The Niyamas of RBM Yoga Assists

The yamas and niyamas of the yoga sutras are codes of conduct for any aspirant aiming to walk the path of a yogi. They can be applied to just about anything in life, including how to ethically offer hands-on yoga assists.

Saucha (Cleanliness). Aim to be a clean, light presence visiting your student’s space. Be mindful of your cleanliness and limit any body odors.

Santosha (Contentment). Aim to be content with the assists you offer. You are never obligated to give assists to your students, whether that be individual students or everyone in the room. Assists are 100 percent optional, and you should only provide them to appropriate students with whom you feel comfortable offering the assist. Please be content with that. You don’t owe assists to anyone.

Tapas (Self-Discipline). No matter how many times you may have taught the same students, remain disciplined enough to ask permission every time you teach a class, and only offer assists to the individuals who have given their consent. Remember that you are creating a culture in your classroom; by asking for permission, you’re upholding personal agency and ensuring that everyone you touch feels safe to be touched.

Svadhyaya (Self-Study). Practice, practice, practice! Learn from your friends and colleagues, and then continue to learn from your students. There are mistakes and growing pains in any new endeavor one aims to learn. Don’t let mistakes derail you. Remember your wholesome intention of providing safe touch, learn from your mistakes, apply the lessons, and move on.

Ishvara Pranidhana (For the Greater Good or Purpose). Occasionally, let all the positive feedback you’re getting from your students really sink in; remind yourself of all the good you’re bringing to your students’ practice and lives. You are serving the greater good, which makes a significant contribution to your community and the world at large.