1. What’s your favorite part of your work?
The insistence of presence, both mine and my students. I teach well when I am absolutely fully awake in the moment with my students. That is the job: be present and invite — even insist on — presence. I joke that I am merely an alarm clock, meandering through a room of yogis saying “wake up!” and “are you here?” and “and now…”
2. What’s your least favorite part of your work?
Witnessing the confusion and fear that the practice of yoga inevitably uncovers. Happily, it is usually followed by insight and transformation.
3. What still excites you and keeps you engaged with teaching yoga?
First and still, my own practice, thankfully. I am often delighted by new discoveries in daily practice. I am also deeply grateful for the obstacles that arise as time marches on (translation: as I age) because the clarity that it is all about surrender and acceptance, rather than achievement or advancement, is utterly clear.
4. If you didn’t teach yoga, what else would you do?
Something with more time outdoors! It is clear my dharma this go around is to teach; though as I look back the message is not really the content. When I taught modern dance at the Martha Graham Center in the 80s, or lead movement awareness groups in the early 90s, or yoga ever since–the “what” is not the point. I am inviting people to awaken to the moment and fully express themselves, without judgement or fear. Any number of activities bring us to a quality of attention that honors each incredible, fleeting moment. Who knows what I’ll be doing 10 years?
5. What are you excited about learning next?
When I was a teenager I was a geeky birdwatcher.. and its back! I love watching the miracle of flight, the fierceness of parenting, and the timeless and innate knowing of a flock winging onwards in the great evolutionary pull of migration.
6. What’s your finest advice for a newer teacher?
Practice. Go slow. Practice. Find a great teacher and stick with them. Practice. Be surprised. Practice. Practice. Practice.
7. Evolutionary biology or God(s)?
Yes. Evolution is proof that spirit endures. Thank God!!