nondual teachers is an important aspect of any career. Professionals from all disciplines seek to gain more knowledge, or to develop knowledge in a specific area of their field. Doctors, teachers, business people, and other professionals, know the importance of staying current with industry related trends and developments. Yoga teachers are no exception. It is important for Yoga instructors to stay abreast of any changes in the field of Hatha Yoga, as well as to educate themselves on the various aspects of living a Yogic lifestyle as a path to wellness and personal development.
Fortunately, there are many opportunities available for Yoga teachers today. Instructors can take on-line classes for convenience, take distance-learning Yoga teacher courses, or seek out a local workshop, seminar, advanced Yoga teacher training, or an intensive class. Since there are so many options, there really is no excuse for not keeping yourself knowledgeable and current. Some certifying Yoga organizations give a list of subjects that teachers should research further.
The beauty of independent study is that you can study exactly what you like, on your own time, and at your own pace. If there is a chunk of knowledge that you are already quite familiar with, you can skip it, moving on to new information. You can work at your own pace, squeezing it in at night, early in the morning, on weekends, or whenever your schedule allows. Independent study gives you the flexibility to advance in your career without causing you to rearrange the rest of your life.
Yoga teachers might consider going into a more specialized area of Yoga. If you like working with kids, perhaps children’s Yoga is an area to explore deeper. Maybe you recently had a baby, realized the benefits of prenatal Yoga, and would like to continue helping expecting mothers. Perhaps your interest lies in the meditation and pranayama (Yogic breathing) aspects of Yoga, and you would like to learn how to help others heal through breath and meditation. Wherever your interests lie, seek out a way to increase your knowledge and continue to grow as an instructor.
Students are drawn toward Yoga teachers who are knowledgeable, and can answer any questions or concerns that come up during the course of study. Seeking inner peace and joining the mind, body, and spirit are all part of the basic Yogic philosophy. Instructors will find that they are on a true path to achieving their spiritual goals when they seek to improve themselves as teachers of Yoga. Independent study is a simple, but important, step toward becoming the best Yoga teacher you can be.