Finding JOY in Teaching Kids Yoga

by Tashya Knight | Oct 13, 2025 | ARTICLES, FRONT PAGE POSTS, Yoga

Finding JOY in Teaching Kids Yoga

Review by: Tashya Knight

YOGA

As I step into the classroom each week to teach kids yoga, I feel an immediate sense of joy! The joy I have in teaching and the joy from the children as they are excited to join in. I have been a teacher for most of my career, which in itself has mostly been joyful. But there is something about teaching kids yoga that brings it to a different level. There is fun in watching students discover yoga through breathing and relaxing all while going on an adventure, such as taking a trip to the beach, going on a nature hike or blasting off into outer space. They even find joy in stillness as we all get quiet for our sleeping song.

I couldn’t imagine having more fun and joy in my job, and I know these teachers agree! I spoke with a few yoga teachers to find out how teaching yoga to young children brings about JOY.

Camelia (Mimi) Felton: Founder Mimi’s Yoga Kids

Photo credit: Cassandra Davis

mimisyogakids.com
@mimisyogakids

What is different about teaching yoga to kids vs teaching yoga to adults? Is it different?

There’s a big difference in teaching yoga to kids vs adults. Kids and teens aren’t just miniature adults. From their anatomy to their attention span, there are differences. Understanding these differences is so important and key to keeping kids safe on the mat, while keeping them engaged in your class and, of course, having fun. Three major things to remember when teaching kids and teens: First, make sure to structure your class to meet their developmental needs. Second, engagement is key. It is so important to meet kids and teens where they are. Third, creating a safe space for them to explore and find the many benefits of yoga is the goal. I tell kids and teens that yoga is a practice and it’s what you make it. They usually fall in love with it!!

What inspired you to teach kids yoga?
I was raising my grandson and started sharing my yoga practice with him. A light came on for me that kids could benefit from yoga too. I didn’t see anyone around me offering yoga to kids, so I decided to create it. Seeing kids enjoy and learn the many benefits of yoga is wonderful to see.

What pose do kids enjoy the most?
Kids love poses like crow, wheel, handstands and partner poses. These poses make them feel strong, and partner poses offer support and connection for one another.

Share one of your favorite memories/moments you’ve experienced teaching kids yoga?
When a child comes back and tells me how yoga has helped them. How they used five-finger breathing to calm down before taking a test or how they do a quick sun A sequence in the morning before going to school because it feels good and makes them strong. These are things that no one can take from them. It’s empowering!!

How do you bring joy to teaching kids yoga?
I bring joy to teaching yoga to kids by simply showing up as myself. I love pouring into the life of children. Kids know when you love and want the best for them. I provide structure and guidance infused with a lot of fun. I create a safe space for them to simply be a kid.

How does teaching kids yoga bring you joy?
Knowing that I am making a difference in our future is the most joyous thing for me. Seeing happy, healthy and whole children is what it’s all about. Kids need wellness practices that equip them for life too. As long as I’m breathing, I will make sure that they get those tools and practices!!!!

Larissa Noto

Founder: Lovely Little Lotus

thelovelylittlelotus.com
@thelovelylittlelotus

What is different about teaching yoga to kids vs teaching yoga to adults? Is it different?
Kids Yoga is different from adults for a few reasons. Just as we would with adults, we are trying to teach and impart the same basic tenets—to honor the roots of this beautiful practice by teaching all 8 limbs—from breathwork (pranayama) and postures (asana), to meditation and beyond. In my experience, the main difference as a kids yoga instructor is the method of delivery. How we teach kids is slightly different in that we need to account for age, ability, and the energy in the room from the moment we walk into the space. So we are delivering the same benefits as an adult practice, but we use more imaginative play, music, science, art, and creativity baked into the classes and an added element of adventure and self-discovery. We also leave plenty of room for mindful introspective moments that organically come with the flow of the class. Sometimes kids yoga teachers come prepared with the best lesson plan, and when you enter the room, the entire plan goes out the door. As a kids yoga teacher, you need to be ready and prepared for those unexpected moments because they happen more often than not. And yet they make for the best, most teachable moments for yourself and your students!

What inspired you to teach kids yoga?
My middle son, Gavin, was born with a form of deafness/hearing loss. We weren’t sure what he could/couldn’t hear. I was looking for ways to bond with him that were non-verbal. I had practiced yoga for 14 years by then, but hadn’t realized there was baby yoga. So we found a teacher at a local studio and started taking classes, and it was a game changer for us. The bonding, smiles, giggles-baby yoga was a gift. Just as yoga does—it reminds you to focus on the present moment—and when I became more present with Gavin, I was able to be a better parent to him. Baby yoga reminded me to focus on this sweet, perfect baby in front of me and remember the JOY he brought into this world with his smile, giggles and presence!

What pose do kids enjoy the most?
Kids love ALL the poses. I think one of the crowd favorites is Dinosaur (Warrior 1 with a loud ROAR!), Tree, Sour Lemon Face (tense and release practice), and most especially Savasana (with blankets and pillows).

