Advancing in yoga, particularly in the Ashtanga tradition, is a journey that requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to confront both physical and emotional limits. Over the years, I have found myself at the intersection of personal expectations, teacher guidance, and the inevitable boundaries of my own body. The process has been as much about internal growth as it has been about mastering the physical postures. In Ashtanga, this challenge is heightened by the structured progression through the series, where each new posture represents both an achievement and a new set of demands. “I will not be cracking. Thanks so much. What I’m going to do is catch my wrist and you’re going to move me to intermediate faster than anyone has ever moved intermediate…

Teaching yoga is a profound and fulfilling vocation, yet the weight of responsibility can lead to burnout if we’re not mindful. As Jason Crandell reminds us, the journey is not for the faint-hearted, with challenges such as compassion fatigue, financial worries, and the isolation that can come with the role.

In this blog, we’ll explore essential strategies for self-care that will not only help you recognize the signs of burnout but also empower you to take proactive steps towards healing. From nurturing your personal practice to prioritizing rest and connection, discover how you can align your expectations and embrace the journey of teaching without sacrificing your well-being.

Join us as we dive into effective self-care techniques designed to rejuvenate your spirit and enhance your teaching capacity—because self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity that allows you to shine brighter for your students. Embrace the process and remember, when you prioritize yourself, you elevate your entire practice.

Are you feeling overwhelmed and burnt out? Visit michaeljoelhall.com/coaching to book a session if you’d like to chat about your practice.

Caring for others is often considered a noble and virtuous responsibility, one that evokes feelings of compassion, duty, and love. However, the act of caring is not always straightforward. It is a complex burden that requires more than just emotional investment. For those who have taken on the role of caregivers, the emotional toll can be immense, and the line between caring for others and simply managing the logistics of caregiving often becomes blurred. The reality is that caring for someone isn’t the same as being good at it.