Hands-on assists can be a powerful way to help students deepen their practice, refine alignment, and feel supported in yoga poses. However, the key to effective assisting is not just technique—it’s about understanding student needs, ensuring ethical touch, and prioritizing safety. In this blog, we’ll explore the best practices for offering yoga adjustments, how to approach them mindfully, and why consent-based assists are essential.
Why Hands-On Assists Matter
While verbal cues are an excellent way to guide students, hands-on assists provide additional feedback that some students may need to understand alignment, increase body awareness, or find stability in a pose. However, adjustments should always be helpful, not forceful.
Benefits of Hands-On Assists:
The Ethics of Touch: Consent & Boundaries
One of the most critical aspects of hands-on assists is respecting a student’s comfort level with touch. Not every student wants to be adjusted, and some may have past traumas or personal preferences that make physical contact unwelcome.
Best Practices for Ethical Assisting:
Techniques for Safe & Effective Assists
When offering hands-on adjustments, your goal is to guide, not manipulate. Your touch should feel light yet intentional, never forcing a student into a deeper stretch or alignment.
Types of Yoga Assists:
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Conclusion: A Mindful Approach to Assisting
Hands-on assists, when done with care and consent, can be a valuable tool for yoga teachers. By respecting boundaries, using appropriate techniques, and prioritizing student comfort, you can create a safe and supportive class environment.
Join Us for the Adjustment & Assists Workshop!
Want to refine your assisting skills in a hands-on, supportive setting? Join us at the Adjustment & Assists Workshop at the end of March to gain confidence, learn ethical touch techniques, and enhance your teaching practice. Sign Up Here!