Certain traits amongst yoga teachers help them rise above the rest.

Are you a yoga teacher looking to improve? Are you a student looking for the best the best yoga teachers available? Here are some factors in finding (or being) a top quality instructor.

Learning is a lifelong process. Yoga teachers’ training never ends. Even as they are guiding others on their journey, teachers must also continually be students themselves. Yoga is a large and ever expanding field. There is always more to learn and master. As a student, find out if your prospective instructors are pursuing continuing education. This will say a lot about their commitment and dedication.

Certain personal characteristics separate the mediocre from the greats when it comes to yoga teachers. Patience is key. This patience must expand beyond the class structure as well. If possible, observe how your prospective yoga teacher interacts with his or her family, friends, acquaintances and students. For practicing instructors, try to watch yourself. Is patience a key ingredient in your day-to-day interactions? Yoga is truly a lifestyle as opposed to something you do once or twice a week.

Understanding the relationship between cause and effect is crucial for yoga teachers and students. Yoga is a practice of the mind and body. Your thoughts are important, but they must be accompanied by actions. These two together are an excellent stride toward harmony and enlightenment. Your thoughts and actions benefit others whenever possible, or, at the very least, you should bring no harm to anyone else. As a student, you’ll want to a yoga teacher who embodies this concept.

Compassion is a trait most valued in both yoga students and teachers. Do you treat others with kindness? Do you contribute positively to the world? Students need guidance from a yoga teacher who has the strength necessary to remain positive and compassionate, even in the face of negativity in all its forms.

A love of the practice of yoga is crucial. Yoga is more than just rote physical work out movements. It’s about mind body harmony. It certainly depends upon physical activity to further spiritual growth, but those yoga teachers who don’t recognize all facets of yoga will not effectively lead students on their own growth journeys.

Yoga teachers must make a courageous commitment to walking a path of continual learning and spiritual growth. Sometimes it’s tough to walk that path when some people don’t ‘get’ it.

If you find a yoga teacher (or if you are a yoga teacher) willing to live his or her beliefs, willing to continually learn, willing to treat others with patience and compassion…that’s the time to jump on board. These types of people make the best yoga resources.