Embarking on a yoga journey can be a life-changing experience, and finding the right yoga teacher is a crucial step in this process. The right instructor can make all the difference in your practice, helping you grow physically, mentally, and spiritually. However, with so many yoga teachers, it’s essential to know what to look for when making your choice. In this blog, we’ll explore important factors to consider when finding the perfect yoga teacher for you.

In today’s day and age, one of the best ways to assess a yoga teacher’s abilities is by reading student reviews or seeking recommendations from friends or family. Honest feedback from past or current students can give you valuable insights into the teacher’s strengths, weaknesses, and teaching style. However, when it comes to Yoga practices, everyone has their own style and pace they want to follow, and hence personal preferences can vary. Which is why we recommend considering multiple opinions before making a decision.

Think of a Yoga Teacher as a strong pillar that doesn’t let your journey shake from the little earthquakes of procrastination. On the days, where you do not feel like showing up on your mat, a good teacher will drive you towards it.

So, what exactly makes a good teacher? The answer is quite simple. one who understands how your body functions.

Here are a few points that help you understand whether the teacher you are considering is for you:

1. Teaching Style and Philosophy

Yoga is not one size fits all. It is a very diverse practice with various styles such as Hatha, Vinyasa, Iyenger, Ashtanga, and Yin. When it comes to practice, everyone has their own style, rhythm, and pace. Each style offers unique benefits, so it’s crucial to understand your goals and find a teacher whose approach aligns with your preferences, keeping in mind that no style is superior or inferior. So, basically, what you need is a teacher who understands and fits perfectly with your way and style of practice. Some instructors might focus on the physical aspect of yoga, while others emphasize mindfulness and spirituality. Research the teacher’s philosophy and teaching style to see if it resonates with your intentions. Your growth will be limited if you and the teacher do not follow the same style. This would be the primary thing you need to be aware of when looking for a yoga teacher.

2. Class Atmosphere and Energy

Once you have found the teacher whose practice gets you going, consider taking a demo class with them. The atmosphere of the class can significantly impact your experience. Pay attention to the energy of the studio or class you attend. A welcoming, non-judgmental, and inclusive environment fosters a positive learning experience. A good teacher can create a space where you feel at ease, enabling you to connect with your practice more deeply.

3. Approach

Talking about connecting, a teacher needs to be very approachable. No matter how long you have been practicing, yoga is a lifelong learning process. The more you practice, the more you learn and the more questions you have. A good teacher should address your questions in such a way that you don’t hesitate to ask. We all have questions, but does anyone has all the answers? Doesn’t matter how experienced the teacher is, getting the perfect answer every time is also not possible, so do not hold it against them. The key is here that you should not be in a quandary when it comes to resolving your issues.

4. Experience and Qualifications

Regardless of the fact that the teacher has all your answers or not, the right yoga teacher should have a solid foundation of knowledge and experience. Look into their credentials, certifications, and training. Experienced teachers often have a deeper understanding of anatomy, alignment, and adjustments, ensuring a safe practice for their students. A teacher with ongoing training and commitment to their own practice is more likely to provide effective guidance.

5. Alignment and Safety Awareness 

When practicing with a yoga teacher, you are in a zone and it’s just you, the mat, and the instructions the teacher is giving. It may happen that you misunderstand some cues; in that case, a good teacher will be very much attentive and will correct you. A competent yoga teacher should prioritize proper alignment and safety during the practice. They should be attentive to students’ individual needs and offer modifications or adjustments when necessary. A teacher who understands the biomechanics of poses can help you avoid injuries and maximize the benefits of your practice. 

6. Communication and Interpersonal Skills 

A good yoga teacher should be an effective communicator and be able to articulate instructions clearly and provide useful feedback. Their teaching should make you feel comfortable and supported, allowing you to progress at your own pace. Attending a trial class or reading reviews can help you gauge the teacher’s communication and interpersonal skills. 

7. Connection and Intuition 

Ultimately, finding the right yoga teacher is about establishing a connection and intuitive sense of resonance. Trust your instincts and listen to how you feel during and after a class. A good teacher is a coach and a mentor. The relationship between a student and a teacher doesn’t just end at Savasana, it goes beyond that. You should feel a connection with your teacher that makes you comfortable with them. A connection that lets you be you. A connection that makes you look forward to that class every day. A connection that makes you feel inspired, challenged, and supported. A teacher-student relationship based on trust and respect can elevate your yoga journey to new heights.

Conclusion:

Finding the perfect yoga teacher requires thoughtful consideration and a bit of trial and error. Remember that yoga is a personal journey, and the right teacher for someone else might not be the best fit for you. We are all learning here. Take your time to explore different teachers,

styles, and studios. Be open-minded and willing to embrace new experiences. The right yoga teacher can be a guiding light on your path to self-discovery, personal growth, and inner peace. At Coquihalla, we make sure we understand your needs before we set you up for the Asana classes. Contact us to know more.