Yoga Professional

Yoga has gained immense popularity worldwide due to its holistic approach to health and wellness. In India, the birthplace of yoga, being a yoga teacher is not only a noble profession but also a fulfilling career path.Regions like Africa, the European Union, and Asia Pacific are experiencing an inclination towards the Yoga industry and a large number of job roles and career paths are available for the Yoga Gurus and Yoga students. A yoga professional is an individual who specializes in teaching and practicing yoga, a holistic system of physical and mental exercises aimed at promoting physical well-being, mental clarity, and spiritual growth. Yoga professionals often work in various capacities within the field of yoga, and their roles can vary widely.

As a yoga teacher, your primary responsibility is to guide individuals or groups in practicing yoga poses, meditation, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. You will design and lead classes based on the needs and abilities of your students, ensuring their safety while promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Additionally, yoga teachers often offer guidance on proper nutrition, stress management, and healthy lifestyle choices.

Route to become a Yoga professional

Pathway 1

• 10+2 in any stream
• Diploma in Yoga/ Yoga and naturopathy

Pathway 2

• 10+2 in any stream
• Undergraduate course any stream
• PG diploma in Yoga/ Yoga and naturopathy

Pathway 3

• 10+2 in any stream
• B. Sc in Yoga/ Yoga and naturopathy
• M. Sc in Yoga/ Yoga and naturopathy

One can apply for a certification from the Yoga Certification Board. Two types of certifications are available under the YCB:

Yoga Education and Training

1. Yoga Volunteer
2. Yoga Protocol Instructor
3. Yoga Wellness Instructor
4. Yoga Teacher and Evaluator
5. Yoga Master
6. Primary school Yoga Teacher
7. Secondary school Yoga Teacher

Yoga Therapy

1. Assistant Yoga Therapist
2. Yoga Therapist
3. Therapeutic Yoga Consultant*

For all these levels education requirements vary from 12th class to graduate, *(for being TYC one needs to be a registered medical practitioner). Minimum hours of training vary from 36 hours to 1600 hours depending on the certification.
 

Pros:

• Immersion in holistic wellness practices and personal growth
• The opportunity to positively impact the lives of others and promote well-being
• Varied employment options in diverse settings
• Flexibility to work as an independent practitioner or within organizations
• Continued learning and exploration of yoga's ancient wisdom

Cons:

• Irregular work hours, including mornings, evenings, and weekends
• Income variability, especially when starting out as a freelancer or establishing a personal yoga studio
• High levels of personal commitment and regular self-practice requirements
• The physically demanding nature of the jobmay lead to strain or injury if not practiced safely and mindfully
• Limited job security in some cases, depending on the demand and competition in the area.