- Set an intention / Create an objective. — Because if this is a thing worth doing, it’s worth knowing why you’re doing it. At the very least, this will help bring you back when the forces that be try to distract you.
- Prepare your foundation. — Just like I wouldn’t enter into headstand or any deep backbend before doing the physical and mental preparation necessary to do it safely, it’s also not a great idea to proceed through a lesson without a pretty thorough understanding of the overall plan. Both have increased odds of doing something embarrassing in front of a class.
- Speaking of which, you will do something embarrassing in front of a class. — Fart. Fall over. Wear two different shoes and not realize it until fifth period. Unfortunately, I’ve found that the best way to make peace with these moments is to have as many of them as possible. Fortunately, I’ve found that both teaching and yoga are happy to comply.
- Learning to remain calm and focused in — physically or emotionally — uncomfortable situations has value. — See above.
- It is good to learn your limits and to be able to see them coming in advance. — For safety and all.
- A meaningful best practice — yoga or teaching — is one that is sustainable. — Being the most awesome for five weeks is less great if you burn out at ten.
Body, Mind, Spirit Magazine
