My Journey Through SoulSpace Yoga Teacher Training
Taking the Leap – Day One at SoulSpace YTT
Today was the day I finally stepped into something I’ve dreamed about for 27+ years: Yoga Teacher Training. Walking into the beautifully restored barn that served as our venue, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I trusted it would be good. And it was—actually, it was great!
The day began with introductions in a warm circle led by our instructor, Julee. Her energy was compassionate, fun, and purpose-driven. We then rolled out our mats for an hour-and-a-half yoga practice that balanced simplicity and challenge, setting the tone for the day. Post-practice, we dove into the history and philosophy of yoga, learning about its roots and deeper meanings.
After lunch (I’ve got my eye on those farm-fresh oat milk lattes for tomorrow!) we shifted into workshops where we observed and adjusted each other’s postures, starting with tadasana (mountain pose). It was eye-opening to realise how out of alignment I was. The real challenge, though, came later, when we practiced teaching each other Warrior 2. It was a lesson in humility and growth, showing me how much work goes into clear, concise instruction.
Day one was a whirlwind of learning and connection with a supportive group of women. I left feeling both daunted and inspired, knowing that this was just the beginning of an incredible journey.
Building Awareness – Day Two at SoulSpace YTT
If Day One was about diving in, Day Two was about building awareness—of yoga, myself, and the path ahead. We started with a detailed yoga practice led by Julee, who layered in teaching cues and refinements. It was a reminder of how much there is to learn and how seamlessly great teachers guide their classes.
We workshopped two seemingly simple poses: downward dog and chair pose. Turns out, they weren’t as “easy” as I thought! I discovered subtle (and not-so-subtle) adjustments to my form that will transform my practice. Letting go of ego was key—I wasn’t “bad” at these poses; I just had room to grow. That mindset made feedback feel like a gift.
The afternoon brought philosophy: the six branches and eight limbs of yoga. We also reflected on our goals as teachers. For me, it’s about helping others feel good in their bodies and connected to themselves. I want to bring the same joy and grounding to others that yoga has given me.
Teaching practice still feels daunting, but the supportive environment is helping me inch closer to confidence. We ended the day with a shared shavasana practice—an experience as soothing as it was educational.
Finding My Flow – Day Three at SoulSpace YTT
Day Three brought a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration. Despite a sleepless night, I showed up ready to practice—and Julee’s energy was infectious. Her love for yoga radiates through her teaching, which somehow both calms and energizes at once.
Our schedule has found a rhythm: practice, asana labs, discussion, lunch, and teaching drills. Today’s focus included Parsvakonasana (pyramid pose) and reverse warrior, with adjustments and peer feedback sharpening our understanding. It’s humbling to realize how much our bodies differ and how alignment isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Teaching drills are getting slightly easier. Linking postures like chair pose, side angle, and reverse warrior helped me focus on flow. The simplicity of calling just the breath and basic cues felt freeing. I’m learning to avoid overloading students with refinements—less is truly more.
The highlight was leading shavasana. While I veered into “bedroom voice” territory (oops!) it was a joy to guide my peers through relaxation. Each day pushes me further outside my comfort zone, but the growth feels tangible.
Sun Salutations and Subtle Magic – Day Four at SoulSpace YTT
Sun salutations took centre stage today, and I’ll never look at them the same way again. Julee taught us to pause briefly in each pose, fully inhabiting it before transitioning. This conscious approach deepened my appreciation for the sequence and brought new focus to cobra pose, which I’ve often bypassed for upward dog.
Breath work and teaching drills followed. Today’s task was to guide peers through sequences without offering refinements—a relief that helped me find confidence. Julee reminded us to limit refinements to no more than three per pose. It’s about giving students space to feel the pose, not overwhelming them with cues.
The day ended with a partner session on touch and Thai massage. Practicing techniques like flat-palmed pressure and gentle neck massage was pure bliss. It underscored the importance of connection—not just between teacher and student, but between humans in general.
As I reflect on the day, I’m struck by how yoga invites us to be present, even in the smallest details. This training is teaching me to see and honour those moments.
Wrapping Up Week One – Day Five at SoulSpace YTT
What a week! Day Five capped off an intense, joyful, and transformative experience. We started with sequences leading to pigeon pose—a challenging but rewarding practice. Julee’s incremental approach taught me to see limitations not as barriers but as challenges to work through, step by step.
We also tackled forearm stands, sparking plenty of laughter and camaraderie. It’s moments like these that make this group so special. Discussion turned to Samkhya philosophy and the subtle body, with topics like prana (life force) and the three gunas (tamas, rajas, sattva). It was a lot to absorb but utterly fascinating.
This week revealed my bad habits and blind spots, but also the possibility of growth. Julee reminded us that yoga is a practice, not a perfection, and that our teaching styles can be uniquely our own.
As I look ahead to the next session in October, I’m filled with gratitude—for the lessons, the laughter, and the belief that I’ll get there. This week was about planting seeds. Now it’s time to water them.
Namaste! 🌸
