Teaching Hatha Yoga - Learn From Other Teaching Methods

Why do you think Bikram attracts dedicated followers and deflects complainers? Rules and Guidelines for Yoga student conduct are clear for you to see, within one of his schools. They may be stated on the web site, bulletin board, or in the studio, for all participating Yoga students to read. You do not have to guess what the rules are.

Regular attendance to Yoga classes is encouraged, and students are told why. In truth, all Yoga practitioners benefit from regular attendance. Can you imagine learning any valuable skill twice a month? Why do some students think they will see progress with a "half-hearted effort?" It is because we allow it to happen.

Do all Yoga teachers have to become Bikram Choudhury? No, and the world is doing fine with just one Bikram, but all Yoga teachers can learn a lot from observing him. Discipline is needed, just as much in Yoga, as it is in martial arts.

Otherwise, students will not discipline themselves at home for continued practice.

In fact, it is a lack of discipline which has led to many of the problems in society today. Undisciplined students will eventually not return to your classes, no matter how much you give of yourself. They will easily encounter health problems, if they do not establish regular preventative health habits.

Many Yoga teachers are '"natural born givers;" this is wonderful, but give to those who appreciate it. If you invest your energy into students, make sure they "pre-qualify" themselves. Yoga students need to make an initial commitment toward complete health and they must really want to change. Their body can be their best teacher, but they must see a Yoga instructor, Guru, or Swami, as a guide to get to that point in life.

© Copyright 2007 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. riyoga.com riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995.

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