Welcome to Episode 174: Why We Practice Yoga: Staying Grounded Through Life’s Changes with Sandy Raper

After a six-month pause, Host Sandy Raper returns to the podcast with reflections on change, growth, and the deeper purpose behind why we practice yoga.

In this episode, Sandy shares personal reflections on family milestones, professional growth, teaching again in the community, and what it means to navigate life’s inevitable transitions with care and intention.

Explore how yoga can support you through uncertainty—not by fixing or bypassing discomfort, but by helping you stay connected to yourself, to others, and to something deeper.

You’ll also be guided through three supportive practices for navigating change:

• Creating space instead of rushing forward

• Staying rooted while remaining adaptable

• Staying in relationship—with yourself and with others

Whether you’re a yoga teacher, a student, or simply someone moving through a season of transition, this episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with what grounds you.

Take a breath. Settle in. And let’s explore how yoga meets us—exactly where we are.

Time Stamps

00:00 Welcome Back and Personal Reflections

03:54 Professional Growth and New Ventures

07:10 The Importance of 'Why' in Yoga

09:26 Navigating Change with Presence

12:37 Three Practices for Embracing Change

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

⁠⁠www.sandyraper.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training - ⁠⁠Join the Waitlist

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Welcome to Episode 173: "Not Everyone's Teacher — And That's More Than Okay" with Host Sandy Raper.

Summary:

In this episode, reflecting on life's turning points, Sandy encourages listeners to embrace change and trust the unfolding journey, emphasizing the potential in transitions.

Sandy shares and discusses the importance of creating an authentic and human experience in teaching yoga, emphasizing the role of a teacher as a facilitator rather than a performer.

Key Takeaways:

Teaching is about inviting others into the freedom to be themselves. Balance is a daily act of grace, not a destination. Embrace transitions as opportunities for growth and expansion. Authenticity and clarity are key in both teaching and living with purpose.

Reflect on what keeps bringing you back to your practice and consider how you can expand beyond your current limitations.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

⁠www.sandyraper.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training - ⁠⁠COMING January 2026

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Welcome to Episode 172: "Get it Together: This One’s for the Yoga Teachers Who Feel All Over the Place" with Host Sandy Raper.

Summary:

In this episode, Sandy discusses the multifaceted role of a yoga teacher, emphasizing the importance of self-care, preparation, and mindset. She shares three key strategies for yoga teachers to stay organized and grounded: preparation and planning, prioritizing health and well-being, and cultivating a positive mindset.

Takeaways:

• Teaching yoga is about holding space and supporting others.

• Preparation builds confidence and enhances the teaching experience.

• Self-care is essential for effective teaching.

• A structured plan allows for flexibility in teaching.

• Health and well-being are non-negotiable for teachers.

• Personal practice is crucial for authenticity in teaching.

• Burnout can subtly affect teaching effectiveness.

• Nutrition and mindfulness are key to sustaining energy.

• Mindset influences how teachers connect with students.

• Commitment to growth is more important than perfection.

Timestamps:

00:00 The Essence of Yoga Teaching

07:13 Strategies for Success

16:30 Health and Well-being as a Priority

20:40 Self-Leadership and Mindset

Keywords:

yoga teaching, self-care, health and wellness, teaching strategies, yoga teacher training, personal practice, energy exchange, confidence in teaching, burnout prevention, yoga preparation

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

www.sandyraper.com⁠⁠⁠

Sequencing Structure/Framework Referenced in Episode: The Narrative™ Sequencing Tool: Flashcards & Video Practice Bundle⁠⁠

NEW ONLINE COURSE! Functional Yoga Anatomy Essentials ⁠⁠

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⁠⁠Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Welcome to Episode 171: Less is More: Let Go of Over-Cueing with Host Sandy Raper.

Summary:

In this episode, Sandy explores the transformative power of yoga teacher training, emphasizing the importance of fostering autonomy and self-trust in students. She discusses the pitfalls of over-queuing and rigid instruction, advocating for a teaching style that encourages exploration and personal connection to the practice. By creating space for silence and self-discovery, teachers can help students cultivate a deeper relationship with their yoga practice, moving beyond mere performance to embodying the essence of yoga.

