The Yamas 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. 

Ahimsa (Nonharming). Have the intention, or sankalpa, to always provide energetically and anatomically safe assists. Do this by asking and receiving permission; understanding the purpose of each assist; having a comfortable, stable stance; and reading your student’s tissues and adapting your touch accordingly. 

Satya (Truthfulness). Never “fake it till you make it” when offering assists. Be sure to practice the techniques with colleagues and friends before attempting assists with your students in the classroom. 

Asteya (Nonstealing). Assists always assist the pose and asana practice and should never detract from it physically, mentally, or emotionally. Aim to support your students by knowing the purpose of each assist and not detracting from their practice with hurtful touch. 

Brahmacharya (Abstinence). Assists are never, ever sexual or sensual. Always respect your own boundaries and your students’ boundaries.

Aparigraha (Noncoveting). Remember that by offering the assist, you aren’t trying to push your student into a more advanced variation of the pose. Instead, appreciate exactly where they are by allowing the pose to be as it is when you assist. If the student goes further on their own, with you as an objective supporter, that’s okay too.