Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Takes One to Know One

Last week I had a new student in class.  She slipped in the back while I was still taking roll and I didn't notice her until we were about to begin, so I didn't get to do my usual spiel about how the class works, modifications, etc.  So, as I do with all unfamiliar bodies, I kept a close eye on her to make sure my instructions made sense and she wasn't over-doing anything.  It quickly became clear that she was doing just fine--more than just fine--and I had nothing to worry about.

Although, as I hope is the case with many of you, then my worries really began (Tell me I'm not the only one who falls prey to self-doubt in the face of stern, accomplished yoga).  "Am I boring her?  Is this too basic?  Am I talking too much?"  And then it dawned on me--she is probably a teacher.

And sure enough, after class, we had a lovely chat. She'd just moved to the area and had Iyengar teaching experience and found the class very familiar.  Whew.  She was delightful and warm and very yoga-teacherish.

Except, how did I sense that?  A couple of other times I've come across people who turn out to be teachers, but I sort of already knew that.  How Come?  Do we give off a scent only discernible to other teachers?  A glow?  A secret handshake (well, I hope not, cuz I missed than in the training)?  Is it something familiar in the demeanor?  Or maybe in the practice--a carefulness or thoroughness in the execution of asana that suggests the prompts are being spoken in the head?  

Is it the same with other disciplines?  Do teacher just know other teachers?  Why?  I'm curious if anyone else has had this happen and why they think it does.  


Is this what it feels like to be a Mason?

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

I can sniff out other teachers and former teachers out a mile away! (Is there an odor? ) But then I have a theory that either you are born to teaching or you're not. You can improve the mechanics of someone's teaching skills but if they don't have "it", then they don't.

Thais said...

I can tell a teacher bc they have a body awareness that is to be marveled. a certain carefulness about their practice. i love it when a teacher takes my class bc i know they will take care of themselves and i can focus on the students who need more guidance.

Anamaya Yoga Teacher Training said...

Is it Extra Sensory Perception? Intuition? May be.But I think it's your experiences that allow you to see what has not been shown yet or listen what has not been told yet.

Chris said...

Hey, Miss Brenda. This is Chris, the yoga teacher of whom you speak! Funny to read this so late in the game. I was looking for some insight into your teaching style because I seem to be losing some of the older students in your class since I took it over for the summer.

I guess we are always feeling inadequate as teachers at one time or another... I think I'll follow your lead and give them all a call individually. Best to talk to your students to find out what's up!

Love your blog!

Unknown said...

Haha! Love that last question!