What’s one of your favorite memories/moments you’ve experienced teaching kids yoga?
I have so many I have collected and saved in my heart over the last 8 years! But I will have to say most recently, teaching at a summer camp for children who have experienced pediatric cancer. It was such a beautiful time to teach new friends some tools to help reduce stress, calm their minds and bodies, and have fun. One of the campers was leaving and shared, “I wish we could do yoga all day!” It made my whole day!

How do you bring joy to teaching kids yoga? How does teaching kids yoga bring you joy?
I work with many populations all over the world. It’s a privilege to make these practices accessible and inclusive to all—from children who use ASL, to children who are in assistive devices, to those in schools and to those in after school programs. I bring joy to kids in ALL of these spaces because I remind them of the unique beauty they possess that’s already within! To see students smile, have fun, make friends, and notice how they can use their breath to focus, energize, rest, motivate, and take five is simply magical. It’s these magic moments when I watch the spark light up on their faces—when they realize they have the potential to heal, help, and reset themselves, that all they need is already inside them. These are the moments that bring them joy, and the by-product is that their smiles and connections also bring me so much joy.

Rina Jakubowicz

Founder: Super Yogis

superyogis.com
@rinayoga
What is different about teaching yoga to kids vs teaching yoga to adults? Is it different?

Teaching kids yoga and teaching adults is widely different in execution, structure and purpose. Ideally the effect is the same, giving yogis of all ages tools to empower themselves and help them reflect on higher values and principles, but the approach differs because the audience is different. You have to meet the audience where they are. The structure of a kids yoga class is divided up into sections of breathing exercises, poses, games, play, interactivity, art, discussion, affirmations, visualization, self-expression, etc. The most important takeaway is having fun while learning. An adult class usually follows a sequence that everyone does to the best of their ability, and is mostly asana related (yoga pose related.) A common takeaway is challenging oneself physically and gaining more self-awareness with the purpose of self-growth.

What inspired you to teach kids yoga?
Learning the philosophy and feeling the effects of yoga made me realize how much I wish I had this as an outlet and tool when I was younger. I suffered from anger issues and not knowing how to manage my feelings well. This propelled me to create my own kids yoga curriculum called Super Yogis. I then created my own teacher training to help others teach the principles to their own little ones in their lives.

What pose do kids enjoy the most?
Animal poses for sure because of the sound effects and the mimicking qualities. Plus, they are usually more active.

Share one of your favorite memories/moments you’ve experienced teaching kids yoga?
A very powerful moment for me was teaching Vedanta (yoga philosophy) to an 8-year-old girl in England. During the pandemic, her mom wanted her to learn Vedanta, but she couldn’t find a teacher who would explain the teachings in a kid-friendly way. She found me and Super Yogis online and reached out. Naturally, I had to say “yes” and we started Zoom classes together every week. I was teaching her about her “iguana intellect” and “monkey mind.” One day she shared a story about her friends at school alienating her, and we talked about our higher values and I asked her how she could apply her iguana intellect to handle this situation at school. She was able to answer with such eloquence and wisdom. Her confidence started growing, and seeing her use Vedanta in the right context was such a gift for me to witness. Of course, it’s fun to see kids execute yoga poses and smiling, but seeing a child apply the philosophy with a modern day problem they face is the true nectar. That’s when you know it really sticks.

How do you bring joy to teaching kids yoga? How does teaching kids yoga bring you joy?
I bring joy to my kids yoga classes by genuinely wanting to be there every time and treating each child with respect and as a human being. I remember what it was like to be a kid and provide them with the fun, love and support they deserve and crave. Teaching kids yoga brings me joy when I see the kids having so much fun that they don’t even realize they are learning life-long lessons.

Michelle El Khoury

Founder: Yogamazia
Photo credit: Ivory Tree Portraits

yogamazia.com
yogamazia

What is different about teaching yoga to kids vs teaching yoga to adults? Is it different?
Yes, teaching yoga to kids is absolutely different from teaching yoga to adults! I break down some key differences into the below categories.

Communication and Instruction: When teaching yoga to kids, the language and instructions need to be tailored to their age group, which is exactly how we’ve structured our kid yoga classes at Yogamazia. Kids may not understand complex concepts or terminology. Therefore, it’s important to use simple, clear, and concise language, and engage them in a playful and interactive manner to their age level.

Pace and Duration: Kids generally have more energy and shorter attention spans compared to adults. As a result, our younger-aged kids yoga classes are often structured to be shorter in duration and have a faster pace than a typical adult yoga class. This helps to keep them engaged and interested throughout the class.

Themes and Storytelling: Incorporating themes and storytelling into our younger-aged kids yoga classes is highly effective. Using imaginative and age-appropriate stories, we can create a narrative that captures their interest and makes the practice more engaging. This approach helps kids connect with the yoga poses and concepts in a fun and relatable way.

Playfulness and Creativity: Kids naturally love to play and explore. Therefore, incorporating elements of playfulness, creativity, and games into our yoga sessions enhances their experience. This may involve incorporating animal poses, partner poses, yoga-based games, and interactive activities that encourage their participation and enjoyment.

Structure and Discipline: While flexibility and adaptability are important when teaching kids yoga, it is not the priority – maintaining some level of structure and discipline is crucial for the Yogamazia Leadership Team. Establishing basic rules, incorporating our values of G.R.A.C.E. – gratitude, respect, authenticity, community and equity helps to create a safe and consistent environment for our students and ensures we are all on the same page, whether in studio or off-site.

