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  • 7 Practical Strategies to Balance Personal Practice and Teaching

    7 Practical Strategies to Balance Personal Practice and Teaching

    Yoga teacher training is a wonderful process that combines your love of yoga and which includes the mission to help people. When you are through with your training, changing to become a teacher can be quite fulfilling as well as challenging. Probably the most often cited difficulty for new teachers is the balance between one’s own practice and the obligations arising from teaching.

    Your own practice is not just a form of self indulgence; it forms the bedrock on which you approach teaching. It stops you forgetting things and losing touch with the practice, keeps skills honed and passion kindled. Failure to do so may gradually make you tired or bored with the task. Well, how do you manage to teach and at the same time practice yoga for yourself? Alright, let’s go through some specific changes to support the practice while being a great teacher.

    Read More:

    How to Choose the Right Yoga Teacher Training Program for You
    Top 5 Books Every Aspiring Yoga Teacher Should Read
    Why a 100 Hour Yoga Teacher Training is a Perfect Start

    Why Personal Practice Matters for Teachers

    Before we dive into tips, let’s talk about why your personal practice is so crucial:

    • Inspiration: Your personal practice keeps you connected to the joy of yoga. It reminds you why you became a teacher in the first place.
    • Authenticity: When you practice regularly, you teach from experience, not theory. This makes your classes feel more genuine.
    • Growth: Yoga is a lifelong journey. As you continue practicing, you’ll discover new insights and skills to share with your students.
    • Self-Care: Teaching can be draining personal practice is your time to recharge and nourish your body, mind, and spirit.

    7 Strategies for Personal Teaching Practice

    Balancing your practice and teaching requires a mix of intention, planning, and flexibility. Here’s how you can approach it:

    1. Make Personal Practice Non-Negotiable

    Of course, when life becomes hectic, it is easy to neglect personal practice. The way to approach it is to consider it a necessity, not a luxury. Commit yourself to devote a certain period of time in a day or even in a week for your practice. No matter if it is morning or evening, don’t schedule anything for this time, just the way you would not schedule a class that you are going to be teaching.

    Frequency is more important than the length of the frequency. It only takes 20 minutes to get these benefits to your body, mind and soul. When the day gets really stressful, it is possible to just sit and meditate or do a few rounds of the sun salutations.

    2. Allow Teaching to Inspire Your Practice

    There are so many ways that teaching and personal practice can be mutually beneficial. When your students appear to be challenged in some ways with certain poses or flows, take the opportunity to go further into it. For instance, if a student wants to know what it is like to build core strength, you can try out sequences that are related to that during your self-training.

    Your practice can also be a place for testing of new classes. Want to explain a new flow or theme in class? Before implementing it on your employees, make sure you try it yourself and see whether it’s fluid and exciting or not. This not only improves your own practice but also your teaching, I found this aspect to be one of the most valuable.

    3. Keep Your Practice Flexible

    There are some days when you wake up with lots of strength and you can practice very energetic vinyasa or complicated poses. Other days, especially when you have several classes in the morning and you are teaching all day, you might want to do a softer practice.

    By being aware of your body, you will be in a position to change your strategies as you progress. There is absolutely nothing wrong with dedicating an entire practice to restorative postures, breathing exercises, or even just a seated meditation when you are tired. The important thing about your practice is not to get it right – it’s about doing the work for yourself.

    4. Stay Connected to Your Role as a Student

    Being a teacher is never boring because deep down, you’re always a learner. Education is very important in every individual’s personal and professional life as it helps him or her to change.

    Take other teachers’ classes in order to get motivated and see things from different angles. Other forms include workshops, retreats or any other form of advanced teacher training programs are also other great methods. Yoga done in the company of a group of yogis is likely to bring back the passion you had when you first started practicing yoga.

    5. Don’t Be Hard on Yourself

    It is important to remember that life is full of surprises, and there will be days when your personal practice will be disrupted. Instead of feeling guilty, embrace the fact that balance is a process and not a schedule.

