140: Game-Changing Hands-On Assists: Teachers’ Series

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 students find their way to on their own.

“There is undeniable power in a compassionate touch from a kindly person.” – Rachel Land

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“Touch is not in our scope; it is a gray area.” – Tiffany Cruikshank

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]
• Over-riding students’ body autonomy [22:03]
• Alternatives to hands-on assists: language, demonstrations [26:53]
• Is touch within yoga teacher’s scope of practice? [29:51]
• Physical adjustment might disrupt students’ internal experience [31:27]
• Final takeaways [36:13]

Links Mentioned:

• Watch this episode on YouTube

“If you’re telling yourself you do have a clue, it is dangerous waters because people have great poker faces, you don’t know what their history is or what’s happened to them — not just today, but through the entirety of their lives.” – Rachel Land