The Mental and Emotional Preparation for Yoga Teacher Training

Beginning your journey to become a yoga teacher is a transforming and enjoyable experience. By becoming a yoga instructor, you are choosing a career path that will allow you to benefit both the lives of others and your own and if you’re demonstrating your willingness to put in the effort required it will turn into a reality. As your yoga teacher training approaches, how do you prepare physically, spiritually, and logistically for such a challenging experience?

Whether you’re a regular practitioner or just starting with yoga, good preparation is essential for getting the most out of your yoga teacher training (YTTC) course. I’ve compiled a few pieces of advice, ranging from practical to spiritual, to ensure you’re as prepared as possible for what promises to be one of the most transforming and intense times of your spiritual awakening.

Know Your Calling

Before being a yoga teacher you need to understand that you will be a trainee first. Thus, when you are approaching a yoga teacher training course you need to start your preparation cycle right from scratch. To help you prepare for your yoga teacher training, I am sharing some tips to help you get ready.

Practical considerations

Whether you choose intense teacher training or a program that stretches classes out over weeks, there are a number of practical things you can do to prepare.

Get organised

If you will be traveling to your training, go over your schedule and packing list, and start gathering the goods you will need. Keep your list as simple as possible. You should bring a journal to record your thoughts as well as some light reading material in addition to the necessary reading to give your brain a break every now and again. If you’re staying close to home, organize your space and plan a simple meal plan so you don’t have to worry about housework when you should be relaxing or studying.  

Make a communications plan

Let your friends and family know what to expect from you during your teacher training. Consider both the technicalities (would there be decent phone reception?) and the type of environment you want to create for yourself. It may be prudent to limit communication for a few weeks in order to focus on your academics completely. It is strongly advised to restrict social media and screen time to allow for introspection and living in the moment. Clear boundaries can help you establish the atmosphere you desire during your training.

Tie up the loose end

Make time to immerse yourself in your practice and studies by completing all of the small tasks on your to-do list that may be distracting. Return your library books, do your taxes, have your car serviced, etc. Don’t leave anything significant for your thoughts to worry about.

Prepare Your Mind and Spirit

You expect a yoga teacher training to be a spiritual experience, but as a student, I can tell you that the experience is considerably more transforming than they expected. However, given that the route you’ve chosen necessitates a certain level of openness and introspection, be prepared to discover that expectations you weren’t even aware you had are about to be dashed. You can start cultivating a yogic frame of mind in the following ways:

Chant Om

One of the finest ways to prepare for the difficult mental environment you’re about to enter is to establish a modest, regular meditation practice. Meditation will help you develop mental strength and let go of bad feelings more readily. You may also wish to adopt a motto to rely on when circumstances are tough. A simple yet effective mantra is “inhale confidence, exhale doubt.” Meditation and mantras will help you control your Citta Vritti (thought chatter). 

Hit the books

Your teacher training program will provide a list of compulsory reading resources. Obtain these materials as soon as possible and start exploring them. Your reading may have raised some questions for you, but don’t feel obligated to have the answers before attending training! Keep a journal while reading to record your observations and questions for further investigation.  

Tap into the knowledge of others

You may also wish to spend some time talking to students who have successfully completed your chosen program. Ask them what they wish they had known before their training and what struck them most about their experience. Keep in mind that each trainee will experience the course differently by the experience. 

Open wide

Above all, maintain an attitude of openness. Be willing to venture beyond your comfort zone, accept new ideas, and do things you once thought were impossible. Prepare to be humbled as you learn how much you don’t know. Trust in the course of life and the process of yoga.

How to Select the Best Yoga School in India for you?

While physical and spiritual preparation is extremely essential the most important thing before selecting any course is research. You need to sit on your system speak to your community and find your calling. If you are still unsure here are a few points that I have jotted down for my reference. 

1. First and foremost, consider your goals and what you intend to achieve through the training. Do you wish to enhance your own practice or become a certified yoga instructor? This will guide your decision-making process.
2. Next, look at different programs and yoga schools in Rishikesh. Look for ones that are consistent with your ideals and teaching style. Read reviews and testimonies from previous students to have an understanding of their experiences. It’s also vital to see if the school is registered with Yoga Alliance, which certifies that they meet specific quality requirements.
3. Consider the program’s duration and intensity. Some courses last a few weeks, while others take months or even years. Consider how much time you have available and what works best for your schedule.
4. Do not forget about the place! Rishikesh is recognized as India’s yoga capital for good reason: its tranquil setting along the Ganges River is ideal for spiritual growth and learning. 

By carefully analyzing all of these elements, you will be able to choose the best yoga school in India that meets your requirements and helps you improve both personally and professionally in the field of yoga. 

Nirvana Yoga School can help you follow your passion and teach others how to practice yoga! Their 200-hour yoga certification program is Yoga Alliance recognized, so you’ll learn all you need to confidently teach others. Learn more by reading about their program and view their class schedule to have a better understanding. 

Contact Yoga Institute to Learn More About YTT

Preparing for YTT takes effort, planning, and a strong commitment to yoga practice. You’ll be well-prepared for this transforming journey if you understand your motivation, select the correct program, prepare your body and mind, study yoga philosophy, embrace self-inquiry, establish a support system, and practice self-care. Accept the obstacles, cherish the wins, and have faith in the process as you confidently and gracefully take on the position of yoga teacher. If you are looking for a yoga teacher training course you check the one I went for which is Nirvana Yoga School I have linked the website for you, visit the website and be your own judge.