Welcome to the Journey… of a thousand Asanas. You have decided to pursue Yoga Teacher Training. You are exploring the exciting opportunities. Now you are wondering is Online Yoga Teacher Training Worth it?
You are more than a beginner. Your time on the mat leaves you feeling like you are glowing; you step into the world with a greater understanding of yourself: emotionally, physically and spiritually. You have found the immense benefits of regular yoga practice in the morning and in the evening. Now you are ready to take your training further. Not only do you want to commit to your yogic practice, you also desire to dive deeper into Yogic Philosophy. You are considering transferring your knowledge to help others and empower them with the tools of yoga practice and philosophy. The question is, is an online yoga teacher training the path you with to pursue? Is Online Yoga Teacher Training Worth it?
Yoga Teacher Training has greatly impacted the lives of of people around the world. The training immerses the student into the Yogic Practice and Philosophy and for many it is another tool in the rewarding Wellness Industry. In an era of immense social change, Yoga has withstood cultural change and entered our homes in the 21st Century through our laptop. In a time where many of us have taken our learning and practice at home in virtual environments, online yoga teacher training is a viable option for those wishing to commit to the path of being a yoga teacher.
Others have used the Teacher Training to immerse themselves to deepen the quality of their lives through improved vitality and depth of insight and awareness.
What Will I Learn in Yoga Teacher Training?
Most teachers start their training through a 200 hour course. Lessons come from both experiential practice (on the mat) and through deeper study from texts and lectures. Here is a comprehensive overwide of what Yoga Alliance Certified programs offer.
1. Yoga Asanas (Poses):
- Proper alignment and technique for various yoga poses.
- Modifications and variations for different body types and abilities.
- Sequencing of poses for different levels and class types.
2. Anatomy and Physiology:
- Understanding of human anatomy relevant to yoga practice.
- Physiology of movement, muscles, and joints.
- Breathing techniques (Pranayama) and their physiological effects.
3. Yoga Philosophy and History:
- Study of classical yoga texts like Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and Bhagavad Gita.
- History and evolution of yoga.
- Ethical guidelines and principles of yoga (Yamas and Niyamas).
4. Teaching Methodology:
- How to cue and guide students effectively.
- Class management and organization.
- Hands-on adjustments and use of props.
- Teaching special populations (e.g., seniors, pregnant women).
5. Meditation and Mindfulness:
- Various meditation techniques.
- Mindfulness practices.
- Incorporating meditation into yoga classes.
6. Yogic Lifestyle and Ethics:
- Healthy diet and nutrition from a yogic perspective.
- Importance of self-care and balance.
- Ethical responsibilities of a yoga teacher.
7. Practicum:
- Practice teaching sessions with feedback from instructors and peers.
- Observing and assisting in real classes.
- Developing your unique teaching style and voice.
8. Business and Marketing:
- How to market yourself as a yoga teacher.
- Setting up and managing a yoga studio or private practice.
- Legal and ethical considerations for yoga teachers.
9. Continued Learning:
- Encouragement to continue personal practice and further education.
- Staying updated with new developments in yoga and related fields.
10. Self-Reflection and Growth:
- Personal development and self-awareness through yoga and meditation.
- Reflective practices to understand your teaching style and its impact.
The depth and focus of these topics can vary between different YTT programs. Be sure to research and choose a program that aligns with your goals and interests. Additionally, many programs encourage self-discovery and personal transformation.
The Benefits of Online Yoga Teacher Training
Online Yoga Teacher Training Saves Time
Simply put, training from the comfort of your home will allow you to free up your time that you would otherwise spend commuting to and from location.
Online Yoga Teacher Training Saves Money
Most programs cost a fraction of what a student would pay at a live studio. You will also save travelling costs – no need to travel to study with the top teachers in India or New York. You can now do it from your home.
Online Yoga Teacher Training is Flexible
You can train from anywhere in the world that has internet access. Maybe you wish to take your study as part of your Staycation, or a private retreat in a log cabin. The location will not matter. More than that, there is a plethora of Yoga Teacher Training programs that will allow you to study in in the format and the length that will suite your lifestyle and learning style.
Online Yoga Teacher Training is Accessible
You will be able to find top ranking schools, with a strong reputation and lineage from all around the world. Top schools in India as well as Western countries. Teachers commit to sharing the knowledge and guiding others, many who have studied around the world and immersed themselves with ongoing training. You will be thrilled to know its all available in your living room.
Online Yoga Teacher Training will Free your From Distractions
When you practice from home, not only will you save time traveling to the studio, the time in the training will be truly spent with yourself. Your home can become your haven and sanctuary. What a great way to make space for your practice that will stay with you soon after your training is finished. There will not be off-topic chit-chat in the entry way to the studio, or tempting plans with your classmates when you need to rest before class the next day or read the assigned text of the Bhagavad Gita. But don’t worry if you need constructive time to share insights and experiences; a good online teacher training program will allow for some time to interact with your fellow students online.
Online Yoga Teacher Training will prepare you for teaching Online Yoga Classes
This certainly is an advantage in our modern world. You will learn and witness the effective strategies for Online Yoga Teaching that you can apply to your own business as a Yoga Teacher.
What To Ask Yourself When Considering an Online Yoga Teacher Training Program
What is the Length? Will I be able to complete it in the time frame assigned? Do you need a longer program or something more immersive like a 6-week program ?
What is the format of the program? Is it an online live virtual class where you have live interaction with a teacher trainer or is the study going to take place in self-driven online course modules? Perhaps it is a hybrid of both. Depending on your style of learning, you will have to assess if the school’s teaching format suits you.
Do I have the environment in my home for quiet, independent study? You will need daily time to tune into the your yoga practice and study. You will also need props like blocks, straps in addition to your matt.
Do I thrive with physical prompts? For some, physical assists can really be beneficial in their study of yoga. Insights in to how to achieve poses with accurate alignment can be magnified with gentle hands-on assists from an experienced yoga teacher. A good online yoga teacher understands the value of verbal cues and you can be assured online teacher training course have this steeped in their methodology in order to be effective.
Is the school a good match for my goals and interests? It is very important to step into a new program in alignment with what you wish to achieve. Explore the school, the teachers, the lineage and the reputation and discover for yourself.
Is Online Yoga Teacher Training Worth it?
Yes and Yes. Over and Over again individuals who decide to pursue Yoga Teacher Training say that the training is transformative and positively impacts different areas of their lives. You will reach many health goals from learning how to manage your mental health and radically change the relationship you have with your body and breath. Graduates of programs report a deeper sense of inner peace with themselves and their relationships.
And it is important to stress, even though you will learn to manage your stress, that this is no easy feat. Whether you are pursuing online or in person training, it will require commitment and lots of sweat and study. Maybe even tears, because things will come up as you enter a journey of self-discovery. You will need to consciously decide to dedicate yourself to the practice and to your personal growth through study and not shy away from self-reflection. You will release many old habits and embrace empowering mindsets to radically change your life.
The question really depends on what is right for you.
This is a profound and enriching experience beyond just learning to teach yoga poses.
Yes it is definitely worth it!
