Teaching Methodology Intro & Overview

Foundations Overview

No matter the subject matter, excellent teachers shine with wisdom, presence, passion, empathy and humility. 

Particularly accomplished and skillful teachers are able to adapt teachings to what is uniquely called for in each situation.

We want to be sure that every teacher who strives to be their very best has a clear path to reach their potential. So we’ve worked hard to bring together both the big things and the little things that contribute to excellent teaching. We go beyond re-stating the obvious or simply giving “tips”. Here we bring you inspiration and a pathway to help you mindfully direct your learning and practice to most efficiently and effectively reach your goals.

We have organized the foundational skills of good yoga teaching around these categories:

1. Mindfulness, Humility, Boundaries
2. Personal Practice & Knowledge of Teachings
3. Skillful Teaching
4. Promoting Student Safety

Don’t Miss The Deeper Teachings!

Here we are simply introducing these topics, giving you a bigger picture perspective and the ability to choose your areas of interest. To delve into these topics, please select the links (if you have an online version) or go the relevant sections in your manual.

Mindfulness, Humility, Boundaries

1. Practice mindfulness while teaching: continue to return your awareness to your breath, thoughts, energy and expression.
2. Stay grounded in your body while teaching.
3. Be humble, honest and transparent.
4. Endeavor to truly see students, honoring their wholeness and respecting their individuality.
5. Allow students to have their own experience.
6. Create healthy boundaries between teacher and student while avoiding unnecessary distance.
7. Refrain from giving advice in psychotherapy or other areas outside of your teaching expertise.
8. When a student is potentially distracting other students, ask yourself mindful questions to determine whether and how to intervene.
9. When intervention is called for, do so with respect, empathy and clarity.
10. Protect the quiet of Savasana by ending class on time and requesting beforehand that those who need to leave early, leave before Savasana begins.

Go deeper here: Mindfulness, Humility, Boundaries