Congratulations to our Namaslay® YTT Tennessee graduates! They practiced yoga daily, on and off the mat, to build their knowledge and understanding of themselves, the practice, and how to lead others on their paths to becoming the best versions of themselves. From adjustments and assists, to business and marketing, to strength training, these trainees have mastered the rigorous curriculum and become well-rounded, prepared, and authentic yoga teachers. Today a few of the trainees share their final thoughts as they approached graduation, featuring beautiful shots from their marketing materials photo shoot. Be sure to follow them on IG, and watch them take what they’ve learned and apply it to their dreams as they head home from Tennessee! If you’re as inspired by their growth and transformation as we here, join us in Santorini for our next 200 hour intensive yoga teacher training in April!
Laura T.
What one piece of advice would you offer to someone who has just signed up for an intensive yoga teacher training program?
For those who have signed up for an intensive ytt, take time to prepare and add that preparation into your daily routine. Become familiar with names and cues for asanas, as well as other aspects of yoga (the eight limbs). Also, “teach” a few classes, even to family and friends.
What are your plans for teaching when you return home?
I plan to offer yoga to the cross-fit studios, boxing squares and gyms in my area. I am also going to offer myself to yoga studios as a sub and head to unconventional locations (i.e. breweries, etc) for offering classes.'
What are you most looking forward to in going home?
I am looking most forward to seeing my family and dog when I go home.
Follow Laura on IG @treeniyoga
Summer H.
What one piece of advice would you offer to someone who has just signed up for an intensive yoga teacher training program?
Expect the unexpected! Do what you can to find as much support as you can from those at home and in the house. Lean on each other and ask for help or a hug when you need it. And don't forget to LAUGH. Everyone truly wants each other to succeed!
What's one thing you were surprised to learn about yourself?
The business classes were some of the most interesting to me! It's fascinating all of the details we learned about social media, marketing, and even hosting retreats and all the different ideas to think about that go into those events.
What are you most looking forward to in going home?
Freeeeeedoooommmm!!!! My own schedule, my own bed, my own food (bison burger followed by chocolate here I come!) And time to read a book, watch a movie or go for a hike :) Is that too many things to look forward to?
Follow Summer on IG @summerhuizenga
Maddie B.
What will you miss most about this experience?
Our Kula!! We have created such a tight bond and the support provided to each other is out of this world. I will miss our late night laughs, crying sessions, dance parties and meal times around the table. It’s amazing how quickly you can form a bond with others when you are in the process of becoming your authentic self.
What one piece of advice would you offer to someone who has just signed up for an intensive yoga teacher training program?
I would say to trust the process. It’s easier said than done, but try to let go of any expectations about how you should be feeling. Be patient with yourself. Learning your limits can be challenging and frustrating but it is also so liberating.
What are you most looking forward to in going home?
Being back with my dogs and also sleeping in my own bed. Bunk beds are fun and all but there’s nothing like home.
Follow Maddie on IG @madz.yoga
Joanna W.
What will you miss most about this experience?
Buckles...but everyone I have met has been so amazing. I will miss all of them so much.
What area do you feel you gained the most strength in at training?
My confidence in teaching a class and in every aspect of my life.
What advice would you offer someone who has doubts about their abilities but wants to sign up for a yoga teacher training?
I really doubted myself before coming, but I kept telling myself that I am here because I am supposed to be here, and this is something I’ve wanted for so long. If you want something, go after it!
Follow Joanna on IG @joanna_wren
Marleny R.
What are your plans for teaching when you return home?
To incorporate a little bit of everything I’ve learned
What are you most looking forward to in going home?
C’mon, if you’ve been following my journey I think you know! I can’t wait to run home to a big family group hug!
What advice would you offer someone who has doubts about their abilities but wants to sign up for a yoga teacher training?
You can do this! I came to Namaslay® YTT believing I knew nothing about yoga. I believed that I needed to get to the fullest expression on every pose. My experience here has been beyond my expectations! Everyday I saw progress! You grow day by day, one step at a time.
Follow Marleny on IG @_marlenyxo
Melanie C.
What will you miss most about this experience?
Hands down the YTT Family. We became fast friends on the first day, and by the end of the first week it was as if we had known each other for years. Every day we’ve supported each other with no explanations or expectations wherever we are in our feelings and thoughts, something that only families do. *I’m also really going to miss Buckles and how Candace cradles him like a baby lol!
What one piece of advice would you offer to someone who has just signed up for an intensive yoga teacher training program?
Go into it with an open mind and open heart. Embrace the experience, and what may show up for you. Most importantly believe in yourself. Self doubt presents itself in the most unexpected ways....trust the process and trust yourself.
What are you most looking forward to in going home?
My family which includes my two cats, Charing and Miles.
Follow Melanie on IG @yogistylebymel
Laura G.
What will you miss most about this experience?
I will miss everyone that I shared the experience with, teachers and trainees. We all immediately became very close and formed this little yoga family. It will be odd going out into the real world without them.
What one piece of advice would you offer to someone who has just signed up for an intensive yoga teacher training program?
Be kind to yourself and prepare to just ride the wave. Your days will be packed with information and it will seem overwhelming at times, but you will get through it and it will all be worth it in the end.
What are you most looking forward to in going home?
I am really looking forward to catching up with friends and family. Also, sleeping in my own bed, I'm really excited about that.
Follow Laura on IG @laura_g21
This training was such a powerful experience for our trainees, and though we are sad to see them go, we are excited about what’s ahead for them. If you want to see more of the details of our training, check out our IG @namaslayytt, or come experience it for yourself in Santorini!