    Acknowledge those little victories to yourself, such as managing to squeeze in a 10-minute meditation or journaling. And it does not only imply postures but also a way to look at the world and at oneself. Remember to be gentle with yourself while learning how to teach and also practice at the same time.

    6. Seek Support

    If you are having difficulty with managing your practice while teaching, do not feel shy contacting for assistance. Discuss how other yoga teachers or mentors do it. This will most probably give you a lot of answers because you will realize that most of them have passed through similar situations as you and therefore have good tips to give.

    Another benefit of practicing teaching gestures is that, when joining a community of teachers, one may get an accountability partner to help keep one on track when practicing the gestures.

    7. Reconnect with Your “Why”

    Finally, always remember what made you take up yoga exercise in the first place. Was it to find peace? To feel stronger? To find your inner self?

    It’s simple to lose sight of why you’re doing what you’re doing when you’re super busy, but it’s always important to get back in touch with that feeling.

    Conclusion

    While teaching yoga and keeping up a personal practice is something that I always need to work on, I have learned, as any yogi, that it is as dynamic as the practice itself. For that, the practice should remain your focus, you should define the limits and get motivated to keep it between the teacher and the student of yoga.

    I have said that your personal practice is a gift for you and for your students. That is when you are most real, most a teacher, when you choose to foster it in those tiny pockets of time between lesson planning, student teaching, and assessment.

    So, unfold your blanket and take deep breaths and just enjoy the flow. Well, yoga is not about doing it right, is it – it is about balance in our lives as we do it on the mat and as we live it. 

    1. What is the best yoga teacher training in Bali?

    BaliYogShala offers one of the best Yoga Alliance-certified teacher training programs in Bali, covering Ashtanga, Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yin Yoga in a serene and spiritual environment.

    2. How do I choose the right yoga teacher training course?

    Look for Yoga Alliance accreditation, experienced teachers, comprehensive course content, and a location that inspires your practice. Also, consider the style of yoga that aligns with your teaching goals.

    3. Is a 200-hour yoga teacher training enough to start teaching?

    Yes! A 200-hour YTT provides the foundational knowledge to start teaching yoga confidently. However, continuous learning and practice help refine your skills.

    4. What are the benefits of doing yoga teacher training in Bali?

    Bali is a global yoga hotspot known for its spiritual energy, breathtaking nature, and world-class yoga schools. Training in Bali allows you to immerse in authentic yogic wisdom while enjoying a peaceful retreat.

    5. How can I balance teaching yoga and my personal practice?

    • Prioritize personal practice just like teaching.
    • Use your students’ challenges as learning opportunities.
    • Stay flexible and listen to your body’s needs.
    • Keep evolving through workshops and retreats.

    6. What styles of yoga are included in a multi-style teacher training course?

    A multi-style yoga TTC includes diverse styles like Hatha, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Yin, and Restorative Yoga, giving teachers a well-rounded skill set to guide different student needs.

    7. Can I do yoga teacher training as a beginner?

    Yes! While prior experience is helpful, many beginner-friendly yoga teacher training courses focus on building strong foundations and developing a deep understanding of yoga philosophy, anatomy, and teaching methodology.

    8. What job opportunities are available after completing yoga teacher training?

    Graduates can work as:

    • Yoga instructors in studios, retreats, and wellness centers
    • Online yoga teachers (live or pre-recorded classes)
    • Private yoga coaches
    • Corporate wellness trainers
    • Yoga content creators (YouTube, Instagram, blogs)

    9. Is yoga teacher training worth it if I don’t want to teach?

    Absolutely! Many students join yoga TTCs for personal growth, deepening their practice, learning meditation, and exploring yoga philosophy—even if they don’t plan to teach professionally.

    10. How can I stay motivated as a yoga teacher?

    • Continue learning through advanced yoga courses.
    • Attend classes with other teachers.
    • Travel for yoga retreats and workshops.
    • Experiment with different yoga styles and techniques.

