Teaching from the Heart: Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher

Stepping out to lead others as a yoga teacher requires confidence, vulnerability, and authenticity. With over two decades of experience teaching yoga, author Sandy Raper provides a motivational and relevant collection of lessons and reflective exercises in Teaching from the Heart for anyone seeking to create longevity as a yoga teacher. Each lesson serves as a resource to empower yoga teachers to develop the technical and relational skills needed to serve and connect with others through the practice and teachings of yoga. Whether you're a seasoned teacher or just starting your journey, this book equips you with the essential tools and resources for your teaching path.

The narrative of Teaching from the Heart emphasizes the necessary technical and relational skills required to create longevity as a yoga teacher, surpassing the foundational aspect of yoga teacher training. Teaching from the Heart underscores the idea that yoga is for everyone and can be adapted to meet the diverse needs of individuals. Central themes include service, connection, and the importance of meeting students where they are on their journey.

Teaching from the Heart aims to serve as a valuable resource for aspiring, new, and seasoned yoga teachers, offering guidance, encouragement, and inspiration. Reflective exercises accompany each lesson in the book to help readers apply and absorb the teaching methodologies, approaches, and techniques shared. Ultimately, Teaching from the Heart encourages yoga teachers to share the practice of yoga from the heart, fostering a sense of purpose and service as leaders within their communities.

Lesson topics include:

• Establishing your role and identity as a yoga teacher.
• The importance of teaching in a variety of locations.
• Imposter syndrome and competition with other teachers.
• Building relationships with the yoga community.
• Effective communication and leadership skills in cueing and instructing yoga classes.
• How to develop a highly effective yoga teaching methodology.
• Cultivating a growth mindset.
• Understanding the learning process applies to creating longevity as a yoga teacher.
• How to develop "keystone habits" for success and growth.
• How to overcome the biggest obstacle for a yoga teacher...and more!