Community and Belonging: Why Our Graduates Chose The Breathing Space

We asked graduates of our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training two questions: what made them choose the course at The Breathing Space over others in Derby, and how the studio fostered a sense of community and belonging. Here’s what they told us.

What made you choose The Breathing Space?

“When I was deciding where to do my yoga teacher training, I researched several different studios in Derby. I settled on the Breathing Space Yoga Studio because of a recommendation from a close family friend. This friend had completed their training there the previous year and spoke very highly of the teaching style, the studio itself, and the course content. Intrigued by their positive feedback, I made up my mind to enrol at the Breathing Space and experience it for myself.”

Chris, YTTC200 Graduate

“I initially found the teacher training course at the Breathing Space appealing because of its content. Over the years, I had explored numerous training courses, but this one caught my attention with its intriguing content. I distinctly remember thinking that it would probably be located far away, only to discover that it was actually a mere 10-minute drive from Derby! Excited by this, I decided to attend the open day and promptly booked my spot in the course.”

Hannah, YTTC200 Graduate

“What initially attracted me to the Breathing Space in Derby for my yoga training was the captivating timetable of what we were going to learn. It wasn’t just about the asanas; we would delve into the depths of yogic philosophy as well. Additionally, I loved the ambiance of the space itself. The friendly atmosphere coupled with the professionalism of Bel and Christine made me feel welcomed and at ease. During the open day, I had the opportunity to interact with past students who were beaming with enthusiasm about their experience. Their positive feedback reassured me and instilled confidence that I had made the right choice in selecting the Breathing Space for my training.”

Anita, YTTC200 Graduate

“I was initially drawn to the teacher training course at the Breathing Space in Derby because I had been a practitioner there for a couple of years. After the lockdown restrictions eased and we could resume yoga practice, I began researching studios in the area. It was then that I discovered the Breathing Space and instantly fell in love with its serene and tranquil atmosphere.

It truly felt like a second home to me, and the sense of community was incredibly welcoming. Having practised there for about a year and a half, I was aware of the teacher training program. It had always been one of my bucket list goals to become a yoga teacher, and seeing the previous trainees in action only fuelled my desire. I decided to take the leap and pursue this dream. I reached out to Christine and Bel, expressing my interest in joining the course. Their encouragement and support were unwavering, assuring me that I was making the right decision. And now, here I am, ready to embark on this transformative journey.”

Ellen, YTTC200 Graduate

“I took the time to explore various teacher training courses before making my decision. What intrigued me the most was finding a comprehensive program that would push me out of my comfort zone. I knew I wanted to challenge myself and embrace the opportunity to delve into the fundamentals of yoga. My goal was to find a course that would provide me with extensive information, knowledge, and hands-on experience.”

Graham, YTTC Graduate

How does The Breathing Space foster community and belonging?

“So, I think something you notice when you sit in the door of the Breathing Space is that everyone is welcome, whether you’re a teacher trainer, whether you’re a class participant for the first time, or whether you’re a regular member attending. That sense of everybody coming together to take part in yoga, to enjoy the experience, brings such a sense of belonging and caring. Something that, you know, I hope to replicate in my own life.”

Graham, YTTC200 Graduate

”[…] the Breathing Space really fostered such a lovely, beautiful sense of community amongst us teacher trainees, and that’s really down to Bel and Christine who created such, and do create such a welcoming environment and encouraging everybody to be themselves. And I think, from that welcome ceremony we did at the beginning to just spending regular tea breaks (tea on tap at the Breathing Space). So we would have our tea breaks and the learning wouldn’t just end in the classroom; we’d be chatting and doing all sorts of meditations we’ve done in previous nights, and go for lunches together every weekend, which was amazing. So, over the course of the 12 weekends, I think all together, we just created such a deep bond, and it’s just amazing to be in a setting where everyone’s so enthusiastic about yoga and so curious and passionate about learning more.”

Ellen, YTTC200 Graduate

“…the Breathing Space program fostered the community between the trainees from the early days of the course. There were a lot of group activities that brought us all together. It’s been a lovely experience; there’s a lovely community vibe within the Breathing Space. And even though the practitioners on the course have all gone in different directions and are all different types of yogis, we all get on really, really well and bond really well together.”

Hannah, YTTC200 Graduate

Join our community

Find out more about our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training, or read more from our graduates in 8 things no-one tells you about teacher training.