Meeting the Yoga Teacher Within

By Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

In Yoga, and in some realms of psychology, there are names for the teacher within each of us. Some people refer to the inner self as, “The Observer” or “The Witness.” Yet, how can we be sure that the voice we are listening to is the right one? The Observer is, in fact, your inner Yoga teacher. The inner teacher has to be impartial when making decisions.

One way to tap into your inner Yoga teacher is to mindfully consider an action before taking it. Do you have second thoughts about this decision? Does it make you feel unsettled when you consider the results of your potential action? These questions should be considered any time we have time to weigh up our decision-making process.

This does not apply to instant decisions that may concern instant actions. One example of this would be when driving a car. The rules of the road are designed for the safety of all. This includes drivers and pedestrians. Therefore, there should be no long, drawn out decision-making process, when facing a Stop sign.

With that said – when we have time to make a decision, our decision should be the “right” one; and hopefully, we will not do harm to anyone or ourselves. The Yoga teacher, within each of us, takes actions, based upon logic and intuition. Many times, these feelings of intuition let us know if we are taking the right action. Some people may refer to this intuition as a “gut” feeling.

When faced with a decision that is difficult to make, there is a method which will help you communicate to the Yoga teacher within. One example of this is to create a “mind map.” You will need a pen and at least one piece of paper. At the center of the paper, write down the problem. Surrounding this perceived problem, write every possible solution – no matter how ridiculous.

Generally speaking, you will find one, or more, solutions that can be combined toward an optimum resolution. Usually, the best decisions are non-harming to all the parties involved. Showing compassion and avoiding judgment are extremely difficult for some people.

Terms such as, “The Witness” or “The Observer” are commonly used in Yoga. Yet, it is hard to make an important personal decision as an observer. Yoga training enters into every facet of our lives. It takes time, practice, self-analysis, and the ability to truly know one’s self to reach the inner Yoga teacher.

© Copyright 2010 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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