course which instinctively feels right for you.
It may be one that’s longer but nearer to
home, or one that’s shorter but tucked away
somewhere exotic. It may be one which is
more geared to a physical practice, or one
with a more spiritual bedrock. You’ll have a
gut feeling which one’s right for you, right
now. Trust that feeling: it won’t let you down.
Remember too that there’s no such thing
as perfect. Like online dating, some yoga
faculties may promise you the earth and the
course of your dreams. Reality, of course,
is rather different. Whatever course you
choose, there are bound to be areas which
aren’t perfect,
But so what? As long as the course gives
you a strong and comprehensive foundation,
it’ll foster a hunger for learning which will
continue long after it’s finished. A course
can do many great things, but it won’t turn
you into BKS Iyengar overnight.
The success – or otherwise – of your
chosen course also depends on you. More
precisely, whether now is the right time for
you to embark on it. You don’t want to get to
the end of it, then sulk like Mr or Ms Miffed
from Tunbridge Wells because it didn’t meet
your expectations. The truth is: if you’re
already overloaded with commitments, no
course is ever going to cut the mustard. So
be honest with yourself. Do you have enough
space in your life, and in your head, to take
a course? You don’t need to be footloose
and fancy free, with all the time in the world.
You just need enough space to make the
most of the opportunity.
Finally, if you’re in two minds about
whether to take a course or not, it probably
means you’re ready. Once the seed’s
planted, it’ll grow. And you’ll grow with it.
You may never be the best teacher who
ever lived, but as long as you’re a confident,
contented and safe one, you’re there. The
very best of luck.
Steve Heath is a senior yoga teacher
and trainer at Feel Hot Yoga & Wellbeing
(feelwellbeing.co.uk)
The best
qualification is this: a
love for yoga. You’ve
got the bug and
you’re smitten