Planning a career change, or wishing you could go deeper into yoga just for yourself, but not sure where to start? Let me introduce you to the wise and wonderful Gem Yoga. I first came across Gem when she was nominated in the Muddy Awards, and have since spent many hours on the mat in her sparkly-eyed company.

A natural seeker, Gem took up yoga at 16, and has gained oodles of qualifications since then, including from a yoga school in the Indian capital of yoga, Rishikesh. She has 13 years as a teacher and 7 as a teacher trainer under her yoga belt, and now teaches the foundational 200-hour, advanced 300-hour and Yin Yoga teacher training, along with mentoring for qualified teachers. All the courses are accredited by the Yoga Alliance, qualifying you to teach anywhere in the world.

For the unqualified, Gem’s 200hr Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training is where to start. Based in the beautiful countryside, near Tavistock, the course is set from 7am-6pm on weekends spread over eight months, from September to April. It’s all face-to-face with a maximum of 12 in a group, giving you plenty of time to learn your dandasana from your downward dog, and for the deep self-inquiry and transformational learning the course engenders.

Gem is a patient and kind teacher who really knows her stuff. She intuitively guides you through the 200 hours, providing you with a bespoke yoga manual she’s created herself, with photography and in-depth advice on the courses’ many topics. They include meditation, mantra, pranayama, anatomy and physiology, the study of Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, some sanskrit, chakras, intro to Ashtanga & Yin yoga, Ayurveda, lesson planning and business building. She creates a nurturing and safe environment in which to build your confidence, as you’re encouraged to discover your unique style and voice as a teacher in the uplifting company of like-minded souls. There’s also homework – which she calls ‘home fun’ to do between sessions, and a WhatsApp group to stay in touch with your fellow yogis, offering advice on everything from local yoga classes to inspirational reading.

Don’t think you’re good enough to be a teacher? Leave your preconceptions at the door. Yep, Gem’s forearm balancing is pretty impressive, but you don’t need to be a super-flexible yoga bunny to do the course. It’s open to all, regardless of your age or gender. You just need one-two years experience, and a real desire to learn. What’s more, you can spread the cost (from £2,795 or £2,995 with payment plan) over that time. The first thing you learn on the course is ahimsa – being kind to yourself. Plus, the poses (or asanas) are just one limb of yoga, and there are eight limbs! Gem says it’s an honour and privilege to teach and loves sharing her practice with others, so don’t be shy – get in touch to find out more. Namaste!