In the era of the #MeToo movement, at a time when we’re (finally!) revisiting our relationship to power dynamics, consent and physical integrity, the yoga world also needs to question itself.
How can we build spaces where our students feel more secure in their bodies, and where they can explore themselves in their wholeness?
As in any teacher-student relationship, ethics play a fundamental role. It’s important to recognize the power dynamics that exist between teacher and student, and any other dynamics that may exist (think of broader social identities that offer power and privilege, and those that lead to marginalization). These power dynamics can unintentionally influence the way students interact with the teacher and the practice itself.
Without going into all the dimensions involved, let’s take the practice of adjustments as an example. Touch can have a profound impact, both positively and negatively, notably by resurfacing traumas, whether physical or emotional.
What approach, then, would be sensitive to existing power dynamics, consent and physical integrity?
For example, at STUDIO MILE END, we’ve set up a card system so that participants can choose whether or not they’d like to be adjusted.
You can also state at the beginning of the class that the practitioner can say no to an adjustment or stop it if he or she feels it is not appropriate. In this way, you foster autonomy and the ability to choose: offer options, encourage self-awareness and allow refusal. As for physical integrity, let’s not forget that we are assistants to the practice, here to inspire and enhance the body’s natural intelligence, not to impose unrealistic ideals.
As a STUDIO, it's our responsibility to train our teachers on issues related to power dynamics and trauma.
It’s something we think about during our 300-hour training program, but it remains on the surface. If you have the impetus to become more aware of these essential subjects, we invite you to explore these workshops in the IMMERSION SERIES.
