After 22 years of dedicated practice and 12 years of teaching yoga teacher trainings, I’ve witnessed the profound impact a quality Yoga Teacher Training can have on one’s life.
Many students often ask me if they should pursue a 200-hour YTT, and my answer is always a resounding Yes! Even if you don’t plan to teach, this training is a fantastic opportunity to deepen your understanding of yoga’s rich philosophical roots, anatomy, and history.
However, with so many programs out there, it’s crucial to choose one that meets your needs. Here are six vital elements to look for when selecting a high-quality 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training.
1. Safe, Up-to-Date Asana Practice
Yoga is a beautiful practice, but it must be done safely. Unfortunately, yoga injuries are becoming increasingly common. Look for a program that emphasises safe alignment and balanced sequencing. You want a teacher who understands that poses should be adapted to fit the individual rather than forcing individuals into a specific pose. A top-notch program will teach you how to practice yoga safely, minimising the risk of injury.
2. Deep Knowledge of Yoga Anatomy & Physiology
Understanding anatomy is foundational in yoga training. The more you know about the body, the deeper your experience of the poses will be, and the more aware you will become of how breath influences your physiology. Seek out teachers who provide evidence-based anatomy training and are open to questions and discussions about the curriculum. Your anatomy instructor should be someone who can enrich your understanding and heighten your awareness.
3. A Teacher Who Understands the Foundational Yoga Texts
A comprehensive philosophy component in your YTT should introduce you to key texts like the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, The Bhagavad Gita, and Hatha Yoga Pradipika. Diving into these teachings helps you understand the evolution of asana practice and provides insights on how to weave these principles into your everyday life.
4. An Intelligent, Skillful Approach to Hands-On Adjustments
In today’s modern yoga landscape, the way we approach physical adjustments has evolved. Look for a programme that teaches safe and respectful adjustments. You want to learn stabilising adjustments instead of deepening adjustments, ensuring a respectful and safe learning environment. A skilled teacher will offer clear guidance on how to approach adjustments safely.
5. Practice Teaching as Part of the Curriculum
Even if you’re unsure about teaching, practice teaching is an invaluable skill. A supportive environment allows you to overcome fears and receive constructive feedback. Choose a program that prioritises practice teaching, helping you build confidence and develop your voice in a supportive community.
6. A Teacher Who Can Hold Space for Personal Growth
Yoga teacher training can be a transformative journey. A quality program will give you the tools to reflect on yourself, understand your patterns, and navigate life with more ease and clarity. A good YTT will not only teach you about yoga but also provide you with life skills that empower you to show up in a healthier way.
Bottom line: A good Yoga Teacher Training will give you the tools to observe your patterns and tendencies, and why you suffer and react the way you do. The training will give you the life skills to show up and handle situations in a healthier way.
Join Us for AyurFlow’s Level 1 Yoga and Ayurveda Teacher Training!
If you’re ready for this transformative journey, I invite you to join our Level 1 200-Hour AyurFlow Yoga and Ayurveda Teacher Training in February 2025. This program will deepen your practice and provide a solid foundation in yoga and Ayurveda.
Earlybird registration is now open! For more details and to secure your spot, visit our website or reach out directly. I can’t wait to see you on the mat!