One of the things that most people have questions about is how to choose the right yoga teacher training India courses. India is the birthplace of yoga. Not only that but many new styles of yoga were also created here. As a result, it is but natural that you will get a range of options to choose from and factors to consider. This can make your decision a tough one. Whether it is a YTTC or a yoga retreat, the choice can be a difficult one. But as long as you know your goals and are aware of which points to give the most weight to, you should not have a problem. Here, we will list the factors that should most influence your choice when you book yoga teacher training in India.
Location of The School
The location of the school plays a major role when you book yoga teacher training in India. Different locations have different cultures of yoga training. Not all might suit you. For example, Rishikesh is most suitable for those who want to learn yoga in the traditional and authentic style of ancient yogis. That means you will be learning yoga as a lifestyle and philosophy rather than a form of exercise. Dharamsala is for those who want a balance between the conservative Rishikesh style and a more lenient atmosphere. Pune and Mysore are suitable for those who are more interested in Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga or Iyengar yoga. The teaching style here is also very strict, but the focus is mostly on the physical aspects of yoga. Goa has a very laidback teaching style, with the most international influence.
Timing of The Course
Most yoga schools provide yoga teacher training courses and yoga retreats in a seasonal pattern. This corresponds to the peak holiday season of that location. Going in the peak season is great if you want to come in touch with international yogis or eminent teachers. But the off-season is less crowded and offers a better chance to concentrate on yourself. For example, if you book yoga retreats in Rishikesh, the period between May and August is the best if you want peace and quiet. But for the most pleasant weather and better learning opportunities, the period between September and November is better.
Cost of The Course
In general, when you book yoga teacher training in India, you will find that the cost is much lower than abroad. But don’t worry, in spite of lower prices, you will find the best yoga teacher training here only. When you browse various courses or retreats, do not go with the face value of the costs. Often, the variations are due to differences in accommodations and facilities. It could also depend on the living costs of the location, the reputation of the school and the teacher, the exact materials they are teaching, etc. Consider all factors before you book yoga teacher training in India.
Yoga School
The yoga school is one of the most important deciding factors when choosing a Yoga Alliance teacher training course. A reputed school is more likely to have courses of better quality. A well-known school tends to organize better retreats. While ratings and reviews are not the be-all-and-end-all of a yoga school, they do matter. It is a good idea to get in touch with the alumni of the school and ask them about it. You have a better chance of getting honest opinions from them. You may also get some genuine advice that will help you to book yoga teacher training in India.
Yoga Teacher Leading The Course
For many people, the most important factor in all of these is the yoga teacher. A lot of people will actually pursue the yoga teacher of their choice. They will not keep the yoga school or course in the picture, or at least, those will be minor factors. If you know the yoga guru well and have taken classes under them before, this is a great idea. You will be sure you will get quality training. Moreover, the familiarity factor will also act as a major plus point. But if you are simply doing this because everybody else is raving about the teacher, think again. It will be better to make your independent decision in that case.
Yoga Style Being Taught
Different yoga schools, while following the same syllabus, can focus on different yoga styles. Some might work with the general Hatha yoga style. Some may go for the popular Ashtanga yoga or Iyengar yoga styles. Others may choose more specialized styles like Yin yoga, power yoga, restorative yoga, aerial yoga, etc. When you book yoga teacher training in India, always choose the course or retreat that teaches the style of your preference.
Yoga Alliance Certification of School
If you are planning to become a yoga teacher, this is of the utmost importance. A Yoga Alliance school only will be able to give you the certification necessary to receive your RYT badge. Now, this is not mandatory to teach yoga. But most yoga schools make it a criterion for the teachers they hire. Even yoga students prefer to learn from a yoga teacher who is a RYT. Thus, a Yoga Alliance recognition gives more opportunities.
Which Factor Should Get The Most Weight
The final decision when you book yoga teacher training in India should depend on which factor is most important to you. People have different priorities. Therefore, when you make your decision, weight in your factors in their order of importance to you.
