I had an interesting conversation with a mate from the class I’m teaching- using term oh-so-most loosely- where she brought to my attention the importance of modifications.  Not only modifications but perhaps a less than acute attention to detail in the postures.  Very nicely, of course.  This particular student of yoga is certainly the most knowledgeable of any of the participants, and is more likely than I towards due diligence in fleshing out the “perfect” posture.

I understand this, particularly from someone who is not partial to a “flow” and prefers to learn a pose, practice and refine it and “be” in, and with, that posture.  Developing a consciousness of the posture.  It is because of this approach to yoga that I listen to her.  I tend towards a focus on the movement as it is guided by the breath and the refinement of the posture may not be of priority.  And certainly as I find the “teacher” in me, trying to maintain the flow of the class, the details of each posture may get lost.

There is validity and benefit to both approaches.

So, thank you, fellow student.  I needed to have my attention drawn more into the details.  At this level of yoga practice for these others, if I don’t someone could, in fact, injure themselves.

I am pleased with this conversation partly because I learned something, but mainly because I returned her call “open” to learning something and accepting feedback.  Something, in a previous life, I would not have been.  I would have been caught up in my ego and my own right-ness and authority as “leader” or “teacher”.

The result.  An open relationship with neighbor and fellow student/teacher.  And, in her gratitude for my doing this, she is getting me a subscription to Yoga Journal.   Wow!

Open heart and mind…. there are many benefits.