Yoga is an ancient art, surviving centuries through the power of direct transmission – the magic of practitioners sitting together, sharing knowledge and love for life’s mysteries.
Lately I’ve been pondering the teachings of community. Yoga is my perfect practice: I love people and I need a lot of alone time. Over the years, I seek less alone time, and more community. As one wise student recently stated, “Yoga is a social event that you do by yourself.”
Everyone who participates at Studio Be is my teacher, opening my eyes to how this practice is transmitted fully through human interaction. I’m reminded by moms and dads that time to Oneself is sacred and appreciated; by folks arriving from work that we all sacrifice something to come and timeliness is important; by out of town visitors that we make a difference in each others’ lives; and by folks bringing family and friends that our time together is precious and worth sharing. I am reminded that we should never sweat the small stuff, and it’s all small stuff!
The subtle forms of transmission are equally amazing! Think about someone you haven’t seen lately, and they show up that day. Someone says, “You and De taught the same poses this week – did you plan that?” We didn’t. I can feel my adjustments as my teacher thinks them and passes my mat – and I do them. Spontaneous chanting or meditation occurs at the end of class – pure transmission and connection among the community!
This path is joyous because it’s physical and spiritual, social and individual, restful and energizing. We take and give to that continuum as we need. Our participation keeps us honest with each other, and ourselves, and makes us part of the living transmission of yoga!