episode 4 : theme work

There is nothing better then a good theme! We have theme songs, theme parks, theme parties… Coming up with a good plan or knowing everyone is enjoying the same thing at the same time is always a great idea and always feels really good! For example; I’ve always taught my classes with a monthly theme. All classes for the month support the bigger umbrella. Divided into 4 sequences, they all go together. So at the end of that 4 weeks you’ve built something pretty substantial. It feels solid, it feels good in the body. So while each week is different focus, it all goes hand in hand by the end. 

 

In Jivamukti Yoga, they have “focus of the month” which I have always loved. Such great guidelines on how to do yoga on and off our mats, best practice for life of course.

There are so many ideas and themes to choose from;

  • Chakra
  • Elements 
  • Moon cycles 
  • Season
  • Yamas
  • Niyamas

The 8 limbs of yoga is a must study, it’s basically the yoga bible. 

When it comes to choosing and preparing, do whatever you want, but make sure you know what you are doing and saying. Like any teacher, know your material before sharing. Be prepared to answer questions.

You can also go traditional and chose from asanas; 

  • standing postures
  • arm balances
  • inversions
  • back bend 
  • seated postures 

Best practice when establishing your class themes, is to do your homework. If you have picked a specific chakra, read about it, what supports it, get all the information you can so you can better educate and help your students. For some it might be the second or third time they have participated this theme, but they can still learn something new. The alignment of the poses, the links between them, the breath work that ties everything together. 

Communication is key! Having a great theme, or a great class plan but poorly presented can feel terrible and choppy. Knowing the “how” behind the poses and “why” we do them is valuable information that only amplifies our time on our mats.

Never be shy to tell your students why we are moving from one theme to another or the link between the asanas. Understanding the flow is not overrated. Of course, like in anything; you will have people that listen and pay attention and really put into practice what you are saying; applying the tools. Some that are there to move and stretch on their mat and that it’s, both are fine.

I also like to talk about Gods, Demi Gods and Deities; the myths behind the asanas is truly fascinating. It puts everything into perspective. I love the stories. The deep dive into the asanas becomes tangible, the poses start to feel different in the body as you move. The creative side to themes is what attracts me. Having the space and freedom to create something new with ancient knowledge is a wonderful feeling. Being a retired dancer, being able to still have space to use my creative side is my favourite part. With respect to the classical form of yoga, we are lucky to have so much latitude for self expression. I never take it for granted, ever! Always give thanks to those who were before me, because without them we would so much less to learn. It’s thanks to their teachings and experiences that we know what we know.

So go… Go have fun on your mats! Go be creative and try something new.