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

Dec 1, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

Restorative yoga is a practice that can have powerful effects on practitioners. Through the use of supported poses and mindful breathing, this form of yoga helps to reduce stress, tension, and anxiety. By calming the nervous system, it can also help to improve focus, clarity, and concentration.

restorative yoga can help to improve posture, increase flexibility, and reduce aches and pains. As a result of these benefits, many find that taking restorative yoga classes with a certified instructor can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

Steps How to Become

Gain yoga experience. Before you can become a restorative yoga instructor, you must have a thorough understanding of the practice and its principles. Become certified in Hatha or Vinyasa yoga from a recognized organization and practice regularly for at least one year.
Get certified in restorative yoga. Once you have gained experience in Hatha or Vinyasa yoga, you can look into getting certified in restorative yoga. Many organizations offer courses and certifications in restorative yoga, so research the different programs to find one that fits your needs.
Take additional courses. While the restorative yoga certification will provide the foundational knowledge for teaching, there are many other courses available that can enhance your skills and give you additional insight into the practice. Consider taking classes in yoga anatomy, physiology, and philosophy to broaden your understanding and be more effective in teaching.
Create a portfolio. Before you begin teaching, it is important to create a portfolio of your credentials, training, and experience. Include any certificates or diplomas, as well as photos of you practicing yoga. Having an organized portfolio will make it easier for potential students to trust your abilities as an instructor.
Start teaching. Once you have the experience, certifications, and portfolio, you can begin teaching restorative yoga classes. Start by offering private or group classes in your local community, or look into teaching classes through a studio or gym. With time and practice, you will gain the confidence and experience necessary to become a successful instructor.

Restorative yoga is an ancient practice that promotes relaxation and healing, and requires a skilled and qualified instructor to teach. A qualified instructor has an in-depth knowledge of the physical and mental benefits of restorative yoga and is able to create a safe, supportive, and calming environment for their students. The instructor must be able to demonstrate poses and breathing techniques to help the students properly perform each pose.

They must also be able to provide modifications and adjustments to ensure each student is comfortable and safe while they practice. The instructor should be able to effectively communicate with their students and provide constructive feedback as well as guidance throughout the class. For those interested in becoming a restorative yoga instructor, it is important to complete a comprehensive training program that is accredited by a reputable organization to ensure that you are properly prepared for teaching.

With the proper training and qualifications, a skilled and qualified restorative yoga instructor can provide a valuable service to their students, helping them to reap the rewards of this practice.

You may want to check Yoga Studio Manager, Kundalini Yoga Instructor, and Therapeutic and Restorative Yoga Teacher for alternative.

Job Description

Develop and teach restorative yoga classes for students of all levels.
Provide a safe and comfortable environment for students to practice in.
Create a curriculum of restorative yoga postures, breathing techniques, and meditations suitable for each level of student.
Assess each students individual needs and create individualized plans for their practice.
Monitor students progress and provide corrective feedback as needed.
Assist in the development of a comprehensive marketing strategy for the studio.
Develop relationships with members and potential members to help build a strong, loyal customer base.
Ensure that the studio and its facilities are kept clean and maintained to the highest standards.
Participate in staff meetings and other events related to the studio's operations.
Maintain a valid CPR certification and other required certifications.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of basic anatomy and physiology
Understanding of the principles of restorative yoga
Ability to craft effective and creative sequences
Knowledge of various props used in restorative yoga and how to use them
Ability to recognize and support individual student needs
Ability to adjust poses to accommodate individual physical limitations
Ability to provide verbal and hands-on adjustments
Ability to create a safe and secure environment for students
Ability to provide clear and concise verbal instructions
Knowledge of various breathing techniques used in restorative yoga

Restorative yoga instructors must possess a wide range of skills in order to teach effectively. The most important of these is the ability to create a safe and supportive environment for their students. This requires having a strong understanding of the body and being able to provide clear and concise instruction.

In addition, the instructor must be able to listen to their students needs and adjust the practice accordingly. It is also essential for a restorative yoga instructor to have a deep understanding of anatomy and physiology in order to ensure that each pose is safe and beneficial for the individual student. Finally, the instructor must be able to provide compassionate guidance, as this helps to create an atmosphere of acceptance and trust.

By combining all of these elements, an effective restorative yoga instructor is able to create an experience that is both calming and healing for their students.

