Yoga Journal estimates that 15 million people practice yoga in the United States. The total estimated market for yoga studios is in the millions of dollars. Many yoga studios, however, are founded solely out of a yoga practitioners' love for the practice and desire to share it with others. Because of the spiritual nature of the yoga practice, many people feel uncomfortable thinking about financial matters when they build a yoga studio. Taking a business approach to building a yoga studio, however, gives you a much better chance of sustaining your studio so that students can benefit from the practice in the long term.
Become a 200-Hour Certified Yoga Teacher
Becoming a yoga teacher takes hard work and dedication. When you make the decision to go from student to teacher, it is important to seek out a training program that is affiliated with the Yoga Alliance (YA); YA registers both individual yoga teachers and yoga teacher training programs (schools) who have complied with minimum educational standards established by the organization. YA sets its own standards and requirements. Any training program you choose should clearly outline what will be required of you. The first step to become a teacher is to earn your 200-hour certification.
Perform the 12 Yoga Asanas
The 12 basic yoga asanas are the core of the practice of Sivananda yoga, a form of hatha yoga. Not all of these can be done by a beginner; however, with practice and effort most people can accomplish these as part of a daily yoga routine. Sivanada yoga focuses specifically on relaxation and breathing. These 12 asanas are commonly performed after a sun salutation. Keep posture and alignment in mind when doing any sort of yoga, and listen carefully to your body to avoid overexerting yourself or causing injury.
Do the Maha Mudra Pose in Yoga
Maha in Sanskrit means “great” and Maha Mudra means “great seal.” It employs all three bandhas, or energetic “locks”, or “seals", in order to direct prana, or vital energy, in the body. The three bandhas are Mula Bandha at the level of the first chakra, Muladahara, or “root chakra.” Second is Uddiyana Bandha, at the level of the belly or solar plexus, or Manipurna chakra. Last is Jalandara Bandha, or “chin lock” at the level of Vissudhi chakra, or the “throat chakra.” This is not a practice for beginners. Cultivating this advanced practice of engaging these bandhas is a prelude to a formal sitting meditation.
Assume Reverse Prayer Pose in Yoga
Reverse Prayer, otherwise known as Reverse Namaste, or Pashchima Namaskarasana in Sanskrit, is an intermediate posture that increases the flexibility and strength of your upper back while teaching your body the internal rotation of the arm. As you integrate this pose into your daily yoga practice, you should begin to feel a heightened awareness and a calming of the mind. Use the Reverse Prayer in conjunction with forward extensions and seated postures to add a little variety to your routine and vary the muscles targeted in your workout.