sequence you come up with will be enough and they will feel good regardless. So have fun and soak it all in. This journey is never ending and so, so special. You’re constantly learning, growing and sharing. One of life’s greatest joys! So whenever you feel unmotivated or struggling as teacher (or student) put life in perspective, this journey is meant to enjoy, learn, teach, grow and have fun!

This is your own unique journey and something that holds value that is meant to be cherished. That’s what makes it so special. I hope you always listen to your intuition and trust in your own journey. Whether you decide to teach or you’re on this journey for your own self-growth, know that you’re changing and helping people just by practicing and showing up. And that’s more than enough.