My experience in the role of an Assistant at the Yoga Teacher Training in July 2006 at The Nosara Yoga Institute has been invaluable. I was able to observe, participate in and learn from the inner workings of operating a Teacher Training, practice being of service, learn how to be part of a team, observe group dynamics, clarify my personal and professional boundaries and experience much personal growth. I felt validated, empowered, respected and appreciated by being looked to as a Teacher and being able to share my experience and knowledge.

I learned more about how to honor my needs while still honoring the needs of the group and my coworkers. I practiced, on a deeper level, Being the Witness, not being the instinct, emotion, reaction or behavior. I received personal feedback about myself, as a person and as an Assistant from people that I respect. This level of feedback, as to how others see me, is almost nonexistent in my day to day life, is valuable and is very interesting to hear, take in and notice my reactions to.

I felt deeply acknowledged by Daniel and Amba’s kind words about my classes and me as a Teacher. Hearing Don say he feels partnered with me in his Self- Awakening Yoga has been an incredible honor and inspiration to explore more through movement inquiries. As I carry this experience as an Assistant into my teaching and everyday life, I find myself filled with new knowledge, hope, motivation, more confidence in my teaching and a deeper sense of myself.