The value of community support
As yoga teachers & healing professionals, we often hold space for others—but who holds space for us? While guiding others on the healing path brings a life full of service and personal growth, it can also feel daunting and even isolating from time to time. That’s why building and being part of a supportive community isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
Last week, I attended the annual Symposium on Yoga Therapy and Research in Atlanta, GA (SYTAR) with the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT). Each year, as this summer conference grows nearer, I find myself doubting my work and comparing myself to other teachers and wellness leaders. I consider watering myself down to teach what everyone else is teaching, as the summer months bring a slow time to my industry and area. I worry that students don’t want what I have to offer and that my voice is meaningless in a sea of thousands of other teachers.
Thankfully, every year, when I leave this conference, I leave with a renewed sense of purpose and intention in my work. It fuels me to connect with others who want to change the world through yoga and do so with authenticity and joy. Coming together with fellow teachers brings a wealth of benefits, both in my personal well-being and my professional journey.
I think that is why so many of us choose to continue our education. The sense of comradery and connection with self and others that we receive in our 200, 300, yoga therapy training and other courses such as these fills us up and shines outward for the world to see. But once we’ve completed these courses - what’s next? How do we stay connected with other like-minded yoga teachers? How do we find a space where we can share our fears, doubts, dreams and goals for our future and the future of yoga?
This is the question that myself and my dear friend and colleague Emily Daily have been pondering for years and have decided to address with Yoga Teacher Support and our EntrepRenew retreats. There are so many benefits to coming together with others as healers and business owners. Here are just a few:
🧘♀️ Shared Wisdom & Growth
Connect with others who understand your challenges and triumphs. Share teaching ideas, swap class playlists, or simply listen and be heard.
💼 Support in Business
Need advice on pricing? Marketing tips? Subbing opportunities? Community means collaboration, referrals, and guidance from people who've been there.
🫶 Emotional Support
A connected network can help prevent burnout, ease self-doubt, and keep your passion alive—especially during tough seasons.
🌱 Lifelong Learning
From co-hosted workshops to casual mentorship, a strong circle of peers helps you expand your skills and evolve your teaching.
🧠 What the Science Says:
As healing professionals, we also CREATE our own communities through our work. For your own benefit and that of your students, here are a few ways that being part of a community offers proven physiological and mental health benefits:
Reduces Stress & Anxiety by lowering cortisol and increasing oxytocin
Boosts Immune Function and reduces inflammation
Improves Sleep and cardiovascular health
Decreases Risk of Depression and feelings of loneliness
Builds Confidence, accountability, and motivation
In short: connection heals. As yoga teachers, we teach unity—so let’s live it too.
Let’s grow stronger, together.
If you’re not part of a teacher community yet, consider joining a local or online circle. Because when we support each other, everyone rises.
With warmth,
Denver Clark & Emily Dailey
