Practicum

Objectives of the Practicum

The practicum supports trainees in:

• Applying yogic knowledge in real teaching scenarios

• Cultivating effective communication, presence, and leadership

• Developing safe, inclusive, and student-centered classes

• Integrating philosophy, breath, and meditation into asana practice

• Refining teaching voice, sequencing, and class management

Key Areas of Practice

1. Practice Teaching
Trainees actively lead portions of yoga classes, gradually progressing to teaching full sessions. This includes:

• Guiding asana, pranayama, and basic meditation practices

• Offering clear, concise verbal cues

• Holding space with confidence and awareness

2. Sequencing & Class Structure
Students demonstrate an understanding of:

• Intelligent sequencing principles

• Warm-up, peak, and cool-down phases

• Thematic coherence and energetic balance

3. Cueing, Language & Voice
Emphasis is placed on:

• Anatomically informed and accessible cueing

• Inclusive, trauma-aware, and non-harmful language

• Tone, pacing, and clarity of instruction

4. Observation & Feedback
Trainees learn by:

• Observing peers teach

• Giving and receiving constructive, respectful feedback

• Reflecting on personal teaching style and growth areas

5. Safety, Ethics & Professional Conduct
The practicum reinforces:

• Creating physically and emotionally safe learning environments

• Ethical teacher–student boundaries

• Appropriate use of hands-on assists (if included in the training)

6. Integration of Yogic Tools
Students are encouraged to thoughtfully incorporate:

• Breath awareness and basic pranayama

• Mantra or intention setting (where appropriate)

• Meditation and relaxation practices

Assessment & Reflection

Assessment is formative and supportive, focusing on growth rather than performance. Trainees engage in:

• Self-reflection on teaching experiences

• Mentor and peer feedback

• Demonstration of readiness to teach foundational yoga classes