[av_dropcap1]T[/av_dropcap1]he yoga industry is expanding faster than ever these days. If you aren’t a yoga teacher, there is a good chance you probably know one…or many. It is a beautiful thing to see wellness programs popping up all over the place in everyday “conventional” life situations; schools, hotels, community centers, parks, etc. Yoga teachers are now able to make a living as many people are interested in the wellness industry and yoga teachers make positive contributions into the lives of other people. One thing is certain: yoga has made a worldwide presence. How do we as yoga teachers, wellness educators, and holistic practitioners, ensure that we are still growing, learning, and being responsible teachers?…By continuing our yoga education! While there are many places out there to study yoga, it is wise to take time to choose teachers and schools that resonate with YOU. We highly recommend Yandara Yoga Institute in Baja, Mexico and the Living Yoga Alchemy continuing education programs. Yandara is one of the most established and successful educational yoga centers in the world, and a great place to dive into advanced trainings in an off-the-grid sustainable environment.
“The important thing is not to stop questioning; curiosity has its own reason for existing.” –Albert Einstein
BENEFITS OF CONTINUING YOGA EDUCATION:
GROWTH
To live life to the fullest, we must always look for ways to grow. Continuing education allows yoga teachers to acquire new skills, enhance personal practice, and master new
techniques that will make working with diverse populations possible and effective. We must invest in ourselves and the future. Practice makes practice, it takes continuing work to evolve. Get excited to learn more about yourself and create positive personal impact.
INSPIRATION
When we embark on pilgrimages and delve into new areas of learning we will most likely become inspired. This helps with our creativity, and gives us brighter energy. This magnetic energy ends up having a spiral effect on everything around us. Inspired learning keeps us from becoming bored and getting out of our comfort zones keeps us interested and motivated. Becoming part of yoga trainings also allows us to meet new people and make connections from around the globe. Life is grand adventure, let’s enjoy the ride.
CURIOSITY
Furthering our education allows us to keep the “beginner’s mind” active and to stay curious. Many teachers need time off so they can revisit what it is like to be a student. This can help us to relate to students in a more effective way, and also gives us time to be a “receiver” instead of a giver. New information can be stimulating and allows us to live life as a journey in which to continuously learn. Add depth to your life, broaden your horizons, and open your mind to new ideas and methods.
CONFIDENCE
Continuing education helps to build your following and allows you to feel more confident. Many teachers worry if they leave for chunks for time, they will lose their students. Actually, people are attracted to the fresh energy that teachers gain from new experiences. Becoming more adaptable can make you more valuable as a yoga teacher. The world of yoga instruction can be competitive so putting effort and time into trainings helps you stand out in the crowd. Become more confident in teaching private yoga sessions, bodywork, and encompass more wellness skills.
HUMILITY
Stay humble! Change is inevitable and there is always more to learn, not only in yoga but in everything in life. The best yoga teachers in the world don’t act like they know everything. They all understand the fact that they have to continuously learn to be successful. Learning creates ambiguity. Be willing to let go of past ways of doing things in order to come up with new ways of doing things.
HAPPINESS
Become happier: The more we continue to challenge our growth, the happier we are. Personal development is a way to guarantee us serenity from within. Self growth is key 
for us to live fulfilling lives and to have a successful career. One of the best feelings in the world is teaching others what you’ve learned. Not only will it affect the person you’re teaching, but also they in turn will teach others! Learning into the golden years also keeps you healthy. Stay forever young and become a living yoga activist.
Continued study is necessary and important. There is always something new to discover in the world of yoga. Create balance by cultivating harmony between the inner and outer environments and become more skilled in guiding people to personal transformation. Gain a deeper understanding of the incredible benefits of a holistic health and yoga methodology. These life-changing advanced teacher trainings at Yandara are a great place to start:
∞ 300 Hour Advanced Training: Living Yoga Alchemy – March 14-29, 2016 and November 14-29, 2016.
∞ Yoga and Ayurveda: Living in Tune with Nature – April 1-10, 2016.
∞ Yoga Life Coach Certification – April 1-10, 2016.
∞ Yin, Bhakti, and Restorative Training –November 3-12, 2016.
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” Mahatma Gandhi
Erica Hartnick grew up in the Sierra Nevada foothills of California, and enjoys all things wild and free. She teaches nature inspired yoga and leads mindful adventures in California and Costa Rica. She gets excited about; LEARNING, intense weather, glassy ocean peaks, pillows of fresh powder snow, crystal clear water, positive people, cultural travel, thriving vegetable gardens, fresh mint chip ice cream, nature’s glory, LIVING YOGA, and connecting with others. She is passionate about the collaboration with friends that led to the creation of Yoga Trade, and is devoted to connecting the yoga community with infinite opportunities!
Photo Credit: Yandara Photography
