In this series, we catch up with some of our inspiring Teacher Training graduates to see where life has taken them since the start of their Yogacampus journey. Here, we talk to Emma Townley, whose life has transformed since embarking on her yoga journey.
When was your very first introduction to yoga?
My first introduction to yoga was in my mid twenties, but it wasn't until I attended a class at my local leisure centre aged 31 that I really connected with the practice. This was because I found the right teacher for me. Because of this I always encourage new students to try different classes and teachers to find a class that's right for them.
At what point did you decide that you wanted to train as a teacher?
After about 2 years I spoke to my teacher about deepening my knowledge. At first I didn't want to be a teacher, I just wanted to learn for myself, however it wasn't long before I found I had a passion for sharing everything I was learning on the course through teaching.
Why did you choose to train with Yogacampus? How do you think our teacher training diploma compares to other schools?
The Yogacampus course was recommended to me by my teacher Andrew Wrenn. I downloaded a few course manuals from different schools to compare the content and decided to go with Yogacampus because it is a non dogmatic course, also there is a range of experienced teachers to pass on their wisdom whereas with some of the courses you were assigned one teacher only for the entire course. I also liked the length of the course, it isn't one of these 'fast track, learn just about enough in a really short space of time' it was a reasonable length with time to learn, digest, practice then revisit each module.
What was your biggest highlight on the course? And biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge was agreeing to manage a yoga studio just one year into training, which included teaching 11 classes a week for 6 weeks whilst the owners were away.It was also my biggest highlight as I learnt so many invaluable lessons. Without the support, encouragement and wisdom of my teachers on the course I would never have been able to do it. The teachers all brought different qualities, experience and knowledge to the course and each module was very inspiring. I'm not sure you'd get the same wealth of information if you only had one teacher.
How has your life changed since graduating from the course? What are you doing now?
My life has completely changed. I have gained a self confidence I didn't know I had. I can choose my hours of work to suit me and my family, I am my own boss. I thoroughly enjoy teaching. I still can't believe I get paid to do something I love, it genuinely never feels like work. I absolutely love helping people find a greater sense of ease in their bodies through yoga. Especially those with injuries or physical restrictions. Currently I teach 5 classes a week at local gyms, leisure centres and a yoga studio.
What is really exciting you right now in your work and in your vision of the future of yoga?
I am very excited about deepening my knowledge of anatomy and in particular connective tissues. I am looking to do some further training in this field and I'm currently considering applying for the Yogacampus yoga therapy diploma.
Emma teaches at local gyms, leisure centres and yoga studios in the North West of England.