Inclusion of Props and Visual Aids: Both can be valuable tools when teaching yoga to kids. These aids provide visual cues and make the practice more interactive and engaging for our students.

Mindfulness and Relaxation: Teaching mindfulness and relaxation techniques to kids can help them develop emotional regulation, self-awareness, and stress management skills. Incorporating short moments of stillness, breathing exercises, and guided visualizations can support their overall well-being and help them calm down after more active yoga sequences.

The most important thing to remember is that every child is unique (in terms of age, body type, gender, etc.), so their response to yoga may vary. As a yoga teacher, adapting our teaching style, being attentive to their individual needs, and creating a supportive and inclusive environment contributes to a positive and rewarding yoga experience for our children.

What inspired you to teach kids yoga?
I began practicing yoga during pregnancy, and then my practice gradually evolved when my children began practicing with me. I moved from obtaining my 200 hour YTT to a prenatal yoga teacher training to focusing on kids and family and found myself being more inspired by these two groups specifically. When my children eventually convinced me to open Yogamazia, that was the impetus I needed and knew that my dharma was calling.

What pose do kids enjoy the most?
I think this depends on the age group and the teacher! Our younger students love poses that allow them to be as creative with their parents or caregivers, such as forming a tunnel with downward dog, while our older students look forward to challenging poses like half-moon or wheel pose.

Share one of your favorite memories/moments you’ve experienced teaching kids yoga?
How much the student feels like they are able to be themselves, and being true to themselves. That really warms my heart. Because at the end of the day, if our students are happy, feel safe, and learn something new about themselves–that is what is really important and brings me joy in teaching yoga to children.

How do you bring joy to teaching kids yoga? How does teaching kids yoga bring you joy?
Teaching yoga to kids is a mutually beneficial experience, where both the instructor and the child can find joy in the process of learning, exploring, and growing together. I find joy when I witness growth—seeing students develop physically, emotionally, and mentally through their yoga practice. Also, building connections with my students and being a positive influence in their lives is really fulfilling. As a yoga teacher, you have the opportunity to create a safe and nurturing space where kids can express themselves, build resilience, and develop healthy habits. So making a positive impact on their overall well-being brings great joy. Knowing that you are contributing to a child’s sense of purpose and fulfillment is the best feeling.

Shari Vilchez-Blatt

Founder: Karma Kids
karmakidsyoga.com
@karmakidsyoga
What is different about teaching yoga to kids vs teaching yoga to adults? Is it different?

There are so many differences in kids versus adult yoga! Could you imagine if all of a sudden, in your adult yoga class, someone left their mat and started running in a circle around the room?! Or if you’re in the middle of teaching a pose/flow and someone says, “Did you know that my brother has a bicycle and I saw a frog and I love unicorns and cold pillows?” It’s the energy mostly that differs, but also expectations of behavior. I would never want my child students to behave like adults….too weird. They need to talk, share, connect, ask questions, share some more…show you a trick or two (“look what I can do” can often be heard in a children’s yoga class, but what they show you may or may not be yoga—either way, it’s a gift to the room, so I make space for it. Kids classes are loud, playful, silly, quiet, might involve singing, dancing, jumping, include non-traditional yoga props (from balls to crafts to stuffed animals and pom moms).

What inspired you to teach kids yoga?
I don’t know how else to explain that my random path of events led me to teach yoga to children. I was an ad exec, very successful, but not passionate as I once had been. I was laid off one summer, decided to just chill out and not look for another job. I got back into my own yoga practice with all the free time, and was able to see my nieces and nephews more over the summer, too. When I did yoga around them, they would copy me. I didn’t know if that was OK, so I did some research and found that of course it was great for kids and that there was a training coming up in my area that summer. I had NOTHING going on. I love to learn, so I took it. It changed me. I took another one. And another….learning more and more. I loved it and just wanted to share with as many children as possible. Two months later I opened up my first studio in NYC dedicated just to kids and families!

What pose do kids enjoy the most?
I don’t think there is just one pose that kids love the most…it really depends on the child (it’s a great icebreaker to ask this at the start of the kids class. My name is Shari and my favorite yoga pose is….and we all do the pose!). And favorites change as our bodies change, we get stronger and more confident. It’s typically one that they feel strong or calm in. If it’s a challenging pose that they can do, kids will likely choose that so that they can show it off. Better than saying a popular pose that they like, I will say they LOVE to invent poses! Give a child 30-60 seconds to come up with a never-before-seen pose and name it! Or pair kids up to invent a partner pose. Or 3+ kids to invent group poses.

Share one of your favorite memories/moments you’ve experienced teaching kids yoga?
There are way too many magical moments from over 20 years…and thousands of kids….From celebrity parents jumping into your yoga adventure with as much enthusiasm as a child (thank you, Jane Krakowski for being the most fun momma)…to my husband farting loudly off camera during live Instagram classes (yes and everyone heard it, and I had to address it)….to Sesame Street Workshop taking over my studio to film “yoga school”…so instead of noting just one, I’ll note that any time a child surprises themselves with their own strength and ability, the looks on their faces are everything!