    11. What is the difference between RYT-200 and RYT-500 certification?

    • RYT-200: Basic 200-hour yoga teacher training, ideal for beginners.
    • RYT-500: Advanced 500-hour training, providing deeper knowledge, advanced asanas, and yoga therapy techniques.

    12. How much can a certified yoga teacher earn?

    Yoga teachers’ income varies based on location, experience, and teaching platform. Online yoga teachers, private instructors, and retreat leaders often earn more than studio instructors.

    13. What should I pack for a yoga teacher training retreat in Bali?

    • Comfortable yoga clothing
    • A high-quality yoga mat
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Notebook & pen for journaling
    • Sunscreen & mosquito repellent
    • Open heart & mind for transformation

    14. How do I get Yoga Alliance certification after training?

    After completing a Yoga Alliance-registered course, you can apply for RYT (Registered Yoga Teacher) certification through their official website by submitting your training details.

    15. How can I build a successful yoga career after training?

    • Start by teaching locally or online.
    • Create a strong social media presence.
    • Network with other teachers and wellness brands.
    • Offer specialized workshops & retreats.
    • Continue advanced training to enhance your expertise.

    Know More About Our Yoga Courses 🧘‍♂️✨

    ✅ 100 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Bali
    ✅ 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Bali
    ✅ 300 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Bali
    ✅ 5 Days Yoga Retreat in Bali
    ✅ 7 Days Yoga Retreat in Bali

    📍 Google Maps Location: 🔗 Click Here to Find Us 🏡 Address: Jalan Pura Dalem, Satra, Kec. Klungkung, Kabupaten Klungkung, Bali 80761, Indonesia

    📞 Get in Touch:
    📲 Phone: +62 853-3351-1386
    📧 Email: baliyogshala@gmail.com

    📌 Plus Code: C9VV+6R, Satra, Klungkung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

  • Unlock the Secrets of Hatha Yoga: A Positive Journey for Beginners

    Unlock the Secrets of Hatha Yoga: A Positive Journey for Beginners

    Yoga is an ancient and dynamic practice that has its roots in India, and among a wide range of different yoga styles, Hatha yoga is considered the beginning and foundation for modern yoga styles. The word hatha has a meaning infused, which translates as “ha” meaning sun and “tha” meaning moon in Sanskrit. It showcases and puts much value in the concept of balance, which represents using opposing energies within us in union.

    If you are a beginner and are exploring your way into yoga, then practicing Hatha yoga can bring you a number of great benefits. It includes a subtle mix of various asana practices and mindful breathing techniques (pranayamas), which not only improve your flexibility but also strengthen your body and enhance your overall well-being. While regular practice can help with a lot of things, including stress reduction and fostering inner peace,. 

    So if you are curious about how yoga can enhance and improve the quality of your life and how much potential it has for changing your life, then Hatha yoga is the perfect to begin the oracle.

    Hatha Yoga

    The Essentials of Hatha Yoga Practice

    Asanas (Postures): The Foundation of Movement

    Asanas, or the physical postures, are the core aspects of Hatha yoga, and in this section, we will discuss exploring and maintaining some fundamentals to have an effective and safe practice.

    Alignment and Breathwork: The Guiding Principles

    Before beginning any specific posture, you need to keep these two things in mind:

    Alignment:

    Proper alignment is the only way to save yourself from any injury or mishap during the practice. While ensuring safety, they also maximise the benefit of each pose. Choose a qualified and experienced yoga instructor, as it will be helpful to provide you with the correct guidance on optimal alignment for each asana.

    Breathwork (Pranayama):

    In yoga, breath is considered a powerful bridge between mind and body. When you coordinate your body movements with your breath, it brings focus and control to your practice. It’s best to focus on inhaling while you open your body and exhaling as you release the tension.

