Recently, I was asked to write an open letter addressing Aging in Yoga, but I must admit that I was very hesitant. Yes, I am one of the older instructors still actively teaching, but that really makes no difference. But wait, of course it does!
I have been practicing yoga for more than twenty-five years and, as an experienced instructor, I certainly have matured – personally and in my teaching. And, yes, along with that, have been some physical challenges – but not necessarily because I have gotten older.
Regardless of age, we all become ill, get injured, require medical care, or merely need to take a break. However, those personal periods of limitation have had the effect of informing me in my own physical (asana) practice, teaching me to be more patient and thoughtful in my approach to movement. But, more importantly, have taught me to cultivate a heightened awareness of the limitations and challenges of the students in my classes – whether beginners or more advanced practitioners.
Of course, as I get older, I have a better appreciation for the effects of aging. However, while I am physically more cautious, I am also more willing to take risks in my life and thrive on living from moment to moment.
I was trained to teach yoga, not perform it for the students to follow along with, and this approach has been invaluable when I have not been able to physically demonstrate because of an injury – or as I have gotten older. And there certainly are some poses that I no longer do because I am now wise enough to realize that I may harm myself.
But, at this point, I am ageless. Whatever does it even mean to “act your age”, “look your age”, or “dress age appropriately”? I’m simply me and live my life as me, with no age association. The mere fact that I am older has given me many valuable years of experience acquiring and developing the tools and skills to become a more effective yoga teacher. And the personal development and maturity gained through my years as student, business professional, artist, wife, and mother have been an incredible asset.
I now have more clarity in my life, increased patience, and a fine-tuned ability to observe, listen, and understand the needs of my students, as well as the skill to adapt and alter my teaching to the individuals who show up to class that day, regardless of age or level of experience. And I have a much better understanding of what truly matters.
Recently a younger, newer, teacher confided in me that she felt like an imposter, overwhelmed with the thought that she was not knowledgeable enough to be a good yoga instructor. So, I asked her about her basic understanding of alignment, sequencing, cuing, using Sanskrit, yoga philosophy, and, more importantly, what were students’ reactions after her class. Her response was all positive.
So, my advice to her, as well as to anyone else, is to ease up on yourself and just keep on practicing. Be patient, curious, and constantly explore new ways to approach things on and off your mat.
In my view, more experience as a student and teacher, regardless of age or number of years, will give you the maturity and confidence to feel comfortable in your personal and professional growth.
I did not become a yoga instructor to be rich and famous, to be popular, but rather to instill in others all of the wonderful benefits of the physical practice in association with developing the ability to be more thoughtful and to live in the moment.
As an older yoga teacher, my desire is to provide an example to others so that they can empower themselves to recognize and develop their own particular personal areas of strength and flexibility. The practice of yoga, through the combination of physical practice, breathwork, and meditation, helps us to cultivate resistance as we get older – giving ourselves permission to open to the unknown.
Aging is Not a fixed point, but rather a continuum and constant state of transition, and yoga provides us with the means to become adaptable, nimble, and pliable – not just in our own body, but in our minds to be accepting to the changes and limitations of our bodies, and to truly appreciate the value of our lives.
My hope is that this book, regardless of your age, will empower you to acknowledge all of your beauty and wisdom and to help you gracefully navigate through life with maturity and joy – one day at a time,
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