‘It is relatively easy to be a teacher of an academic subject, but to be a teacher in art is very difficult, and to be a yoga teacher is the hardest of all, because yoga teachers have to be their own critics and correct their own practice. The art of yoga is entirely subjective and practical. Yoga teachers have to know the entire functioning of the body; they have to know the behaviour of the people who come to them and how to react and be ready to help, to protect and safeguard their pupils’.
Iyengar BKS, Tree of Yoga, On teachers and teaching.
Welcome to this subject on Presenting Asana and Organising the Class. This subject investigates the key principles of presenting asanas and organising the class and considers how to reduce obstacles in the learning environment. It is presented in parts and contains articles, videos, and quotes. Immerse yourself in the subject, consume the content thoroughly. Apply a reflective mode, where you might read an article prior to, or immediately after practice. Keep a reflective journal to note your experiences as you engage through the Learn, Study, Practise modes offered throughout this subject. Quotes are often accompanied by an extract of the text. Take the time to engage deeply with the extracts provided. More importantly, support the authors by purchasing the publications for your own library. Articles and book extracts are provided for student study material only and comply with copyright laws.
This is a seven-part subject is recommended over 10 weeks as it requires review of video classes and practice reflection. Access to T-T02 is for 10 weeks.
In this brief extract Geeta Iyengar identifies some key aspects of how to present Tadasana to students. She discusses the importance of being clear as a teacher in what and how you are presenting this asana. Geeta expresses the importance of linking the sequence of actions correctly and not reciting language from a book. Teaching, presenting asana from experience. Participate in this 3-minute video with Geeta. What is the correct sequence of actions you need to observe in your students when teaching Tasasana?
‘When you take the weight on the heels what is happening in your body?
As a teacher you are supposed to find out what is happening in your body. And that makes you clear to explain to others.’