How to Teach An Accessible Yoga Class
We believe whole-heartedly that the practice of yoga is for everyone. This includes all shapes and sizes, abilities, skill levels, and backgrounds. Ensuring that all types of folks feel welcome in the yoga space is our passion here at Rooted Renewal Wellness.
Although it may be briefly mentioned, the tools to teach an accessible yoga class is not something we’re necessarily taught in our 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Trainings. This leaves us unprepared when the day eventually comes where a student needs tools we haven’t learned to provide.
We’ve broken down our most simple tips for creating a space that feels both welcoming to new students, and invigorating for advanced practitioners. Keep reading below to learn about how to ensure your classroom is accessible.
Provide alternatives for downward facing dog.
This pose is used in almost every vinyasa class for at least half of the time. The problem? It’s not accessible for MANY folks. Whether it’s a wrist or shoulder injury, ability, or simply not accessible in their anatomy, having an alternative for this common pose is an easy first step to opening the door for new types of students to feel comfortable exploring their practice in your class.
So… What’s the best alternative, you ask?
Our favorite alternative that MOST folks can navigate quite easily: TABLE TOP. Yep. The reason we LOVE this alternative is that you can actually maintain the pace of the class, and find that “flow” state moving from table top without putting tons of pressure on the wrists and shoulders.
Now, let’s talk about our friends who need something chair friendly…
Although we highly recommend working with these folks 1:1 to start to determine their unique range of motion, one helpful tip is to simply ask them to fold over their knees and utilize props (blocks) underneath their hands. Finding a press into the palms and fingertips while shrugging away at the shoulders is the best way to build strength and still get the benefits of inversions.
2. set the stage with classroom safety before class begins.
Offering too much “do what you want” language DURING class can be confusing and even disorienting for students. Instead, set the guardrails before class even begins. Ask students to tune into their energy levels, and let that be their guiding light throughout practice.
Let your students know that you won’t remind them about taking what they need throughout the class because you are giving them permission NOW. During class, call out students who are taking variations with praise. It’s important to compliment students who are taking a more gentle approach as much as it is to cheer on students that are pushing themselves in class. This creates an atmosphere that isn’t geared towards always going harder, nor too focused on always resting. It grants permission for students to explore in their body at their own pace on any given day.
3. offer modifications first, and then build up variations.
This one is all about building the foundation. One thing we can promise you - Even your most advanced students will benefit from building up foundations. Focus on alignment and building strength.
Start each pose with the most accessible version, and then invite them to add on layers as they please. Highlight postures where anatomy comes into play so your students begin to understand that some poses are simply not attainable to all of us.
For example, I’ll never be able to fully wrap my legs in an Eagle Pose without pinching in my hips. This is my cue to BACK OUT, instead of push past my own unique limits.
4. ask directly for feedback from your students.
Our final tip is one for every yoga teacher, regardless of who you are teaching. We know, it can be intimidating or even awkward to request feedback, but it’s the most effective way to learn from our students. If you notice a particular student struggling in a pose during class, make a point to connect with them after class and ask them how it felt with an open mind. Listen to their answer.
This creates an entry point for students who may not yet know how to connect how they felt in their practice to the individual needs in their bodies. Each of us are so vastly different, and learning more about your students unique experiences will help you grow into a more informed and educated teacher.
Another easy way to request feedback is by standing at the door while your students are leaving. Simply ask them: “How was your practice?” or “How are you feeling” to get tangible feedback. For example, if your goal is to leave students feeling grounded, and most folks say they are energized after class - you may consider adding in a body scan or deeper meditation to get them into a calm space before the end of class.
Continue being open to learning.
The best way to grow as a teacher is by continuously being open to learning from our students. Whether you hope to open your space to more types of folks, or you simply want a deeper connection with the students in front of you now - these tips will help you grow and see new perspectives that will leave your students with a profound sense of community and more informed about their own body.
Accessibility is all about opening doors, and then allowing more space to explore.
