Coming Full Circle with Vira Bhava Yoga
Yesterday, I experienced a profound moment on Zoom. In the morning, I collaborated with my mentor, and by the afternoon, I was guiding a mentee. I felt present in this full circle moment to be both receiving support and supporting another. It was a reminder of the ever-evolving journey of yoga, the shift into being both the student and the teacher, simultaneously.
This feeling is reinforced by the fact that my business mentor was my VBY 300hr mentor who had previously guided me through their intensive training program. Our relationship has since evolved as I ventured into the realm of online business. Now, having graduated from VBY, I’ve embraced the role of mentor myself, supporting both 200-hour and 300-hour students.
The truth is clear: teachers too need guidance. Mentors benefit from mentorship. It's in this cycle of support that we truly grow and find strength in our vulnerabilities. It allows us to see our blind spots, expand our horizons, and truly embody the spirit of Tantra.
After completing the 300-hour program, I felt an urge for independence. I'd just finished my 200-hour training, closely guided by a teacher I deeply admired. This teacher not only imparted knowledge but was also a key figure at the studio where I began my teaching journey. During my time at VBY, I was immensely supported by my mentor and other experienced teachers. But as time passed, I felt a need to explore teaching on my own, to find my voice without immediate feedback.
This introspection was crucial. I took time to integrate my learnings and experiment with integrating Tantra into my teachings. Yet, as the seasons changed, I realized the value of external guidance. This led me to reconnect with my 200-hour program teacher and reach out once more to my VBY mentor. Now, I'm fortunate to be mentored by two individuals I deeply respect.
As I continue to teach and grow, both at VBY and in my online endeavors, balancing my inner voice with external feedback is crucial. No matter where you are in your teaching journey, remember the value of staying receptive to guidance.