How do you bring joy to teaching kids yoga? How does teaching kids yoga bring you joy?
I bring joy to my classes by being accepting, kind, compassionate, friendly and honest. And of course, a bit of silly doesn’t hurt. Or a lot. I include laughter, wonder, and always invite them to be who they are, to listen to their bodies (versus me), and make sure everyone feels heard. I build community and make connections (friendships) within each class, allowing kids to experience other kids by mixing up partnerships, playing games, having challenges and tasks, all while having so much fun! It’s the energy I bring to the class.

Nearly every day that I teach, I have a funny or sweet story to take home. But even better than that, when a child finally gets a challenging pose that they’ve been working on (they usually surprise themselves), it’s the best feeling to witness their excitement, their confidence and their glow! It’s a celebration for all!

Tashya Knight is the founder of Wellness 13, a Wellness Lifestyle Coach, Yoga Teacher and member of the Yoga Love Magazine team. Learn more about Tashya here

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A KIDS YOGA TEACHER TRAINING: SETTING YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS

by Larissa Noto | Oct 12, 2025 | ARTICLES, FRONT PAGE POSTS, Yoga

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A KIDS YOGA TEACHER TRAINING:

Setting Yourself Up for Success

By Larissa Noto
Founder The Lovely Little Lotus

YOGA

Embarking on a Kids Yoga Teacher Training (KYTT) is an exciting and transformative journey. Whether you’re a seasoned yoga teacher or new to working with children, a KYTT can expand your skillset, deepen your understanding, and equip you to share yoga with kids in meaningful, joyful ways.

But like any training, preparation can help you feel grounded, confident, and ready to fully immerse yourself in the learning process. Here are some ways to prepare for your upcoming training so you can make the most of your experience.

Clarify Your “Why”

Before diving in, take time to reflect:

Why do you want to teach yoga to children?
What age groups or settings excite you most (classrooms, studios, camps, special needs populations)?
How do you hope this training will enrich your teaching journey—or your own personal practice?

For me, my “why” was being able to communicate and bond with my baby, who had just been diagnosed with a form of deafness/hard of hearing. The sweet giggles and smiles we shared during our baby and me yoga sessions were so precious and meaningful. I knew I wanted to train others to be able to share this work, since kids of all ages can do yoga! Having a clear “why” will anchor you throughout the training and help you stay focused on your goals.

Strengthen Your Personal Yoga & Mindfulness Practice

While kids yoga looks very different from an adult class, your own practice will serve as a foundation.

Dedicate time to regular asana, breathwork, and meditation in the weeks leading up to training.
Explore playful and creative variations of familiar poses.
Notice how movement, stillness, and breath affect your body and mind—these insights will later help you guide children.

Familiarize Yourself with Child Development Basics

Understanding children’s developmental stages makes teaching more effective and safe. Before training, consider:

Reading a short guide on child development milestones (ages 2–17).
Observing how children naturally move, play, and focus.
Noticing differences in attention span, coordination, and social interaction across age groups.

Gather Creative Inspiration

Kids yoga thrives on imagination! To spark your creativity:

Collect a few children’s books, songs, or games that could be integrated into yoga.
Notice how kids respond to music, rhythm, and storytelling in everyday life.
Bring along props you already have (scarves, stuffed animals, rhythm sticks) that could be repurposed for yoga.

About the Author:

Larissa R. Noto (C-IAYT, E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT).

Larissa is a writer, published children’s author, yoga therapist, professor, wife, mom of 3, and disability/legal advocate. She is the Owner/CEO of The Lovely Little Lotus and Director of Trainings & Programming Partner at The Yoga Loft in Bethlehem. Larissa is also the writer and co-creator of Prema Kids Inclusive Yoga Teacher Training, along with long time collaborator, writer and co-creator, Camelia Felton of Mimi’s Yoga Kids. Learn more about this training here.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST KIDS YOGA TEACHER TRAINING: NOT ALL KIDS YOGA TEACHER TRAININGS ARE CREATED EQUAL

by Larissa Noto | Oct 11, 2025 | ARTICLES, FRONT PAGE POSTS, Yoga

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST KIDS YOGA TEACHER TRAINING:

Not All Kids Yoga Teacher Trainings Are Created Equal

By Larissa Noto
Founder The Lovely Little Lotus

YOGA

In today’s yoga landscape, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to choosing a Kids Yoga Teacher Training (KYTT). With so many programs available, the task of selecting the right one can feel overwhelming. Not every training is designed with the same care, inclusivity, or depth of experience—and the program you choose can make all the difference in the kind of teacher you become.

Whether you’re just beginning your yoga teaching journey or looking to expand your skills to work with children of all ages, here’s your guide to what truly matters when choosing a Kids Yoga Teacher Training or a 95-Hour Kids Yoga Teacher Training program that leads to a Registered Children’s Yoga Teacher (RCYT) designation via Yoga Alliance.

Timing & Accessibility

The right program should meet you where you are in life, a few things to consider:

Flexible scheduling: Weekend intensives, modular learning, or online options can help fit training into your personal and professional schedule.
Accessibility: Programs should ensure participation is possible for all learners, regardless of physical ability, location, or background.
Registered Children’s Yoga Teacher (RCYT) Designation: If you’re a 200 Hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) with the Yoga Alliance and interested in receiving Continuing Education (CE) credits or the designation of a RCYT, be sure to sign up for a program that’s 95 Hours and is a RCYT designated program with Yoga Alliance.

