10 Things to know before you enroll for a Yoga Teacher Training in India

Today, with numerous seekers commencing their yogic journey, the need for authentic, professional and proficient teachers has seen a sharp swell. Yoga is not just an effective workout or performing intricate asanas, but it is a lifestyle. It is an opportunity to shape one’s thoughts and beliefs by aligning the mind, body and soul. For all those who intend to enroll themselves for a Yoga teacher training in Rishikesh in here are some insights from the mystical world of Yoga for you to know and reflect on, to ensure you get the best of the best -

1. Do it for yourself -

While most of us have bustling lives that leave us with little to no room for our own inner journeys, the need to remain grounded and focused becomes increasingly more evident. Every once in a while, listen to yourself and do the things you have always wanted to! Yoga teaches us complete surrender, to come down from our heads, listen to our hearts and experience real peace and purity. It helps us raise our awareness, allowing us to enjoy the present moment wholly.

2. Embrace the Unknown -

Do not let thoughts like ‘Can a beginner do a Yoga Teacher Training?’ or ‘Will I will be able to do every asana?’ demotivate you. You aren’t expected to get every pose, every stretch and every bend right. The journey is all about leaving your fears and inhibitions behind. Always remember, failing is a part of the journey and if anything, it makes the journey even more riveting! If it is your first time pursuing Yoga Teacher Training, beginning with a 200-hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh is recommended.

3. Set Your Intention -

It is never only about what you are doing or how it is being done, the ‘why’ is the most important aspect. Spend some time with yourself and introspect on what your purpose behind the pursuit of this is and where you are headed? Is it to become a passionate Yoga instructor - sharing the precious gift of Yoga with other seekers or is it solely to deepen your practice and come closer to your inner self? While it is important to set your intention, be open to the fact that it may change over the course of time. As you grow spiritually and get to know yourself better, your choices may differ from what they once were and that’s completely okay!

4. Challenge Your Concepts -

The greatest gift of Yoga is that it encourages you to step outside your comfort zone. For various basic and Advanced Yoga Teacher Training Courses like the 200 & 300 hour Yoga Teacher Training courses, seekers from across the world sign themselves up. This leads to a multicultural class environment with each student coming from a different background, carrying a different personality. To challenge your concepts likes and dislikes amidst this environment is a test in itself. It is a wonderful opportunity to practice the art of responding to a situation instead of reacting to a situation. Each day, push your capabilities to become the best version of yourself.

5. Enjoy Both - the Ups and Downs -

Yoga Teacher Training is never going to be smooth. Exhaustion, discomfort and learning new things about yourself each day can be overwhelming. One day you’re celebrating achievement and the next day you wish to quit. However, remember that you are on a journey of in-depth study, inner peace and personal growth. Don’t be too hard on yourself, after all a journey is only as fun as you make it be!

6. Practice Self-Care -

Practicing Yoga elevates your body, mind and soul helping you achieve more than you ever thought possible. However, there may be times when you just want to relax and take a break from the arduous training sessions and information overload. At times like these, unapologetically indulge in what you need - a relaxing spa session, a night out with friends or just catching up on sleep. After all, your Yoga practice is all about what you need at that moment and enjoying your training is the most important aspect.

7. A Journey From Acquaintance to Family -

Journeying through Yoga Teacher Training comes with practicing, studying, eating and living with a group of like-minded seekers. A group of people from different corners of the globe who have one common goal - Yoga! This journey means celebrating all your daily triumphs and laughing over the failures together. It is all about innumerable heartfelt conversations and a treasure trove of experiences that make it a journey from acquaintances to the family!

8. Delve Into the Depths of Yoga -

If you intend to be a Yoga professional, it is important to understand both, the theoretical and practical aspects of Yoga in depth. It is also highly recommended to connect to your Yoga trainer and his/her teaching style, as your mentor will largely impact your performance as a trainer. Also, if you are pursuing your Yoga teacher training from India, ensure that you get a chance to revel in the rich Indian culture alongside the empowering training sessions.

9. Let The Journey Unfold -

The journey of a yogi is mystical, to say the least. Let go of your concepts constraining how your journey must be and allow it to unfold by itself. Learn to have faith in the process, overcome your fear of the unknown and thrive on the freedom within. The practice of Yoga synchronizes your mind, body and soul, helping you take in more and allowing you to make the most of your training.

10. Remember that this is Only the Beginning -

We spend a lot of time contemplating our past and future selves. Just for today, behold the incredible journey you’ve traversed to arrive at this moment in your life. Yoga is not a destination, it is a journey, a process of becoming the best version of yourself. Remember that each day is a new beginning and you have a long way to go. Celebrate yourself, today and every day!

Rishikesh Yogkulam is a well established Yoga Institution, affiliated to the Yoga Alliance, Usa. Situated in the holy town of Rishikesh, India we are a school that is known for its authentic education of yoga and meditation.