Leslie Kaminoff, New York-based yoga teacher, e-Sutra blog author, and director of The Breathing Project in Manhattan, explains why he has decided to stop calling himself a yoga therapist. His article in October’s International Journal of Yoga Therapy meditates on the same topic. Instead, he will call himself a “yoga educator.”
“This does not in any way mean that I intend to stop doing my job,” says Kaminoff.
“In retrospect, I realize that from the moment I taught my first group âsana class until the present day, I’ve always had the same job. I’ve just been doing it more effectively by learning how to better tailor the teachings to individual needs. I used to unquestioningly assume that my education in anatomy, biomechanics, bodywork, physical rehabilitation, and philosophy granted me the right to call myself a therapist. But, in fact, it just turned me into a highly-educated Yoga teacher.”
Off the Mat – Into the World is a program run by Sean Corne, Hala Khouri, and Suzane Sterling, that “aims to inspire and guide you to find and define your purpose and become active in your local or global community in an effective, sustainable and joyful way.”
Recently, Huffington Post columnist Verena Von Pfetten was dispatched to participate in one of OTM’s 2-day workshops, this one held at the Omega Institute. Von Pfetten writes, “And so, while I began the trip thinking I was entirely out of my element and cringing at the thought of sharing my “wounds” to 30 other beautiful people, I ended it feeling like, at the very least, I was a part of something. So, when a fellow retreat-er crawled up to my mat after the three-hour ass kicking and quietly said to me, “You did really well there,” I did almost (almost!) cry, but I thanked her.”
Hardened journalists beware! Yoga is more than ready for you.
The National Institute of Health initiated its first annual Yoga Week, May 19 – 23, in Maryland.
The press release says, “Highlighting the science and practice of yoga, this five-day series of events will serve NIH employees and the public. Participants will not only learn about the benefits of yoga but also experience them first-hand through stretching and practice.”
Speakers include Alan Finger, John Schumacher, Timothy McCall, an assortment of doctors, and representatives from Burt’s Bees, and appearances by Weight Watchers, Honest Tea, Whole Foods, and the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation.
Jan 29, 2007 issue of Business Week profiles the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India, home of K. Pattabhi Jois, revered master of the very physical form of yoga called ashtanga.“Pilgrimage to the Heart of Yoga” by Savita IyerThis article was in the Executive Life/Travel section. While the article is accurate, it’s hard to imagine jet-setting executives dropping in on AYRI: this form of yoga in particular requires a steady practice and knowledge of the poses.From what I’ve heard, the town is not exactly cushy. You rent a room from someone once you arrive, and the accomodations are basic. The fanciest service available is email and the connection is slow and unreliable. Not exactly what travelling executives might be looking for.Still, it’s fascinating that Business Week has chosen to run this article. There’s interest out there….
Why *Not* to Call Yourself a Yoga Therapist
