While being a yoga teacher is about much more than performing fancy inversions and contorting your body in supernatural ways, it is important to achieve a certain degree of flexibility. This is because you will need to demonstrate asanas successfully, move through various flows, and have the strength to practice regularly. Not to mention, it significantly minimizes your risk for injuries, tears, and pain too.
If you’re currently teaching or planning to teach Vinyasa yoga, Ashtanga yoga, Hatha yoga, or another variation, here are some tips for building your flexibility up:
Add dynamic stretches to your routine
One of the best things you can do for yourself is to add dynamic stretches to your routine, ideally before your practice. These stretches can help warm up and prepare your muscles for the movement ahead, engaging your muscles and joints simultaneously. Since Ashtanga yoga involves a lot of stretching itself, a few key movements or a brief routine before your practice will make a world of difference.
Perform targeted stretches and asanas
Another important technique is to perform targeted stretches and asanas. If you feel like your hips are stiff, try hip openers; if your back is the problem, work on gentle backbends, and so on. Work your way up and go slowly to ease into it, but stay consistent with these asanas and stretches.
Begin with modifications and support
Do not feel pressured to do advanced movements if you’re not there yet. Whether you’re in yoga teacher training or practicing individually, work your way up by trying modifications and tools. Blocks, bands, and balls are great workout equipment to support you while you build your flexibility and range of motion.
Focus on mobility alongside flexibility
Speaking of range of motion, do not neglect your mobility while working on flexibility. Allowing your joints to move more freely, extend further, and stay strong alongside your muscles is key to solid practice. Flexibility alone won’t do that; you need to work on mobility techniques as well.
There are many ways to enhance and improve your practice as a professional, including advanced yoga teacher training in Los Angeles. Get in touch with Caroline Klebl at Source of Yoga to learn more about her incredible Ashtanga yoga training and certification and how you can strengthen and condition your body more effectively. She also has at-home resources that you can use in your own time.