If you’re not concerned with receiving RCYT designation and/or you’re not a 200 Hour RYT, then there are only a few reputable programs out there that are excellent and still accessible to meet your needs (We love Prema Kids Inclusive Teacher Training, Karma Kids, Yogi Beans, and Childlight Education Company).

Affordability & Payment Plans

Investing in your education should not be a financial burden. Look for trainings that:

Provide affordable tuition that reflects the value of the training.
Offer payment plans to make the program more accessible to aspiring teachers.
Are transparent about what’s included (manuals, materials, practice hours, mentoring).

Commitment to DEIB & Trauma-Informed Practices

A quality kids yoga training program should prioritize inclusivity. That means:

Focusing on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), ensuring yoga feels welcoming for every child.
Being trauma-informed, equipping teachers with tools to create safe spaces where children feel seen, respected, and supported.

Multi-Age & Multi-Population Approach

Children are not a monolith. A robust KYTT prepares you to work with:

Toddlers, preschoolers, school-aged children, and teens.
Different populations including children with diverse abilities, neurodivergence, or special needs.
This ensures you graduate ready to teach confidently across ages and settings—from classrooms to studios to community spaces.

Expressive Arts & Creative Integration

Yoga for kids goes beyond postures. Programs that stand out:

Weave in expressive arts like storytelling, music, dance, journaling, and mindful art.
Encourage creativity and imagination, making yoga engaging and developmentally appropriate for children.

Meeting Students Where They Are

The best trainings emphasize that no two children learn in the same way. Look for a program that:

Incorporates multiple intelligences theory (movement, music, interpersonal, intrapersonal, linguistic, etc.).
Recognizes different learning styles (visual, auditory, kinesthetic).
Equips you with strategies to adapt classes so that every child can succeed and shine

Practice Teaching Opportunities

Confidence comes with practice. Strong KYTT programs don’t just talk about teaching—they give you plenty of chances to actually teach. Expect:

Supervised teaching practice during the training.
Constructive feedback from experienced trainers.
Opportunities to practice in different settings, ages, and group sizes so you leave prepared and confident.

Not all Kids Yoga Teacher Trainings are created equal. The best 95-Hour KYTT programs go beyond teaching asana sequences—they prepare you to be a compassionate, inclusive, and confident teacher who can support the whole child. By considering timing, affordability, inclusivity, trauma-informed care, creative approaches, learning differences, and practice opportunities, you’ll find a program that not only elevates your skills but also empowers you to make a meaningful impact in children’s lives. The bottom line: Choose a program that doesn’t just train you to teach yoga—choose one that trains you to teach children through yoga. That’s where the real magic lies.

About the Author:

Larissa R. Noto (C-IAYT, E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT).

Larissa is a writer, published children’s author, yoga therapist, professor, wife, mom of 3, and disability/legal advocate. She is the Owner/CEO of The Lovely Little Lotus and Director of Trainings & Programming Partner at The Yoga Loft in Bethlehem. Larissa is also the writer and co-creator of Prema Kids Inclusive Yoga Teacher Training, along with long time collaborator, writer and co-creator, Camelia Felton of Mimi’s Yoga Kids. Learn more about this training here.

TOP 5 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A YOGA TEACHER TRAINING

by Celeste Cusumano | Sep 14, 2025 | ARTICLES, FRONT PAGE POSTS, Yoga

TOP 5 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A YOGA TEACHER TRAINING

By Celeste Cusumano, Founder of Asana Soul Practice
Yoga Love Magazine studio partner

YOGA

Are you feeling the spark?

You don’t need to be an advanced yogi—or even want to teach—to join a yoga teacher training (YTT). A 200-hour training is a transformative journey that goes far beyond the mat. It’s an immersive experience that shifts your perspective, deepens your self-awareness, and helps you connect more fully with yourself and the world around you.

Whether you go on to teach or simply integrate the teachings into your life, YTT can be a powerful step toward discovering your most authentic, wholehearted self.

I’m Celeste Cusumano. I completed my own 200-hour YTT at Laughing Lotus in NYC back in 2016, followed by a 300-hour in India at Sampoorna Yoga in 2019. Since then, I’ve founded Asana Soul Practice and created our own 200-hour teacher training program. Since 2018, I’ve led over a dozen cohorts and graduated over 200 new teachers—many of whom are now some of the most beloved members of our yoga community.

If you’re considering a YTT, here are the top 5 things to look for when choosing the right one for you:

1. The Schedule: Immersive, Yet Accessible

A great training schedule keeps you deeply immersed in the material without overwhelming your life. Look for a structure that balances intensity with spaciousness. For example, at Asana Soul Practice, our 200-hour training runs every other weekend over 10 weekends—giving students time between sessions to reflect, rest, study, and integrate what they’re learning.

The best schedules allow for real-life balance while maintaining consistent momentum.

2. The Syllabus: A Well-Rounded Curriculum

Your YTT should cover a comprehensive range of topics: asana, yoga philosophy, anatomy, Sanskrit, meditation, and more. A truly enriching program will offer a balance between the physical and philosophical aspects of yoga.

