Do you find yourself trying to please the instructor?

Yoga Discussion General Yoga
#1

Hi,

At my studio it seems the instructors are very careful to encourage but to not show special praise for one’s abilities or successes.Probably it is this way so as not to make the practice into a competition.

I like to make people happy. I suppose that makes me a pleaser. I often find myself wanting to make the instructor happy during my practice. You know. Something like “what you were showing us last week I really learned and here it is.”

But then again I wonder if I am deep down seeking unsaid praise from the teacher by making him happy.

I guess it gets down to motivation. I have not gotten into the philosophy of Yoga much, mainly only the physical asanas, but now that I am having these thoughts about the purpose of the practice it might be time to go a bit deeper.

Thoughts?

#2

I’m probably just the opposite, I find most vinyasa classes too easy and I spice them up myself adding to flows are modifying poses. My intent is not to show off but just to get more physically from my practice. I’m sure some see me as a show off.

I typically have the mindset of “I don’t care what anyone thinks, I’m doing this for myself”

#3

Is your question about me or about you:-)

I don’t find myself trying to please my teacher. I just find myself.

As for accommodating, if that is your nature or your pattern or your habit perhaps your practice is a good place to distance yourself from it - be something else and experience that in order to determine if it is growth-producing for you.

#4

Interesting question. Make me think a
lot on my actions. I used to be like you,
I love to please everybody, even if they
don’t like me.

I guess things changed when I realized
that you should put yourself first before
everyone else (some drama happened
in between but that would make the post
too long ;)). Now when I practice
yoga I try to focus on enjoying rather than
trying too hard to look cool

cheers

Sexy Yogi

#5

Indeed interesting post. I do that too if I have really learned something… I guess it is a good thing to tell them that you appreciate that you too met for a good practice. Nothing is wrong with being nice… you never know they might feel that class did not go the way they have planned and teacher would really appreciate your good comment. I try to tell nice things to my true teachers and compliment inexperienced beginners. The theme for my kids yoga class last week: Dont you fell good then you say good things to others:)