Best Practices for Contextual Considerations for Positive Embodiment (Yoga Spaces and Community)
摘要
This chapter addresses the contextual factors that should be considered when seeking to develop a yoga space and community that supports the development and maintenance of positive embodiment. The chapter begins by addressing the characteristics of a yoga studio that may help support yoga student practice and students’ exploration of positive embodiment. General recommendations for the yoga studio, such as space, decor, safety, and features that generate a feeling of inclusion for those with diversity in body size, age, ethnicity/race, sexual orientation, and yoga ability, are reviewed. Guidance is offered for the training and continuing education of yoga teachers and for issues related to scope of practices. A review of language used by yoga teachers that can impact the yoga student experience and the development of a supportive community is provided. A section exploring core values and community agreements that could be considered by a yoga community for adoption as instructors seek to develop a supportive space for positive embodiment is offered. Finally, the chapter ends with a call for research on these variables in order to further validate and refine our understanding of their impact.