Are you worried about your yoga class audition? Here’s the advice you need to hear.

In Yoga diaryIn the Archives series, we share a curated collection of articles originally published in back issues dating back to 1975. These stories offer a glimpse into how yoga has been interpreted, written about, and practiced over the years. This article first appeared in Yoga diary in 2016. Find more of our archives here.

“Auditions for yoga classes are a challenge for everyone,” says Coral Brown, teacher trainer, holistic psychotherapist and Shiva Rea alum. While much of the common advice given to prospective teachers involves “keep calm” and “get over yourself,” that’s easier said than done. Of course, you can use tools you learned in yoga, such as mindfulness, your breathing, and perhaps a mantra, Brown explains. Humble confidence can also help.

There are even more specific tools that can help you overcome nerves so you can ace any yoga audition.

5 tips to ace your yoga class audition

Each time you audition, you are essentially integrating everything you have learned about yoga and teaching up to that point. But don’t fall into the trap of trying to show how much you know. The following advice can help you keep things relatively simple.

1. Create a complete experience

“Create a short but well-rounded sequence that shows your ability to create a beginning, middle, and end of an experience,” suggests Giselle Mari, a Jivamukti teacher and teacher trainer. “This may include chanting; a brief conversation about your theme, whether philosophical or the desired outcome for this sequence; asana related to that theme; and meditation.”

2. Practice, practice, practice

Take yourself and others through your sequence until you feel comfortable teaching it. Schedule time to practice it with family and friends, who can provide feedback on your delivery and overall presentation skills, says Mari.

You can also be your own student. “Filming yourself is also a great self-help tool and can provide great insights into the way you communicate,” she explains. “You might wince, among other things, so have a sense of humor about yourself.”

3. Be authentic

“My best advice is to treat yourself exactly as you would if no one was looking,” says teacher trainer Alexandria Crow. “I think it’s unwise to figure out what the job can get you and focus on that. Be completely authentic and in tune with the way you teach. If you can do that, the things that are meant for you will happen!”

“Also, change your perspective so you audition them!” Brown suggests. “Ask questions, meet people, get a feel for the place – maybe it’s not a good fit for YOU, not for them!” Remind yourself that your entire teaching career does not depend on the outcome of this one experience.

4. Show (some of) what you know

“Move around the room during the audition so everyone can see and hear you,” Mari recommends. “Keep your teaching clear and concise. Be aware of overused words like ‘good,’ breathe,’ etc.”

In addition to these essentials, Mari recommends verbally breaking down and sharing information on at least one pose to demonstrate your knowledge of anatomy and alignment. “Know how to use props and offer adjustments and demonstrate these adjustments as needed. The most important thing is to have your own voice.”

5. Teach the students

“Remember that this is a service role, and service means providing others with an experience that is not about you,” Mari adds. “Yes, you’re including yourself in the mix, but make sure your offering is appropriate for your audience and their skills.”

This article has been updated. Originally published on March 25, 2016.