Yoga is not just a form of exercise; it’s a spiritual practice, and for many, a calling. For those who have experienced the healing effects of yoga and feel called to share its transformative power through a Christ-centered lens, becoming a yoga teacher is more than a career choice. It’s a journey of discipleship and sometimes, a brave step of obedience.

Whether you’ve been practicing yoga for years or are just beginning to feel a gentle nudge toward teaching, it’s worth taking a moment to ask: Is this path meant for me? 

In this blog, we’ll explore what it looks like to journey from student to disciple. I’ll share my story, along with practical tips for discerning and answering the call to become a Christ-centered yoga teacher.

Is Becoming a Yoga Teacher Right For You?

Becoming a yoga teacher, especially one who is also a follower of Jesus, requires more than physical skill, a flexible body, or even knowledge of yoga. It requires curiosity, discernment, and the ability to study yoga texts through the lens of Christ

It’s about having a heart for service, a willingness to grow spiritually, and a desire to lead others in both physical wellness and deeper communion with God.

Here are some signs this path might be for you:

  • You feel a strong desire to embody your faith.
  • You love helping others experience peace, healing, and restoration.
  • You’re passionate about scripture, prayer, and using movement as worship.
  • You’re seeking a deeper purpose behind your yoga practice.

If any of these resonate, then pursuing Christ-centered yoga teaching could be a natural next step for you.

My story of Becoming a Christ-centered Yoga Teacher

Never, in my wildest dreams, did I imagine I would be a Christ-centered yoga teacher. For me, teaching “Christian” yoga was a calling. I was already teaching yoga and other forms of embodiment when God nudged me to bring His Word into my teaching. 

I was hesitant and a little scared. Questions swirled in my mind like: 

How would Christ-centered yoga be received in my community?
I wasn’t sure. I didn’t know how my Christian friends, or my yoga friends, would respond. Would they understand? Was I truly honoring God, or was I unintentionally appropriating yoga?

Where could I study and get trained?
I wanted a program that went deep, exploring both the intersections and the tensions between yogic philosophy and Christian theology. I needed to be equipped: to speak about yoga with my Christian friends and to share Jesus with my yoga friends.

Do I even have time for this?
With kids and a busy life, time felt like a luxury. I needed a program that fit into my real schedule, something flexible, but not just a self-study course. I longed for connection with others who also loved Jesus and yoga. I wanted to grow in community, not just content.

I started by taking a few trainings at my local studio, but I often found myself needing to sort through a lot of the “woo-woo” content to find what truly resonated. I also explored some Christ-centered yoga programs. 

While it was a beautiful experience to move and worship on my mat with praise music, I was discouraged by the lack of depth. Many didn’t seem to fully understand the essence and philosophy of yoga.

Over the years, I’ve read countless books, studied extensively, and worked with several Christ-centered yoga organizations. Each experience taught me something valuable and deepened my conviction that there was a need for a more theologically rooted and philosophically sound approach. 

Eventually, that journey led me to help develop a Christ-centered yoga teacher training program, one that honors both the depth of the yoga tradition and the truth of the gospel.

Today, I can confidently say that I’ve stepped into my calling as a Christ-centered yoga teacher, and God has opened doors at every step of the way!

How to Get Certified to Teach Christ-Centered Yoga

There are many yoga teacher training (YTT) programs available today, but not all align with Christian values. Many traditional trainings are rooted in Eastern spirituality, requiring you to constantly sift through teachings that may conflict with your faith. 

It can be exhausting to feel like you’re constantly on guard, filtering mantras, energy work, or spiritual language that doesn’t resonate with your belief in Christ.

That’s why a Christ-centered yoga teacher training is so valuable. It allows you to immerse yourself fully in learning without compromising your faith. 

But even within the world of Christ-centered yoga, not all programs are the same.

Some lean more charismatic with loud music emphasizing expressive worship. Others are more contemplative, drawing from ancient Christian spiritual practices like silence, stillness, breath prayer, and lectio divina. Some stay surface-level, offering a “Christianized” version of a typical YTT with praise music but little depth. 

And then there are those that go deep, rooting the practice in solid biblical teaching while honoring the philosophical foundations of yoga in a way that’s thoughtful and discerning.

The key is finding a training that aligns with your personal convictions, learning and worship style, and how you feel called to serve. Do you thrive in a charismatic environment or feel more drawn to quiet, contemplative rhythms? Are you looking for intellectual depth and theological clarity, or do you need practical tools to start teaching right away?

Sorting through these differences is part of the journey, and it’s okay to take your time finding the right fit. Not every Christ-centered yoga teacher training will align with your theology, personality, or calling. 

Here are some tips to help you discern wisely as you research your options:

  • Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to dig deep. Inquire about the program’s theological foundations, approach to yoga philosophy, and how scripture is integrated throughout the training.
  • Pray for guidance. Let the Holy Spirit lead you. This isn’t just a career move. It’s a step of obedience and spiritual growth.
  • Talk to past graduates. Hearing others’ experiences can give you honest insight into the program’s strengths, challenges, leadership style, and community.
  • Schedule a discovery call. Speaking directly with the program leaders can help you get a feel for the heart behind the training and whether it’s a good match for your season and calling.

You’re not just choosing a certification, you’re choosing a formation process that will shape your spiritual life and your ability to lead others in theirs.

Christ-Centered Yoga Certification Classes Online

Online certification makes it easier than ever to answer the call to become a Christ-centered yoga teacher, no matter where you are. Whether you’re a busy parent, working full-time, or simply prefer the flexibility of learning from home, online Christian yoga teacher trainings allow you to grow in your faith and practice on your own schedule.

Many programs offer a blend of self-paced modules, live Zoom calls, guided practice videos, and interactive community spaces where you can connect with other like-minded believers. But the best online trainings don’t just deliver content, they foster spiritual transformation.

You’ll receive comprehensive instruction in anatomy, sequencing, and cueing, while also being equipped to lead others into the presence of Christ through movement, breath, and meditation.

Ready to Become a Christ-Centered Yoga Instructor?

You don’t have to choose between convenience and depth. You can have both! With the right online program, you’ll be supported, stretched, and empowered to confidently step into your calling as a Christ-centered yoga teacher.

The Yoga Abbey offers a one-of-a-kind yoga teacher training that’s rooted in Biblical teachings and yoga philosophy. Learn more about your certification options here.