Embodied Health

Denver Clark, C-IAYT Yoga Therapist, E-RYT500, Licensed massage therapist

The world is changing, more and more people are living with an awareness of their trauma and anxiety and now more than ever it is important to consider the words we use and their influence on those around us. Expanding your vocabulary not only allows more students to feel comfortable in your space, but shows your knowledge of Yoga (job security!) and improves your relationships with everyone you interact with (spouses included). Below are 3 common words and phrases that are becoming outdated in the yoga space as well as some ideas on what you can say instead.

1. Toxins/Detox – I’m about to date myself, but when I hear the word “toxic,” I think of the barrels of glowing, green nuclear waste in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle movie, and I know I’m not alone. This word often comes with negative connotations. It’s also a common misconception that our body needs help removing “toxins.” The truth is that our body is extremely intelligent and if treated well, it will automatically excrete metabolic wastes (the correct anatomical term) on its own. This is why we have kidneys and sweat, for example. When teachers refer to “removing toxins” in the body, there is an implication that our bodies are dirty things that need to be cleansed. In addition to using outdated and incorrect terminology, we have the potential to trigger negative body image with our students. The truth is that a large percentage of students drawn to the yoga space are already dealing with body image, body dysmorphia and/or disordered eating. As teachers, we have a responsibility to turn the attention away from the ideas that our body needs to be fixed or cleansed of toxic material.

Instead, we can use uplifting phrases like: “this practice promotes healthy digestion,” “help your body find its balance,” or “reconnect with the wisdom of your body.”

2. Tone/Sculpt – When we use these words that come from the fitness world, we are straying away from the true embodiment of yoga. Yes, yoga affects our physical body (and can even change its shape) but traditional yoga includes so much more than this. If we jump on the trend of using Asana to achieve a certain shape or physique, we are doing a disservice to our industry. There is a time and place for “toning and sculpting” and that is in the gym when we are exercising. True yoga however, is not exercise. True yoga promotes a union of body, breath, mind and soul.

Instead of these words, we can use words such as “strengthen, lengthen, empower, align, balance” and more. These words have multiple meanings and can be applied not only to the body, but to the mind as an extension of the practice.

3. The Full expression of the pose– I love how inclusive the yoga space is becoming and this phrase is definitely one that is becoming very outdated.  When a teacher uses this phrase, it implies that there is one “right” way to practice a posture. This could not be farther from the truth! Every body is built differently and as such, each student will need to approach every posture differently.

Instead of using this phrase, we can say things like: “Another option is,” “One choice could be,” “What if we..” and so much more! You can find more examples in my article about invitational language for yoga teachers.

In addition to showing your students that you are knowledgeable about the human body, these positive statements can improve your student’s relationship with their bodies and create a more inclusive culture in your studio where your students feel good about themselves after attending your class. So get with the times and try our these swaps in your classes this month, then let me know how your students receive them!