The Heart of Teaching Yoga: Where Healing and Connection Meet

By Ann West

From Student to Teacher: Where My Journey Began

I was inspired to start teaching yoga because of the profound impact it had on my own life. When I began practicing, I discovered not only physical strength and flexibility but also a sense of inner calm and clarity I hadn’t experienced before. Yoga became more than just a physical practice—it became a tool for healing, both physically and emotionally.

I felt a deep calling to share this with others. Teaching allows me to guide people on their own journeys toward balance, self-awareness, and well-being. Seeing my students experience moments of relief, stillness, or even small personal breakthroughs is incredibly rewarding and continues to inspire me every day.

How Experience Shaped the Way I Teach Today

When I first started teaching, my focus was on the physical practice—alignment, structure, and guiding students through traditional yoga postures. Over time, my approach shifted as I deepened my knowledge of anatomy, breathwork, and movement therapy.

Now, my teaching is more personalized, intuitive, and focused on addressing each student’s unique needs. I see yoga not just as a physical practice but as a pathway to emotional and mental well-being. My goal is no longer about helping students achieve the “perfect pose,” but instead about creating a space where they feel safe, supported, and empowered to listen to their own bodies.

The Moments That Keep Me Coming Back to the Mat

What keeps me motivated is seeing the positive changes yoga brings to people’s lives. Whether it’s relief from chronic pain, a moment of calm in a busy day, or a sense of reconnection with their body, every session feels meaningful.

I also stay motivated by continuing to learn. Yoga is an ever-evolving practice, and there’s always something new to discover and share. But ultimately, it’s the trust my students place in me and the connections we build that remind me why I love teaching.

Lessons I Hope My Students Carry Beyond the Mat

I hope my students leave each class feeling more connected—to their breath, their bodies, and themselves. Beyond physical strength or flexibility, I want them to carry a sense of calm, clarity, and self-compassion into their daily lives.

Whether it’s through mindful breathing, better posture, or a greater sense of resilience, my goal is to offer tools that extend beyond the yoga mat. Ultimately, I want every student to feel empowered and supported in their own healing journey.

The Challenges That Made Me a Better Teacher

Like any meaningful path, teaching yoga has had its challenges. In the beginning, I struggled with self-doubt and questioned whether I was truly equipped to guide others. Over time, I realized that teaching isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about showing up authentically, creating a safe space, and being present.

Working with students facing significant physical or emotional challenges has also pushed me to grow. It’s taught me to listen deeply, adapt my approach, and trust the process. These challenges have shaped me into a more empathetic and responsive teacher.

Staying Curious: How I Keep Growing as a Teacher

I believe growth as a teacher begins with remaining a dedicated student. I regularly attend workshops, study anatomy and movement therapy, and stay informed about new developments in wellness and yoga research.

But growth also happens on the mat, in my own practice, and in every class I teach. My students are my greatest teachers—they remind me that every body and every journey is unique. Through reflection and continued self-practice, I stay connected to the core of why I teach.

The Magic of One-on-One Connection

Private sessions offer a unique opportunity for connection and focus. I love being able to tailor each session to a student’s individual needs, whether it’s addressing chronic pain, reducing stress, or building confidence in their practice.

These one-on-one moments allow for deeper trust, clearer communication, and a truly personalized experience. Some of the most meaningful transformations I’ve witnessed have happened in private sessions, and it’s incredibly rewarding to play a part in someone’s healing journey.

Connect

Contact Ann by email or call her at (858) 224-2484.