• Less is More: Let Go of Over-Cueing
    Apr 14 2025

    Welcome to Episode 171: Less is More: Let Go of Over-Cueing with Host Sandy Raper.

    Summary:

    In this episode, Sandy explores the transformative power of yoga teacher training, emphasizing the importance of fostering autonomy and self-trust in students. She discusses the pitfalls of over-queuing and rigid instruction, advocating for a teaching style that encourages exploration and personal connection to the practice. By creating space for silence and self-discovery, teachers can help students cultivate a deeper relationship with their yoga practice, moving beyond mere performance to embodying the essence of yoga.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Offering precise alignment cues can limit student intuition.
    • Encouraging exploration serves students better than rigid instruction.
    • Celebrating the first anniversary of 'Teaching from the Heart'.
    • Silence in yoga classes can enhance the learning experience.
    • Over-cueing can create dependency on the teacher's guidance.
    • Yoga postures should be seen as adaptable shapes.
    • Creating space in classes allows for personal exploration.
    • Using invitational language fosters a supportive environment.
    • Teachers should focus on the student's experience, not just postures.
    • Empowering students leads to a sustainable yoga practice.


    ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & SHARED LINKS:

    **FREE 200-Hour Hybrid Yoga Teacher Training Informational Meeting, Wednesday, April 16th, 12:00-1:00 pm EST ** Registration Link


    ⁠⁠www.sandyraper.com⁠⁠

    ⁠NEW ONLINE COURSE! Functional Yoga Anatomy Essentials ⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


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    23 mins
  • Anatomy in Action: 10 Strategies to Elevate Your Teaching
    Mar 18 2025

    Welcome to Episode 170: "Anatomy in Action: 10 Strategies to Elevate Your Teaching" with Host Sandy Raper.

    Summary:

    In this episode, Sandy discusses the importance of integrating anatomical awareness into yoga teaching. She shares ten practical strategies for yoga teachers to enhance their classes, focusing on body awareness, functional movement, and effective communication.


    Episode Takeaways:

    • Teaching yoga is about helping students connect to their bodies.
    • Anatomical awareness empowers students to move with confidence.
    • Use simple, clear language to communicate anatomical concepts.
    • Teach functional movement principles to enhance real-world relevance.
    • Highlight muscle engagement in poses for better body awareness.
    • Incorporate sensory-based cues to deepen connection to the body.
    • Prioritize function over aesthetics in yoga practice.
    • Integrate breath awareness to enhance movement and stability.
    • Educate students on hypermobility and the importance of stability.
    • Encourage body awareness over perfection in yoga practice.


    RESOURCES:

    ⁠⁠www.sandyraper.com

    NEW ONLINE COURSE! Functional Yoga Anatomy Essentials

    Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠



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    41 mins
  • Be THAT Teacher
    Feb 21 2025

    Welcome to Episode 169: "Be THAT Teacher" with Host Sandy Raper

    Summary:

    In this episode of the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Podcast, Sandy explores the essence of being a great yoga teacher, emphasizing the importance of teaching from personal experience, continuous growth, and focusing on what truly matters in yoga practice.


    Takeaways:

    - Being a great yoga teacher goes beyond mastering poses.

    - Teaching from personal experience enhances relatability.

    - Authenticity builds trust with students.

    - Continuous learning is essential for impactful teaching.

    - Teaching what you need to learn fosters growth.

    - Yoga is about guiding students to meaningful experiences.

    - Intentionality in teaching shapes student experiences.

    - Vulnerability in teaching is a strength, not a weakness.

    - The impact of a teacher extends beyond the classroom.

    - Reflecting on your teaching journey is crucial for growth.


    Episode Highlights:

    00:00 The Essence of a Great Yoga Teacher

    03:39 Three Key Pillars of Impactful Teaching

    10:31 Teaching from Personal Experience

    19:09 Focusing on What Matters Most


    RESOURCES:

    www.sandyraper.com

    Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠






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    24 mins
  • Connection Before Correction: Seeking First to Understand
    Jan 22 2025

    Welcome to Episode 168: "Connection Before Correction: Seeking First to Understand" with Host Sandy Raper.

    In this episode, Sandy discusses the significance of listening and understanding in communication. She emphasizes the importance of a 'Connection-First' approach, which prioritizes empathy and understanding before offering feedback. Sandy shares strategies for fostering connection, such as active listening, curiosity, and collaborative problem-solving, to create a supportive environment for growth and learning.


    Takeaways:

    - Active listening is crucial before offering feedback.

    - Understanding context can transform interactions.

    - A Connection-First approach builds trust.

    - Feedback should be constructive, not critical.

    - Active listening helps in understanding intentions.

    - Curiosity over judgment fosters better communication.

    - Use positive reinforcement before corrections.

    - Collaborative problem-solving enhances learning.

    - Mental notes can improve teaching effectiveness.

    - Empathy is key in personal and professional relationships.


    Episode Highlights:

    00:00 The Importance of Listening and Understanding

    03:29 The Connection -First Approach

    06:50 Strategies for Prioritizing Connection

    10:48 Real-Life Applications of Connection First


    RESOURCES:

    www.sandyraper.com


    Episode 75: A Powerful Tool of Refinement for a Yoga Teacher


    Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠



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    24 mins
  • Rooted in Purpose: Finding Your Why as a Yoga Teacher
    Dec 31 2024

    Welcome to Episode 167: "Rooted in Purpose: Finding Your Why as a Yoga Teacher" with Host Sandy Raper

    Summary:

    In this episode, Sandy emphasizes the importance of understanding your 'why' in the context of yoga teaching. She discusses how knowing your purpose can enhance your teaching experience, foster resilience, and create meaningful connections with students. Sandy provides strategies and reflection questions to help listeners uncover their motivations for practicing and teaching yoga, encouraging a deeper exploration of their personal journeys.


