Common Mistakes when Choosing a Yoga School

1. Prioritizing Price Over Teacher Experience

When choosing a yoga school, your teacher’s experience matters far more than the price tag. Transparent schools openly share their lead teacher’s credentials and teaching philosophy.

At the Life of Wellness Institute, our lead teacher has over 30 years of yoga practice, starting with a 200-hour training at the age of 16. This gift supported her recovery from trauma and built a foundation of resilience. She has since completed more than 1,500 hours of training and taught over 7,000 hours.

In addition to yoga credentials, she is an ICF-certified transformational coach specializing in trauma, depression, and anxiety, with over three decades of experience. Her expertise includes Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Therapy, aromatherapy, Thai massage, and yoga therapy.

When researching schools, ask about the instructor’s qualifications and their approach to teaching. The right teacher transforms a yoga class into a meaningful experience.

2. Overlooking Yoga Alliance Certification

Yoga Alliance (YA) is the largest nonprofit organization supporting the integrity and diversity of yoga. A Registered Yoga School (RYS) ensures that your training meets global standards.

Many studios require YA certification for teaching roles. It also allows you to teach internationally. Choosing a school without RYS credentials can limit your opportunities.

The Life of Wellness Institute is proudly registered with Yoga Alliance as a Registered Yoga School and YACEP provider. 

3. Senior Teacher Contact Hours: Don’t Miss This Essential Factor

In 2022, Yoga Alliance raised the standards for in-person training. Today, 150 of your 200 training hours must be taught live by a senior teacher. Some schools still use outdated standards, offering fewer than 65 hours of direct teaching or even entirely online programs.

At the Life of Wellness Institute, all training occurs live. Students receive classroom instruction, two one-on-one coaching hours, and guided teaching practice in a supportive community. Discovery-based learning ensures an immersive, engaging experience.

4. Not Knowing a School’s Lineage

Understanding a school’s yoga lineage helps you connect with its teachings. Lineage reflects the philosophies, influences, and history shaping what you’ll learn.

Some schools conceal their lineage, which can limit your ability to align with their values or share this knowledge as a teacher. At the Life of Wellness Institute, we honor our teachers and mentors by openly sharing our lineage. See the full details here.

Before enrolling, ask about the school’s lineage. It should align with your goals and offer a clear foundation for your teaching journey.

5. Falling for False Claims

Integrity is critical when selecting a yoga school. Unfortunately, some schools make exaggerated claims about their originality or contributions to yoga. Beware of trademark or copyright claims on yoga styles or practices that belong to ancient traditions.

Yoga is a collective wisdom, not the invention of one teacher or organization. Even Krishnamacharya, known as the “father of modern yoga,” was shaped by his teachers and environment. Authenticity means acknowledging your influences and honoring your teachers.

At the Life of Wellness Institute, we share yoga as a collaborative human tradition. Our unique teaching style reflects decades of learning, mentoring, and practice with thousands of students.

How to Spot Red Flags

• Unverifiable credentials: Research claims of originality or exclusivity. Ask for lineage charts or references to historical traditions.
• Limited teaching hours with senior instructors: Ensure the school meets updated standards for live instruction.
• Lack of transparency: Schools should openly share their curriculum, affiliations, and teaching philosophy.

Living with integrity is a daily practice. At the Life of Wellness Institute, we uphold this through transparency, respect for tradition, and a commitment to ethical teaching.

Avoiding these common mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration as you choose the yoga school that’s best for you. If you’re still feeling unsure or would like personalized guidance, I’m here to help. Schedule an exploration call, and let’s find the right fit together.