BUILDING YOUR CONFIDENCE TEACHING IN THE CLASS ROOM...THIS IS WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
TEACHING YOGA IN A CLASSROOM SETTING CAN BE BOTH EXHILARATING AND NERVE-WRACKING…
….especially if you've primarily taught online or are just starting your journey as a yoga teacher. As a yoga teacher mentor and coach and first and foremost a yoga teacher with a decade of experience, I understand the challenges that come with building confidence in the classroom. I've faced my own hurdles and insecurities, and now I'm here to share some valuable tips that I have learnt through experience that will help you feel super confident in your role as a yoga teacher. These tips will help you to get grounded, regulate your nervous system and find your flow so you feel more at ease every time you show up to teach.
1. Turn up Early to Your Class
As a new teacher nerves can run high and it’s really normal to feel nervous and this puts you into an unregulated space in your body and mind. Arriving early to your yoga class is one of the most effective ways to start on the right foot. Rushing in at the last minute can spike your adrenaline levels, leading to unnecessary nerves and a sense of unease. By giving yourself time before the class begins, you can take a few moments to centre yourself, find your breath, and get into the right mindset.
Starting your class feeling calm and grounded will set the tone for the entire session. Your students will pick up on your energy, and when they see you composed and centred, they'll feel more at ease too. Remember, you're the anchor of the class, and your presence has a profound impact on your students' experience.
TOP TIP - I know that sometimes things don’t go to plan. Trains are late, things happen on the way to class and you turn up with just minutes to spare before the class begins. This may mean that you are on high alert and very unregulated so therefore energetically and mentally will be all over the place. This is not great for you or your students. If this happens there is a simple solution. Start the class with breathwork and meditation OR have your students lie down and instruct them to connect to their breath and you breathe with them. Not only will you be helping your students to land in the room and the practice, this gives you time to get grounded, regulate your nervous system so you are ready to serve your students from a really centred, grounded and present space. Win win!!
2. Get Off Your Mat!
As a new yoga teacher especially, your mat can sometimes feel like a safe space. Stepping off it and walking around the room might initially feel uncomfortable, but it's a game-changer for building connection with your students. By moving around, you'll be able to observe more closely what's happening in the class and be able to make adjustments to ensure everyone is practising safely.
By stepping away from the mat you will be more immersed in the class room and able to hold space for your students in a more holistic way.
Walking around the classroom allows you to connect more authentically with your students. Your delivery is part of a conversation with your students, and this is not just about instructing with the voice in a one way direction.
There are many different elements that you can bring in when you step off the mat to guide and serve your students. When you are walking around you can really see what is going on and instruct from what you are seeing rather than just reeling off a script of what you have in your head to deliver. You can then offer hands-on adjustments, along with personalised guidance, and offer words of encouragement when needed. This immersive conversation reinforces your role as the teacher and helps your students feel supported throughout their practice.
3. Embrace Open Body Language
Adopting open body language can influence how you feel internally. Standing confidently can boost your self-assurance and contribute to a more positive teaching experience. According to recent studies 70-93% of all communication is non verbal so therefore teaching yoga is not just about verbal cues; it's also about non-verbal communication.
Your body language speaks volumes, both to your students and to yourself. When you exude confidence and authority through your body language, your students will feel more secure in your presence. Stand tall, shoulders back, chest open, front body open. Avoid crossing your arms or appearing closed off, as this can create a subtle barrier between you and your class.
TOP TIP - One thing I like to think about when I’m teaching and something I share with the teachers I work with that is super helpful is think of yourself as the host. You are welcoming your students in with open arms, eye contact, making them feel welcome as they come into the room. And then as you teach, holding them as you walk around the room, standing tall, arms open and expressive, heart open, open face. This will feel good not only to you but to your students as well.
4. Play with Your Voice
What can often happen when you are nervous and/or have just started teaching is that you can slip into ‘yoga teacher voice’ - what you think a yoga teacher sounds like or monotone voice which is your voice going into auto pilot while you try to govern your nerves and learn to teach and deliver. Alot of the time the voice is forgotten. Taking control of your voice and finding your voice in your teaching not only has the power to create atmosphere in the classroom but also helps to build the confidence you have in your delivery and in who you are as a teacher.
Your voice is a powerful tool to create an immersive and transformative experience for your students. Experiment with different elements of your voice—project it clearly, play with tone and volume, and add inflection to your words and sentences. Your voice has the power to evoke emotions, guide your students through their practice, and create an energetic atmosphere in the room.
You are telling a story with your voice, not just with the words but with the tone, projection, volume and inflection. Weaving a layered narrative throughout the class, leading your students on a journey of self-discovery and growth. Embrace the versatility of your voice, and don't be afraid to infuse enthusiasm, calmness, or warmth, depending on the theme and mood of your class, the feeling you are wanting to evoke and the energy of your students and the flow.
As a yoga teacher, building confidence in the classroom is an ongoing process, but it's so important to remember that you're not alone on this journey. Integrate these four useful tips—arriving early, stepping off your mat, using open body language, and playing with your voice—to elevate your teaching and enhance your students' experience.
Becoming a confident yoga teacher doesn't happen overnight, but with lots of practice, self-reflection, and the guidance of experienced teachers and mentors, you'll discover your unique teaching style and find your voice in this new role.
So, embrace your journey, stay open to growth, and trust that your passion for yoga and teaching will guide you towards becoming a confident and impactful yoga teacher in the classroom.