Ep 109: Teaching: Shift from Authority to Curiosity-Based episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 26, 2026 · 16 MIN

Ep 109: Teaching: Shift from Authority to Curiosity-Based

from Essential Conversations for Yoga Teachers · host Monica Bright

When you first start teaching yoga, you’re told to "own the room!" To have a plan, know your sequence, and be the authority at the front of the room. But what happens when your sense of authority starts to feel restrictive? When your carefully crafted sequence doesn’t match the energy or needs of the students in class that day?In this episode, we explore what it means to shift from teaching with authority to teaching with curiosity. You’ll learn how curiosity will allow you to stay flexible, responsive, and deeply connected to your students’ experience. I’ll talk about what it really looks like to “read the room,” how to adjust your sequence in real time without wavering in your confidence, and why this ability to adapt is one of the most valuable (and learnable) skills you can develop. You’ll also learn how curiosity fosters empathy, supports nervous system regulation, and builds trust between you and your students, and with yourself as a teacher.This conversation is for you if you've ever felt torn between sticking to your sequence and responding to students' needs in the moment. Teaching with curiosity doesn’t mean you know less; it means you’re paying attention to your students more. It’s what turns good instruction into an authentic connection and response.Ep 107: Why Warrior 2 Looks and Feels Different for Every StudentClick HERE to send me a text & let me know your thoughts on this episode! Support the showYouTube: Yoga with Monica BrightFreebie: Yoga Sequencing for Different InjuriesLet's connect:Check out my website: Enhanced BodyConnect with me on InstagramWanna work together? Book a Discovery CallPractice yoga in my online studio The Alliance (7-day free trial)Join my Newsletter for teachers below! Want me to discuss a topic? Click HERE to submit it!Become a supporter of the Essential Conversations for Yoga Teachers Podcast! Starting at $3/ month. 

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Jan 26, 2026

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When you first start teaching yoga, you’re told to "own the room!" To have a plan, know your sequence, and be the authority at the front of the room. But what happens when your sense of authority starts to feel restrictive? When your carefully crafted sequence doesn’t match the energy or needs of the students in class that day? In this episode, we explore what it means to shift from teaching with authority to teaching with curiosity. You’ll learn how curiosity will allow you to stay flexible,...

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Ep 109: Teaching: Shift from Authority to Curiosity-Based

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