How to find the right Yoga teacher?

How to evaluate a yoga teacher is a frequently asked question by beginners.

Finding a yoga class is relatively simple these days, at least in most metropolitan areas where you can't walk more than a block without running into a studio, but how do you find a good teacher? Of course, the fact that your idea of what makes a good teacher may differ from the next person's complicates the search, but there are a few steps you can take to narrow the field.

The CALM check list is as follows. These are the basic criteria that your Yoga Instructor should meet before you proceed to the next Yoga class.

CALM is an acronym that stands for Communication, Assist, Listen, and Modification. You should answer yes to all questions when looking for the right Yoga teacher.

Communication: Does your Yoga teacher communicate with you and other students in a respectful manner? Can you ask a question during the class?

Is your teacher compassionate toward you and your classmates? Is your Yoga instructor willing to guide you through a guided meditation or relaxation? Meditation and relaxation are essential components of Yoga practice.

Some Yoga instructors are only interested in getting "their workout" in. Be wary of Yoga instructors who are so busy that they don't have time for you.

Some students enjoy this air of superiority, while others, unfortunately, enjoy abuse. If you want to learn Yoga, you must communicate openly with your Yoga teacher.

Help: Does your teacher care about your posture? Will your teacher assist you verbally or physically during your Yoga class? Do you allow props in your Yoga classes?

Some students never have major alignment issues, while others do, but what does it tell you if your teacher does not provide verbal cues?

Listen: Does your Yoga instructor take the time to hear your feedback? Is your teacher "present" in the classroom?

Every now and then, there is a Yoga instructor who hosts The-its-all-about-me-show. This type of instruction will not teach you anything. Trying to keep up with a seasoned Yoga teacher who doesn't explain anything will put beginners at risk.

Is your Yoga instructor open to modifications and props? If your teacher discourages the use of props, you're in the wrong class.

Depending on their range of motion, some students will require props for the rest of their lives. Just because a teacher can perform a posture without the use of props does not imply that every student can.

Summary: Avoid abusive Yoga teachers, and if you are drawn to abuse, there is always professional help available. Some students prefer strict but loving parents. They will push you harder, but how hard do you really need to be pushed?

Respect is a two-way street, and you deserve just as much as your Yoga teacher. Allow your common sense to guide you. After a Yoga class, you should feel good, and a vigorous class may cause muscle soreness for several days.

Before making a commitment, make sure your Yoga teacher meets the above criteria.