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July 17, 2025 40 mins

Today hosts Tiffany and Rachel dive into the muddy waters of hands-on assists. We discuss their complicated history, the different types of hands-on assists, and debate their pros and cons. We also talk about the importance of clear communication and consent, and alternatives you could employ instead. Listen in to hear how truly game-changing assists might be the ones that students find their way to on their own.

Show Notes:

  • Differing attitudes toward hands-on assists over time [1:11]
  • The case for hands-on assists, different types, asking for consent [4:13]
  • Can a teacher know how a student feels by looking at them? [10:57]
  • The same assists don't work for every teacher [15:12]
  • The case against hands-on assists [16:19]
  • Potential for injury [18:27]
  • Overriding students' body autonomy [22:03]
  • Alternatives to hands-on assists: language, demonstrations [26:53]
  • Is touch within a yoga teacher's scope of practice? [29:51]
  • Physical adjustment might disrupt students' internal experience [31:27]
  • Final takeaways [36:13]

Links Mentioned:

You can learn more about this episode, and see the full show notes at YogaMedicine.com/podcast-140.

And you can find out more about insider tips, online classes or information on our teacher trainings at YogaMedicine.com.

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