If you're reading this, it's probably a given that you are already a yoga fan. You know firsthand the benefits of incorporating yoga into your life: stress management, mental balance, and more. Perhaps it's time to take your love for this art and discipline a step further and become a yoga instructor.

Whether you're thinking of leaving your current job, or simply supplementing your income, becoming a yoga instructor may be the change you're craving. Deciding whether it's a good fit for you will require you to do some soul-searching. Take inventory of your own yoga experience and see if you relate to any of these benefits to teaching the art yourself:

* Have I ever been inspired by a yoga instructor? If you've been practicing for a long time, you may recall an instructor who really helped you achieve something that surprised you. What was it about him/her that made you accomplish what you thought you couldn't? How did you feel afterwards? Now, imagine being able to inspire that same sense of delight and accomplishment in others. Does this sound like something that appeals to you?

* Has yoga changed my life? Few regular participants would disagree that yoga has made a change in them. Those who practice regularly report increased flexibility, improved muscle tone, an overall sense of wellbeing and a decrease in stress related problems. This includes fewer headaches, less anxiety and the ability to positively deal with potential conflict. Now consider how rewarding it would be to pass this ability on to countless others around you. Plus, you get the joy of participating in this discipline on a regular, maybe even full-time basis.

* Am I passionate about physical fitness? That's probably an easy answer. If you're like most participants, you engage in yoga because you have a commitment to physical fitness. Not only does it produce positive physical changes, it also enhances your body's abilities in relation to other sports and physical activities. Runners who regularly do yoga report less muscle fatigue and improved speed. Gymnasts notice increased agility. Those who play sports find that they are able to concentrate better and think faster under pressure. Does the idea of sharing this ability with others who are committed to physical fitness excite you?

* Am I in need of a positive change? Maybe your life isn't lacking. But if you're looking to make it just a little bit better, becoming a yoga instructor may be the way to do it. You'll be taking your love for the practice one step further. You'll learn how to instruct and motivate others to experience the health and wellbeing that you know is possible for anyone. Plus, the sense of accomplishment you'll receive from finishing an instructor's course will reward you even if you don't plan to become a full-time instructor.

If you answered 'yes' to most or all of these questions, then you probably have what it takes to become a yoga instructor. The option of doing a job that not only fits your lifestyle, but also inspires your spirit is well worth investing.

Copyright 2008 - Aura Publications

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About the Author

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center in, Attleboro, MA. He is an author of many books on the subject of Yoga and has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org