Since finishing my yoga teacher training I have been traveling around the world and found there are many opportunities to teach. In hostels, in retreat centers and personally to other travelers.
Some of the items listed below I have found useful for bringing with me.
❁ yoga (travel) mat – might be quite obvious but when I left for my trip I had bought one from the brand Manduka (I used the travel mat, it is nice and easy to take with you, but too thin for the knees to practice on in my opinion) and I was doubtful of bringing it and I decided no (maybe also due to the quality of this mat). So actually when I was in Ubud I ended up buying one to take with me. I find it more hygienic and just nice to be able to continue my practice where ever. even if there are no mats available. The brand I use is Niidra.
❁ cleansing herbs – within your country it is possible to find cleansing herbs to initiate a space with. There is white sage or Palo Santo that are quite famous. although these herbs create quite some problems for the Amazon. You can use incense as well. I would recommend to buy something local at the place / country where you are.
❁ speaker for music – music is not traditionally used within the yoga practice but it can be a very nice addition. Especially for some Pranayama exercises where some sounds for counting can be useful as a teacher, you do not have to count in your head but you can use the drums. I use the JBL go speaker.
❁ hourglass – this has helped me to guide time, I find this especially useful for yin (or any longer holding) poses. I do not like using my phone during class since it can disturb the balance. Especially as a beginner teacher I find it difficult to “guess” time sometimes. I use one that I found at a book shop that also sells board games.
❁ notebook or book with beautiful quotes or stories – I advice you to bring some notes or a book with nice quotes, during some poses it is nice to be able to say something positive or inspiring. Sometimes the universe talks through us but sometimes we blank out – it gives security to have something to fall back on.
❁ class plan – some instructors totally go with the flow, sense the need of the practitioners and go from there. Some instructors use specific classes they designed and stick to the script so to say. I think I am a mixture of both, I like to sense but I also like to follow the structure of a traditional class. Having a bit off a plan worked out or a sequence – can be very calming for the mind. Again have security to have something to fall back on.
❁ yoga cards – I have this deck of yoga cards including their benefit and sanskrit name just to remind myself of certain details during class and also to play with when I am creating sequences.
❁ altar – when creating an altar you create first of invitation for good spirits, you create a specific barrier between the practitioners and yourself, a protection. For this you do not necessarily need to bring something to travel with you, once you arrive at a new destination you can look for a candle or flowers/pines/nuts/twigs/shells. Make sure to ask Mother Nature if you can, and bring back once you are finished. Maybe use your favorite crystals, something that means something for you.
Some things I wish I had brought additionally
❁ Cards – oracles cards can give the students some extra insights before or after class. This would have been a lovely addition.
miracles of the moon ☽ 