After nearly a year of studying, last week was finals week, including a written exam and a practical teaching evaluation.

I finally completed my 200 hour yoga teacher training course.

Since I decided to sign up for the course last December, I poured myself into studying anatomy, Indian philosophy and religion, sanskrit, developing my own physical practice, starting a daily seated meditation practice, and learning all the elements that go into teaching students: a meaningful message, even breath count, proper adjustments, preparing for the unexpected.

I previously said that the time since I’ve been living in Germany has been the most personal growth I’ve experienced, but I would beg to differ now.

When I started, I said I wanted discipline.

I realized over the course that discipline was already within me; It’s up to me if I choose to apply it.

I came into the course questioning if I was good enough, if I really had what it takes, assuming I was already at a disadvantage not living in London.

These limiting beliefs just made me work that much harder – to prove to myself they were just that – limiting beliefs.

All. the. books.

I was also reminded of the fact that if I work hard, every day, I will see results. The road will be paved with highs and lows, but consistency of purpose never fails.

My top takeaways from the class (or the teachings that were most profound for me):

• Question everything.
• There are lessons to learn every day: pay attention.
• Cultivate awareness in daily life, cultivate patience.
• We never think we’re ready. But conditions will never be perfect. Start now.
• We are responsible for everyone else in this world: all our actions affect others.
• There is no such thing as black and white, good and bad. You can’t know one without having known the other.
• The greatest impact you can have as a teacher is to teach your students that yoga is not separate from life.

 

I’ve really enjoyed teaching my friends privately and I know it has deepened those relationships.

I also enjoy teaching beginners. Seeing people move and become conscious of their breath and bodies makes me happy.

 

A lot of people have asked me “what’s next?”

I want to continue to teach small groups and one-on-ones.

I plan on continuing to take classes – whether it’s online or locally.

And I think I’ll also see if any of the yoga studios want a course in English one day a week.

During the process of connecting more deeply with myself, I came upon the opportunity to move to Hamburg.

It’s a move I decided to make.

It will be a big change, another new city, new friends, a new job.

There will be ups and downs.

It won’t be easy.

But then again, it’s the challenge and struggle that lead to growth.