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

Dec 22, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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Practicing Ashtanga yoga regularly has numerous positive effects on the mind, body and overall well-being. It helps to improve flexibility, strength and stamina, as well as promote better balance and coordination. it assists with stress relief and relaxation, and has been linked to improved cardiovascular health.

As a result, people who take up Ashtanga yoga classes often find that they have more energy, a better outlook on life and a greater sense of well-being. With the guidance of an experienced instructor, practitioners can learn how to practice the postures safely and effectively, and gain the maximum benefit from their practice. Ashtanga yoga can also help to cultivate mindfulness, self-awareness and acceptance of the present moment, which are key elements to personal growth.

Steps How to Become

Become a Certified Yoga Teacher. Before you can become an Ashtanga yoga instructor, you need to become certified as a yoga teacher. This typically requires completing a 200-hour yoga teacher training program from a certified school, such as the Yoga Alliance.
Learn the Ashtanga Yoga System. To become an Ashtanga yoga instructor, you need to be familiar with the Ashtanga yoga system. This includes the physical postures and sequences, as well as the principles of practice, such as the five points of yoga and the eight limbs of Ashtanga. You can learn this through books, videos, or taking classes with an experienced Ashtanga instructor.
Attend an Ashtanga Yoga Training Course. To become a certified Ashtanga yoga instructor, you need to attend an Ashtanga yoga training course. These courses are typically offered in two-week intensive formats and involve both practice and theory. At the end of the course, participants should receive a certificate of completion.
Get Certified. After completing an Ashtanga yoga training course, you can receive certification as an Ashtanga yoga instructor. This certification is usually offered by the school or organization that offered the training course. It is important to check that the certification is recognized by the Yoga Alliance or other respected organizations.
Start Teaching. Once you are certified as an Ashtanga yoga instructor, you can start teaching classes. You may be able to find work in local studios or gyms, or you may choose to open your own studio or teach private lessons.

The practice of Ashtanga Yoga requires ideal and competent instruction to ensure the safe and optimal flow of the poses. Without proper guidance and support, practitioners may be unable to reap the full benefits of the practice, including increased strength, flexibility, balance, and improved mental focus. Having an experienced teacher who can provide individualized instruction, demonstrate correct form and modifications, and offer personalized corrections and adjustments can make a big difference to one's practice. With the right instruction, Ashtanga Yoga can be an effective and enjoyable way to build physical and mental health.

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Job Description

Design and teach Ashtanga Yoga classes that meet the needs of all students.
Demonstrate postures and breathing exercises while providing verbal instruction on proper techniques.
Provide hands-on adjustments as needed to ensure proper form.
Monitor student progress and modify classes to accommodate individual needs.
Provide guidance on lifestyle practices such as diet, relaxation, and meditation.
Maintain a safe and comfortable environment for students to practice.
Develop relationships with students to encourage them to stay motivated and continue their practice.
Keep up with current trends in the Yoga field and stay informed about new developments in Ashtanga Yoga.
Participate in Yoga workshops, conferences, and events to stay current on the advances in the field.
Market classes and events to promote the Ashtanga Yoga studio and attract new students.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of the 8-limbed path of ashtanga yoga
Understanding of anatomy and physiology
Ability to teach physical postures (asanas)
Knowledge of adjustment techniques
Ability to teach pranayama (breathing exercises)
Knowledge of meditation
Knowledge of chanting and mantras
Understanding of yogic philosophy and lifestyle
Ability to give hands-on adjustments
Ability to teach chanting and mantras
Understanding of the use of props
Ability to teach meditation techniques
Ability to create a safe environment for students
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to lead a yoga class with confidence and clarity

Being an Ashtanga Yoga instructor requires a great deal of knowledge, skill, and dedication. To be successful, one must possess an in-depth understanding of anatomy, alignment, and the physiological effects of each pose. Knowing the correct technique for each posture is essential for providing a safe and effective class.

