Yet, you have your own reasons why you would like to become a Yoga teacher.
For some people, the reason is to take Yoga training to the next level is to help others, earn a part-time income, or something entirely different; it may even be a combination of reasons. This is much like the reason why people initially come to a Yoga class. The reasons for becoming a Yoga teacher are endless.
Technology has come a long way. Who would have thought we would be able to learn so much by streaming video, downloadable videos, or DVD's? At this time, learning to become a Yoga instructor has never been easier.
However, what should you look for in an online Yoga certification provider? There are many factors to weigh in. Who is the director of teacher training? Is the head trainer even a Yoga teacher?
That may sound funny, but if the provider also produces certifications in dog grooming, computers, baby sitting, and becoming a gun smith, you may have to wonder where the expertise begins and ends.
How many hours of study are provided? Upon successful completion of the training course, will you be awarded a teacher's diploma? Do you see any signs of business or teacher ethics?
How much support can you expect? Is it a one phone call limit or is there unlimited phone support? Do they respond to your Email inquiries in a timely basis? If you are having difficulty getting a response at the inquiry level, how is support going to be once you are taking the course?
Alright, you have enough to think about; but take the time to investigate the program before you sign on. You could even Google the director's name to find out a little more.
One last point: Does the course provider have a guarantee? It is interesting what you get these days without a guarantee. How many people buy computer software that does not work? It has happened to me, too.
Take your time, shop, compare, and you will find an ideal online Yoga teacher training course for you.
Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications
When teaching Yoga classes to the public, there are certain components, which separate some teachers "from the crowd." Luckily, all of these components can be learned, but what qualities should a Yoga teacher learn to develop? According to one survey, two thirds of all adults had never taken a Yoga class.
If we ask the non-participating public to tell us what a good Yoga teacher should be, we usually hear answers like: Athletic, thin, vegetarian, flexible, strong, and the ideal body weight. These are good qualities for instructors who teach a physical style of Yoga, but they indicate nothing about their character or ethics.
In fact, a Yoga instructor's mission is to teach us something, in each lesson, which we can take home to improve our health. The teacher's physical prowess does not teach us anything new; and physical feats are not a reflection of teaching skill. As I have said before, any competent gymnast can perform impressive physical feats. Great coaches do not have to be elite athletes to train successful athletes. The following are some of the most underrated, but important qualities a Yoga teacher should possess; and all of them are a reflection of good character.
A Yoga instructor should be a good communicator. Speaking well is important, but communication is a "two way street," which requires listening skills and exceptional observation skills. This is the Yoga teacher who is not afraid to answer questions. He or she also knows when to stop demonstrating and give an assist. Some teachers can project a gentle or silent message, without saying a word. As a student, you can see it in his or her eyes, face, and body language. A teacher who can project kindness and charisma, without saying much is filled with passion for Yoga.
Charisma is the common denominator among the greatest teachers of all time. Yet, since it is unseen - it is also underrated. A charismatic teacher will establish an ethical rapport with Yoga students as a by-product of his or her personality. Many successful Yoga teachers reflect self-confidence without arrogance or self-righteousness. This type of self-confidence is full of positive energy and is easily seen as optimism. This is a Yogi or Yogini who has learned to transcend fear, look for solutions, and find success.
Some Yoga teachers are skilled at instilling the gift of empowerment within their students, which translates into their valuable life skills. Most students want honest feedback and recognition. When a Yoga instructor takes the time to remember names, give an honest compliment, make eye contact, and keep a sense of humor, students look forward to each lesson. Although the public is often deceived by superficial viewpoints, and hasty judgment calls; the depth of a teacher's character is always revealed to the serious Yoga student.
Paul M. Jerard Jr. has sinced written about articles on various topics from Leadership, Yoga Practice and Anger Control. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center in, Attleboro, MA. To receive Free Yoga videos, Podcasts, e-Books, reports, and articles about Yoga, please visit:. Paul M. Jerard Jr.'s top article generates over 165000 views. to your Favourites.