Episode Highlights:

• Offering precise alignment cues can limit student intuition.

• Encouraging exploration serves students better than rigid instruction.

• Celebrating the first anniversary of 'Teaching from the Heart'.

• Silence in yoga classes can enhance the learning experience.

• Over-cueing can create dependency on the teacher's guidance.

• Yoga postures should be seen as adaptable shapes.

• Creating space in classes allows for personal exploration.

• Using invitational language fosters a supportive environment.

• Teachers should focus on the student's experience, not just postures.

• Empowering students leads to a sustainable yoga practice.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & SHARED LINKS:

**FREE 200-Hour Hybrid Yoga Teacher Training Informational Meeting, Wednesday, April 16th, 12:00-1:00 pm EST ** Registration Link

⁠⁠www.sandyraper.com⁠⁠

⁠NEW ONLINE COURSE! Functional Yoga Anatomy Essentials ⁠

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⁠Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Welcome to Episode 170: "Anatomy in Action: 10 Strategies to Elevate Your Teaching" with Host Sandy Raper.

Summary:

In this episode, Sandy discusses the importance of integrating anatomical awareness into yoga teaching. She shares ten practical strategies for yoga teachers to enhance their classes, focusing on body awareness, functional movement, and effective communication.

Episode Takeaways:

• Teaching yoga is about helping students connect to their bodies.
• Anatomical awareness empowers students to move with confidence.
• Use simple, clear language to communicate anatomical concepts.
• Teach functional movement principles to enhance real-world relevance.
• Highlight muscle engagement in poses for better body awareness.
• Incorporate sensory-based cues to deepen connection to the body.
• Prioritize function over aesthetics in yoga practice.
• Integrate breath awareness to enhance movement and stability.
• Educate students on hypermobility and the importance of stability.
• Encourage body awareness over perfection in yoga practice.

RESOURCES:

⁠⁠www.sandyraper.com⁠

NEW ONLINE COURSE! Functional Yoga Anatomy Essentials

⁠

Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Welcome to Episode 169: "Be THAT Teacher" with Host Sandy Raper

Summary:

In this episode of the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Podcast, Sandy explores the essence of being a great yoga teacher, emphasizing the importance of teaching from personal experience, continuous growth, and focusing on what truly matters in yoga practice.

Takeaways:

- Being a great yoga teacher goes beyond mastering poses.

- Teaching from personal experience enhances relatability.

- Authenticity builds trust with students.

- Continuous learning is essential for impactful teaching.

- Teaching what you need to learn fosters growth.

- Yoga is about guiding students to meaningful experiences.

- Intentionality in teaching shapes student experiences.

- Vulnerability in teaching is a strength, not a weakness.

- The impact of a teacher extends beyond the classroom.

- Reflecting on your teaching journey is crucial for growth.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 The Essence of a Great Yoga Teacher

03:39 Three Key Pillars of Impactful Teaching

10:31 Teaching from Personal Experience

19:09 Focusing on What Matters Most

RESOURCES:

⁠www.sandyraper.com

Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Welcome to Episode 168: "Connection Before Correction: Seeking First to Understand" with Host Sandy Raper.

In this episode, Sandy discusses the significance of listening and understanding in communication. She emphasizes the importance of a 'Connection-First' approach, which prioritizes empathy and understanding before offering feedback. Sandy shares strategies for fostering connection, such as active listening, curiosity, and collaborative problem-solving, to create a supportive environment for growth and learning.

Takeaways:

- Active listening is crucial before offering feedback.

- Understanding context can transform interactions.

- A Connection-First approach builds trust.

- Feedback should be constructive, not critical.

- Active listening helps in understanding intentions.

- Curiosity over judgment fosters better communication.

- Use positive reinforcement before corrections.

- Collaborative problem-solving enhances learning.

- Mental notes can improve teaching effectiveness.

