Forget the Apple, Give a Smile to Your Teacher!

Source: http://seeinnerbeauty.wordpress.com/tag/smile/

When I first started teaching yoga classes, I had expected some surprises. I had expected to feel a little awkward, to mix up my sides, to demonstrate at weird angles, and say things that didn’t make any sense. I had expected the odd stink-eye from students who couldn’t follow what I was saying or thought my teaching was silly or, worse, lacklustre.

I made preparations to deal with these encumbrances. I practiced and practiced – both alone and with somewhat willing volunteers (mostly people related to me). I read widely, watched YouTube videos, and attended more classes to get in tune with other teacher’s approaches and styles. Despite my
best efforts, when I actually started teaching I was in for a shocker.

I realised in my first class that when people are doing yoga, it’s with absolute concentration and intensity – total focus and intent with no time or space for smiling! Egad! Students in my classes can even look a bit… ferocious. They are usually working hard, which is good, but at the same time, it can be very difficult as a teacher to sense whether students are enjoying themselves or not. I mean, isn’t that what yoga is about? Improving yourself, reaching your goals and realising a sense of peace and/or happiness?

Trust me, I do not escape blame myself. I have brought attention towards how hard I work for my teachers in class and how little I smile in poses. This has changed in recent weeks. Now I try to grin and laugh, even when it’s hard and sweaty, or I’m trying my best to focus.

My suggestion? Work hard, but bring a little softness around the edges. Instead of an apple, give a little smile to your teacher! They will appreciate it!

About the Author: amyh

Amy H has written 51 posts on this site.

Amy loves doing yoga, teaching yoga, learning about yoga and, of course, writing about yoga! She teaches Yin, Flow and Hatha in the lower mainland. When not teaching studio classes or taking sessions with other teachers, you'll find her nose in a book, preferably at the beach.

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...