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Wednesday, September 21, 2016

How to Begin Teaching Yoga Classes

By Bhavan Kumar

When students arrive for yoga class, they are looking forward to not only getting in better shape physically, but also having a period of relaxation that sets the tone for the class. Therefore, it's imperative yoga instructors’ use the best methods possible to help students get centered and focused. In doing so, their minds get clear of other thoughts and they can completely concentrate on the class ahead of them. While there are many ways to open a class, there are certain techniques that can be used to ensure everyone enjoys himself or herself.

Setting the Tone

The most critical part of any class, setting the tone from the beginning can lead to a great experience for everyone. A quiet space, along with soft lights, soft music, and comfortable room temperatures, can allow the students to prepare for the challenges ahead.

Establishing Breath Awareness

Extremely important to getting the most out of yoga, establishing breath awareness lets students connect with their minds and bodies in order to make them completely aware of just how they are breathing. For best results, let students spend two or three minutes sitting quietly and focusing exclusively on their breathing, then begin using deep breathing techniques such as ocean breath. This technique, which relies on long, smooth periods of inhalation and exhalation done through the nostrils, has proven to be very effective.



Prayers and Chants

Very effective techniques used to steady the minds of students and help them focus; prayers and chants have long been a staple of successful yoga classes. Whether it is only a syllable, a single word, or a short sentence, having students say these three or four times at the opening of class can allow for even greater relaxation and focus.

The Easy Pose

According to most yoga teachers, having students seated in the Easy pose automatically gets the class off to a good start. If there are students who have trouble with this pose, some teachers provide them with comfortable chairs to use or even let them lie down on the floor for added comfort. Along with this pose, some teachers incorporate simple arm movements into the opening session, creating an even more relaxed atmosphere.

By using these techniques that allow students to clear their minds while preparing for the class ahead, yoga teachers can be sure to have a relaxed atmosphere and a room filled with students eager to get started.



How to Start a Yoga Class?

There are several ways to increase the odds of creating a successful yoga class start-up. Passion for the practice of yoga is the foundation for success. A desire to inspire, teach and connect with others is at the heart of beginning this challenge.

Partnering with other small businesses, fitness centers and even clothing retailers to offer free or low-cost educational events is a great way to build a clientele. This approach allows you to gain visibility within your community. These partnerships can also offer opportunities to secure low cost space to host your yoga classes.

A record-keeping system will be needed to track customer payments and client lists. Microsoft Office Suite may suit your needs as a start-up. Fitness business tailored software systems may be considered if you decide to expand class offerings.

Keep things simple when starting off. Offering too many pricing options, promotions or class types can be overwhelming as a teacher and to consumers as well. There will always be time for expansion when you may consider bringing on additional teachers to expand your business.



It’s vital to create a pleasant environment for those attending your yoga classes. Strive to provide a space that fosters a sense of belonging. This should evolve somewhat naturally as those attending your classes will be interested in self-improvement. Provide time before and after classes that foster networking between clients.

Referral programs are an excellent way to build your customer base. Provide current clients with incentives to invite their friends and family to classes. Word of mouth advertising is one of the oldest and most reliable ways to get the word out about your classes.

Keep the lines of communication open with your yoga class clients. Pay attention to their feedback to tailor classes designed to meet their needs. Provide as much individualized attention as possible to make each customer feel like a V.I.P.




Learn from others who have launched successful yoga classes. Meet with these people in person or reach out online to gather tips and advice that you can learn from. Finding a mentor is an excellent way to learn from the experiences of others.

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1 comment:

parvezbdjsr said...

It’s vital to create a pleasant environment for those attending in yoga classes.

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