    Beginner-Friendly Asanas:

    Let’s take a quick note on some basic poses, categorized by how they function:

    Standing Poses (Balance and Strength):

    Tadasana (Mountain Pose):
    • Stand tall with your knees straight.
    • Keep your feet hip-width apart.
    • Ground through your soles.
    • Stretch your arms up and stand on your feet.
    • Come down, stand at your feet, and put our hands down. Repeat a few times.
    Vrikshasana (Tree Pose):
    • Stand straight and tall to balance your body on one leg.
    • Hold the other leg and place it on the inside of your thighs.
    • Join both your palms in a Namaste and bring it to your chest.
    • Hold the pose and breathe steadily.
    Benefits of Standing Poses
    • It helps reduce the overall body weight.
    • Strengthen the ankles, hips, and chest.
    • Improves digestion and concentration.
    • It calms the mind and releases stress.
    • Stretch the thigh muscles and abdominal organs.

    Forward Bends (Flexibility and Inner Peace):

    Balasana (Child’s Pose):
    • Kneel down on the floor.
    • Keep your feet placed on the mat.
    • Take a breath and spread your knees to the length of your hips.
    • Keep your shoulders on your knees.
    • Extend your hands straight upwards and rest them on the mat.
    Uttanasana (Standing Forward Fold):
    • Stand straight on your feet and keep your spine straight.
    • Balance your weight equally on both legs.
    • Keep your arms over your head and motion your breathing while inhaling.
    • Enhale, stretch your body, and hinge at the hips.
    • Bend forward completely with a flat back.
    • Fold your body down towards your feet.
    Benefits of forward-bending poses:
    • Strengthen the thighs, knees, and legs.
    • It helps reduce tension in the lower back.
    • It helps in stretching the back, spine, and hips.
    • It calms the mind and balances the nervous system.
    • Improves the digestive system.

    Twists (Detoxification and Digestion):

    Marjariasana (Cat-Cow Pose):
    • Sit in the table-top position.
    • Keep your palms, knees, and toes on the floor.
    • Engage your core and draw your belly button inward.
    • For the cat pose, arch the back and drag your belly towards the mat.
    • Hold your breath and feel the stretch in your back and core.
    • For the cow pose, exhale and round the back towards the ceiling.
    • Tuck your chin to the chest while engaging your core.
    • Feel like you are pushing the floor away from you.
    • Hold your breath and feel the stretch in your neck and shoulders.
    Vakrasana (Seated Twist):
    • Sit on the floor and extend your legs in front.
    • Engage your core and keep your spine erect and straight.
    • Extend your arms out to the sides while keeping your palms facing down.
    • Fold your right leg and bring your foot outside of your left thigh.
    • Bring your left arm behind you while keeping the right one on the left knee.
    • Maintain breathing, and repeat it on the other side.
    Benefits of Twists:
    • Improves muscular balance and coordination.
    • It calms the nervous system.
    • Creates space in the hips, shoulder, and spine.
    • It helps relax the muscles around the spine.
    • Aid in decompressing the spinal column.

    Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar):

    Hatha Yoga - Surya Namaskar

    Sun salutations are the foundational sequences that can be performed first or at any time. These sequences link a series of several pictures together in a flowing movement that is synchronised by breath. They are perfect for a complete body workout and can be practiced at various speeds depending on the exercise level of the individual or person doing it.

    These are the beginning yoga poses in Hatha yoga, but as you progress in your practice, you will get to explore a wide range of asanas that will further enhance your flexibility and practice.

    Pranayama (Breathing Techniques): The Power of the Breath

    Hatha Yoga - Pranayama

    Breath plays a vital role in yoga practice, as it is considered the life force. When you understand the connection our body has between the breath and the movements we do, it allows you to control your body’s energy (prana) and enhance and improve your overall practice.

    Simple breathing exercises:

    Ujjayi (Victorious Breath):

    In this breathing technique, you need to constrict your throat slightly while inhaling and exhaling, creating a soft, hissing sound. This breathing technique focuses mainly on the mind and helps in energising the body.

    Dirga Swasam (Three-Part Breath):

    As stated by the name, you are required to divide your breath into three parts. First you will fill your lower belly, then you will move to the mid-ribs and, in the end, the upper chest. And then you will have to exhale in the reversing sequence. The breath brings peace and promotes overall relaxation by calming your nervous system.

