When I took my training at Y2 last Summer (I can’t believe it’s been a whole year already) I thought I would dive into teaching so naturally. I knew if I started before baby arrived I would take a break but I didn’t think it would take me this long to finally get the courage up to teach. I also didn’t expect to find it difficult especially having taught in some form (Elementary School) for eight years. I love being good at things right from the beginning (silly and unrealistic, I know) so learning new things is so beneficial for me because I get to practice patience with myself.
Here are some of my thoughts very early on. I can’t wait to check-in with how I feel in a month or year from now.
- You have to wear so many hats.
Teaching yoga is totally different to teaching elementary school although multitasking is definitely something they both have in common. You are a DJ, masseuse, weatherman, fan expert, assist queen, flow memorizer, and motivational speaker.
- You have to notice everything.
Do the yogis have the correct mat? One of my students took a short gym mat and I didn’t even notice till the end, ahhhhh fail. Are the students using the right leg? (or the left haha) Do the students need a block, strap, or modification? I can’t believe all the things that were going on in my head.
- Getting out the first-class-nerves was the best.
I can’t tell you how much I’ve been avoiding teaching my first class. I don’t know why I lacked the courage but maybe it had to do with feeling a sort of pressure to be the ideal teacher. Wear the right yoga gear, be able to do all the arm balances and inversions, be so wise that everything I say touches every soul. I know that’s totally not fair to myself but it’s what I felt anyway. Learning how to just embrace my style of teaching and love me for who I am takes time.
Ripping off the first class band-aid was a great feeling. Just diving in and teaching a class was so invigorating. Although it was a “deep-stretch” class, which is almost the opposite of the power yoga I was trained in, it was actually a great way to start.
- I love people.
Teaching yoga for me is about connecting with people. It is a creative outlet for me when I’m all up to my ears in baby. I love the time Ollie gets to have with Daniel or my Mom while I go sub/teach. I don’t have a permanent class yet but I’m happy with subbing until I do.
I love how yoga is a space for me to exercise as well as have a counseling session with myself. I notice things I might not have when I don’t pay attention, and am able to detach myself from certain feelings or thoughts that are not healthy. As a teacher, I am looking forward to providing that space for others to do whatever they want to during the time we have together.
Do you want to do yoga teacher training?
How long did it take you before you taught your first class?
What do you love about teaching yoga?
Love the photos Kendra … but most of all I love your courage. I don’t know a lot about yoga but I do know how tough it can be to be the leader/teacher and have so many important details to remember to pass on/corrections made/ kindness to be shown when helping learners etc. That first class…. 😅. So glad that is under your belt. You are a good teacher, are so motivated and you love to do things well …. but don’t forget to be kind to yourself. Like – reward yourself with a lovely chai tea after the class 😉 I am so proud of you !!
I’d love a Chai Tea, where are we meeting 😉 Thanks for the encouragement! I love the creative outlet especially when I know Oliver is in good hands with you or Daniel! Much love, xoxo K