This morning I gave a private to a young man who was just discovering Krishnamacharya style yoga. He had done many years of Iyengar Style and Ashtanga Yoga, but was just discovering the comprehensive nature of Krishnamacharya's teachings. We discussed the 5 layers of the human system (physical, breath, mental, personality and emotional). We talked about how all 5 layers would eventually be strong and flexible- not just the physical. He analyzed himself as strong in some layers and wanting to know how to work with the other layers. Obviously, asana is a wonderful tool for working on the physical, but what should he do for the personality and emotional layers? I gave him some general ideas about how we work on the other layers with specific tools like pranayama, chanting and meditation. We wrote a practice together based on his goals and the needs that I could see for him. Although it will most likely be a more gentle practice than his usual asana based practice, by adding the subtle tools like pranayama, chanting and meditation- he will go much more deeply into his practice. I anticipate very good results and will see him one more time before he leaves for the holiday. Working with private students is the most enjoyable part of my job. To look at another human and be able to assist them to alleviate their own suffering is an amazing thing.

Today is the first day after Sanga. I am tired and energized at the same time! Lesson number 1, don't take on a week of training by yourself. More than one teacher is needed for long periods of study. Lesson number 2, choose carefully who is in the advanced studies group. A student must be very stable to receive the advanced teachings. I was so happy to find that most of the students chosen were receptive, open, ready and willing to learn and grow. Lesson number 3, go with the flow. I had a general plan for the training but allowed myself a wide latitude for speeding up to jam through information, taking time to do a practice to apply the teachings and processing and checking in with students.

THe first official Sanga of my advanced students begins today. I hardly slept last night thinking of how it will unfold. Sanga is a way to transform people on the levels of personality, relationship and emotion. These are three areas which help us to heal at a much deeper level than do yoga postures or breathing techniques. I am sure the students have no idea. They are thinking they are coming to Lake Arrowhead to learn "techniques" they can use when teaching yoga. Yes, they are learning techniques- but this is not the purpose of Sanga. Sanga is about a group of like-minded people with similar goals that want to transform their personalities flaws, emotions and learn how to be comfortable in relationship. I am excited and scared to begin this new path with my students, knowing that I too will be transformed in the process.