One of the things that moves me most in this community is the companionship and loyalty among
the practitioners who practice here.
Many practitioners who have grown and developed their practice in this shala now teach throughout
the region, carrying forward the principles and approach to asana cultivated here. This is natural and
something I feel proud of. Our practice does not exist in isolation, and it is beautiful to see students
grow, mature, and share what they have learned.
At the same time, I hope one message always remains clear.
Teaching opportunities offered by studios come and go. When you are convenient, you may be
invited. When trends change or business priorities shift, classes can disappear just as easily and be
replaced by something more fashionable or profitable.
This is simply the reality of the industry.
What should never disappear, however, is the respect between practitioners, teachers, and the
community that supported our growth.
Sometimes studios, in pursuit of their own agenda or profit, create situations that place teachers in
competition with one another — even encouraging them to turn against their own teachers, peers, or
the communities that supported them. It is unfortunate, and frankly embarrassing, to witness these
dynamics in a field that is supposed to cultivate awareness, integrity, and respect.
But these situations also reveal priorities.
Those who approach yoga purely as a business will always prioritize convenience and profit.
Relationships, loyalty, and the values that sustain a true practice community rarely enter that
equation.
This is precisely why it is so important that we, as practitioners and teachers, protect the
relationships and the sangha that allowed us to grow in the first place.
Yoga is not an individual race. None of us rises alone. We grow because others practice beside us,
challenge us, inspire us, and support us.
As teachers, this becomes even more important. The reputation you build as a person of integrity
will carry you much further than any short-term opportunity. When there is trust and respect among
peers, we support each other, substitute for one another, share students, and continue to grow
together.
Choose opportunities that arise with clarity, respect, and the blessing of your teachers and
community, not those born from conflict or division.
Positions come and go.
But the relationships we build on this path — the people who practice, grow, and walk beside us —
are far more valuable and enduring.
And remember: do not piss in the fountain you drink from.
🙏