By Katie D’Onofrio
While it’s good news that yoga has become such a popular practice, this makes teaching jobs that much harder to come by. Studios seem to pop up on every corner, and they already have a schedule full of instructors; in some cases, they’ll only hire teachers who were certified at their location.
So how does a teacher find a teaching job? By thinking outside the box. Yoga doesn’t just have to be done at a studio, so it doesn’t only have to be taught at a studio, either. In fact, there are several pros to teaching outside of a studio:
You can negotiate for a better timeslot. Most studios are already well-staffed with seasoned teachers, which might mean you’re left with the sunrise class or the graveyard shift. If you’re teaching somewhere where yoga isn’t already being offered all day, you have a better chance of picking up a more prime time.
You can teach whatever class you want. You make the rules! While you should keep your venue in mind (say, not teaching a vinyasa class to a group who you know has never rolled out a mat before), there’s a good chance the people who are hosting you aren’t familiar with yoga and will trust your judgment as the expert.
You’ll (most likely) make more money. To be clear, if you’re teaching yoga for the money, you’re in the wrong line of work. But keep in mind that you are providing a service and giving your time and energy to others, which you should be paid for. And if you’re designing the program, you get to set the pricepoint. Unlike at a studio, you’ll either be paid individually by each student, or you can charge a group rate, which will likely result in more than what a single class at a studio would pay.
So where else can you teach? Here are four great avenues to get started.
Libraries
Many libraries serve as community places and offer programs and classes not related to reading at all. Believe it or not, it’s not uncommon for libraries to hold yoga classes already! Make a list of a few libraries in your area and check out their online events calendars. If you see yoga is part of their schedule, email them and ask if they’re looking to offer additional classes; if not, ask if they’d like to start a program.
Churches, Temples, Or Other Places of Worship
You don’t have to be affiliated with the organization to reach out. Like libraries, religious organizations also tend to put a focus on community and gathering people together. Your students won’t be limited to only the institution’s members, either. There’s a good chance that the group will want to advertise for you internally, which takes away some of the work on your end!
Colleges and Universities
Who’s more stressed out than a college student? More people are becoming acquainted with the benefits of mindfulness, including young adults. Reach out to the school’s athletic department, student recreation services, or on-campus gym to inquire about starting a new or joining an existing yoga program.
Active Adult Communities
There are two operative words here: “active” and “community.” People living in retirement neighborhoods are looking to be active and participate in activities, and be part of a community and connect with others. Yoga gives them a chance to do both. If you know anyone living in one of these communities, ask if they can put you in touch with their activities director or social committee.
The takeaway: don’t be afraid to take a chance.
When you’re first starting out, it may feel uncomfortable to put yourself out there. Just remember why you decided to start teaching yoga in the first place: it’s something you believe in, are passionate about, and want to share with others. So take advantage of any and every opportunity you can to do that! If one avenue doesn’t work out, don’t let it discourage you - simply try another.
Katie is a Jersey-based yoga instructor and writer. She believes that yoga is for everybody and every body and loves to bring a sense of lightness, play, and self-discovery to her classes. When she’s not on the mat, she probably has her nose in a book. Follow her on Instagram at @KatieDonof