I love being a yoga instructor. Not only does it give me the satisfaction of knowing that I am making a positive difference to others’ lives, it also helps hone my own yoga skills. My yoga classes are a place where I meet and interact with some really interesting people too! Much as I love being at class, there are times when I have to travel – either on work or because the family (and I, of course) want a holiday and a change of pace! So in the event that I do have to take off, here’s how my students (and my readers out there) can make the most of a substitute yoga teacher:
Everyone has a different style
It’s easy to get used to one person and to their style of doing things. However since every instructor has a different style of doing things, students may have to make a few adjustments to get used to a changed routine. This is actually a good thing. Every instructor brings something unique to a class and a student may benefit from this.
Make allowances for inexperience
A substitute yoga teacher may not be as intuitive or as experienced as your regular teacher. They may go too fast or too slow. They may not be able to take the entire class along simply because of their inexperience and their lack of familiarity with each individual student, level of expertise and ability. It’s important not to judge the teacher based on the limited interaction you have with them. Be patient, they are probably nervous about being in front of a class too!
Take this as an opportunity
Maybe the substitute yoga teacher may have something new to teach or something interesting to share. Why not take advantage of this! Maybe you can actually learn something new? So try not to show your disappointment or your impatience to the substitute teacher; it’s not easy for them so try and remember that and be a little patient.
Have a chat about any special concerns
I try to brief any substitute teacher about any special requirements or health issues/ ailments that any of the people in my class may have. However it is not easy for the substitute to remember it all or to keep it in mind while they are in front of the entire class. So it is better to have a chat with the substitute yoga teacher about any restrictions or problems that you have, so that there are no mishaps or misunderstandings.
Remember the concept of ‘Aparigraha’
When we practice yoga as a lifestyle we also try and imbibe some of the philosophies of living life from this discipline. The concept of ‘aparigraha’; which basically is temperance and restraint is important to internalize and to apply to this context as well. Just because things are not going as you expect them to, you cannot permit these circumstances to irritate or unsettle you. You should try and develop some amount of detachment in this situation as well. Santosh or contentment is vital for happiness and peace of mind. Remember this as you work with your substitute teacher. Also remember that this is a temporary situation. Your regular yoga teacher will be back soon!