As a yoga student returns to classes after years of practice, they wonder why instructors no longer adjust students like before. Discover the reasons behind this shift in yoga practices and student-instructor interactions.
Summary
- Hands-on adjustments in yoga classes have become less common due to various factors, including trauma-informed practices and lack of proper training for teachers.
- Concerns about boundaries, student preferences, and past scandals have influenced the decrease in physical adjustments during yoga classes.
- Consent cards and different teaching styles can influence the level of adjustments provided to students.
Hands-On Adjustments in Yoga Classes
Hands-on adjustments have always been a topic of debate in the yoga community, but their prevalence has decreased in recent years for several reasons. Some instructors feel that students are more sensitive to physical contact after the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a reduction in hands-on adjustments across classes. Additionally, the rise of trauma-informed yoga practices has brought attention to the importance of respecting individual boundaries and preferences.
Training and Boundaries
One factor contributing to the decline in hands-on adjustments is the level of training that yoga teachers receive. With yoga teacher training programs becoming more accessible, some instructors may lack the skills or confidence to perform physical adjustments safely. Moreover, past scandals involving prominent yoga figures have caused teachers to establish clearer boundaries with their students to ensure a safe and respectful learning environment.
Student Preferences and Teaching Styles
Another aspect influencing the reduced use of hands-on adjustments is the diversity of student preferences and teaching styles. Some students may prefer verbal cues over physical adjustments, while others may benefit more from direct mirroring or regression techniques. Instructors often adapt their approach based on individual student needs, class size, and the overall teaching philosophy of the studio.
Overall, the evolution of yoga practices and teaching methodologies has led to a shift away from traditional hands-on adjustments in classes. While adjustments can still be a valuable tool for alignment and learning, instructors are navigating the balance between physical touch and respecting personal boundaries in today’s yoga landscape.