We’re excited to share with you a guide to a destination so beloved by the yoga world: California.
It sounds like a dream, right?
Becoming a yoga instructor in California could be the key to unlocking this extraordinary reality and making your yoga journey even more inspiring.
This blog post is tailor-made for the Yoga Trade community, blending cultural insights, historical references, and essential tips for becoming a yoga instructor in California.
🎶 Recommended music to accompany your reading: [Spotify – Sounds of California] 🎶
The Fascination of Yoga in California
California, also known as “The Golden State” or “Sunshine State,” is a place of diverse culture, natural beauty, and a unique history with yoga. Thanks to Swami Vivekananda’s impactful presentation at the World Parliament of Religions in 1893, which, together with other events, strengthened the introduction of yoga in the West, Indra Devi had the opportunity to open a yoga studio in Hollywood in the 1950s. In the following decade, Yogi Bhajan settled in California to teach Kundalini yoga, further increasing the popularity of yoga in the region. Since then, the state has been home to many yoga centers and studios, as well as movements and the promotion of healthy and holistic lifestyles that align perfectly with the principles of yoga and meditation.
Fun fact: Have you ever heard of Encinitas? Well, this beautiful coastal town in California holds a special place in the history of yoga in America. It’s where David Williams began teaching Ashtanga Yoga in the early 1970s, and it’s where Paramahansa Yogananda chose to live and spread his teachings, founding the Self-Realization Fellowship, which still contributes to the spread of yoga and meditation in the area today. Today, the city is home to a variety of yoga styles, along with its beautiful views, beaches, and welcoming community.
Image featuring yoga news, classic photographs, yoga in America and Indra Devi.
Inspiring Scenery: California offers an incomparable backdrop.
Imagine teaching yoga in the midst of the state’s natural landscapes, which range from incredible beaches to charming towns on the edge of the Pacific, or guiding a practice in a stunning setting such as Yosemite National Park or perhaps in small, majestic Palm Springs.
The Path to Becoming a Yoga Instructor in California
The process of becoming a yoga instructor in California, as elsewhere, begins with understanding and respect for the ancient tradition and training, which will cover topics such as yoga philosophy, anatomy, and teaching methodology. In addition, continuing education, improvement, and practice over time are fundamental to the career of a successful yoga instructor. Attending courses and workshops that complement your knowledge can be a unique way to stand out.
Where to Start?
Here we give you a common order of actions that you can apply in your planning to become a yoga instructor in California and the necessary certifications:
Initial training: The first step is to complete a yoga teacher training course. The most common is to start with a 200-hour course, which provides a solid foundation for teaching yoga. This training can be done at a registered yoga school or another of your choice. The important thing is to research and choose a yoga teacher training program that meets your needs and objectives. It’s worth noting that today there are trainings with different lengths and costs, including even online yoga training options.
RYT-200 certification: After successfully completing the 200-hour training, you can apply for the RYT-200 (Registered Yoga Teacher) certification from the Yoga Alliance.
Advanced Training: To advance your career and deepen your knowledge and teaching skills, you can opt for advanced training, such as a 300-hour or 500-hour course.
RYT-500 certification: After successfully completing the advanced training, you can apply for the RYT-500 certification, which demonstrates a higher level of experience.
Specialization in Therapeutic Yoga (IAYT): This is an option for those who wish to specialize in therapeutic yoga. This involves receiving additional training in therapeutic yoga and health care practices.
YACEP certification: After gaining experience, you can seek YACEP certification to offer continuing education courses to other yoga teachers.
If you’re not familiar with the acronyms, at the end of the text you’ll find some translations to make the process of becoming an instructor easier.
Establish local connections: When embarking on this journey, it is advisable to establish local connections. Talk to yoga instructors in California, attend events, and network. These connections will ease the transition and add authenticity to your practice.
Career opportunities: California has a variety of career opportunities for yoga instructors, including teaching at yoga studios and schools, gyms, hotels, and spas, as well as corporate wellness programs and teaching options at educational institutions. Keep an eye on the latest job opportunities posted on Yoga Trade.
Renowned studios: California is home to several renowned yoga studios, such as Yoga Works, Hot 8 Yoga, and Alo Yoga’s Palisades Village. Establishing partnerships or looking for job opportunities in places like these can be a solid way to start your career. At Yoga Trade, you can find exclusive wellness spaces to work, rent, and collaborate on your next adventure.
Salaries: Yoga instructors can earn a competitive income in California, which varies based on several factors, such as experience, certification, location, and employer.
For reference, websites such as ZipRecruiter and Indeed report that the average salary for yoga instructors in California is usually between $31 and $36.48 per hour, but can be higher. Glassdoor, on the other hand, reports that an average annual salary can reach US$87,198 for yoga teachers in California.
Work visas: If you’re a yoga traveler, before you move, make sure you understand the visa requirements for working as a yoga instructor in California. There are several types of visas, and getting the right one is crucial to avoid legal complications. Check the Visa Scheduling Service of the US Embassy and Consulates in your home country.
Make your Dream a Reality
California is more than a destination and can align perfectly with your passion for yoga. By becoming an instructor in the “Golden State”, you not only improve your practice, but also share your knowledge in one of the most inspiring places in the USA. So why wait? Turn your dream into reality and embark on the unique adventure of becoming a yoga instructor in California.
Acronyms every yoga instructor needs to know:
YTT: Yoga Teacher Training
YTTC: Yoga Teacher Training Course
RYT: Registered Yoga Teacher
E-RYT: Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher
IAYT: International Association of Yoga Therapists
YACEP: Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider
RYS: Registered Yoga School
RCYT: Registered Children’s Yoga Teacher
RPYT: Registered Prenatal Yoga Teacher
