Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Observe, step back and breathe...

It is true of every art that 
you can not acquire 
what you have not felt. 
-Gustie Herrigel


I just finished my fifth time teaching students yoga. I'm lucky to have the same group all along so that we can  continue to build on what we know. 
But after the first two times I was thinking, "what am I trying to do here?" Why did I think that putting myself and my family through all of these hours of teacher training so that I can what? Tripping over my own words, and question how I can possibly fill an entire hour with these words and actions so that people can walk away feeling unsatisfied?

I had to get over myself.
How does a person do this? Very carefully. 

First, sit back and try to be an objective observer about the situation. It might not be as bad as you think. 
Second, realize that the world doesn't revolve around me. What a relief. Everyone there is coming from their own lives, and stuff. All if it is completely out of my control. 
Third, don't waste another minute and BREATHE.
Observe, step back and breathe. 
Once I do these things when teaching art, yoga or spending time with my kids, it is amazing to see the results! The last three times, knock on wood, my yoga classes have been more smooth and fun.