online yoga forum

I'm starting to get a little dissolutioned with my teacher and the studio that I'm going to. It all seems a little western and commercial. Don't get me wrong, I know people who run these studios have to make a buck but ever week there seems to be a 'new' workshop or retreat to go on, a new weekly special, a all you can eat, teach, learn course to fill up our lives. But where is this really getting us, and for what?

My teachers definitely gives us what she thinks we want. We are challenged in our poses (asana) but the classes, having been their for quite a while are getting a bit samey. I want to learn more, be taught to meditate or learn new relaxation techniques. I have no doubt that she is teaching us what she knows, but maybe it's time for a change.

Is it possible to get a deeper level of teaching by going to general yoga classes? What is real yoga in the west, does it even exist?

Jen,

"Real" Yoga is Samadhi, union with the divine, the breathless state. This is only achieved through practice. The workshops and additional classes will likely give you a greater understanding of the path towards this union.

If you feel you need more, or your teacher has taken you as far as s/he can, then go on retreat to an asram for a period of time. Take what you've learned with you, and continue to practice at home.

I bet that what you learn there will less likely more strenuous asana's, or new flows, and more likely be about your true nature, your essential self, that divinity residing within your heart.

with love

Reuben

What is 'real' anyway? For everyone it is different. For me, I think it's about being true to myself and not falling for something just because everyone else is. In a yoga sense I think it's about knowing when the classes you're taking are coming from a genuine place for you to take what you need from the session. So if they're not working, it might not be your teacher, it could be you! Why not strip it back, take some time out, do some yoga at home and find that genuine place again. Then if you need more instruction then find another school or go back to your old teacher a little more centered and refreshed.