Look for bonus modules that excite you—like Ayurveda, intro to Yin or Restorative Yoga, trauma-informed teaching, prenatal yoga, or business of yoga. These extras can add real depth to your training.

3. The Teachers: Experience Matters

The quality of your training depends heavily on who is teaching it. Do your research:

What are their credentials?
How long have they been teaching yoga?
Do they have experience leading teacher trainings?
Can you meet or speak with them before committing?

Personal connection is important. Don’t hesitate to ask for a call or to sit in on a class to get a feel for their teaching style and energy.

4. Testimonials & Community Feedback

Word of mouth matters. Read or watch testimonials from graduates. Even better—talk to alumni directly. Are they currently teaching? Did they feel prepared after graduating? Did they feel supported throughout the training?

Some studios include graduates as part of their teaching team. This is a great sign—they’re walking proof of the training’s impact and quality.

5. Application vs. Payment Link: Red Flag Alert

Be cautious of any YTT program that allows you to enroll simply by clicking a “Buy Now” button without an application or interview. A good training should be as much about fit as it is about enrollment.

At Asana Soul Practice, we personally connect with every applicant before accepting payment. This ensures the training is right for them—and they’re right for the training. It also helps us build a supportive, cohesive group from day one.

Bonus: Other Factors to Consider

Pricing: Is it equitable and in line with other local trainings? Are there payment plans, scholarships, or work-study options?
Membership Perks: Does it include unlimited classes or studio access during the training?
In-Person vs. Online: If you can, choose in-person. The connection, community, and hands-on practice are simply irreplaceable.
Teaching Practice: If you want to teach, make sure there’s plenty of practicum time. If your training is all lectures and no practice teaching, that’s a red flag. You should leave confident and prepared to lead a class.

At our training, we prioritize ongoing teaching practice throughout, so students are ready to teach by graduation—not just in theory, but in reality.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a yoga teacher training is a big decision. It’s not just about learning yoga—it’s about deepening your relationship with yourself and your practice. Take your time, ask questions, and trust your gut.

Whether you go on to teach or simply carry the teachings into your life, YTT has the power to transform you in ways you never expected.

JILL MILLER INTERVIEW

by Lauren Cap | May 1, 2025 | ARTICLES, FRONT PAGE POSTS, Yoga

JILL MILLER INTERVIEW

By: Lauren Cap
Photos: Tune Up Fitness Worldwide

YOGA

Editors note: This article contains references to disordered eating.

In early 2013, I signed up for Jill Miller’s Yoga Tune Up® teacher training as a new yoga teacher looking to learn more about the body. This training, and many of the others under Tune Up Fitness, surpassed any curiosity I had about anatomy, fascia and movement.Now in my 40’s, interviewing Jill for this Celebrating Age themed issue, felt like perfect timing.

Jill Miller, C-IAYT, is a fascia expert, cofounder of Tune Up Fitness Worldwide Inc. and bestselling author of Body by Breath and The Roll Model. Here, she shares her thoughts on aging and how her life experiences shaped the course of the work she teaches today.

This issue is themed “Celebrating Age.” What are ways you celebrate your age?
I remind myself of all of the wisdom that has accumulated, which gives me perspective and it also has dampened a painful and unquenchable desire to strive. I think that striving is something that is definitely baked into our culture. (Not that I’m not continuing to want to strive or strive towards excellence or be the best that I can be.) It’s given me the ability to have gracious reflection, perspective, and it’s deepened my appreciation of love.

I also recognize that I’m not the baby anymore, and the benevolent responsibility as a human citizen to share with younger people and share with others. That has been a really delicious part of aging—realizing that people look up to me. Parenting has taught me a lot of that, but also being a business owner and a teacher of teachers has taught me that. You don’t age in isolation. You age in community, and you age in relationship to all these other age groups.

Can you tell us a little about the evolution of your yoga practice and how it brought you to Tune Up Fitness?
I started practicing yoga when I was around 11 or 12. My mom had brought home the Jane Fonda Workout video and the Raquel Welch yoga tape. We lived off-the-grid in a solar home outside of Santa Fe, New Mexico, so we didn’t have a television. These videos lit me up, and I became obsessed with them. What happened over the next 8 or 9 years of my life was a spiral of disordered eating, orthorexia, and using yoga as a way to regulate my nervous system. There was a certain point in college where I knew that my bulimia was absolutely not going away, and I needed help.

My roommate, who was pre-med, was taking the same pilates class as me. She would always be sore in her abs, and I was never sore. I had a feeling that the reason I was never sore was because I couldn’t feel my abs, and I was just bypassing them because I was bulimic. I had this disconnection from myself. So I confessed to my yoga teacher that I was bulimic, and that I felt numb in my abs. She showed me a prop that they use in the Iyengar space that looks like a hamburger bun stuffed with sand. She said, “put it on your belly and lay down and breathe into it.” It was absolute agony. But I finally felt. The pain that emerged connected the dots for me about what I was doing to myself with the bulimia. I started to wake up every morning and roll up a hand towel (which was a lot gentler than this bean bag) and I would lay on the towel and move it around my abdomen. What ended up happening was I was able to move beyond the bulimia. I attribute a lot of that in part to creating this connection from my guts, my heart, and my mind. The self-massage work has been instrumental for being able to locate myself and being able to locate my emotions. In the context of practice, I am practicing as safely as possible. But also while in myself and not bypassing myself or continuing to objectify myself the way I used to.

