01/04/2026
What makes a yoga teacher...
* They have experienced intense situations in life and understand stress
* They are able to explain how the lessons we learn on the mat translate into the real world
* They have confidence in things they know and the humility to say "I don't know" when appropriate. (And they appear unbothered when they don't have all the answers, but will find out and return to the person asking)
* They give advice when they're asked for it, but respect boundaries and give students the space to figure out their own way, too
* They realize we're all students and never put themselves on a pedestal
* They share enough of their personal life to connect with their students, but never make the class about themselves
* They remember their students' names. They also remember their students' injuries, challenges and doubt as well as their strengths, triumphs and spirit
* They make class accessible to all students and, when appropriate, make themselves to students outside of class
* They check on students when they feel called to do so
* They admit their own faults freely
* They welcome all questions, especially the silly ones
* They don't take themselves too seriously. They laugh when they fall down demonstrating balances poses or garble a cue - and by allowing students to see them laugh at themselves, they teach you how to laugh at yourself
What are some of the qualities you like about your teachers?
