At some point or another, many seasoned yogis have thought about enrolling in yoga teacher training. It seems like the most natural next step after committing to years of practice.
But teacher training is a big decision. A lot of people tend to dance around the idea of teacher training long before they actually take the leap to do it.
If you’re someone who’s thought about signing up for teacher training but haven’t quite made up your mind about it yet, read on. We’ve asked some of our teachers how they knew when they were ready for teacher training—this is what they told us.
1. You’re Passionate
Is your yoga practice the highlight of your day? Does it make you feel alive?
Maybe you’ve always been the type to invite your friends to every yoga class you go to; or, instead of taking that trip to Las Vegas with your girlfriends, you opt for a yoga retreat in the middle of the forest.
Passion isn’t technically a requirement for teacher training, but it helps. A lot.
2. You’re Looking for a Sign
Anytime we look for a ‘sign’ to do something, we should take that as a sign.
We seek what it seeking us.
Take your unwavering curiosity about teacher training as a sign—a sign that you’re ready.
3. You’re Ready to Do Some Inner Work
Yoga teacher training is not for the faint of heart. You’re going to be challenged physically, emotionally and spiritually.
You’ll peel through all of your layers until you get to your core, your true self. This kind of work is never easy but ultimately enlightening.
The truth is, we’re never really ready for this work, but if you have an open heart and willing mind, you’re well on your way to becoming a great yoga teacher.
4. You Enjoy Learning
In order to be a good teacher, you must first and foremost be a student.
This doesn’t mean only during teacher training. You have to be willing to continue learning even after you’re certified.
If you love learning new things and can humble yourself to know that you don’t know it all, teacher training will be a wonderful experience, as will your career following it.
5. You’re Not Afraid of Commitment
You don’t shy away from challenges, you’re not afraid of being vulnerable and you’re in it for the long haul.
Getting through teacher training on its own is a commitment. Not just a time and financial commitment, but also a commitment to yourself, your practice and your students.
If you’re not sure whether you can commit to being fully present for all 200 hours, it’s better to wait until you can be. Teacher training requires all of you, not just part. If you can show up every time, you’ll be unstoppable.
6. You Don’t Care What Other People Think
Like it or not, there will always be somebody with an opinion.
Some people might tell you you’re wasting your time taking teacher training, others may criticize your teaching style.
The question you need to ask yourself is, Are you ready to live your truth regardless of what others think or say?
Yes? Then you’re ready.
7. You Want to Learn More About Yoga
There’s only so much we can learn about yoga in a studio class. You might find yourself wondering what specific terms mean, how to find the correct alignment in particular asanas (poses) or the history of yoga.
If you’re aching to know more about the practice itself and where it comes from, teaching training is the perfect place to do it.
8. You Like Working With People
If you love meeting, talking to and teaching people…well, you’re going to be just fine.
As yoga teachers, we work with people no matter what style of yoga we teach. It’s imperative to have at least some desire to connect with others if you want to complete teacher training successfully.
9. You Want to Change Your Life
Are you simply looking for a change? Yoga teacher training is a great place to start over.
Whether you need a break from your day job or just want some good quality time with you, teacher training will provide you with a safe place to do some reflecting and figure out what it is you truly want.
10. You’re Looking for a New Tribe
Many of us have experienced a moment in our lives where we realize we’re not spending our time with people that make us feel good.
If there’s one thing you don’t hear much about teacher training, it’s the yoga family you become part of.
11. Divine Timing
At the end of the day, the most important question is Divine Timing. Does everything just seem to have just naturally lined up in your favor? If you have the resources, the support of the people around you, and you just have a gut feeling that ‘Yes, this is it!’, then yes, this is it! The universe is supporting you & showing you that you are ready for this next step!
From the other students in training to your teachers and to your future students, teacher training is the place to go if you’re ready to find a tribe that supports, encourages and loves you for you.
Are you’re excited about your new yoga journey and Don’t know where to start? Yoga Teacher Training Rishikesh India at Yoga capital of the world might be a good option.
