What is hands-on assisting?
Hands- on assisting is the skilful use of touch
by a qualified and experienced teacher to guide students in their yoga practice. Intelligent and thoughtful hands on assists can transform your yoga practice and bring deeper awareness to your body.
Assists can range from very gentle touch bringing awareness to a particular body part to more firm assists such as in handstand or wheel where the teacher will step in to stabilise and support a student.
Why is my teacher assisting me? Am I doing something wrong?
No, you are not doing anything wrong. All bodies are different and all students learn in different ways. There is no one size fits all for teaching or practicing yoga.
During your yoga class the teacher will cue the entire class verbally , ie in Warrior 2. ”Extend through the fingertips and relax the shoulders ”. Some students might not have the body awareness on that particular day to notice that they are scrunching up their shoulders and face too. A simple touch of the teacher's hands to the students shoulders can instantly allow them to relax and in turn can transform the posture for that particular student.
Your teacher might see that you are struggling with a particular posture and come to offer props and physical adjustments, this can be a fantastic way to progress in a pose if that is your goal. It's also a great way to stay safe and avoid injury at your yoga class.
I don’t like being touched. Can I opt out?
Yes. The teachers at YoGrá Yoga Studio fully respect each and every student who walks through the door. We strive to make it a safe and welcoming space for all who practice with us.
Inside the door of YoGrá Yoga Studio you will find a box with coloured cards. The green cards read “Yes Please” and the red cards read “No Thanks”. You are welcome to take both cards and place one or the other at the top of your mat so your teacher knows your preference.
I always advise taking both as you may change your mind as the class progresses, some students love a savasana assist but they prefer not to be approached during their practice and that's OK. It's your practice so do whatever feels right for you on the day. You can always change your mind!
What is a Savasanna Assist?
Savasana or corpse pose is the final posture in most yoga classes. It is a chance to relax and absorb your practice. Your teacher may offer bolsters, cushions and blankets to help you to find comfort during the relaxation. The famous Savasana assist is only offered to one student per class and can include adjustment of limbs in the style of Thai Yoga Massage, Shoulder Massage and Indian Head Massage. Christine is a fully qualified massage therapist and has been practicing for more than 20 years so if you are looking to get this assist don’t forget to put your YES card out!
If you have any questions on assisting please do not hesitate to ask your teacher and we will be happy to advise.
Christine Dunworth
YoGrá Yoga Studio
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