    Takeaways:

    - Knowing your why shapes your experience in life.

    - Clarity in purpose brings authenticity to teaching.

    - Your why influences how you show up for students.

    - Teaching yoga is about connection and growth.

    - A well-defined 'why' enhances the teaching experience.

    - Resilience in teaching comes from understanding your purpose.

    - Reflection on your journey is key to discovering your why.

    - Teaching is about holding space for others.

    - Your purpose evolves as you grow as a teacher.

    - Use reflection prompts to guide your exploration of purpose.


    Episode Highlights:

    00:00 Understanding Your Why in Yoga

    05:50 The Importance of Clarity in Teaching

    09:29 Strategies for Discovering Your Purpose

    11:57 Guided Reflection on Your Journey


    Keywords:

    yoga, teaching, purpose, clarity, personal growth, yoga teacher training, mindfulness, self-discovery, resilience, community


    RESOURCES

    ⁠⁠⁠www.sandyraper.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Begins January 2025:

    ⁠200-hour AND 300-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training


    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠





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    14 mins
  • The Power to Pivot: 10 Steps to Embrace Change and Thrive
    Dec 10 2024

    Welcome to Episode 166: "The Power to Pivot: 10 Steps to Embrace Change and Thrive" with Host Sandy Raper


    Summary:

    In this episode, Sandy shares her personal journey of loss and transformation, highlighting the importance of pivoting in life. She discusses the skills necessary for effective pivoting, including emotional resilience, decision-making, and self-awareness. Sandy emphasizes the need to embrace change and adapt to new circumstances, providing actionable strategies for listeners to cultivate these skills in their own lives. The conversation concludes with resources for further growth and development in the practice of yoga and personal fulfillment.


    Takeaways:

    1. Life can change unexpectedly, prompting a need for adaptation.

    2. Loss can serve as a catalyst for new beginnings.

    3. Pivoting is an essential skill for personal and professional growth.

    4. Emotional resilience helps navigate the highs and lows of change.

    5. Accountability is crucial for staying committed to growth.

    6. Decision-making under pressure is a valuable skill to develop.

    7. Strategic thinking ensures that pivots align with long-term goals.

    8. Networking opens doors to new opportunities and support.

    9. Time management is essential when juggling multiple priorities.

    10. Confidence and self-belief are key to navigating the unknown.


    Keywords:

    yoga, pivoting, resilience, personal growth, emotional intelligence, change management, mindfulness, teaching, self-awareness, life skills


    REFERENCES & RESOURCES

    Episode 136: "Become an Agent of Change"


    www.sandyraper.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Registration Open! Begins January 2025

    ⁠200-hour AND 300-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training:⁠


    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher


    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


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    32 mins
  • Earning Trust: How Credibility Shapes Your Impact as a Yoga Teacher
    Nov 19 2024

    Welcome to Episode 165: "Earning Trust: How Credibility Shapers Your Impact as a Yoga Teacher" with Host Sandy Raper.

    In this episode, Sandy explores the essential components of credibility and confidence for yoga teachers. She discusses how credibility is built through knowledge, professionalism, authenticity, and the ability to connect with students.


    Episode Highlights:

    06:29 Building Credibility as a Yoga Teacher

    08:34 Expertise and Knowledge: Going Beyond Knowing

    11:52 Authenticity: Living the Values of Yoga

    15:47 Teaching Experience and Education: Deepening Credibility

    19:15 Reputation: The Power of Word of Mouth

    25:16 The Impact of Confidence and Credibility


    Takeaways:

    • Credibility as a yoga teacher is earned through knowledge, professionalism, and authenticity.

    • Confidence enables teachers to lead with authority and inspire trust.

    • Authenticity in teaching fosters a deeper connection with students.

    • Experience and ongoing education enhance a teacher's credibility.

    • Positive feedback and word-of-mouth recommendations are powerful validators of a teacher's skill.

    • A respected reputation establishes trust and respect within the community.

    • Teaching is an evolving journey that requires continual refinement.

    • Students are more likely to trust personal recommendations over advertisements.

    • Confidence allows teachers to communicate effectively and handle challenges.

    • The attributes teachers reflect influence their students' experiences.


    ⁠⁠⁠www.sandyraper.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Begins January 2025!

    200-hour AND 300-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training:


    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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    29 mins
  • The Secret Sauce: Ingredients for an Exceptional Yoga Teacher Training
    Oct 29 2024

    Welcome to Episode 166: The Secret Sauce: Ingredients for an Exceptional Yoga Teacher Training" with Host Sandy Raper.

    In this episode, Sandy discusses the importance of choosing the right yoga teacher training program and the key ingredients that make a training exceptional. Sandy shares insights on the significance of choosing the right training format, researching the training staff, the teaching practicum's role, sequencing framework importance, and the unique SEVA Teaching Project that has set trainees up for success within her training programs.


    TAKEAWAYS:

    - 2025 is a pivotal year for yoga teacher training.

    - Choosing the right training program is crucial for success.

    - Exceptional training includes diverse formats and experienced lead teachers.

    - Teaching practicum is essential for building confidence.

    - A solid framework for sequencing is vital for sustaining effective teaching.

    - Real-time teaching experiences enhance learning.

    - Researching training staff is important for compatibility.

    - Investing in training is an investment in your future.

    - Connection and community are vital in the training process.


    Keywords:

    yoga teacher training, online yoga training, yoga education, yoga community, teacher training program, yoga sequencing, yoga practicum, yoga curriculum


    ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:


    2025 Yoga Teacher Training with Sandy:

    New! Online 200-hour Foundational Yoga Teacher Training

    New! Online 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training


    www.sandyraper.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher






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    23 mins