There is so much to dive into in regards to teacher trainings.

How long do we train for? Is our system working for us?

Are teacher training and deeper learning the same thing?

Should I run a “social justice” focused teacher training?

Anjali and I get into it all. Take a listen.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

*Training is a huge responsibility within the industry. And we often have challenges that we need to address when we decide to run teacher training. I have said this before on this series, but many times, people train because they are looking for qualified candidates to work at their studio. Are these ideal conditions for training? I don’t know, but it certainly isn’t the “my yoga studio can’t make it without training” story we are often telling amongst ourselves.

*I am SO glad Anjali brought this up. Training yoga teachers and deepening your knowledge of yoga are not the same thing. They should not be in the same program. We need to offer a diverse menu of yoga knowledge enhancement options in our yoga studios–not just only group classes and YTTs. I cannot say this enough times.

*So Anjali said something that I want to highlight. It is this idea that a deep yoga practice is something you should “enjoy”. She is right, a lot of yoga is groundbreaking and uncomfortable. While the changes you create as a result of a deep yoga practice can be highly beneficial and enjoyable, the process is hard. And we should be saying anything different.

*Hey friends. I know saying things like “social justice” is a great way for you to attract certain people to your doorstep. But there is disrespect at best, and danger at worst when we use the phrase social justice like a marketing term. People deserve better. The black, queer, and disabled communities we support deserve better. Please stop. Thank you so much.

*There is no checklist that makes you a good white person in yoga. I am sorry if that is news. But the willingness to have discussions, unpack your own privilege, and as Anjali asks “what else are you doing?” is a great place to start.

*This is another one of the things this series has mentioned constantly. Mentorship. If you are an experienced teacher please consider how you can mentor the next generation of yoga teachers so they can have a nurturing and supportive environment to learn the skillset of teaching yoga.

RESOURCES

Working In Yoga Website

Working In Yoga Newsletter

Anjali’s Website

Find Taylor Casey

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Midwest Yoga Conference