Yoga is an ancient Eastern practice that has gained massive popularity in the United States. It's a form of exercise and a spiritual practice combined. Many people who try yoga find themselves gaining a deep appreciation for it. If you love yoga and want to immerse yourself in it all day, everyday, you may have a future as a yoga teacher. Becoming a yoga teacher is a process that involves a few steps. Here's what you need to do to make your dreams a reality.

1. Practice on your own.

In order to become a yoga teacher, you need to have a good grasp of the practice. Weekly classes are a great way to learn the basic poses, but doing yoga once a week isn't enough if you'd like to be a teacher. You need to cultivate a daily yoga practice. Many people find yoga is a great way to start their day, so you might want to do yoga each morning. 30 minute sessions are great for beginners, but try to gradually work your way up to hour long yoga sessions.

2. Take a variety of different classes.

Many people become attached to the first style of yoga that they learn. However, the world of yoga is wide and varied. Take the opportunity to experience all the different styles of yoga. Hatha yoga is gentle and focuses on deep stretching. Vinyasa yoga is more athletic and focuses on flowing fluidly between poses. Bikram yoga is practiced in a hot room; it's useful for detoxifying your body from unwanted substances. Becoming experienced in each style of yoga will allow you to become a more well-rounded teacher. It can also help you choose a discipline to study.

3. Enroll in yoga teacher training.

In order to become a certified yoga teacher, you need to complete yoga teacher training. This is usually an intensive course where you will be practicing yoga for several hours a day under the guidance of an experienced teacher. During your program, you will learn the basics of anatomy so you can guide your students in helpful and knowledgeable ways. At the end of your program, you will be a certified yoga teacher, and you can seek employment at a yoga studio or gym or develop your own private classes.

4. Continue learning.

Once you're a yoga teacher, you should always keep learning. Participate in yoga retreats, keep up your own private yoga practice, and attend your peers' classes. Learning is a lifelong endeavor, and you will be able to help your students better through constant improvement.