Moving On
9 Ways to heal after a “Yoga Teacher Break Up”
Denver Clark, C-IAYT, ERYT-500
As a yoga teacher, your connection to your students and studio can be deeply intertwined with your identity and passion for practice. When the time comes to part ways—whether due to differences in philosophy, financial constraints, or personal reasons—the emotional fallout can be significant.
Just like any breakup, leaving a studio or losing a student can leave you feeling lost, hurt, or uncertain. It can be difficult to regain your confidence as a teacher after losing a connection that you poured your heart and soul into cultivating.
As a former studio owner who had to close their business after 8 years, a retreat center manager who was let go from my dream job and a yoga therapist and teacher who has seen my share of teacher/student break ups, here are some tips I have discovered that may support you as you navigate this transition.
1. Acknowledge Your Emotions
The first step in healing after a studio or student breakup is to acknowledge your emotions. It's natural to feel a range of feelings, from sadness to anger to relief or confusion. Allow yourself to process these emotions without judgment. Just because you are a yoga teacher does not mean you have to always feel at peace with the way life unfolds. Journaling about your feelings can be a helpful outlet as well as meditation and philosophical readings. Write or talk about your experiences, your feelings, and the lessons learned. When you allow your emotions to be processed naturally, it becomes easier to make space in your mind and soul for moving forward with grace.
Yoga Sutra 1.12-1.16
abhyasa vairagyabhyam tat nirodaha – “Through the repeated practice of non-attachment there is mastery”
2. Reflect on Your Journey
Take time to reflect on your journey at the studio or with this particular student. Consider the skills you developed, the connections you made, and the growth you experienced. Acknowledging the positive aspects of your time there can help you see the breakup as a natural progression rather than a failure. Remember the moments that brought you joy and fulfillment and carry those memories with you as you move on. This time in your life has had a significant impact on you and the students you have taught. Those ripples are ever expanding across the world. You have made a difference and this time was needed to propel you forward on your journey to the next incredible place.
Yoga Sutra 11.42
santosad anuttamah sukha-labhah - "from contentment arises unparalleled happiness"
3. Seek Support from Peers
Reaching out to fellow yoga teachers or friends can provide valuable support during this transition. Sharing your experiences and feelings can create a sense of community and understanding. You may find that others have gone through similar situations, and their insights can offer comfort and guidance. Find a few close colleagues you can confide in when you’re having a difficult day, who can remind you of the wonderful teacher you are and all of the things that make you a unique asset to the yoga world and your community.
Yoga Sutra 1.33
“Practicing friendliness (maitri), compassion (karuna), and joy (mudita) are non-negotiable in the experience of a clear and tranquil mind. The fruit of practicing these three attitudes is upeksha, or impartiality.”
4. Embrace Self-Care
During this emotional time, prioritize self-care. Engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. Focus on your yoga and meditation practice to ground yourself and reconnect with your purpose as a teacher. Consider exploring new styles of yoga, attending workshops or trainings to reignite your passion and creativity. Self-care is not just about physical well-being; it’s also about nurturing your emotional health. If checking in with your former studio space or student causes you distress, do your best to protect yourself and look ahead toward the future. Focus on the places and people you can make a difference with now. Get excited about all of the possibilities that await you now that you have the time and space to set new goals.
Yoga Sutra 2.3
avidyā-asmitā-rāga-dveṣa-abhiniveśā kleśaIgnorance – “egoism, attachment, hatred and clinging to bodily life are the five obstacles.”
5. Set New Goals
As you move forward, take time to set new goals for your teaching career. What do you want to achieve next? Whether it’s deepening your practice, expanding your teaching repertoire, or exploring new opportunities, having clear objectives can provide direction and motivation. Create a roadmap for your future and allow yourself to dream big. The universe has given you an entirely new path to walk and you can garden the landscape as you see fit.
Yoga Sutra 2.1 – 2.2
tapaḥ svādhyāye śvarapraṇidhānāni kriyāyogaḥ
samādhi bhava nārthaḥ kleśa tanūkaraṇārthaśca – “Tapas ( self discipline), svādhyāya (self-study) and īśvarapraṇidhāna (surrender to God) are Kriyāyoga (yoga in the form of action). They should be practiced for bringing about samādhi and minimizing the kleśas (obstacles to enlightenment)”
6. Explore New Opportunities
A breakup with a studio can open doors to new opportunities. Take the time to explore different studios, community centers, or online platforms where you can share your teachings. Networking with other instructors and attending local yoga events can also help you discover new possibilities. Embrace this time as a chance to grow and find a teaching environment that aligns with your values and vision. Have coffee with students and peers who share insight into what their needs are and see if you have the skills to support them. Say YES to the opportunities coming your way and be open to the next opportunity being something you may have never dreamed was even possible! If you’re open and ready, you will be surprised at the people and opportunities that present themselves to you.
7. Cultivate Resilience
Endings, whether personal or professional, are inevitable. The sutras remind us that impermanence is natural and our yoga practice is designed to keep us grounded and teach us non-attachment so we can ride the waves of life because everything comes to an end. Cultivating resilience can help you navigate future challenges with grace. Reflect on how you’ve overcome obstacles in the past and draw on those experiences to build your strength. Remember that every ending is also a new beginning, and resilience will empower you to embrace change.
Yoga Sutra 1.15
dṛṣṭānuśravikaviṣayavitṛṣṇasya vaśīkārasaṃjñā vairāgyam – “Lack of craving for the objects known by the senses and described in the scriptures is dispassion or non-‐attachment. This level of dispassion enables the yogi to gain a high degree of self-‐mastery (vasikara)”
8. Practice Forgiveness
Finally, embrace the power of forgiveness—both for yourself and others. If there were conflicts or misunderstandings during your time at the studio or with a student who has moved on, allow yourself to let go of any resentment. Holding onto negativity only weighs you down. Forgiveness is a gift that frees you to move forward with an open heart. Holding resentment or negativity only perpetuates the negative emotions in your mind, and set the trap to fall victim to your attachments, fears and aversions (the 5 Kleshas). Protect your peace of mind. You are the only person who suffers from your inner thoughts and ruminations. Consider Metta Bhavana meditation (Buddhist compassion meditation.) and other practices that help you to practice compassion and forgiveness for the other party.
9. Know you are not alone
Parting ways with a studio or student can be a challenging experience for any yoga teacher. It’s a common experience that many of us have had if we’ve been in teachers for any length of time. With time, reflection, and a commitment to self-care, you can emerge from this transition with renewed strength and clarity. Acknowledge emotions, be kind to yourself, seek support, and set new goals as you navigate this chapter. Remember, each ending is a new beginning, and the journey ahead is filled with possibilities waiting to unfold. Trust in your path and continue to share your passion for yoga with the world.
The world needs you and your unique voice as a yoga teacher. You make a difference just by showing up, and for that, the world is a better place.
