What about you?
A guide to self-care for yoga teachers during the busy Holiday season.
By Denver Clark, C-IAYT
As the holiday season approaches, yoga teachers often find themselves in a whirlwind of classes, workshops, and community events. While it’s a joyous time filled with giving and connection, it can also lead to stress and burnout if self-care practices are overlooked.
Here are some essential tips for yoga teachers to prioritize self-care during this bustling season:
1. Set Boundaries
The holiday season can tempt teachers to overcommit, whether through subbing additional classes or special events. It’s crucial to set clear boundaries regarding your availability. Remember that it's okay to say no. Prioritize your well-being by only accepting opportunities that resonate with your values and energy levels. Those students will still want to learn from you after the new year, so you don’t have to cram in all the events right now. Even if the additional cash is a draw, think about your personal practice of Aparigraha. What do you and your family truly need during this holiday season? If you get quiet enough, I’m pretty sure the answer is time together.
2. Create a Self-Care Routine
Establishing a daily self-care routine is always a priority, but even more so during the holidays. Whether it’s a morning meditation, a short yoga practice, or a mindful walk, dedicate time each day to nourish your mental and physical well-being. Consider incorporating restorative, yin yoga or bodywork such as massage to ground yourself and help balance the hustle and bustle of the season.
3. Practice Mindfulness and Presence
In the midst of chaos, mindfulness can be a powerful tool. Take a few moments throughout your day to pause, breathe, and check in with yourself. This practice can help you remain centered and present—not only in your classes but also in your personal life. Set a timer for just 5 minutes, close your eyes and reconnect. Don’t let the stress of holiday to-do’s and family dynamics knock you off of your own path in your practice. Be mindful of your triggers, aversions and attachments. In addition to benefiting you, you’ll be able to draw on these moments later as a teacher to help guide your students. Consider re-reading your favorite philosophy book this month to stay grounded in what’s important to you.
4. Stay Hydrated and Nourished
With the holiday festivities often revolving around food and drink, it’s essential to maintain a diet that keeps you feeling nourished. Stay hydrated and fuel your body with wholesome foods. Let yourself enjoy the treats of the season while also noticing how your body and mind feel. Consider eating Ayurvedically in between holiday feasts to stay grounded. Enjoy root vegetables, warm teas and soothing bowls of kitchari. Remember, a well-rounded diet means nothing is off limits.
****In addition, please remember to be respectful and responsible with your students and loved ones, refraining from discussing “healthy” VS “unhealthy” foods and leaving body and food out of the conversation about health.
5. Engage in Community and Connection
As a yoga teacher, you’re often a source of support for your students. It’s important to cultivate your own community as well. Connect with fellow yoga teachers or friends to share experiences, challenges, and joys. Engaging in supportive conversations can provide perspective and relief during busy times.
**** Consider joining us in Belize for a yoga teacher’s retreat in February!
6. Prioritize Rest and Sleep
Please remember the importance of rest. Ensure you’re getting adequate sleep each night to rejuvenate your mind and body. Consider implementing a calming bedtime routine that includes gentle movement, self massage and chanting or meditation to soothe your nervous system.
7. Reflect and Set Intentions
As the year comes to a close, take time to reflect on your journey as a yoga teacher. What have you learned? What are your aspirations for the upcoming year? Setting intentions can help you focus your energy and maintain a sense of purpose, guiding you through the holiday season and beyond.
8. Incorporate Seasonal Themes into Classes
Use the holiday season as an opportunity to bring themes of gratitude, compassion, and community into your classes. This not only enriches your students’ experiences but can also deepen your connection to the season. Sharing your thoughts and feelings can foster a sense of unity and support within your community.
9. Celebrate Small Wins
Take the time to celebrate your accomplishments—big or small. Acknowledge the hard work you’ve put into your teaching and the positive impact you’ve had on your students. Celebrating these moments can inspire motivation and joy during the holiday season. In your next class, pause and look around at all the beautiful humans who you are supporting. You make a difference in the world and those ripples carry over into every household this season, grounding your students and allowing their homes to be filled with peace and harmony. What incredible work we do.
10. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup
As a yoga teacher, your role is to inspire and uplift others, but you must first nurture yourself. By prioritizing self-care during the busy holiday season, you can maintain your energy, passion, and presence both on and off the mat. Embrace this time of year as an opportunity to grow, connect, and reflect, allowing yourself to shine brightly for your students and community. Happy holidays!
