Take the Class

Once we begin to study yoga in depth, find our own path, and especially when we begin to teach others it is easy to believe that our yoga is the best or truest form. When we take a class under the guidance of another teacher we can ignore their instruction or even think to ourselves "this is wrong" or "my way is better." 

I have heard the good advice "when you take class with another teacher, take the class." Don't analyze their technique or criticize their approach in your head. Stay present, follow their guidance and learn what you can from another yogi's perspective.

I have found that the concept of "taking the class" is much easier when I have a firmly established home practice. In my own practice I can explore my own postures, alignments, depths, durations and intentions. I can do whatever I want on my own time, so I feel that my practice is sufficient and developing along its own path. 

I don't need the classes with other teachers to fill my yoga quota for the day or week. When I am comfortable in my own expression of the practice I am more willing to give the control to another teacher for a short period.