How to Be Anusara Yoga Instructor - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jun 23, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Anusara yoga is a modern form of hatha yoga that is based on a spiritual philosophy of intrinsic goodness. It focuses on creating a connection between the physical asana practice and the spiritual truth within each person. The practice of this type of yoga can lead to improved physical, mental, and emotional health.

Physically, Anusara yoga utilizes postures that both challenge and support the body, resulting in increased strength, flexibility, and balance. Mentally, the mindful practice of Anusara encourages the student to be more mindful and aware of the present moment. Emotionally, the practice helps to cultivate a sense of joy and acceptance of oneself, leading to an overall feeling of well-being.

With regular practice, students can experience a deeper connection with their inner being and with the divine.

Steps How to Become

Complete an Anusara-Certified 200 Hour yoga teacher training program. To become Anusara certified, you need to complete a 200 hour Anusara-certified yoga teacher training program with a qualified Anusara teacher.
Participate in an Anusara Immersion, or equivalent. To deepen your practice and refine your teaching, you must also participate in an Anusara Immersion, or equivalent, which is an intensive two-day workshop.
Complete an Anusara Teacher Mentorship. You must also complete an Anusara Teacher Mentorship program with a certified Anusara teacher, which is a six-month program.
Submit your application and teaching video. To become certified, you must submit an application and a teaching video that shows you teaching a full class.
Attend the Anusara Yoga Festival. As a final step, you must attend the Anusara Yoga Festival, an annual event that takes place in California each year.

Anusara yoga is a powerful practice that requires both physical and mental discipline. To become a skilled and capable Anusara yoga instructor, there are certain steps that must be taken. First, it is important to have a strong foundation of knowledge in anatomy, alignment, and the therapeutic application of yoga.

To gain this knowledge, it is essential to attend classes, workshops, and trainings that are specifically catered to the Anusara practice. one should develop a consistent personal practice to deepen their experience with the poses and sequences. Finally, it is important to acquire teaching experience and mentorship from experienced Anusara instructors to refine ones teaching skills and gain insight into the philosophy behind the practice.

Following these steps will help build the skills needed to become a skilled and capable Anusara yoga instructor.

You may want to check Hatha Yoga Instructor, Restorative and Therapeutic Yoga Teacher, and Adaptive/Special Needs and Restorative Yoga Teacher for alternative.

Job Description

Teach group and private Anusara Yoga classes in accordance with the principles and philosophy of Anusara Yoga.
Design tailored Anusara Yoga classes for various levels of practitioners.
Develop and maintain relationships with students, staff, and other Anusara Yoga instructors.
Stay up to date with the latest Anusara Yoga teaching methodology, philosophy, and practices.
Assist in the organization of special Anusara Yoga workshops and events.
Assist in the development of Anusara Yoga tools, curriculum, and materials.
Provide guidance in proper alignment, breathing techniques, and postures during classes.
Lead the class with enthusiasm, clarity, and professionalism.
Educate students on the philosophical aspects of Anusara Yoga.
Act as a role model for yogic living and principles in the Anusara Yoga community.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge and understanding of the philosophy and practice of Anusara Yoga.
Ability to explain and demonstrate the principles and techniques of Anusara Yoga, including the Universal Principles of Alignment.
Ability to safely and effectively sequence and teach Anusara Yoga classes.
Knowledge of anatomy, kinesiology, and physiology as it relates to yoga practice.
Knowledge of the risks associated with yoga practice and the ability to modify poses for different populations.
Understanding of the principles of human energy and energy anatomy and their application to a yoga practice.
Ability to create an atmosphere that is nurturing, supportive, and conducive to learning.
Ability to communicate effectively with students and adjust instruction based on individual needs.
Understanding of ethical issues related to teaching yoga.
Ability to use yoga props, including blocks, straps, bolsters, blankets, and chairs to modify poses.

Anusara Yoga Instructors must possess a wide range of skills to be successful. One of the most important skills is the ability to communicate effectively and clearly with students. Instructors must be able to explain and demonstrate postures, as well as provide verbal cues and adjustments.

