I taught yoga in Japan for 15 years, and even after moving to Vancouver in 2019, I continued attending Iyengar yoga classes with Louie Ettling. During the COVID-19 pandemic, as online classes became more prevalent, Louie introduced me to Deborah Peake with whom I have been studying one-on-one for three years.
Through this time, I worked on assignments, practiced diligently, created class plans, honed teaching methods, and gained experience observing and adjusting students as an assistant. In January of this year, I applied for the Level 1 certification Assessment , feeling a renewed sense of purpose. Although the assessment schedule was initially unclear, I received wonderful news in the summer—it would be held in Calgary at the end of November.
With encouragement from Deborah, my husband, and many others, I departed for Calgary. My flight was slightly delayed, and I arrived at the hotel late at night. The practical exam began the next morning. It was my first time in Calgary, and the temperature was a freezing -18°C. Feeling nervous, I was deeply moved when I received supportive messages and emails. I also placed letters from my teacher and friend in my room, cherishing their words and leaving the rest to fate.
The Calgary transit app was incredibly helpful. On the first day, we started with introductions, explanations, and chanting the invocation, followed by personal practice alongside the assessors. We then demonstrated inversions and enjoyed a group vegetarian lunch, where we shared our impressions of the morning. Despite meeting everyone for the first time, they were very friendly. Although I was nervous as a non-native English speaker, the experience was invaluable.
The afternoon session was the practical exam. I focused on my poses, avoiding distractions from other candidates, and gave it my best effort. Later, we learned various ways to set up poses chosen by the assessors , making it a very productive first day.
Since my teaching exam was scheduled for the third day, I had free time on the second day. I practiced on my own, visited a recommended café and a beautiful library, and even stumbled upon an Indian cultural event. There, I received inspiring messages and had the chance to wear a saree.
That evening, I received the assignment for the next day’s teaching exam. I spent time planning and visualizing how I would guide the class.
On the third morning, we gathered, and the assessors explained the process. I met the six volunteer students for the first time. As the last instructor in the lineup, I felt extremely nervous. The task required me to teach the assigned asanas, considering specific conditions, and complete the session within 45 minutes.
It was my first time teaching in that studio and with those students. Despite moments of doubt, I was surprised by the energy I drew from within. There were some mistakes, but I managed to correct them, and while I felt pressure, I also enjoyed the process. I finished just in time, almost exactly at 45 minutes.
The students gave me positive feedback, which was encouraging. Two hours later, we returned to the studio, where the assessors announced that I had passed. They shared their remarks and provided guidance for the future, marking the start of a new chapter for me.
I also participated as a volunteer student for three sessions, which I believe was a way of giving back through good karma within the yoga community. I am deeply grateful to Deborah, my husband, and everyone who supported me. Moving forward, I will continue to share the practice of Iyengar yoga.
