Truth is, every student is my favorite yoga student. I love everyone that comes to class and gives it a go. But let’s say some are less favorite than others.
So. How to become a true favorite and not a less favorite? Your handstand alone won’t earn you straight A’s with me. These things do.
You show up.
You’re at every class. When you miss one, I know it’s not just because you didn’t feel like being there.
You’re working on more than your yoga booty.
I can see it in the way you focus, the way you let your emotions through, and the way you change as I get to know you. You’re letting yoga work on you from the inside out — not forcing it, just allowing it to make you more of who you already are.
You listen to your body.
I’m teaching dancer, you’re lying in savasana. Good for you. You know that for whatever reason, you’re body is not up for that balancing backbend today, and you’re listening to the instructions it gives you. This is different from being lazy or backing away from a challenge; this is getting in tune with who you are and what you need at any given moment.
You ask questions.
Why do we chant “om”? Why do we place our thumb against our index finger? Asking is evidence of an open mind and a willingness to learn.
You smile.
Yoga is fun. We don’t have to take it too seriously, and we don’t have to take ourselves too seriously. Let’s keep it light. Life is good.
I honor all my yoga students and where they are on their yoga journeys, but the true joy in teaching comes when you see a student embrace and explore their yoga practice.