Why I signed up for Yoga Teacher Training. (even though I don't want to teach)
Why I Signed Up for Yoga Teacher Training (Even Though I Don’t Want to Teach)
Since the beginning of the year, I’ve been deep into a yoga teacher training course. It’s pretty much the only thing—aside from my year-long miniature group project (which I’ll talk about in another post)—that’s been keeping me busy.
If you’ve never taken yoga teacher training, let me tell you: it’s not for the faint of heart. Imagine a mash-up of a foreign language class, teacher prep program, and an aerobics class, all rolled into one. That’s the vibe.
You might be wondering, “Why are you doing this? Do you want to teach yoga?”
Honestly, no—I don’t. I had no plans to become a yoga teacher. I started this journey because, with the new year, I needed something to help manage my anxiety. Whether or not it’s working… remains to be seen. Right now, my anxiety is actually higher because we’re required to create and present yoga classes to the group. (Public speaking plus yoga? Yikes.)
Still, I’ll admit, these assignments give us a real opportunity to break down what we’ve learned and put it into practice. That part is rewarding. But I often feel like I’m the only one who needs things explained step by step. I get lost. I get frustrated. And then I start wondering if I’m the only one who feels this way.
Here’s an example: there's something in yoga class planning called the “Peak Pose.” It’s basically the climax of a sequence—the final pose you’re building up to. Every pose that comes before it is supposed to warm up and prepare the body for that moment.
Sounds simple enough, right?
Except… some of the warm-up poses could also be a peak pose in their own right. So where does one end and the other begin? I get caught in the weeds trying to figure out what goes before what, and my brain spins in circles. It’s a bit overwhelming.
And then there's the language.
Yoga comes from Sanskrit, an ancient language with its own rhythm and pronunciation. Many teachers use both Sanskrit and English names when calling out poses. For example, Tadasana means Mountain Pose—one of the few I’m pretty comfortable with. But honestly? Pronunciation has always been tough for me. I even learned sign language at one point because I found it easier than speaking, especially when I struggle with certain English words.
Anatomy is another hurdle. You’d think it would’ve stuck by now—I’ve taken anatomy classes for my cosmetology license, my therapeutic recreation certificate, and even my aerobics instructor certification. And still, I mix up my muscles, bones, and nerves. Thankfully, we have Google, and I’ve become quite skilled at quickly looking things up when I’m stumped.
Despite all that, I’m still here. Still showing up. Still trying to reach my goal of finishing this certification.
It’s been a challenge, no doubt. But maybe that’s the point. I’ll keep you posted.
As I prepare for the final practicum, I’m feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. The thought of standing in front of a live class terrifies me, but I’m also looking forward to putting everything I’ve learned into practice. It’s hard to believe I’m almost there—but I’m committed to seeing this through. If anyone has tips for getting through the last stretch of teacher training (or presenting to a live class!), I’d love to hear them. Wish me luck!
Help was given to me in writing this with ChatGPT.
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