Teaching Hatha Yoga - The Character of a Professional Yoga Teacher

When teaching Yoga classes to the public, there are certain components, which separate some teachers "from the crowd." Luckily, all of these components can be learned, but what qualities should a Yoga teacher learn to develop? According to one survey, two thirds of all adults had never taken a Yoga class.

If we ask the non-participating public to tell us what a good Yoga teacher should be, we usually hear answers like: Athletic, thin, vegetarian, flexible, strong, and the ideal body weight. These are good qualities for instructors who teach a physical style of Yoga, but they indicate nothing about their character or ethics.

In fact, a Yoga instructor's mission is to teach us something, in each lesson, which we can take home to improve our health. The teacher's physical prowess does not teach us anything new; and physical feats are not a reflection of teaching skill. As I have said before, any competent gymnast can perform impressive physical feats. Great coaches do not have to be elite athletes to train successful athletes. The following are some of the most underrated, but important qualities a Yoga teacher should possess; and all of them are a reflection of good character.

A Yoga instructor should be a good communicator. Speaking well is important, but communication is a "two way street," which requires listening skills and exceptional observation skills. This is the Yoga teacher who is not afraid to answer questions. He or she also knows when to stop demonstrating and give an assist. Some teachers can project a gentle or silent message, without saying a word. As a student, you can see it in his or her eyes, face, and body language. A teacher who can project kindness and charisma, without saying much is filled with passion for Yoga.

Charisma is the common denominator among the greatest teachers of all time. Yet, since it is unseen - it is also underrated. A charismatic teacher will establish an ethical rapport with Yoga students as a by-product of his or her personality. Many successful Yoga teachers reflect self-confidence without arrogance or self-righteousness. This type of self-confidence is full of positive energy and is easily seen as optimism. This is a Yogi or Yogini who has learned to transcend fear, look for solutions, and find success.

Some Yoga teachers are skilled at instilling the gift of empowerment within their students, which translates into their valuable life skills. Most students want honest feedback and recognition. When a Yoga instructor takes the time to remember names, give an honest compliment, make eye contact, and keep a sense of humor, students look forward to each lesson. Although the public is often deceived by superficial viewpoints, and hasty judgment calls; the depth of a teacher's character is always revealed to the serious Yoga student.

© Copyright 2007 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. riyoga.com riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html