When No One Shows for Yoga

In the past few months, I have had more “no-shows” in my classes than I have had in 1.5 years teaching in Nashville.  Moving to a much smaller city where people are unsure of yoga has really opened my eyes.  I was prepared for fewer people in class and even getting paid less.  However, I was not expecting to have NO ONE come to class quite often.

The first few times this happened, I was very patient.  I knew that being a new yoga teacher in town had it challenges.  But a month or two later, it really began to hit my ego.  Instead of getting knocked down every time no one came to practice, I have been utilizing my time.  One of my teachers, Leah, always told us to use that time wisely.  When there is an empty class, meditate, practice, dance, or even clean the studio.

With her wise advice, here are a few things I do when people skip yoga:

1. Practice.  I turn the music up and listen to my body.  Sometimes I sweat and move to work through the frustration of not getting paid.  Other times, I do a little restorative class, and then head out.
2. Go for a walk.  Walking is one of my favorite ways to “exercise” and this is time I have to myself to listen to music, podcasts, or the sounds of nature.
3. Call a friend or family to catch-up.  I call my mom every few days (in college it was every single day), and tell her how things are going and ask about home.  It is comforting to chat with loved ones at any time!
4. Plan my classes.  Some classes I plan and some I just wing it.  When I have this time alone in the studio or wherever I am teaching, I can spend more time preparing for the next class.
5. Rest.  It can be a blessing in disguise when there is an empty class.  I can lie in savasana for an extended time or go back home and cuddle with my kitty.

 

There are several more options to help soothe the ego when I am not there to teach, but these are my most used tools.  It is very hard to not get discouraged, question my teachings, question everything, or even get frustrated.  But with the guidance of my teacher, I am able to appreciate these times and make the best of them.

What do you do when you have a slow day at work?  Use your time to the best of your ability!

 

Enjoy the slow moments; there is so much self-discovery to be explored…

Sarie