Rosa Stark

Big groups make me uncomfortable.
Yes, I'm extroverted. Yes, I ask 10 million questions in any learning environment, even one with a lot of participants. Still, the average 40+ people group in a Yoga training triggers a colorful bouquet of insecurities for me. This has nothing to do with any individual in the group: I assume that each participant is a great human being.

During my training with and , I would stare blankly into a corner for hours each night, or I'd cry. Or both. It was the quickest way for my nervous system to down regulate after ~seven hours of group input.
I used to think I needed better boundaries and a clearer sense of self to avoid getting overwhelmed. Of course, boundaries and a sense of self tend to be helpful in general; but I no longer think they will prevent my discomfort in large learning environments. Instead, I believe the root of the phenomenon is sensory overload in social contexts. It is also why I struggle with group vacations, big family events, or conferences. Reframing my perspective has decreased the pressure I feel to change my personality. Instead of pushing myself harder, I now regulate the amount of stimulation, in an effort to accomodate my mind:
1. Shorter days (Thankfully, does 5.5 hr training days)
2. Long walks, lunch breaks alone, etc.
3. Hearing a familiar voice (this can be a podcast, too).
4. Keeping other obligations at a minimum when in training.
5. Forcing myself to go to bed early.
6. Placing my mat at a corner of the room.
7. Adjusting my expectations: knowing that a big group training will be as much of a joy and inspiration as it will be a challenge for me helps me go through the training with a steadier mindset.
Thanks to these tools, I can redirect my focus from negative thoughts bubbling up towards the wonderful, multi-layered information I receive.

I'm back!
Today, 6 pm and 730 pm at ; 730 pm online.

Come practice 💜