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As yoga teachers, we dedicate so much of our time and energy to guiding others in their practice. We hold space for our students, create thoughtful sequences, and pour our hearts into teaching. But with busy teaching schedules and any free time taken up with planning classes, it’s easy to let our own practice slip away.
Yet, maintaining a personal yoga, meditation, and breathwork practice isn’t just beneficial, it’s essential. When we show up for ourselves, we teach from a place of authenticity, renewed energy, and deep personal experience. So how do we actually make time for self-practice when life gets busy? Here are some real-life strategies to ensure your practice remains a priority.
1. Treat It Like a Sacred Appointment
If you don’t set aside time for your practice, it will always get pushed aside by other responsibilities. Treat your personal practice like an unmissable appointment. Put it in your calendar, set reminders, and commit to it just as you would a class you teach.
2. Create a Non-Negotiable Morning or Evening Ritual
Even 10-15 minutes of movement, breathwork, or meditation can create a huge shift in your day. If mornings are too rushed, carve out time in the evening. The key is consistency, making it a part of your daily rhythm rather than something you squeeze in when convenient.
3. Embrace Shorter Sessions When Needed
Your practice doesn’t have to be an hour-long vinyasa class. Some days, five minutes of deep breathing or a short meditation is enough. Honor where you are and remember that something is always better than nothing.
4. Integrate Practice Into Daily Life
Not every practice has to be on the mat. Turn everyday moments into mindfulness opportunities. Practice breath awareness while sitting in traffic, express gratitude by silently naming three things you appreciate while making your morning tea or coffee, or take a few moments to notice the warmth of the sun or the coolness of a breeze on your skin.
5. Take Classes From Other Teachers
Teaching can sometimes feel isolating if you’re always leading and never receiving. Attending another teacher’s class can be inspiring and remind you why you fell in love with yoga in the first place. It also helps you stay a student, always learning and evolving.
6. Set Clear Boundaries With Your Schedule
If your days are packed with back-to-back commitments, it’s time to reassess. Give yourself permission to say no to extra classes or tasks that drain your energy. Protecting your own practice time makes you a better, more present teacher.
7. Remember Why You Started
Reconnecting with your original love for yoga, meditation, or breathwork can reignite your commitment to self-practice. Teaching is fulfilling, but your own practice is where your true inspiration and growth come from.
A sustainable teaching practice begins with a healthy, vibrant teacher who is connected to their own journey. So, make space for your practice, and let it fuel your teaching for years to come.
With much warmth and respect,
Amanda x
Online Yoga Alliance CE Accredited Yoga, Meditation and Breathwork Teacher Trainings.