That’s an incredible story and very inspiring. I appreciate you sharing that. Can you explain to the reader what self-myofascial release is?
Self-myofascial release is using a tool to attempt to improve gliding motions between tissues, to improve overall mobility, eliminate pain, address muscle imbalances and improve one’s proprioception (the ability to know where you are in space). I use self-myofascial release to help people improve their embody map, which is that body’s sense of itself. This concretizing of your soma, your anatomy, so that you can be a better participant with what you intend with your movements. The self-myofascial release that I teach is called Roll Model Method®. I use soft, pliable rubber balls of different sizes to help people locate tissues, improve mobility, and transform pain. This is the work that I teach to clinicians, to sports and athletics communities, to the general population, people that don’t like yoga, people that love yoga. All sorts of people can benefit from self-myofascial release.

Because the science behind anatomy and movement changes so rapidly, how do you adjust your training and teaching to align with the new information? What are your thoughts on the people who challenge the effectiveness of rolling?
When people challenge the effectiveness, it’s really easy to counter because we have evidence. In the fascia research community, we’ve moved on from a lot of terms. For example, a lot of people get caught up in this term, “adhesions.” That’s really not frequently used anymore. We’ll hear people talk about agglomerations or lack of gliding or true visceral adhesions, but people don’t really talk about adhesions in a musculoskeletal way very often anymore. That is a term that I used to use because that’s what was used a decade ago. My book, The Roll Model, was written when that term was popular, but in the new book, Body By Breath, I have been able to update those terms and try to continue to evolve. Science is as much an art as it is a science, so we have to keep updating our terms and explain what we mean.

What is your recommendation for women over 40 who want to maintain longevity in their fitness routine and everyday life?
I am a manual movement medicine person! I believe (and the research shows) that load bearing exercise is so important for the aging body, especially with women over 40. The loss of estrogen is deleterious for every system of the body. However, you are working with the symptoms that come along with the disappearance of estrogen in your system, there is no good reason to not do load bearing exercise to continuously stress your muscles so that they stay healthy. We lose our fast twitch muscle fibers at a very fast rate as we age. We also lose our ability to generate power, which weakens the muscles and weakens the bones, so our connective tissues stiffen, and we are more likely to have ruptures and tears. It’s important to do load bearing exercise that is likely beyond yoga. Yoga is important for whole body motion as well as stability. It’s incredible as a mind-body exercise to enhance focus and induce the relaxation response.

The aging body also needs self-myofascial release. Self-massage can get into nooks and crannies of the body that, unbeknownst to you, aren’t being moved by your exercise. Therapy balls can create motion where motion is not occurring well and can also help you update your mind’s ability to connect to your tissues so you can get a more robust contraction. There’s really great evidence about rolling being able to improve a muscle’s ability to create torque or force generation as well as improving your body’s proprioception. Slips and falls are the highest leading cause of hip fractures, and hip fractures are the leading cause of death in aging bodies.

We want ankles that move well, and we want to have good reactive hips and strong bones in those hips, so if we do fall, we are less likely to fracture.

Is there anything else you like to share with the readers?
My newer book, Body by Breath is all about that journey through the gut to embodiment. What I realized when I started to teach these methods to other people is that I got lucky because I healed my eating disorder. But these were applications that ended up helping people with neck pain, with asthma, with chronic shoulder pain, and with low back pain. There were so many varieties of people that were helped by doing these types of gut, massage, rib cage massage applications, and now, I see it’s really quite an endless side-effect free application. The traction just blows me away. This simple thing. This sad little bulimic girl laying down in her dorm room trying to wrestle with what she was struggling with, but there is this universal application that is way beyond what I thought.

Learn more: tuneupfitness.com

WHEN YOGA IS NOT ENOUGH: ADAPTING YOUR PRACTICE FOR LONGEVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY

by Jai Sugrim | Apr 27, 2025 | ARTICLES, FRONT PAGE POSTS, Yoga

WHEN YOGA IS NOT ENOUGH: ADAPTING YOUR PRACTICE
FOR LONGEVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY

By: Jai Sugrim C.S.C.S, L.M.T, J.Y.T
Photos: Greg McMahon

YOGA

As a longtime NYC Jivamutkti Yogi and Broome Street Temple Ashtangi, I had mastered all of the asanas with dedicated practice in my late 20s and through all of my 30s. I remember training up to five hours per day in the beginning of my yoga journey. For a 12-year stretch, I immersed myself in vinyasa yoga while abandoning the strength training and running which had been part of my holistic training as an athlete.

However, at around age 40, I began to notice subtle but significant shifts in my body—changes that made me realize yoga alone wasn’t enough to sustain my well-being. Approaches to practice that once yielded success, were now causing injuries and frustration. I was a world-famous yoga teacher with a successful yoga TV show and teaching sold out, 75-person classes at the most popular studio in Manhattan. Why were asanas failing me? After coming to terms with the idea that I was now in the second half of life, and that my personal records were behind me, a new perspective dawned.