Hatha Yoga Instructor, Hatha and Restorative Yoga Teacher, and Yoga Retreat Leader are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to become a Restorative Yoga Instructor?
What experience do you have teaching restorative yoga classes?
How do you address the needs of different skill levels in a restorative yoga class?
What strategies do you use to ensure that students are correctly performing the poses in a restorative yoga class?
How do you create a safe and supportive environment for students in your restorative yoga classes?
What methods do you use to help students relax during a restorative yoga class?
How do you introduce and explain the concepts behind restorative yoga to new students?
What techniques do you use to help students understand the benefits of restorative yoga?
How do you adjust or modify poses for individual students in a restorative yoga class?
How do you engage and motivate your students during a restorative yoga class?

Common Tools in Industry

Yoga Mat. A padded mat used for the practice of yoga. (e. g. Manduka Pro Yoga Mat)
Yoga Blocks. Blocks used to provide stability and support in yoga poses. (e. g. Cork Yoga Blocks)
Yoga Strap. A long strap used to aid in stretching and flexibility. (e. g. BalanceFrom Yoga Strap)
Meditation Cushion. A cushion used for sitting comfortably in meditation. (e. g. Hugger Mugger Zafu Meditation Cushion)
Bolster. A firm, cylindrical cushion used for support when performing restorative yoga poses. (e. g. Manduka Unplug Bolster)
Blanket. A lightweight blanket used for support and warmth during restorative yoga poses. (e. g. Hugger Mugger Para Cotton Yoga Blanket)
Eye Pillow. A small pillow filled with herbs and flaxseed used to cover the eyes during relaxation poses. (e. g. Lavender-filled Eye Pillow)
Yoga Ball. An inflatable ball used to strengthen and tone the body in various yoga postures. (e. g. Yogaball Exercise Ball)

Professional Organizations to Know

International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT)
Yoga Alliance
Integrative Yoga Therapy
International Association of Yoga Practitioners (IAYP)
American Viniyoga Institute
International Association of Yoga Teachers (IAYT)
National Association of Professional Yoga Therapists (NAPYT)
Yoga Therapy International (YTI)
International Association of Yoga Therapists and Teachers (IAYTT)
National Council of Yoga Therapists (NCYT)

We also have Yogic Science Teacher, Strength Training and Restorative Yoga Teacher, and Yoga Coordinator jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Pranayama. Pranayama is a type of yogic breathing practice used to control and direct the breath. It is a way to access the subtle energy of the body, and it is believed to help balance the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of an individual.
Asana. Asana is a Sanskrit term for physical poses or postures that are used in yoga practice. Asanas are used to promote relaxation and to improve strength, flexibility, and balance.
Yoga Nidra. Yoga Nidra is a type of meditation technique that uses deep relaxation to achieve a state of inner awareness and peace.
Savasana. Savasana is a relaxing posture used in yoga practice. It is often used at the end of a yoga session to promote deep rest and relaxation.
Ayurveda. Ayurveda is an ancient system of natural healing that originated in India. It uses herbs, diet, lifestyle changes, and other therapies to promote health and wellbeing.
Ujjayi Pranayama. Ujjayi Pranayama is a type of yoga breathing practice that uses a special technique to regulate the breath. It is believed to bring balance to the body and mind.
Chakras. Chakras are energy centers located throughout the body. They are believed to be connected to physical, psychological, and spiritual aspects of an individuals life.
Meditation. Meditation is a practice used to cultivate inner peace and awareness. It can be used to reduce stress, increase concentration, and promote overall wellbeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Restorative Yoga?

Restorative yoga is a form of yoga that focuses on relaxation and healing. It uses props, such as bolsters, blankets, and blocks, to support the body in a series of restful poses to help the body relax and restore balance.

How many hours of training do I need to become a Restorative Yoga Instructor?

To become a certified Restorative Yoga instructor, you will need to complete at least 25 hours of training.

What topics are covered in a Restorative Yoga training program?

A Restorative Yoga training program typically covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, relaxation and breathing techniques, sequencing, and the use of props for support.

What is the cost of a Restorative Yoga instructor training program?

The cost of a Restorative Yoga instructor training program can vary depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $450 to $1000.

What certifications do I need to teach Restorative Yoga?

In order to teach Restorative Yoga, you will need to obtain certification from an accredited organization such as the International Association of Yoga Therapists or the Yoga Alliance.