10 Years into Teaching Yoga: Lessons That Shaped Me as an Educator

Ten years ago, I completed my very first Yoga Teacher Training Course.

At the time, I had no idea that one decision would shape the next decade of my life. I wasn't thinking about building an institute, creating teacher training programs, or teaching students from different parts of the world. I simply wanted to learn yoga more deeply.

Over the years, that curiosity became a profession, a purpose, and eventually, a lifelong commitment to teaching.

As I celebrate this milestone, I've been reflecting on what this journey has truly taught me. Surprisingly, the biggest lessons have had very little to do with mastering difficult asanas.

Yoga Teaching Is About People, Not Poses

Every student arrives with a different story.

Some come to improve flexibility. Others are managing stress, recovering from injuries, building confidence, or simply looking for a moment of peace in their busy lives.

Teaching yoga has reminded me that no two journeys are the same. A good teacher doesn't simply demonstrate postures—they observe, listen, adapt, and guide.

Learning Never Stops

One of the greatest gifts of teaching is that it keeps you a student.

Every workshop, every certification, every conversation with fellow teachers, and every class has added another layer to my understanding of yoga.

The more I learn, the more I realise how much there is still to explore.

Yoga is not a destination. It is a lifelong practice of learning, unlearning, and growing.

My Background as a Professor Changed the Way I Teach

Before becoming a full-time yoga educator, I spent years teaching as a professor. I still do that.

That experience shaped the way I approach yoga education today.

I've always believed that students deserve to understand why they are doing something—not just how to do it.

Whether I'm teaching an asana, a breathing technique, or yoga philosophy, I enjoy breaking concepts down in a way that is practical, accessible, and meaningful.

Education has always been at the heart of my teaching.

Yoga Extends Beyond the Mat

Over the years, I've seen yoga transform people's lives in ways that go far beyond physical practice.

Students become more patient.

More aware.

More resilient.

More connected to themselves.

For me, yoga has never been limited to one hour on the mat. It is reflected in how we breathe, communicate, make decisions, manage challenges, and show up for ourselves and others every day.

Building Namah-State with Avanti

One of the most fulfilling parts of this journey has been creating Namah-State with Avanti.

What began as teaching individual classes has gradually grown into a space for learning through yoga classes, aerial yoga, pranayama, meditation, workshops, and teacher education.

Every student who has trusted me with their practice has contributed to this journey, and I am deeply grateful for that.

Looking Ahead

Reaching ten years doesn't feel like the finish line.

It feels like the foundation for everything that's yet to come.

As I look ahead, my vision is to continue creating meaningful learning experiences, expand online education, mentor future yoga teachers, and build an institute where students not only learn yoga but also develop the confidence to share it with others.

To every student, mentor, colleague, and well-wisher who has been part of these ten years—thank you.

Your encouragement, trust, and support have made this journey incredibly meaningful.

Here's to the next chapter of learning, teaching, and growing together.

With gratitude,

Avanti

Founder, Namah-State with Avanti