09/04/2026
"If we profess to be teaching Yoga, which is a science and art of living, we must practice that way of living ourselves. If we wish only to teach poses or postures, it would be better to call what we do by a name other than Yoga."
There's going to be more scribble than book as I re-read this wise gem from Donna Fahri. I remember it deeply affecting me when I first read as a new yoga teacher.
I've had reason to reflect again on the yoga community and my role in it with various discussions locally in Belfast and also as I continue to observe my own ongoing changing and learning.
This book should be a port of call for all yoga teachers I think. And we would benefit hugely as individuals, teachers and a community by reminding ourselves of the topics discussed here.
There are plenty of other books on the subject, and I am happy to report that in Iyengar yoga we re-commit annually to ethical practices through our institute, based on wise teachings which have their roots deeply in the yogic sutras of Patanjali and others.
I might post more as I reflect further. I feel there is definitely scope for more clearly articulated expected ethics of yoga teachers and studios made public in our spaces so that everyone - students, teachers, studio owners - has an agreed understanding of what to expect from themselves and each other. Rights and responsibilities. And how to tackle situations which may arise in a safe, compassionate and holistic way.
Thoughts? I'd love to know what you think, as a yoga student whether it not you teach, or as someone observing the yoga world.