    Benefits of Mindful Breathing:

    Mindful breathing techniques help you build focus and create a sense of inner peace and well-being. When you focus solely on your breathing, it helps in distracting your mind and reducing stress while improving overall concentration and boosting the sense of calmness within.

    Getting Started with Hatha Yoga: The Essentials You Need

    We have already discussed the asanas and postures and what you will learn. But still, there might be many questions coming into your mind about beginning the class. This section will give you the knowledge to navigate your first class and make you feel comfortable while stepping onto your yoga mat.

    A Breakdown of the Class Structure:

    Every Hatha yoga class follows a well-defined set of structures that allow you to form practice and ease into the practice with rhythm. Here is what you can expect:

    • Warm-up (5–10 minutes): You will begin with some gentle movements and stretches to prepare your body for more activeness and asana practice.
    • Asana Practice (30–45 minutes): This is the essential part of the class, where you will flow both physically and mentally through a sequence of postures that are designed specifically to improve overall bodily strength, flexibility, and balance.
    • Cool-down (5–10 minutes): After some heavy movements, you will go through some calming stretches and postures to help your body get calm and transition from exertion to relaxation.
    • Relaxation (5–10 minutes): The class will end with a relaxation pose like Savasana (corpse pose), which is the final stage that allows your body and mind to completely relax and integrate the practice.

    Respecting Etiquette:

    Respect and mindfulness are essential elements to keep in mind while practicing yoga. Here are some helpful points to remember in order to maintain an inclusive and positive environment in the classroom:

    • Arrive early: Punctuality is the key; try to arrive a few minutes early for the class. This will allow you adequate time to settle in, resolve your query, and find a comfortable spot.
    • Maintain personal space: While keeping a focus on your practice, do not forget to be aware of your fellow yogis too. Maintain a respectful distance between the mats for better focus.

    Choosing Your Perfect Class:

    For individuals with different levels, there are a variety of Hatha yoga class types, each catering to the specific needs of individuals. Here is how you can find the right fit for you:

    • Beginner Hatha: These classes are designed for newcomers and teach you the fundamental postures of Hatha Yoga with clear instructions and modifications for beginners.
    • Gentle Hatha: These classes are beneficial for those individuals who are going slow in their practice with some limitations, as these classes focus on relaxation and general stretches only.
    • Restorative Hatha: These classes utilise props for support and include advanced postures for passive stretching and deep relaxation.

    Finding a Qualified Instructor:

    A supportive and qualified instructor plays a vital role in guiding you safely and effectively in your yoga journey. It is essential to look for someone with years of experience in teaching Hatha Yoga.

    Also, look for a yoga school that is registered with the Yoga Alliance and has a good reputation for teaching and conducting classes, such as Bali Yogshala. 

    Preparing for Your First Class:

    Don’t be nervous; just be mentally prepared, and it can ease your first-class jitters. Here’s what you can pack and bring to the class:

    • Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose clothes that allow you to move freely. You can also go for natural fabrics like cotton.
    • Yoga Mat: A yoga mat is a one-time investment, so get one that provides ample support and cushioning.

    Conclusion:

    As you begin your journey with the practice of Hatha yoga, remember the array of benefits it offers. Do not forget to maintain a regular practice, as it is the key to a flexible and strong body with improved balance. But apart from its physical aspects, it can also be a powerful tool for various mental issues, which include stress management, inner peace, and relaxation. The mindful breathing techniques this yoga offers will not only benefit you during the class but can also help you become calmer and more focused in your everyday life.

    The wait is over. Just pack your bag, get your mat, and begin learning Hatha yoga now. There are countless resources available to you to support you on your journey. Many reputable yoga studios, such as Bali Yogshala, offer introductory classes to provide you with a wealth of information and proper guidance and inspiration. So take the first step and begin your practice while discouraging the immense benefits of this beautiful practice.

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