Finding a Yoga Teacher

Put your mind, body and spirit into qualified hands

If you found your yoga teacher was as easy as picking an apple from grocery store, you wouldn’t be reading this. Yoga is usually taught in group environments by a qualified instructor. However, there is no standard license or certification required for yoga instructors.

So how do you know if he/she is a qualified yoga instructor? If you’re new to yoga it’s important to learn how to recognize a qualified yoga instructor from the others. After all, you’re putting your body, mind and spirit in his or her hands.

Here are some hints to help you find a qualified yoga instructor:

Sure, the yellow pages may be the easiest way to find yoga teachers and schools in your area. However, it doesn’t list references. Start with trustworthy sources - your local gym, a college reputed for its continuing education classes, a quality health food store, your massage therapist or other healing clinics in your city.

Once you get the general information about yoga classes, resist the temptation to run out and enroll. Your next step should be talking to someone who takes classes at the school. Not every yoga class is the same. Classes range from mild forms of yoga - such as Ananda, Kripalu and Samatva yoga to incredibly energetic and forceful types of yoga – like Ashtanga, Iyengar or Anusara. Make sure you know what you are getting into to avoid injuries, and talk to the instructor beforehand if possible. A qualified instructor will never recommend a class to someone who they think can’t handle it or may be injured. Also, don’t hesitate to ask your instructor about his/her experience and certification.

Sample as many different yoga classes as you can before committing to one instructor. This will give you a feel for different teaching styles, personality and pace. If you particularly like one instructor, but not the class or form of yoga, ask if they offer any alternative classes.

Qualified instructors should be able to make yoga accessible for a variety of individuals. For example, if you have physical disabilities or limitations, describe them to the instructor to see if he/she can accommodate you. If they can’t, they will likely know another teacher specifically experience with your condition.

RYT stands for Registered Yoga Teacher. This certification is recognized by Yoga Alliance, the international standard for yoga instructors. You can find a list of RYTs in Yoga Alliance’s teacher database (yogaalliance.org/teacher_query.php).

Lastly, a good yoga instructor should always keep your safety first and foremost. If the instructor doesn’t make you feel comfortable and relaxed – consider yourself excused!