- Empathy is key in personal and professional relationships.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 The Importance of Listening and Understanding

03:29 The Connection -First Approach

06:50 Strategies for Prioritizing Connection

10:48 Real-Life Applications of Connection First

RESOURCES:

www.sandyraper.com

Episode 75: A Powerful Tool of Refinement for a Yoga Teacher

Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher⁠⁠

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⁠Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Welcome to Episode 167: "Rooted in Purpose: Finding Your Why as a Yoga Teacher" with Host Sandy Raper

Summary:

In this episode, Sandy emphasizes the importance of understanding your 'why' in the context of yoga teaching. She discusses how knowing your purpose can enhance your teaching experience, foster resilience, and create meaningful connections with students. Sandy provides strategies and reflection questions to help listeners uncover their motivations for practicing and teaching yoga, encouraging a deeper exploration of their personal journeys.

Takeaways:

- Knowing your why shapes your experience in life.

- Clarity in purpose brings authenticity to teaching.

- Your why influences how you show up for students.

- Teaching yoga is about connection and growth.

- A well-defined 'why' enhances the teaching experience.

- Resilience in teaching comes from understanding your purpose.

- Reflection on your journey is key to discovering your why.

- Teaching is about holding space for others.

- Your purpose evolves as you grow as a teacher.

- Use reflection prompts to guide your exploration of purpose.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Understanding Your Why in Yoga

05:50 The Importance of Clarity in Teaching

09:29 Strategies for Discovering Your Purpose

11:57 Guided Reflection on Your Journey

Keywords:

yoga, teaching, purpose, clarity, personal growth, yoga teacher training, mindfulness, self-discovery, resilience, community

RESOURCES

⁠⁠⁠www.sandyraper.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Begins January 2025:

⁠200-hour AND 300-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher⁠

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Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Welcome to Episode 166: "The Power to Pivot: 10 Steps to Embrace Change and Thrive" with Host Sandy Raper

Summary:

In this episode, Sandy shares her personal journey of loss and transformation, highlighting the importance of pivoting in life. She discusses the skills necessary for effective pivoting, including emotional resilience, decision-making, and self-awareness. Sandy emphasizes the need to embrace change and adapt to new circumstances, providing actionable strategies for listeners to cultivate these skills in their own lives. The conversation concludes with resources for further growth and development in the practice of yoga and personal fulfillment.

Takeaways:

1. Life can change unexpectedly, prompting a need for adaptation.

2. Loss can serve as a catalyst for new beginnings.

3. Pivoting is an essential skill for personal and professional growth.

4. Emotional resilience helps navigate the highs and lows of change.

5. Accountability is crucial for staying committed to growth.

6. Decision-making under pressure is a valuable skill to develop.

7. Strategic thinking ensures that pivots align with long-term goals.

8. Networking opens doors to new opportunities and support.

9. Time management is essential when juggling multiple priorities.

10. Confidence and self-belief are key to navigating the unknown.

Keywords:

yoga, pivoting, resilience, personal growth, emotional intelligence, change management, mindfulness, teaching, self-awareness, life skills

REFERENCES & RESOURCES

Episode 136: "Become an Agent of Change"

www.sandyraper.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Registration Open! Begins January 2025

⁠200-hour AND 300-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training:⁠

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Welcome to Episode 165: "Earning Trust: How Credibility Shapers Your Impact as a Yoga Teacher" with Host Sandy Raper.

In this episode, Sandy explores the essential components of credibility and confidence for yoga teachers. She discusses how credibility is built through knowledge, professionalism, authenticity, and the ability to connect with students.

Episode Highlights:

06:29 Building Credibility as a Yoga Teacher

08:34 Expertise and Knowledge: Going Beyond Knowing

11:52 Authenticity: Living the Values of Yoga

15:47 Teaching Experience and Education: Deepening Credibility

19:15 Reputation: The Power of Word of Mouth

25:16 The Impact of Confidence and Credibility

Takeaways:

⁠⁠⁠www.sandyraper.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Begins January 2025!

200-hour AND 300-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Order Sandy's new book:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact Sandy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