I started working extensively with props in 2007 or so. Thats almost 20 years ago, now! There was a time when they were quite taboo in ashtanga circles for some reason. This is from my dear iyengar yoga teacher ian’s @ian_goa_yoga shala. He’s been at this more than 50 years and is one of my deepest inspirations. He is so far, but this love letter helps.

There are no transgressive questions.

A teachers role is to guide, not to dictate.

Learning Ashtanga yoga involves empowerment, not passive absorption

self practice. mystical experiences. casual. weird. authentic. honest.

Again: Personalization of practice doesn't impact authenticity.

Lets look at why we do stuff, huh?

full of hubris and not exactly humble

Check-in with your students, ashtanga yoga teacher! Make sure your students are getting the good stuff.

Revolved side angle on a chair 🙂

Cultivate deeper.

Honoring individuals isn't abandoning tradition. Get a grip.

Select postures from 2nd 1/2 of 2nd series
w/ a chair

Two teachers? Is that one too many?

A robust system is a healthy system. Ashtanga yoga can stand up to a few different student teacher relationships.

some of intermediate’s b part with a chair. goes great after those backbends.

Love when that vibe is right.

Explicit conversations about interventions in mysore rooms should be happening more broadly, don't you think?

some backbending ideas for your practice.

We need to move beyond rigid labels and coveteous attitudes in the student teacher and teacher-teacher world.

Striking a balance.