How to Build a Sustainable Career in Yoga and Wellness 

So, you love yoga and Ayurveda, and you’re lit up by the idea of living a life of wellness, service, and purpose. Maybe you’ve done a teacher training (or two), have a stack of wellness certifications, or you’re dreaming about finally stepping into this world professionally. But how do you actually build a career in this space? One that doesn’t burn you out, leave you broke, or have you constantly wondering if you’re doing it “right”? 

Here are some tips to help you build a sustainable, grounded, and joyful career in yoga teaching and wellness. 

1. Get Clear on How You Want to Serve 

Before you print business cards or start planning your dream studio, pause and ask: 

• Who do I want to serve? (Kids? Seniors? Women in transition? Corporate clients?) 

• What do I want to offer? (Group classes? Private sessions? Online content? Retreats?) 

• When and how often do I want to work? (Full-time? On weekends? As a volunteer project on the side?) 

Your energy, marketing, pricing, and training all stem from knowing what kind of practitioner you want to be. 

2. Build Slowly and Intentionally 

Yoga and wellness careers are marathons, not sprints. You don’t need to do it all at once. 

Instead, focus on gradually building: 

• Your skill set (through trainings, mentorship, self-practice and learning) 

• Your experience (by teaching consistently and refining your skills) 

• Your income and reputation (by building trust, being reliable, and staying visible) 

Slow growth often creates stronger foundations. 

3. Stay in Your Lane 

The yoga world can feel noisy. It’s easy to get swept up in what others are doing on Instagram, or feel like you need to be an influencer, coach, podcast host, and YouTube sensation all at once. 

Yes, learn from others. Study their successes and mistakes. But don’t waste energy comparing yourself. Your journey is uniquely yours – shaped by your time, place, circumstances, and personal life journey. 

4. Embrace the Joy of Service 

This path is not about status or likes. It's about care and connection. 

At the heart of yoga and wellness work is service: helping someone feel better, breathe deeper, move more freely, or be seen and heard with compassion. That’s priceless. 

Let the joy of genuine exchange (the little conversations, the thank-you emails, the shifts you witness in others) be your anchor. 

5. Surround Yourself with Community 

This work can feel lonely if you isolate yourself. Find (or create) a supportive circle. 

Make friends in the industry. Collaborate instead of competing. Whether it’s through a studio, training cohort, or local wellness events, stay connected. Wellness work thrives on relationships. 

6. Know Your Numbers 

Here’s the grounded truth: if your work isn’t financially sustainable, your nervous system prbably won’t be either. 

Track what you’re earning. Know your costs. Make sure your offerings are viable. If something isn’t working financially, that’s not failure. That’s data. Use it to pivot and adjust to create a more suitable offering. 

7.  Don’t Be Afraid to Work for Free (Sometimes) 

In the early stages, don’t underestimate the value of: 

• Gaining experience 

• Networking 

• Shadowing or apprenticing with more experienced teachers 

• Offering free classes to practice your sequencing or teaching style 

Just be strategic. Make sure these opportunities move you forward toward your goals. 

Final Thoughts 

A sustainable yoga and wellness career isn’t about overnight success. It’s about slow, steady, aligned growth. It’s about serving with heart, knowing your worth, and building a life that feels meaningful, not just marketable.