When I first walked into a yoga studio not quite two years ago, signing up for a teacher training program was the farthest thing from my mind. As a beginning yogi I was overwhelmed and intimidated just trying to keep up with the poses and sequences. In fact, I was desperately trying not to fall over on someone. Physical challenges aside, I was overwhelmed by the breathing for God’s sake. Who knew there was so much to inhaling and exhaling?
I stuck with it and learned to shut off my mind and just go with the flow. Literally. I felt better, calmer, less volatile. And when people started telling me—totally unprompted—that I seemed happier and less intense, and even commented that I bitched about things less (gee, thanks mom!), I realized yoga was changing my life for the better.
So after a lot of thought (and a little meditation) I finally set the boat on fire.
I committed to doing a 6-month extended 200-hour yoga teacher training course.
HolymotherofgodwhatdidIgetmyselfinto?
For 12 hours every other weekend (starting June 23) I will be fully immersed in all things yoga. The program will teach us philosophy, anatomy, asanas (poses), sequencing, and even how to run a yoga business. Along with regular quizzes and exams, I’m going to have to teach a sequence to my classmates in order to earn my certificate of completion. (Anyone who knows me knows that the very thought of getting up in front of group of people to talk paralyzes me.)
I’m not sure if I actually want to teach, but I’m keeping an open mind. Right now I’m just overwhelmed with the amount of time and focus this program will take and I’m hoping I can keep up with it, especially as we head into the Fall and my work schedule picks up.
I’m nervous, but I’m excited. I’m looking forward to really deepening my practice, and anything else that happens will be icing on the cake.
Just remind me of that when I come here crying about how haaaaard it is and how much wooooooork it is, m’kay?
I am so excited for you. I think this is wonderful. You will LOVE it, I’m sure. And now I’m thinking that I need to find a yoga class.
I AM going to love it—as soon as I get over being overwhelmed by the amount of time and work this is going to take. I caught myself in the orientation sizing up everyone, wondering if they were better or more advanced and trying to figure where I fit into the spectrum of levels. Very anti yoga of me! Plus, a lot of instructors I know are now aware that I’m taking the course. It’s good because I get extra instruction in class, but it’s bad because I feel like they’re all judging me. Which, of course, is all in MY head!
Plus, you’ve made your site all pretty and calming and fancy! Love it!!
Thanks! I wanted a template that was lighter and more airy!
I married a yoga teacher and I swear one day I will learn it! Maybe when the kids are older.
Love the new look of the site. Good luck with the TT, can’t wait to read the posts about it!