Teacher in Training - Natalie's advice on yoga teacher training

There are many reasons why people turn to yoga teacher training. For me, it originated from a desire to overcome some limitations in my body (severe scoliosis) which not only caused physical pain but resulted in anxiety regarding what this meant for my future health. My life had turned from a stable and steady life with no health issues to a sudden spiral downhill where I felt physical and mental pain every minute of every day. Thank goodness for yoga which gave me some tools to cope but I needed more. My regular practice and basic knowledge of poses wasn’t enough. I yearned to learn more--much more. I wanted to educate myself with a deeper knowledge of ‘coping’ mechanisms. I wanted to equip myself with tools to keep me healthy in body and mind, to reduce my physical pain, to focus on my mental well-being and ultimately share this with others as a yoga teacher. I found Inner Adventure Yoga Teacher Training through a Scoliosis workshop ran by Bonnie and immediately knew I had found the right RYS200 hour course. With the combination of Bonnie’s incredible knowledge of anatomy and Heidi’s deep knowledge of Yoga Philosophy and Asana the Inner Adventure YTT course felt like a perfect fit for the education I desired. 

There are many RYS200 hour courses out there. My three pieces of advice when choosing would firstly choose instructors you connect with. For me, Heidi and Bonnie are natural teachers who deeply care about your learning journey. They are also great fun and create a warm safe environment to learn in. Secondly, choose a course that allows for time. Honestly, I don’t understand how anyone can learn to be a Yoga instructor on a short/intensive 1 to 3-week course. This would not allow for time to learn, adjust, and create your own style.  Lastly, pick a course that has small class sizes. With Inner Adventure you get so much personal attention from the extremely experienced teachers. This is rare!

6 months into the 9-month course and I am already sharing my learning with the community around me. I am already confident in explaining Yoga philosophy to loved ones, teaching Asana technique to willing friends and running the occasional Pranayama practice for colleagues. I can’t wait to receive my RYS200 certificate in November so I can teach my first real class.