Adam Husler, London based yoga teacher, has been guiding yoga bunnies and workshop students through alignment based vinyasa yoga in the world’s most prestigious yoga studios for many years.
Adam became educated in the art of yoga by years of study with Jason Crandell, dubbed “one of the teachers shaping the future of yoga”. Adam also identifies Micheal Stone, renowned meditation teacher; Cameron Shayne, ‘farther of mixed martial arts’; and Thomas Myers, educator and author of ‘The Anatomy Train’ as being highly influential and who continuously enhance his teaching and practise.
Adam recently spoke to Stephanie, founder of nofilterbrands.com, about his journey to becoming a successful yoga teacher, and what and how students can expect to be taught at his classes and workshops. During their conversation, Adam talks about the realities of being a self-employed yoga teacher and provides his #NOFILTER’d advice on how aspiring teachers and business owners can make a name for themselves in the industry.
This interview was originally recorded for the #NOFILTER podcast. You can download and listen to the full episode here.
Adam, why did you decide to become a yoga teacher and what is your teaching style?
I undertook yoga teacher training to simply increase my knowledge. Then, when I decided to leave the non-profit sector I pursued teaching to simply bring in money. I didn’t have a business plan but I was conscious in my efforts of wanting to teach in studios and build my reputation.
I believe that what ever you do it life, do it well and let it evolve and change overtime but put your all into what you are doing as a career at that particular time.
I teach vinyasa yoga which is very non-prescriptive. I take the yoga tradition and combine it with contemporary understanding of the body. I teach with movement and breath and educate my students with what the body is doing. I take the yoga tradition and combine it with contemporary understanding of the body. I ensure each of my students practise in a way which is safe and sustainable to their body. Through intense inquiry into breath, it can be a spiritual experience.
What are the biggest misconceptions of being a yoga teacher?
Firstly, the question I always ask is “why?”. Do you want to be a yoga teacher or seeking the lifestyle that you think is linked with it?It’s important to know that most teacher don’t have lots of money. They also spend their time running around the city going from class to class Don’t be fooled by social media. It isn’t all retreats in Bali.
I recommend building a long term practice before committing to become a teacher. A long term yoga practise is fundamental as it will help to see the effects that long term practice has over you. Participate in workshops with experienced teachers. Then, if there is still a thirst which hasn’t been quenched, complete a teacher training course to get extra knowledge.
Which teacher training course do you recommend?
Firstly, find which yoga style which resonates with you. But if you have a long term yoga practice you should have a good idea of what your preferred style is. Next, understand who is teaching the training. Anyone can set up a teacher training course, even someone who isn’t a qualified teacher. There is no singular governing body that regulates teachers and courses. You need to be really careful. Ask questions like, how long have they been teaching? Where have they taught in the past? Who did they complete their training with? Research as much as you can. Finally, when deciding on a course, ensure that an insurance body will be willing to ensure you based on that course.
How can yoga teacher build their reputation?
Yoga studios will give you the most exposure. Studios will give you a ready-made audience and you will become a better teacher because of the diverse audience. When you are a new teacher it is worth working for exposure. I taught classes in Lululemon with 50 people in attendance for free. Things like that helped to build my reputation. Sometimes, doing something for free in exchange for exposure is a fair exchange.
What were the key forces which took you from a newly qualified yoga teacher to teaching in the world’s top yoga studios?
The thing that made me successful was the willingness to work hard. I had a willingness to put the work in. At one point I was teaching 26 classes per week. Not just for finances, but for practise. I was practising teaching yoga. I also resonate with people and comminute well with students.
How much funding does a yoga teacher need to have before going full-time?
I personally think that newly qualified yoga teacher should never go straight to full time teaching After building up a reputation and having a constant stream of income, then I would advice going full-time.
How has your law degree contributed to your yoga practice?
My law degree taught me to be analytical and ask questions which has helped me build my yoga business. For example, when formulating professional emails and reading contracts. In terms of my teaching style, it has affected it because question everything. It’s not enough for someone to say, “do this”. I need to know why. I want to cultivate this into all my students. Don’t believe me. Ask why.
How to you cope with the stress of running your business?
Yoga. If you practise yoga for long enough it changes your way of being. But it is stressful. There have been times where I have gone 200 days without having a day off.
What is the biggest challenge that you have faced and overcome?
The long hours and staying energised. Being present and alert despite exhaustion combined with the realities of life is a constant challenge. However, you have to carry on. It can be very draining and it’s not for everyone.
Is social media a tool which you use in your business?
I use social media to mainly convert people to coming to my classes, trainings and workshops. The social media ‘billboard’ I have created is to educate and advertise my classes. I do some ‘influencing’ but that was never the intention. I’ve just been doing it long enough and therefore gained a lot of followers. Sometimes I rent space on the billboard to brands that I link with. However, when I work with brands it is always very transparent. I never slip ‘AD’ in at the end and would never work with brands that I wouldn’t legitimately use. The copy I write it genuine too.
How can people with hectic and stressful lives become de-stressed and maintain a healthy mindset?
Build a long term yoga practice and don’t expect immediate change. Observing the breath, visualise where the inhale is coming from and centering yourself around that experience is calming.
Where can students book a class with you and follow you on social?
In London, I teach at Triyoga and Equinox and at Surrey Hills Physiotherapy in Surrey.
My wife, Holly, and I have an online platform where we provide an offering of online classes. You can find it at www.thehuslers.com.
Holly and I also have a podcast called ‘Honestly Unbalanced’ where we talk to people in the wellness industry about their hardships and troubles.
