Hey loves! So, one of my staff has been bugging me to tell her the story of how I transitioned from a yoga teacher to a yoga teacher trainer. I’ve been asked this question more times than I can count. Instead of responding solely to her, I decided what better way to inspire others than blogging about it. She had quite a few questions, so we decided to do it Q& A style. Ok, grab a peppermint mocha latte and curl up in your coach …or ermm…workspace? And let’s chat!
Pre-interview Shenanigans
J: Hey Shannon! This is so exciting. Does this mean I can ask you annythiiinnng?
Shannon: Sure, ask away and I promise I’ll answer…as long it’s related to my becoming a yoga teacher trainer 🙂
J: Can’t fault me for trying. Ok, here we go!
1. Shannon, what inspired you to move from yoga teacher to yoga teacher trainer (YTT)?
One of the main reasons was to ensure yoga teacher training is accessible to those who desire to teach or deepen their own practice. Hence, at Mind Body Complete, we’ve put a heavy focus on creating an online class. We even offer full and partial scholarships. I know all too well the challenges and expenses that come with making this huge step; I didn’t want space, schedule or finances to limit access for anyone.
2. Wow, that’s very thoughtful and inclusive, I love that. Ok, next question, what did you have to do to become a certified YTT ?
Well first things first you need to be RYT 500 Certified, I did mine through a Yoga Alliance approved school. I’m not gonna lie, this part can feel a little daunting but if you love teaching yoga, I promise it’ make the process easier.
To start a yoga teacher training school, you have to take some additional steps including undertaking an approval process with Yoga Alliance. It took us a year to build out our course and a few months to go through the approval process. You’re not alone in the process though. They do assign a representative that helps guide you; ensuring that you are offering a quality program that follows their guidelines.
3. That’s quite a bit of elbow grease! I can tell you guys were fully committed to getting this off the ground. I’m sure you encountered a few challenges, what would you say was the most challenging experience?
Hmmm…I wouldn’t necessarily use the word challenging. I’d say it was time consuming but in a good way. As Kim and I built out the platform and the content, that part got a little tedious but in the end it was very rewarding and we learned a lot about things we weren’t planning on learning. Not to mention…it was a great refresher for ourselves. It has been a long time since going through my own 200 hour YTT, so building out the program was such a great refresher.
4. Sounds like a tequila shot or two came to the rescue a few times! I’m curious, what are all your current YTT certifications?
Hahaha, I’m a tequila connoisseur so there was no way I was leaving out my little friend *wink*. I love yoga, I live it, breathe it, and teach it. I take every opportunity I can to learn something new. Currently, my most prominent certifications are:
- 500-hour certification
- Master Yin Certification
- SUP yoga certification
And of course, we have our own yoga school that offers certified courses such as Yoga for Stress and How to Lead Retreats.
5. Let’s take a step back, I’ve just realized I’ve never asked how you connected with your other YTT Yoga Teacher Program partner, Kim. How’d you both meet?
Kim (@kimmiyogini) and I have known each other for years! She attended a retreat I held in Florida many years ago and our energies just clicked. The rest as they say, is herstory! Kim is uniquely talented; she is also an excellent trauma informed yoga teacher. She has such a big heart; she specializes in catering to an often overlooked cohort of yoga students, those suffering from military and first responder trauma. I’ve watched her change lives and save lives. She’s an amazing human being!
6. I agree, she’s awesome and very talented! You’ve really dedicated yourself to being a yoga mentor, so tell me, what’s your favorite thing about becoming a YTT?
That’s easy! I love introducing and sharing yoga with others. When I watch them bloom, it really makes me happy. Being a YTT has truly brought so much love and contentment into my life. It brings so much joy to guide and share with people who are dedicated to this journey.
7. You’ve had that impact on me; I love that. This dovetails into one of my final questions. Why is MBC YTT the best online program (in your words)?
Kim and I didn’t just create an online platform and then let our students figure it out on their own. We are present with them. Available. Cheerleaders. Mentors. Real people offering real support.
8. Before you go, what is your best advice for persons interested in becoming a YTT?
Know that it isn’t just about learning postures, alignment, and history. It is a deep dive into self. An exploration of who you are and who you are becoming.
J: Thanks so much Shannon! I know I’ve pestered you quite a bit to tell me the story. Just so you know, I truly appreciate how you’ve dedicated yourself towards making the world a little brighter. I know I speak for all when I say, it inspires all of us around you.
Shannon: Aww, you’re too sweet! I love it! No problem hun, I’m always happy to spread the word about yoga, self-care and taking care of one’s mental health.
Lovelies, I hope you enjoyed that interview with J. I hope it helps you to decide if you want to become a yoga teacher and even a yoga teacher trainer or to just take your own yoga journey deeper. Trust me, anything is possible with dedication, a great partner and commitment. Also, this is my last blog for 2022, so before I sign-off, I want to wish you and your loved ones happy holidays!
XOXO Shannon
