The 5 Biggest Mistakes To Avoid In Yoga Teacher Training

Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) is an intensive journey that goes beyond the practice of yoga postures. It delves deep into personal transformation, the essence of yogic philosophy, and prepares individuals to guide others on their own yoga paths.

These common errors are not confined to mastering complex asanas but often lie in the realm of goal setting, program selection, self-care, presence, and pacing the learning process.

Identifying these common yoga teacher training mistakes and understanding how to avoid them can help aspirants derive maximum benefit from their training, making their journey to becoming a yoga teacher smoother and more fulfilling.

Mistake #1: Not Setting Clear Personal Goals

Goal setting might seem like a corporate term, something you'd associate more with boardrooms than yoga studios. But let me tell you, the importance of goal setting transcends the boundaries of a 9-to-5 job.

Why set goals?

Setting clear, measurable goals for your YTT journey is like having a compass; it guides your journey, keeps your training focused, and aligns your actions with your intentions. Without well-defined goals, you might find yourself adrift in the expansive ocean of yoga philosophy, anatomy, and teaching methodology, pondering, "Where am I headed with all this information?"

Navigating the Pitfalls

If your goals are vague, say, "I want to get better at yoga," your training could end up being a salad made of random veggies - you might feel full, but the experience is far from satisfying.

Goal-Setting Tips

So, take my advice here: Before you embark on your training, sit down with your favourite cuppa and ponder, "What specific areas do I want to improve or master through this training?". This might involve something practical, like improving your alignment in difficult poses, or something spiritual, like learning more about the Yoga Sutras.

Mistake #2: Choosing the Wrong Training Program

Choosing a YTT program is like selecting a map for your journey. Picking a map that isn't right for you will likely land you somewhere you didn't intend to go.

Choosing Wisely

Many folks pick a training program based on factors like popularity, affordability, or convenience. This could be where you take a misstep. Choosing a YTT because your favourite Instagram yogi recommended it or because it's the cheapest might lead you to a program that isn’t in tune with your needs or goals.

Picking the Right Program

Choosing the right YTT should be a thoughtful process. Reflect on questions like, "What style of yoga resonates with me?", "How do I learn best?", "What kind of environment motivates me?". The answers will guide you towards a program that truly aligns with your needs.

Mistake #3: Neglecting Self-Care

The term "self-care" has been thrown around so much that it often loses its essence. But during your YTT, it gains paramount importance.

Why Self-Care?

YTT can be physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding. Amidst the rigorous practice, intensive study, and teaching drills, it's easy to push yourself too hard, skip meals, or compromise on sleep. Here's where you need to put the brakes on.

The Neglect Effect

Neglecting self-care can lead to exhaustion, burnout, and even injuries. Your passion for yoga could start to wane. It's like driving a car with no fuel; how far can you expect to go?

Self-Care Tips

Make self-care a cornerstone of your YTT journey. Eat nutritious meals, ensure you get plenty of sleep, and make time for relaxation. Listen to your body's signals. In yoga, the mantra "No pain, no gain" is an absolute no-no.

Mistake #4: Not Being Fully Present

As important as it is to "do" in YTT, it's equally important to "be." And being involves being fully present in each moment.

The Power of Now

Being fully present during your YTT enables you to absorb the teachings deeply. But if your mind is flitting between what you'll have for dinner and the argument you had with your friend last week, you're not giving your present moment the attention it deserves.

Absent Mind Equals…?

When you're not present, you miss the subtleties of your practice and teachings. It's like watching a movie while scrolling through your phone; you're bound to miss the plot twists!

Staying Present Techniques

Stay present by practising mindfulness. Focus on your breath, feel each muscle as it moves, or tune into the sound of the instructor's voice. Whenever your mind starts a trip of its own (and it will), gently bring it back.

Mistake #5: Rushing the Learning Process

We live in a world of instant gratification where we want results fast. But when it comes to YTT, slow and steady wins the race.

Patience is a Virtue

Yoga is not a discipline you can master overnight; it's a lifelong journey. Trying to rush your YTT can lead to a superficial understanding of yoga.

When You Rush...

It’s akin to chugging a fine wine; you might feel the alcohol, but you miss the subtle flavours and the joy of savouring it.

Embrace the Pace

Embrace a slow and steady pace in your YTT. Be patient with yourself, and remember, each yogi's journey is unique. There is no need to evaluate your development in comparison to others.

So, there you go, folks! Those are the five common missteps you'd do well to sidestep in your Yoga Teacher Training. Remember, your YTT journey is as unique as you are. So breathe, focus, and trust the process.