You Don’t Have to Be Perfect to Be Effective: Building Confidence as a Yoga Teacher
When I first began teaching yoga, I didn’t feel confident—and honestly, I still have my days. In this episode of Yoga Teacher Confidential, I’m sharing how confidence is built, not born. You’ll hear the awkward story of my second-ever class (spoiler: it was spontaneous), how I reframed failure, and the exact practices I used to grow into a confident guide.Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been teaching for years, these mindset shifts and tools will help you lead with clarity, presence, and compassion.You’ll also learn:Why your confidence grows through repetition, not perfectionHow the 6-4-2 framework creates structure that supports your teachingSimple practices to stop over-explaining and start holding spaceThe power of student agency and what it means to “get out of the way”Confidence isn’t about knowing everything. It’s about showing up. Let’s do this together.Want to become (almost) everyone's favorite yoga teacher? Get in the Zone at Comfort Zone Yoga, my virtual studio focused on teacher development. I have a ton of Sage advice in there for you—let's chat there! For more insights, subscribe to Yoga Teacher Confidential, check out my YouTube channel, and follow me on socials: Instagram Facebook Threads Bluesky Pinterest And come explore my continuing education workshops and 300/500-hour teacher training programs. It's all at sagerountree.com.
--------
8:46
The Certification Myth: Why More Training Won’t Make You a Better Yoga Teacher
Are you caught in the cycle of chasing certifications, thinking one more training will finally make you feel ready? You’re not alone. Many yoga teachers—new and experienced—fall into the trap of believing that more hours, credentials, and certifications will give them legitimacy, confidence, and expertise. But here’s the truth: your ability as a teacher isn’t measured in training hours.In this episode, I break down:Why the yoga industry encourages a never-ending certification chaseHow confidence comes from teaching, not from credentialsThe historical roots of yoga education (spoiler: it wasn’t about certificates)When additional training does make sense—and when it doesn’tPractical strategies to build confidence in your teaching, right nowIf you’ve ever felt like you’re not ready, not qualified enough, or just need one more certification before stepping into your full potential, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about what actually makes a great yoga teacher—and it’s not a piece of paper.Mentioned in this episode:• Mastering the Art of Yoga Sequencing Mentorship Program• 300-Hour Advanced Studies Program• The Professional Yoga Teacher’s HandbookWant to become (almost) everyone's favorite yoga teacher? Get in the Zone at Comfort Zone Yoga, my virtual studio focused on teacher development. I have a ton of Sage advice in there for you—let's chat there! For more insights, subscribe to Yoga Teacher Confidential, check out my YouTube channel, and follow me on socials: Instagram Facebook Threads Bluesky Pinterest And come explore my continuing education workshops and 300/500-hour teacher training programs. It's all at sagerountree.com.
--------
22:11
Creating an Inclusive Classroom: How Consistency and Permission Build Student Confidence
My first yoga class as a student was a disaster—I felt lost, uncomfortable, and unsure of what was allowed. It wasn’t the poses that overwhelmed me—it was the uncertainty. Can I leave if I need to? What if I can’t do a pose? Where’s the bathroom?As teachers, we often focus on our confidence, but what about our students? In this episode, I explore how consistency in class structure and clear permission create a supportive, predictable environment where students can focus on their practice instead of worrying about logistics.Key Takeaways:✅ Why predictable class structures help students feel safe✅ How to give explicit permission for modifications and classroom logistics✅ Simple ways to normalize choice and agency in your yoga classWant to become (almost) everyone's favorite yoga teacher? Get in the Zone at Comfort Zone Yoga, my virtual studio focused on teacher development. I have a ton of Sage advice in there for you—let's chat there! For more insights, subscribe to Yoga Teacher Confidential, check out my YouTube channel, and follow me on socials: Instagram Facebook Threads Bluesky Pinterest And come explore my continuing education workshops and 300/500-hour teacher training programs. It's all at sagerountree.com.
--------
15:05
How to End Class So People Remember You
The last five minutes of your yoga class might be just as crucial as the first. A strong closing helps students integrate their practice, transition back to daily life, and remember their experience in a meaningful way.Let’s break down the essential elements of an effective class ending, including:• Why the last moments of class shape how students remember you• The role of final relaxation and how to guide it effectively• Practical tips for managing time and transitioning students smoothly• Common mistakes teachers make when ending class—and how to avoid themListen now and learn how to make your class unforgettable—right when it matters most!Want to become (almost) everyone's favorite yoga teacher? Get in the Zone at Comfort Zone Yoga, my virtual studio focused on teacher development. I have a ton of Sage advice in there for you—let's chat there! For more insights, subscribe to Yoga Teacher Confidential, check out my YouTube channel, and follow me on socials: Instagram Facebook Threads Bluesky Pinterest And come explore my continuing education workshops and 300/500-hour teacher training programs. It's all at sagerountree.com.
--------
19:07
How to Start Class with Confidence: The First Five Minutes Matter Most
The way you begin your yoga class determines everything that follows. In this episode, I break down how to create a welcoming environment, set clear expectations, and guide students into a focused and engaged practice. From greeting students to setting the tone with your voice, presence, and language, I’ll share practical strategies to ensure your class starts with confidence and ease.In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why the first five minutes are the most important• How to create a welcoming environment before students arrive• What to say (and what NOT to say) when greeting students• The importance of setting clear expectations with the “five W’s and one H”• How to guide an intentional class opening that transitions students into practice• Common mistakes to avoid when starting class• How to adapt your class opening for different audiencesWant to become (almost) everyone's favorite yoga teacher? Get in the Zone at Comfort Zone Yoga, my virtual studio focused on teacher development. I have a ton of Sage advice in there for you—let's chat there! For more insights, subscribe to Yoga Teacher Confidential, check out my YouTube channel, and follow me on socials: Instagram Facebook Threads Bluesky Pinterest And come explore my continuing education workshops and 300/500-hour teacher training programs. It's all at sagerountree.com.
Sobre Yoga Teacher Confidential: Secrets of Becoming a Great Yoga Teacher
Yoga Teacher Confidential is your backstage pass to the unspoken truths of being a yoga teacher. Sage Rountree, PhD, E-RYT500, dives into the real challenges and rewards of teaching yoga, offering expert advice and secrets to help you build confidence, connect with your students, and teach with authenticity. Sage draws on her two decades of experience teaching yoga, running a studio, and training teachers to share practical insights you can use right away. You'll also hear advice from her books, including Teaching Yoga Beyond the Poses, The Art of Yoga Sequencing, and The Professional Yoga Teacher's Handbook. Whether you’re navigating imposter syndrome, mastering classroom presence, or refining your skills to teach specialized niches like athletes, this podcast empowers you to lead your classes with clarity, grace, and ease.
Ouve Yoga Teacher Confidential: Secrets of Becoming a Great Yoga Teacher, O Divórcio do Sono e muitos outros podcasts de todo o mundo com a aplicação radio.pt
Portugal