The 12 Yoga Competencies
Most lineages agree that there are in total 12 Yoga Competencies that provide the foundational discussions of the required knowledge base and skill set contemporary yoga teachers must acquire to teach. In no particular order, here is an overview of the 12 Yoga Competencies taken from a survey of publications by the major lineages and yoga certification services:
1
Anatomy and Physiology
*Integration of the Muscular and Skeletal System
*Organs Function and their Interrelated Biochemistry
*Spinal Neuron Signal Transport System
*Brain Biochemistry and Physiology
*The Role of the Lymph System
*Connective Tissues and Fascia
2
Subtle Anatomy
*The Chakras: Spiritual and Psychological
*The Koshas, Doshas and Vayus
*Meridian/Marma Points
*Pranayama Science
3
Yoga Philosophy
*The Vedas
*Tantric Theory
*Patanjali Yoga Sutras
*Vendata
*5 Element Theory
*Karma & Dharma
4
Yoga History
*The PreVedic Age
*Vedic Roots of Yoga
*Pivotal Teachers
*Contemporary Yoga Lineages
5
BioMechanics of Yoga
*Alignment Principles & Language
Safety in Stretching, Balancing
*Offering Modifications & Adjustments
*Contraindications of Yoga
*Protecting the Joints
6
Trauma Awareness
*Psychology of Trauma
*Manifestations of Trauma
*Recognizing Trauma/PTSD
*Protocols for Trauma
7
Inclusivity Awareness
*Identifying the Underserved
*Cultural Sensitivity
*Cultivating Accessibility
*The Language of Inclusivity
8
Yoga Practice
*Balancing the Dynamic and Meditative
*Practice & Dosha
*Practicing Consistency
*Embodying All 8 Limbs
*Special Days
9
Teaching & Methodology
*Class Design
*Teaching Practicum
*Effective Cuing
*Class Management
*Special Classes
*Sacred Spaces
10
Business of Yoga
*Branding & Niche
*Marketing, Message & Social Media
*Studio Business Management *Teacher Business Management
*Online Teaching vs Studio Teaching
*Professional Development
11
Ethics & Yoga
*Code of Conduct for Teachers
*Business and Teacher Ethics
*Ethics and Yogic Scriptures
*Community Accountability
12
Sacred Sadhana
*Defining Sadhana
*Sadhana Routines / Practice
*Seva as Sadhana
*Sadhana as a Way of Life