Dear yoga teachers,

To the new ones, welcome! To the ones in training, the beautiful souls about to embark on their very first 200-hr program. To the ones who just graduated, and are looking to start teaching. To the teachers who’ve got themselves caught in the climb.

As you get more seasoned in this teaching thing, you’ll experience more growth and opportunity. You may teach retreats, trainings, or work for big establishments. You might even get a contract that will rock your world. Or perhaps you’ll stay true to your why, and this will just serve as a reminder.

Don’t lose your humble self.

Teach to the little kids who are restless and unable to sit still. Teach to the seniors who can’t lift their leg more than two inches, and learn how to teach them in a chair. Educate yourself on leading a class with props to help those who can’t access deep asana.

Teach classes for the advanced yogis, with all the handstands and every headstand, yes, but…don’t forget about the basics. Break them up and down and sift through them over and over again. Don’t create classes for you, craft your creations for them.

Learn. Then learn some more.

Volunteer. And then volunteer again. For zero dollars. Free. Do it when you’re making a salary, and that hour means missing out on a paid class.

Learn how to teach prenatal yoga, and help moms-to-be find their breath, and connect their body, mind, and spirit.

Teach to those with accessibility challenges. Go to your local boy and girls clubs. Teach in the women’s shelters, jails, and old age homes. In public, catholic, and private schools. Reservations, temples, parks, and libraries. Teach—and share—this gift you learned for a purpose. Remember what that is, and don’t lose it.

Grow as a teacher, and a person. They’re hand in hand. We are in the business of being of service. Of lifting ourselves up into a higher vibe. One that doesn’t slander, think less than, or sit on a pedestal.

We are all in this together. Don’t segregate yourself. Teach to everyone, and give your heart to the world.