They must also be able to assess the physical, mental, and emotional states of their students in order to provide appropriate modifications, corrections, or support. Furthermore, they must have the knowledge and training to teach proper alignment, breathwork, and movement within the practice. Finally, Anusara Instructors must be able to create a safe and supportive environment for students to learn and practice, allowing them to experience the full benefits of the practice.

By having a strong set of communication, knowledge, and teaching skills, Anusara Yoga Instructors can ensure that their students have the best possible experience.

Yin Yoga Instructor, Aerial and Restorative Yoga Teacher, and Corrective Exercise and Restorative Yoga Teacher are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to become an Anusara Yoga Instructor?
What sets Anusara Yoga apart from other forms of yoga?
How do you ensure the safety and well-being of your students when teaching Anusara Yoga?
What challenges have you faced as an Anusara Yoga instructor?
What is your experience with modifications for students with special needs?
What methods do you use to engage students in the practice of Anusara Yoga?
How do you incorporate breathing and meditation into your classes?
How do you handle difficult questions, or students who are not participating fully?
How do you develop lesson plans for your Anusara Yoga classes?
What do you think are the most important qualities for a successful Anusara Yoga instructor?

Common Tools in Industry

Yoga Blocks. Used to provide stability and support during poses. (eg: Triangle pose with block between hands)
Yoga Strap. Used to assist with stretching and alignment. (eg: Seated forward bend with strap around feet)
Meditation Cushion. Provides comfort and support while sitting for meditation. (eg: Seated meditation on cushion)
Yoga Mat. Provides padding and extra grip while practicing yoga poses. (eg: Downward facing dog on mat)
Yoga Bolster. Used to support the spine, hips, and other body parts during poses. (eg: Supported bridge pose with bolster)
Foam Roller. Used to massage muscles and increase flexibility. (eg: Lying on roller to massage lower back)

Professional Organizations to Know

Anusara Yoga International (AYI)
Anusara School of Hatha Yoga (ASHY)
American Viniyoga Institute (AVI)
International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT)
Yoga Alliance
National Ayurvedic Medical Association (NAMA)
National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB)
National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
American Council on Exercise (ACE)
National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA)

We also have Yoga Studio Receptionist, Prenatal Yoga Instructor, and Aerial Yoga Instructor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Ahimsa. The yogic practice of non-harming, compassion and kindness towards others.
Asana. Postures and movements used in yoga practice.
Bhavana. The cultivating of an inner attitude of reverence and respect towards all living beings.
Dhyana. Meditation and contemplation.
Prana. Life force energy that animates the physical body.
Pranayama. Yogic breathing exercises to cultivate and manage pranic energy flow.
Samadhi. A state of consciousness where the individual is said to be one with the Divine.
Tantra. A system of spiritual practices focusing on the cultivation of energy, awareness, and consciousness.
Vinyasa. A type of yoga practice that synchronizes breath with movement.
Yogic Philosophy. A system of beliefs based on classical Hinduism and Vedic texts, focusing on the spiritual development of the individual.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Anusara Yoga?

Anusara Yoga is an uplifting and light-hearted style of yoga that focuses on alignment, creativity and conscious connection to the Divine.

What are the key principles of Anusara Yoga?

The key principles of Anusara Yoga are an attitude of openness, a celebration of the heart, alignment with the Universal Principles of Alignment, creative playfulness and deep reverence for the Divine.

How many certified Anusara Yoga instructors are there?

As of 2021, there are over 1000 certified Anusara Yoga instructors worldwide.

What qualifications are needed to become an Anusara Yoga instructor?

To become an Anusara Yoga instructor, one must complete an Anusara teacher training program, which includes 200 hours of instruction, practice and study.

What is the Anusara Universal Principles of Alignment?

The Anusara Universal Principles of Alignment is a set of guidelines developed by John Friend that focus on the optimal alignment of the body to promote safety and efficiency during yoga practice. The principles include organic energy, musculoskeletal integrity, whole-body integration and rhythmic flow.

Web Resources

Yoga - Anusara® w/ Tanya | Cornell Recreational Services recreation.athletics.cornell.edu
Yoga - Anusara® | Cornell Recreational Services recreation.athletics.cornell.edu
Anusara Yoga - Missouri University of Science & Technology Library link.library.mst.edu