In addition, the instructor must be able to pay close attention to the individual needs of each student, as well as be able to adjust the practice according to the students level of experience. They must also have a clear understanding of the eight limbs of yoga and the philosophy of Ashtanga. Lastly, the instructor must possess excellent verbal communication skills to be able to clearly explain and guide students through the practice.

Having all of these skills will enable instructors to provide safe and effective guidance to their students, thereby leading to better overall results for both the instructor and their students.

Strength Training and Restorative Yoga Teacher, Corporate Wellness Yoga Teacher, and Childrens Yoga Teacher are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to become an Ashtanga Yoga Instructor?
What experience do you have teaching Ashtanga Yoga classes?
How do you ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for your clients?
What techniques do you use to motivate and challenge your students?
How do you create a supportive learning environment for students of all levels?
What methods do you use to modify poses for different body types?
How do you tailor your classes to meet the needs of your students?
How do you stay current with the latest trends and techniques in Ashtanga Yoga?
How do you incorporate yoga philosophy into your classes?
What advice would you give to someone just starting their Ashtanga Yoga practice?

Common Tools in Industry

Yoga mats. Used to provide cushioning and support during yoga postures (eg: non-slip foam mat).
Yoga blocks. Used to help with proper posture alignment during yoga postures (eg: cork or foam blocks).
Yoga straps. Used to help with stretching and deeper postures (eg: cotton or nylon straps).
Meditation cushion. Used for comfortable meditation posture (eg: zafu cushion).
Meditation timer. Used to track and record meditation sessions (eg: Omvana app).
Yoga books and DVDs. Used for guidance and instruction on different yoga postures and techniques (eg: Iyengar's Light on Yoga).
Yoga music. Used for providing a soothing environment for yoga sessions (eg: Bhakti Beatz).

Professional Organizations to Know

International Association of Ashtanga Yoga (IAAY)
Yoga Alliance
World Yoga Alliance
British Wheel of Yoga
Association of Yoga Studies
American Viniyoga Institute
International Yoga Federation
Yoga Teachers Association
Yoga Health Foundation
International Meditation Teachers Association

We also have Meditation and Restorative Yoga Teacher, Corrective Exercise and Restorative Yoga Teacher, and Yoga Studio Instructor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Asana. A posture or pose which is used in yoga practice.
Pranayama. The practice of controlling the breath, which is often used in yoga practice.
Vinyasa. A sequence of postures that are linked together to create a flow.
Ujjayi. A type of pranayama technique that involves the contraction of the throat muscles to create a sound during inhalation and exhalation.
Tristhana. A combination of three elements within a yoga practice: posture, breath and gaze.
Drishti. A focused gaze used in yoga to help focus the mind during meditation.
Kriya. A set of purification techniques used in yoga practice.
Bandha. A yoga practice that involves the contraction of specific muscles in the body.
Mudra. A gesture or symbol used in yoga practice to help bring about a certain energy or intention.
Mantra. A sacred phrase or chant used in yoga and meditation to help focus the mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of Ashtanga Yoga?

Ashtanga Yoga originated in the Indian subcontinent over 2000 years ago and was developed by the sage Patanjali.

What is the primary series of Ashtanga Yoga?

The primary series of Ashtanga Yoga is known as the Yoga Chikitsa and consists of 75 postures and breath-controlled movements.

Is there an official certification to become an Ashtanga Yoga Instructor?

Yes, to become an Ashtanga Yoga Instructor, one must obtain a certification from a certified Ashtanga Yoga school or teacher.

What are the key benefits of Ashtanga Yoga?

The key benefits of Ashtanga Yoga include increased flexibility, improved posture, increased cardiovascular health, improved muscle strength, improved balance, and improved concentration.

How long does it take to become an Ashtanga Yoga Instructor?

It can take anywhere from six months to two years to become an Ashtanga Yoga Instructor, depending on the certification program and individual's dedication to their studies.

Web Resources

Job Opening: Ashtanga Yoga Program Instructor csc.virginia.edu
Ashtanga Yoga Program | Contemplative Sciences Center csc.virginia.edu
Yoga - Ashtanga | Cornell Recreational Services recreation.athletics.cornell.edu