How to know when to let go of a yoga class?
As yoga teachers, we are taught to embrace impermanence, right? We say it during practice, we feel it in pranayama. But when it comes to letting go of a regular teaching slot (one we have committed to, built relationships around or shaped our weeks around) that can feel a lot harder. Here my thoughts about this topic.
Yes, change is part of the path. Sometimes, we consciously manifest it and sometimes it’s initiated by “outside forces”. The question is: how do you know when it’s time to let go? How not take it personally? I’m moving through this myself. Independently of the reasons why it’s happening, letting go of a teaching practice always feel like “a loss” to me. And more. I feel guilt, grief and a sense of attachment to the community and moments shared together. I allow these feelings to live within me though. But as soon as I remind myself of the inner knowing that it was time, something usually shifts. And in the days (even hours in one case) that follow, new opportunities and deeper understanding start to land. This blog post is special to me; it’s not just a reflection. It’s a reminder I wrote for myself too.
Your energy no longer aligns
Have you ever noticed that often, you just don’t feel the same energy after a practice? Here are some signs that your energy might be off:
You leave the practice feeling drained, not refreshed.
You feel a little resistance in the days leading up to the practice.
You sometimes even feel a sense of relief when the practice gets cancelled.
Now, these feelings don’t mean you’re a bad teacher. It might just mean that “it’s time”. But there’s another important factor that we don’t talk about enough (at least not in public): finances. When you check in with yourself, make sure to assess all five pillars: physical, mental, energetic, emotional and financial. All of these factors contribute to a balanced life, and it’s important to take care of yourself in all areas.
Your life is evolving
Life can be a rollercoaster, and we are all going through our own personal shifts. Maybe you’re starting a new project, becoming a parent, dealing with grief or simply need a break. Or maybe you’re making changes in your career. If you’re working a portfolio career, you might find yourself taking on more work in that other job. Whatever it is, it’s okay to take a step back if you can’t give it your full attention.
As you know, teaching yoga requires being fully present. If you can’t offer that presence without overextending yourself, stop and recharge. Some studios are understanding and offer you a break. Other might ask you to give up the class. I know it ain’t easy, especially if you are a full-time teacher. But remember: your well-being is important. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
You have outgrown “it”
Change is the only constant, remember? We are all constantly evolving as humans, and that includes teachers. What once ignited your passion might now feel a bit out of touch. Your language changes, your teaching styles evolve, your intentions deepen and your work ethic might too. For instance, what you once considered acceptable teaching conditions might not be so anymore.
There are a million reasons why you might find yourself no longer feeling the connection you once had with the place you’re teaching in… whether it’s the studio, the time slot, or the format. And that’s totally fine! But take some time to figure out where the disconnect is coming from and see if there are any changes you can make within that space or style of teaching. Nothing is ever black or white. Whatever it is, I hope you can discuss about it with fellow teachers a/o yoga owners.
External changes force a reassessment
Studios shift schedules, attendance drops, life happens. Sometimes, the decision is made for us and while it can be a bit jarring, I take it now as a blessing in disguise. It’s like a gentle nudge, a sign that we might have been avoiding something important.
For instance, I’ve always wanted to explore more privates, corporate classes, events and special workshops. But teaching almost ten classes a week, I found myself all sorts of excuses: “I don’t have the time,” “I can’t let the practitioners down,” or “I’ve poured so much energy into this class, I can’t just give it up now.”
But then, I realised that sometimes, the universe clears space before we are brave enough to take the plunge. It’s like a sign that it’s time to make a change, to step out of our comfort zones and embrace the opportunities that come our way.
Letting go isn’t failure… it’s flow
What I want to share here is: letting go of a class doesn’t mean you’re drifting from your path. It’s part of your evolution. Maybe you replace it with another practice in another studio or maybe you take it as a chance to rest, develop your offering, you name it. Here’s how to meet the transition with clarity:
Check in with yourself honestly. Are you letting go out of fear or growth mindset?
Communicate with integrity. Be honest with your studio or community. Give them space to adjust.
Honor the ending. Mark the shift. Teach your final class with presence. Say goodbye (if possible).
Trust the spaciousness. When you release something that no longer fits, you create space for something more aligned to emerge.
As yoga teachers, we hold space for others to evolve. Leting go of a teaching slot is also a chance to hold space for your own evolution. Let go when the time comes; not with regret, but with reverence. Trust that your path as a teacher isn’t defined by how full your calendar is, but by how aligned your offerings feel. Release. Reset. Reimagine. Your teaching journey continues; just differently.
You need to talk about your next steps with someone who understands what you’re going through and could help you? Hop on my 1:1 yoga coaching program
