#166 Andrea Ferretti – The Human Side of Yoga Teachers (@andreaferretti | www. jasonyoga.com/yogaland-podcast/ ) Andrea Ferretti shares her journey into yoga, starting in the 90s and finding her passion for Ashtanga. She discusses the challenges of early yoga classes and the evolution of yoga studios, as well as her transition to working at Yoga Journal and the opportunity to study with different yoga teachers. Andrea shares her struggles with mental health and how yoga and meditation have been transformative for her. She also discusses the phenomenon of imposter syndrome in the yoga teaching community. They also touch on the purpose of yoga, the impact of yoga on mental health, navigating life as a cancer survivor, and starting the Yoga Land podcast.  Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of self-compassion, curiosity, and authenticity in the yoga teaching journey. Key Points ·      The yoga community in the 90s was small and intimate, with studios often fitting only a handful of students. ·      Personal insight and experience are essential in yoga practice, and teachers should encourage students to find their own path. ·      Yoga can be a powerful tool for mental health, providing a refuge and a sense of connection. ·      Imposter syndrome is common among yoga teachers, but it can be managed by acknowledging it and focusing on personal growth. ·      The evolution of yoga has led to a more diverse and inclusive practice, with a focus on individual needs and experiences. Coping with imposter syndrome involves acknowledging and accepting one's flaws and mistakes, rather than trying to be perfect. ·      The role of the yoga teacher is to have genuine interest and care for students and to provide tools for self-inquiry and turning inward. ·      Yoga helps individuals observe themselves and spend time looking inside, providing a sense of quiet and self-awareness. ·      Embracing imperfection and learning in public is essential for growth as a yoga teacher, as it allows for continuous learning and improvement. ·      Yoga can have a profound impact on mental health, providing tools for managing anxiety and stress. ·      Being a cancer survivor can change one's perspective on life and priorities, leading to a greater appreciation for what truly matters. ·      Starting a podcast can be a way to share conversations and teachings with a wider audience, and it can be a platform for personal growth and learning. ·      Nerve-wracking and difficult interviews can be valuable learning experiences, teaching resilience and adaptability.   SUPPORT US 👉 Subscribe, like and share our videos, it helps us a lot  👉 Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf 👉 Support us directly: https://paypal.me/adamandtheresa 👉 Become a Patron for €10 monthly: https://keenonyoga.com/membership/   CONNECT WITH US 👉 Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/keen_on_yoga/ | https://www.instagram.com/adam_keen_ashtanga/ 👉 Work Enquiries: [email protected]