The Basic Principles of Teaching Yin Yoga: A summary
The following is a summary taken from the "How to Teach Yin Yoga" lesson in our Yin Yoga Teacher Training. This summary will also be featured in two upcoming online Yin Yoga teacher trainings: a 20-hour foundational course and a more advanced 50-hour training. Keep an eye on our Online Trainings page for updates!
Stay True to Yourself While Honoring the Core Principles
As a teacher, if we stay true to the basic principles of what makes Yin, Yin—1) long holds, 2) finding the edge, 3) mindful breathing, and 4) stillness (whether seen as a practice or a destination)—we remain aligned with the essence of Yin Yoga. By adhering to these core elements, we ensure that our classes stay within the Yin realm, even if our approach and style are unique.
However, it’s important to remember that the pioneers of Yin Yoga, such as Paul Grilley and Sarah Powers, incorporated elements of Chinese Medicine into what were originally seated postures from traditional Hatha Yoga. In a sense, they were rebels and trailblazers. They had the strength of character to adapt the yoga of their time to better suit their bodies and to serve their students. Through their innovation, they have gone on to help millions, including myself. Rather than viewing them with awe, we should be inspired by their courage and adaptability. The same applies to B.K.S Iyengar and Pathabi Jois.
Embrace Your Own Voice in Yin Yoga
What I’m trying to say is: feel free to add your own voice and personality to your Yin practice and teaching. You can follow the foundational Yin philosophy but still tailor it to reflect your unique principles and beliefs. In essence, be rebellious—just as the pioneers of Yin Yoga were. I, for example, incorporate subcontinental music into my classes and weave in the teachings of Shiva and Parvati from the Vigyan Bhairav Tantra. I do this instead of emphasising Chinese Medicine or meridian theories. It’s not that I discount these concepts—they’re just not who I am. I teach the basic blueprint of Yin but have the confidence to bring in my own philosophy, my own essence.
As the great Swami Vivekananda once said, “Each soul is potentially divine. The goal is to manifest this divinity within by controlling nature, external and internal.” This quote reminds us that yoga is not about fitting into a mold but about unveiling the deeper truth of who we are. Your teaching style should be a reflection of your inner essence, and your voice should feel like an expression of your unique experience.
Summary: Teach Yin Your Way
So, in summary, teach Yin your way while staying true to the basic principles. Teach in a way that resonates with who you are, not how you think you should teach. Express your truth and let your style reflect your heart. You’ll find that when you teach from this authentic place, you will not only love teaching Yin Yoga, but your students will also love being part of the experience.
Trust in yourself and your practice, and as the Vigyan Bhairav Tantra says, “Become aware of the space between breaths. In this stillness, you will find the essence of the Self.” This teaching captures the true essence of Yin—allowing stillness and introspection to reveal the deeper layers of our being. Let your Yin classes be a mirror of your deepest self.
With My Lovely Wife, Laura
When I teach, I try to be as authentic as I can. I laugh, I make fun, and my entire approach is light-hearted. I talk to students in class the same way I would talk to someone I bump into when I’m shopping in Tesco. I teach from my heart, and all I try to do is be myself. Actually, I don't try to be myself, I just am.
When we are kids, we’re encouraged to “just be”—perhaps the most yogic of principles. But as we grow older, life has a way of grinding us down, and we often spend the rest of our lives trying to fit in. I never did fit in. I was the shy Asian kid with white friends, always lingering on the periphery. Over time, I’ve learned that my happy place—and the place I feel safest—is anywhere I can just be myself. My trackies might be too baggy, and my t-shirts a bit too tight. But hey, it works for me. 😄
Swami Vivekananda once said, “The greatest religion is to be true to your own nature. Have faith in yourselves.” And that’s the essence of my approach, whether I’m teaching a class or just walking through life. I believe the more authentic we are, the more we live in alignment with our true selves. So whether I’m on the mat or in the aisles of Tesco, what you see is what you get!
I may not be your typical yoga teacher, but I’ve found that staying true to who I am is the most yogic thing I can do. And, at the end of the day, that’s the only way I know how to share this practice—with honesty, a bit of humor, and a whole lot of love.
Zahir Akram - Eternal Seeker
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Our online training courses are now available, offering comprehensive content on anatomy, biomechanics, and yoga philosophy. These courses are designed to support students and yoga teachers in their continued development.
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For more information on our online courses, mentoring or to book in-house training, email Zahir.
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