Yesterday I had a situation where one of my regular classes wasn't able to take place due to circumstances out of my control. There had been a double booking. Which I'm afraid has happened before.
The group I have the privilege to teach are so great on so many levels. Most are 70 (even 80) plus, although it's a very mixed range of ages. Some have difficulty getting up and down from the floor, so I give them alternative versions of the poses while sitting on a chair. We often use the walls for support too. It's my job as a yoga teacher to make sure that everyone should feel included.
The class is attended by local people and for a nominal fee, which only is paid if you can afford it.
Over the last couple of years many lovely people have come along. The class has been promoted mostly by word of mouth, or people have seen the poster in front of the building. Most of these lovely souls don't do social media, or even read emails. And I know for some, it's the highlight of their week and they make an extra special effort to get there.
When the class couldn't go ahead yesterday I felt so sad for the people who turned up and it brought out the Yoga Warrior in me.
The Bhagavad Gita (part of the Mahabharata) is one the worlds recognised texts. It's no coincidence that the story set on a battle ground. The story is a conversation between two friends, Arjuna the Warrior and his Charioteer, Krishna who is God. It's a book about wisdom and about how to live a good and righteous life.
Arjuna finds himself in many uncomfortable situations in the story and Krishna helps guide him to fight the good fight.
In our day to day lives we often find ourselves in difficult or uncomfortable situations. When we practice yoga asanas too we can sometimes feel way out of our own comfort zone. This is something I'm exploring even more at the moment as many of you will know.
It's all too easy to back down and take the easy option. You may be familiar with the phrase 'leave it be'. Also in the yoga practice do an easier version of the pose or even miss some things out. But channelling our inner Warrior is often what's needed. Whether it's standing up for what is right, or taking small steps towards something more physically challenging. This is about finding the strength to overcome.
I'm pleased to say I have had several really constructive conversations with a few people about what happened yesterday and I feel hopeful that there might be a shift in policy. I'm hoping that this lovely group of people might be treated with the respect which they rightfully deserve.
Namaste.
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