We give a lot as yoga teachers. We hold space, we use our voices, we look out for our student's mental and physical safety, and to some extent we perform on a public stage. This can be so rewarding, but it also can get tiring or draining. Especially when we hold ourselves to a high standard.
As a yoga teacher, you may, at times, start to feel burned out or disconnected from your practice. Teaching classes, managing a schedule, and balancing personal life can all take a toll on your physical and mental well-being, leaving you feeling drained and uninspired. But, it is possible to reignite the spark that led you to become a yoga teacher in the first place. Here are some tips and words of support to help you re-engage in your yoga practice and rediscover the joy of teaching.
Take a break: Sometimes the best thing you can do is to step away from teaching and take some time for yourself. This could be a day, a week, or even a month. Use this time to focus on your own practice and to recharge your batteries.
Revisit the basics: When we’ve been teaching for a while, it can be easy to get caught up in advanced poses and forget the foundation of the practice. Revisiting the basics can help you reconnect with the reasons why you fell in love with yoga in the first place.
Try a new style or teacher: Sometimes, a change of scenery is all it takes to re-inspire your practice. Trying a new style or teacher can bring fresh perspective and new insights.
Practice mindfulness: As a yoga teacher, it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life. Taking a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness can help you stay grounded and connected to the present moment.
Remember why you became a teacher: Remind yourself of the reasons why you became a yoga teacher in the first place. Was it to help others? To improve your own practice? To find inner peace? Reflecting on your motivations can help reignite your passion for teaching.
Seek support: Remember that you are not alone. There are other yoga teachers out there who have also hit a lull in their practice. Reach out to them for support and encouragement.
Take a class or workshop: Sometimes, it can be helpful to take a class or workshop to learn new techniques, get new ideas, or get a fresh perspective on your teaching.
Remember, it’s okay to hit a lull in your practice or to feel burned out. Every teacher goes through it. But, it’s important to take the time to reconnect with yourself and your practice. With these tips and a bit of support, you can reignite your passion for teaching and rediscover the joy of being a yoga teacher.
Being a yoga teacher is rewarding, but it can also be demanding and draining. It is important to remember to take care of yourself and your practice, and to seek support when needed.
Remember why you became a teacher and allow yourself the space to reconnect with the joy of teaching. Remember, a break, revisiting the basics, trying new things, mindfulness, seeking support, taking a class or workshop, and remembering your motivations can all help you re-engage in your yoga practice. And always remember that you are not alone, many other teachers have hit a lull in their practice, and have found ways to reconnect with their passion. Give yourself time and space, and without pushing your timeline, you'll likely hit a new groove once again.