I took my very first power yoga class back in 2008 when living in Chicago, at an amazing gym in my old East Lakeview neighborhood. I had done some videos at home over the years, but never a proper class and definitely not power yoga. I was really excited to try something new. I’ve always thought of yoga as more than just a good workout and more of a lifestyle, being super chill and inclusive - anybody can do it. As I walked into the class, already filling with students, the instructor told me to grab some blocks. I set up my mat in the back of the class, to get through my first class unnoticed.
Before the teacher started she asked if there was anyone new to yoga, to which I raised my hand. I was the only newbie. Class began and I thought I was doing well through the warm-up. I was in down dog and the teacher came by, without warning, to adjust my hips and back. I was startled that someone, a stranger at that, would put hands on me without asking or at least giving me a heads-up. That interaction immediately changed my mindset, leaving me feeling like I was doing it all wrong and a spotlight was now on me. She walked back up to the front to lead and few more postures in she called me out, correcting me from the front of the class. Later she came by my mat to adjust me, again, and instructed me on how corrected my posture from the front of the room, again.
I had enough at this point and yelled up to the front of the room, while in my posture, “Can you lay off me? You know this is my first yoga class.” She responded that she didn’t know, even though she looked right at me when I raised my hand at the beginning of class. To my fault, to a degree, I had too many expectations – to be welcomed, to feel supported and taught in an encouraging way, at the very least to enjoy the class especially since I paid for it. Now I was just angry.
I got through class, albeit with a bit of deflated ego but decided to return the following week. She was the teaching the class again. I don’t think she was happy to see me. The class was fine, but the vibe was just wrong. I didn’t return. And I didn’t take another yoga class for years. Sadly, I let that experience with that teacher completely turn me off from doing something good for me
I hadn’t thought about that class until going through certification, when my teacher asked if I ever had a negative yoga experience. And now writing this, I had no idea I was holding on to that experience this way. It’s made me realize the kind of teacher I didn’t want to be.
The thing about yoga, which so many people misunderstand, is that there in NO perfect shape. As long as you’re not in a position that might hurt you, you’re good. Every body is different and each makes different shaped postures. With my training I’ve learned a lot about how perceived negative experiences can trigger a student and how certain techniques can make for a much more positive and enjoyable yoga experience for the student. I never want anyone to feel the way I felt. It’s my goal to teach with kindness and compassion that creates an inviting and safe space to practice.
Now starting my teaching journey, I have the opportunity to give students some basic tips to help you feel more comfortable and confident on your yoga path. In addition to Breath To Movement which I’ve already posted, I’ll be posting videos for Sun Salutation variations, Ujjayi Breath and Engaging Bandhas. Whether you’re just starting out or have been taking yoga classes for some time, I hope you learn something in these “Yoga Basics” videos.
Sending you light and love. AGB