My yoga classes offer an integrated approach. Each session begins with an invocation mantra to set the yogic mood, followed by asana practices that bring lightness and relaxation to the body. We then transition into Yoga Nidra, allowing the body and mind to absorb the benefits of the asanas. Yoga Nidra is also a powerful tool for psychosomatic health, promoting deep rest and healing. Finally, we practice pranayama techniques to enhance the flow of energy within the body, supporting overall well-being. The session concludes with a closing mantra, disseminating the benefits of yoga to all beings in the universe.
I am fully engaged (with no distractions) and express my internal state—such as my thoughts, sensations, and feelings—while teaching asana, pranayama, and yoga nidra. This approach significantly enhances my students' awareness of their own bodies during practice. Not only does this method model mindfulness, but it also fosters a deeper mind-body-spirit connection.
Why This Approach Works
Cultivates Interoception
Interoception is the ability to perceive and understand internal bodily sensations. By vocalizing your own experiences, you encourage students to tune into their internal states, enhancing their interoceptive awareness. This practice helps individuals recognize and interpret bodily signals, which is crucial for emotional regulation and overall well-being .
Enhances Mind-Body Connection
Expressing your internal experiences during practice bridges the gap between mind and body. This approach allows students to relate to the sensations you're describing, promoting a shared experience that deepens their own awareness and presence in the practice .
Encourages Sensory Engagement
Using descriptive language that appeals to the senses—such as "feel the stretch in your hips" or "notice the warmth in your chest"—can guide students to focus on specific areas of the body. This sensory engagement helps them connect more profoundly with their physical experience, moving beyond mere posture alignment .
Supports Emotional Processing
Sharing your feelings during practice can create a safe space for students to explore their own emotions. This openness can facilitate emotional processing and contribute to a more holistic yoga experience that integrates both physical and emotional aspects .
Practical Tips for Implementation
Start with Simple Poses: Begin with foundational poses like Mountain Pose or Child's Pose, which are accessible and provide clear sensations to describe.
Use Genuine Descriptive Language: Incorporate sensory-rich language in your cues. For example, "Feel the grounding of your feet like roots reaching deep into the earth" or "Notice the gentle rise and fall of your chest with each breath."
Encourage Reflection: After demonstrating a pose, pause and invite students to share or silently reflect on their own sensations and feelings. Questions like "What do you notice in your body right now?" can prompt this awareness.
Model Vulnerability: Share your own experiences and sensations authentically. This vulnerability can inspire students to connect more deeply with their own bodies and emotions.