Hi reader

Let me take this opportunity to wish you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving.

Please Note: we will be closed November 22 - 25 for the Thanksgiving Holiday.

November - December - Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule

Monday: 6 PM - 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM - 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM - 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM - 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Saturday: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Yoga / Pilates Body Sculpting

Below you can find an article I wrote to help you choose the right yoga teacher and I've also included a special offer and a great gift idea:

1. How To Find The Right Yoga Teacher
2. Attleboro Yoga Blog
3. Special Offer
4. Give the Gift of Holistic Health

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How to Find the Right Yoga Teacher

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

I am often asked, "Which criteria should be used to evaluate a Yoga Teacher?"

The following is the "CALM check list." These factors are basic criteria that your Yoga Instructor should meet before you continue on to a second Yoga class.

CALM gets it name from four main factors: Communication, Assist, Listen, and Modification. For the right Yoga teacher, you should be answering with a "yes" to all questions.

• Communication: Does your Yoga teacher talk to you, and other students, in a manner of mutual respect? Can you ask a question during class time?
  
  Does your teacher show compassion for you and other students? Does your Yoga teacher take the time to lead you through a guided meditation or relaxation? Meditation and relaxation are major aspects of Yoga practice.
  
  There are Yoga teachers who just want to get "their workout" done. Beware of Yoga teachers, who are so important, they don't have time for you.
  
  Some students love this air of superiority and, unfortunately, some people love abuse. If you want to learn Yoga, you need an open line of communication with your Yoga teacher.
  
  
• Assist: Does your teacher care about your form? Will your teacher give you a verbal or physical assist during your Yoga class? Are props encouraged in your Yoga classes?
  
  Some students never have major problems with alignment and some do, but if your teacher doesn't give verbal cues, what does that tell you?
  
  
• Listen: Does your Yoga teacher take the time to listen to your feedback? Is your teacher "in the moment" with the class?
  
  Once in a while, there is a Yoga instructor who runs, "The-it's-all-about-me-show." You are not going to learn anything from this type of teaching. Beginners will be put at risk, trying to keep up with a seasoned Yoga teacher who doesn't explain anything.
  
  
• Modification: Does your Yoga teacher allow modifications and props? If your teacher discourages props, you are in the wrong place.
  
  Some students will need props, for life, depending upon their range of motion. Just because a teacher can do a posture without props, doesn't mean every Yoga student can.

Summary: Stay away from abusive Yoga teachers, and if you are attracted to abuse, there is always professional help. Some students crave "the stern, but loving parent" types. They will push you harder, but how much pushing do you really need?

Respect is a two way street, and you deserve as much respect as your Yoga teacher does. Let common sense be your guide. You should feel good after a Restorative Yoga class, and you might even feel some muscle soreness after a vigorous Vinyasa Yoga class.

Make sure your Yoga teacher meets the above criteria before making a commitment.

© Copyright 2006 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Attleboro Yoga Blog

Please visit the Attleboro Yoga Blog for updates, schedules, and events.

http://blog.riyoga.com

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Special Offer: Get a Free Relaxation CD with any package of 10 classes or more.

This offer is good for Yoga, Pilates, and clients who take private sessions. This relaxation CD is a $14 value and a priceless bonus. Especially, if you are feeling stressed or suffering from insomnia.

Call us at 508-222-0092 for details.

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Give the Gift of Holistic Health

We have Holiday Gift Certificates in any denomination. We can also customize packages to meet your needs.

Call us at 508-222-0092 for details.

Don't keep us a secret. Feel free to forward our newsletter to any of your friends.

All the Best,
Paul Jerard

Director of Yoga Teacher Training
AURA Wellness Center
21 Park Street, Suite 202
Attleboro, MA 02703

Tel: 508-222-0092

Email: aurayoga2@aol.com
Website: http://www.riyoga.com

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