Introduction
Yoga combines breathing and spiritual practices, meditation, and ethical principles. Among the principles, one can find the importance of the student-teacher relationship. While yoga emphasizes intrapersonal relationships, it also stresses the essence of interpersonal connections. In this case, the practices focus on internal and external forces.
In the context of student-teacher relationships, a teacher is responsible for mentoring the learner by navigating them through challenges and teaching them lessons that can contribute to the student’s growth. However, although the ethics of student-teacher relationships are founded on feedback and instruction on the path to mastering yoga, many issues can be found in such a connection, including those of power, authority, and trust.
The Principles of Student-Teacher Relationships
Ahimsa
The first principle that can be found in the student-teacher relationship is called ahimsa. Konecki says, “Ahimsa is about not hurting others or ourselves” (2634). The given concept emphasizes the importance of the student’s ability to explore the world and the essence of yoga and deepen their understanding without being physically or mentally harmed (Konecki 2634).
The teacher ensures students fulfill their potential by creating a safe and supportive environment. This way, the students will feel safe and fearless and encouraged to explore further. Nevertheless, such a process can be impeded when the teacher holds too much authority, stifling the creativity and motivation of the learners.
Satya
Another essential aspect of student-teacher relationships is founded on the principle of satya, or truthfulness. Yulianti says, “Truthfulness is very important in building good character in which divine qualities will develop as the foundation to lead one to become a wise person” (2). The given principle emphasizes the importance of honesty and transparency in all aspects of life, including student-teacher relationships.
On the one hand, a teacher will be expected to show qualifications, experience, and intentions. Moreover, teachers will have to remain truthful about their shortcomings and weaknesses. On the other hand, students will have to remain truthful about their progress. As a result, this principle demonstrates the necessity of being open with each other when discussing the connection between the teacher and student.
Asteya
Furthermore, the principle that strengthens the student-teacher relationships and facilitates student growth and progress is the one of asteya. The principle of asteya means non-stealing and honesty, which is integral in society (Albuquerque 117). When delving deeper into this principle, one can see that its significance lies in protecting a student’s trust, which a teacher can violate if they have their interests at heart.
Through this concept, teachers are expected to be honest about their expectations and intentions while respecting the students’ boundaries and autonomy. Moreover, teachers should avoid taking advantage of their students’ vulnerability. Thus, the principle is integral to building deep connections with students and respecting their rights to make decisions.
Aparigraha
The last aspect that governs the student-teacher relationship is based on the principle of aparigraha. The given concept means non-attachment, which is seen through a focus on spiritual growth rather than a focus on material goods and power (Bhatt and Bhatt 47). With the help of this principle, a teacher’s responsibility is to steer the student toward spirituality and deeper goals of yoga instead of attachment to material possessions, power, or status.
Consequently, the teacher should aim to reduce their desire for control and power over the student. Here, the goal should be to mentor and guide the person toward their growth and progress. Overall, one can see that without these principles in student-teacher relationships, it would be pretty challenging for a student to advance and for a teacher to help provide results.
Conclusion
Hence, although criticism and guidance on the road to learning yoga are the cornerstones of student-teacher interactions’ ethics, numerous problems might arise in a relationship of this type, including concerns of power, authority, and trust. Ahimsa is the primary principle that governs interactions between students and teachers. The suggested idea underlines how crucial it is for students to learn more about the world and the philosophy of yoga without suffering any bodily or mental harm.
Relationships between students and teachers are also based on Satya or sincerity. The concept above highlights the value of truthfulness and openness in all facets of life, including interactions between students and teachers. The asteya concept promotes student growth and advancement while solidifying ties between students and teachers.
Looking more closely at this concept, it becomes clear that its importance resides in preserving a student’s confidence. The aparigraha principle determines the last factor that affects student-teacher interaction. The phrase refers to non-attachment, which is demonstrated by putting more of an emphasis on spiritual development than on worldly possessions.
Works Cited
Albuquerque, Daniel. “Jurisprudence: Critique of Gandhi’s Legal Activism in the Framework of Hegel’s Historical Dialectic.” IBA Journal of Management & Leadership, vol. 11, no. 1, 2019, pp. 113-127. Web.
Bhatt, Siddheshwar Rameshwar, and Siddheshwar Rameshwar Bhatt. “Aparigraha—As a Mode of Balanced Life.” Jainism for a New World Order, 2021, pp. 47-51. Web.
Konecki, Krzysztof T. “Who Am I When I Am Teaching? Self in Yoga Practice.” The Qualitative Report, vol. 27, no. 11, 2022, pp. 2623-2658. Web.
Yulianti, Ni Ketut Dewi, Ni Wayan Ardini, and I. Komang Darmayuda. “Wisdom to attain happiness in Vedic culture perspective.” Linguistics and Culture Review, vol. 7, no. 1, 2023, pp. 1-8. Web.