This week, I had the privilege of co-teaching alongside esteemed teachers Colleen Saidman and Rodney Yee with 10,000 yogis in Central Park, all dressed in white in the name of peace. With great gratitude to Lolë, an organization based on integrating wellness into culture – both the internal corporate culture and the surrounding community culture.
Your teach.yoga colleagues have asked me how to prep for such a practice, and I’ve come up with four key aspects to preparing for any “special” class.
Firstly, whether it’s a workshop, training or an event, set your sights high, and start preparing early – both in mind and spirit. Create a little altar so the class or event will proceed smoothly, and hold space for alchemy to happen. When I do that, my intention to serve is energetically palpable, and I’m making the event, training or workshop into a work of art, well in advance.
Secondly, loosely plan the overall sequence and vibe of the class. Comb through your books to select quotes, postures and vibrations – and begin noting them. As the time comes closer, and details and timings of the workshop or training become more clear, you’ll have options. Keep a notebook (or a portion of one) for upcoming events and trainings, which ensures that your thoughts over time are all in one place, like delicious flavors simmering together.
Thirdly, as you make your way through your day, for weeks or months ahead, during dishes, housework, shower or bath – SEE the event, feel the resonance, hear your heart and your voice, and practice trusting. Chance favors the prepared mind. Even if you end up veering away from what you’ve laid out for yourself, preparation leads to magic.
Finally, thank everyone who helps you. Volunteers, tech and lighting guys. Your co-teachers. All of our teachers, past present and future. Our families. Your gratitude might be the highest teaching of all.
Thank you for your presence here. Take it as slowly as you can this week – wake up a little earlier and charge yourself up with a sunrise.
Love,
Elena