Protecting The Spine in Yoga Or Creating Fear?

Trish Corley Author

Understand how some cues create fear, not safety.

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Your Cues as a Yoga Teacher Have the Power to Change Students Thoughts About Their Bodies

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As yoga teachers, our words hold tremendous power in shaping students’ experiences. One common phrase that is frequently said in yoga classes is "engage your core to protect your spine." While the intention behind this cue is probably to ensure safety, it can inadvertently instill fear in students. It may even hinder their ability to trust and connect with their bodies fully. In this article, we explore why this phrase might be counterproductive and how we can better use language to create an empowering and positive experience for students.

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The Fear Factor:

The well-intentioned instruction to take any action in with a goal of “protection” can unintentionally create a fear of injury among students. When people hear phrases like "protect your spine" or "don't hurt yourself," it sends a subtle message that their bodies are fragile and prone to harm. Instead of fostering a sense of confidence and trust, this language may lead to an unnecessary fear that hampers the natural flow and enjoyment of the practice.

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Trusting the Body:

As a yoga teacher, my ultimate goal is to guide students toward trusting and understanding their bodies. Fear is a significant obstacle in achieving this trust. Constant reminders to protect body parts or to avoid actions that may “cause injury” may inadvertently convey a lack of faith in the body's inherent strength and resilience. Isn’t it better to use language that encourages students to explore their physical boundaries with confidence, not apprehension?

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The Science of Pain:

Understanding the science of pain reinforces the need for careful consideration of the language that yoga teachers use. Pain is not solely a physical sensation; it is highly influenced by psychological factors. The words you choose can shape a student's perception of pain, either amplifying it or diminishing it. By creating a positive and empowering atmosphere, you can be a yoga teacher that helps students create healthier relationships with their bodies.

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Empowering Language:

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What words can you use that empowers rather than instills fear? Consider the example from above. “Engage your core to protect your spine.” What can you say to shift the focus from protection mode to empowering mode? Well, first consider what the actual goal is. Contraction of the abdominals and other “core” muscles has a significant benefit of creating stability. Consider saying something such as "pull your lower abdomen in towards the spine to create more stability in this posture." This subtle change emphasizes empowerment and stability rather than fear and potential harm.

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Trusting Language:

Encouraging students to engage their abdominal muscles for stability communicates trust in their ability to navigate the practice safely. It frames the experience as a journey of self-discovery and growth rather than a perilous endeavor. This trust, when established through language, paves the way for students to develop a more positive relationship with their bodies and the practice itself.

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Conclusion:

In the world of yoga instruction, language is a powerful tool that shapes the student's experience. The phrase "engage your core to protect your spine" may be well-intentioned, but its unintended consequences can include instilling unnecessary fear in students. As yoga teachers, it is our responsibility to choose words that empower, uplift, and inspire confidence. By adopting language that focuses on stability and trust, we create an environment where students can explore their practice with enthusiasm and self-assurance. Let's move beyond the fear of injury and guide our students toward a yoga journey that celebrates the strength, resilience, and innate wisdom of the human body.

Categories: : Effective Teaching Techniques, Injuries & Yoga