Affirmation: I Recognize Support Makes Everything Easier
Yoga teacher affirmation: I recognize support makes everything easier.
Building Confidence as a Yoga Teacher: Moving Beyond Imposter Syndrome with Karen Fabian
You probably love your favorite yoga teachers because they hold the space well and take the seat of the teacher with confidence. This confidence sets a tone that allows students to relax, center, and connect. But for many yoga teachers—both new and experienced—stepping into that confident role isn’t easy, especially when imposter syndrome creeps in.
Affirmation: I Recognize I Don’t Even Know What I Don’t Know
Yoga teacher affirmation: I recognize I don’t even know what I don’t know. I know the parts of my practice that come easy are the hardest to teach. And I know my struggles are my superpowers as a teacher.
How to Get Better as a Yoga Teacher: Understanding Your Strengths and Blind Spots
The very strengths that make us good at yoga can also hold us back as teachers. And on the flip side, your perceived “weaknesses” are often your superpowers as a teacher! Here’s why.
Affirmation: I Greet My Students by Name
Yoga teacher affirmation: I greet my students by name. I see my students. I acknowledge that students come to class to be seen. I show I see them by calling them by name. And I confirm I am pronouncing names correctly, so that everyone feels truly seen.
The Importance of Learning and Using Your Students’ Names in Yoga Class
One of the most powerful ways to foster connection in your yoga class is simple: learn your students’ names and use them—correctly.
Affirmation: It’s Not About Me
Yoga teacher affirmation: it’s not about me. Because I center and trust my students, I understand choices they make in class—including leaving class—are not about me. I trust my students to do what is best for them. And if you need a reminder it’s not about you:
Listen: Fit Bottomed Girls Podcast
I was delighted to go back on the Fit Bottomed Girls podcast, especially because it’s now helmed by my colleague (and Teaching Yoga to Athletes alumna!) Alison Heilig. We spoke about how to emphasize your recovery.
Now Available: Yoga Teacher Confidential Podcast
I’m thrilled to announce that my new podcast, Yoga Teacher Confidential, is officially live! This project has been a real delight to work on, and I’m so excited to finally share it with you. Yoga Teacher Confidential is for yoga teachers who want to feel more confident in the classroom. Whether you’ve been teaching for years or…
Affirmation: I Am Not the Hero. I’m the Guide.
Yoga teacher affirmation: I center my students’ agency by recognizing that I am not the hero, I am the guide. Everything I offer is a suggestion designed to guide the hero on their journey. For lots more on this affirmation and why it will change every element of your class and your career:
How to Get Better at Teaching Yoga: Watch Lots of Video
Next time you’re chopping veggies or doing chores, put on a yoga video—but watch it with a teacher’s eye. Observe the sequencing, cueing, and pacing. What makes the class special? Reverse-engineer the magic to bring it into your own teaching.
Affirmation: I Know My Teaching Is Part of My Practice
Yoga teacher affirmation: I know my teaching is part of my practice. I learn from every class.