Yoga Teacher Training Forum

Namaskar Parell,

This is interesting question and one that I once asked Paulji about teaching yoga to western students. He tiold me things that I di not believe at the time. Basically this is what I have learned and I hope you will listen sooner than i did.

1. Most beginner students think advanced yoga is asana exercise only, so give them a gradual and safe physical challenge.

2. Do not waste time teaching the too much about deeper aspects of Yoga to beginners. They want their money's worth in yoga exercise.

3. Most beginners do not see a value in samadhi, pranayama, mudra, chakra, bandha, japa, or anything else. You will only frustrate yourself if you teach these things before they are ready.

4. Do not waste energy trying to convince students about the non-physical value of yoga. Serious yoga students will appear in time, but they cannot be forced into becoming knowledgable or truly advanced.

5. When you gather Yoga students who are serious about yoga practice your are their guide, but give them what they are ready for.

6. Yoga teachers have passion and inspiration for Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Karma Yoga. Do not expect your student to want or know these values.

7. All Yoga teachers should practice the deeper aspects of Yoga for personal practice. If you desire to impress your students with physical tricks, how will you impress young athletic students, when you are an elder? A physically gifted child can also perform tricks.

May God Bless You.

Om Shanti,

Jopis