We must remember that an important aspect to yoga is “letting go of our attachments,” and keeping a pliable, flexible mind. Taming my ego opened a deeper exploration into how to adapt my practice to support a more sustainable approach to mindful aging. I realized that I needed to re-integrate the strength training that focused on weak areas that yoga did not train, and cardiovascular training for toning my heart, that I did before my days in yoga began.

There are supplemental practices and approaches to asana that will keep you practicing through every decade of life, as long as you remain open to changing your routine, shifting things around, and tweaking what needs to be tweaked.

We Must Account for Age-Related Changes

As we age, our bodies undergo several transformations that can impact our yoga practice. Let’s explore four key things that change for all of us by age 40.

Decreased Flexibility Due to Fascial Changes:

As we age, the fascia—the connective tissue surrounding muscles and organs—becomes less hydrated and more rigid. Muscles that are draped upon other muscles, at the shoulders and hips, no longer slide as smoothly on top of one another as they once did. This leads to reduced flexibility and a diminished range of motion.

Reduced Muscle Mass and Strength:

Known as sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass and strength is common with aging. This loss of muscle mass brings with it a reduction of our metabolic rate, and increased body fat.

Slower Recovery Times:

Older bodies generally take longer to recover from physical exertion. This slower recovery can lead to overtraining and increased risk of injury if not properly managed. Doing long, grueling workouts every day will now lead to injury.

Decreased Bone Density:

With age, bone density often decreases, increasing the risk of fractures and falls. This change necessitates special attention to maintaining bone health through physical activity.

Solutions for a Sustainable Yoga Practice

Addressing Decreased Flexibility:

To counteract the effects of fascial rigidity, incorporate a comprehensive warm-up routine before your yoga practice. You can experiment with gentle dynamic stretches, mobility exercises, a brisk walk or slow jog, and breathwork to prepare the body and enhance flexibility.

You can also try walking 10,000 steps per day, six days a week. This will keep your fascia from getting sticky, and maintain hip extension, while enhancing your basal metabolic rate. Walking is a low impact and low cost, while providing high yield, high return on your investment. Walking 10,000 steps per day will keep the heart, your body’s engine, running smoothly as you age.

Additionally, use myofascial release techniques, such as foam rolling, to maintain fascial elasticity. Self-massage is an incredible form of self-care and maintenance.

Combating Reduced Muscle Mass and Strength:

The aging yogi must incorporate weight-bearing poses that involve weight-bearing on the arms and legs. Longer holds for downward dogs, planks, warrior asanas, and tree pose stimulate bone growth and strength.

Bringing in resistance bands to warm up the body with rows and pulling motions, and doing core work before the start of your yoga sessions would be incredible for adding strength and toning up the body holistically. Perhaps warm up longer, and cut the length of your yoga practice to strike the balance between stability and flexibility.

Managing Slower Recovery:

Master sleep. Get eight hours of it. Go to bed and wake up at the same time to tune the circadian rhythm of the organs. Proper rest will enhance the functioning of your androgenic hormones, which help you to recover from training sessions.

You can also incorporate restorative yoga practices, such as Yin Yoga and Yoga Nidra, to facilitate deeper relaxation and recovery.

To resist the pull of gravity, you will have to engage in positive habits. Getting older can be paired with increasing wisdom and refinement of our personality.

Maintaining Bone Density:

Lift heavy things in a variety of planes. Kettlebells, dumbbells, and medicine balls are great, but bodyweight exercises like high-rep air squats, push ups, and assisted pull-ups will do the trick. In the second half of life, frailty is a disease. Lift. Heavy. Things!!!!

Two 30-minute weight lifting sessions per week will extend your health span, and will help to keep you on the yoga mat well into your golden years.

As you integrate these practices into your life, you will find that it’s important to exercise six days per week. On the days you lift, you may skip vinyasa yoga and add static stretching or self-massage. On your vinyasa yoga days, you may add 10,000 steps. The idea is that your aging body will crave variety and stay happy when you mix things up.

Embracing Change for a Lasting Practice

Adapting to these changes has transformed my yoga practice into a more holistic and sustainable routine. By integrating these supplemental practices, and doing less vinyasa yoga, I have been able to address the physical challenges of aging while continuing to enjoy the benefits of yoga. This approach has not only enhanced my physical health, but also provided me with a deeper understanding of how to care for my body as it evolves.

I feel the benefits of holistic training. My endurance and heart are addressed, my bones and tendons are cared for, and my mobility is at fulfilling ranges that provide freedom to do the activities I enjoy.

Healthy aging is all about staying pain-free while remaining active. Doing splits, handstands, and placing our leg over the head becomes a low priority when we are older.

For those of you in the second half of life, I encourage you to embrace these changes with a proactive mindset. Your yoga practice can remain a powerful tool for well-being, provided it is adjusted to meet your body’s new needs. By incorporating strength training, cardio, restorative practices, and mindful adjustments to your training program, you can maintain a vibrant and fulfilling yoga practice well into the future.

Remember, yoga is not just about the poses—it’s about nurturing your body and mind through every stage of life. By adapting your practice thoughtfully, you can continue to reap the rewards of yoga while honoring the unique needs of your aging body.

Learn more: theartofagingmindfully.com