Subbing is such an interesting animal. Today's class was truly an exception. I knew 12 of the 15 people in the room and many had come cause they knew it was me, which was so incredibly sweet. Class was just a blast. We worked on Lotus, which was inspired by one of the students, Ally, who had told me she was coming to class and I know she loves lotus. So we did a great sequence for lotus which I will probably do tomorrow at Still and write about it in more detail.

So class today was great. 

But other times, oy vey. 

Subbing is interesting. 

I have so many sub stories... 

I remember one time I subbed for Peter at Black Dog, this was at least four years ago and a woman came up to the desk asking, "Where's Peter, where is he?" And she eyed me up and down as if she could discern my teaching talent from the way I looked. I was terrified. She asked me how long I had been teaching and if I taught like Peter. She scared the crap out of me. I think I gave the class extra chaturangas because I was so nervous and I hoped I could tire her into liking me. She ended up loving the class and I felt like I won her over which is a weird feeling to have.

Another time, I was subbing for a popular teacher at Still. I saw a student coming late to class and she saw that her teacher wasn't there and she just left. She didn't even know me! She might have liked me! Later, when we met she realized it was me and apologized, which was sweet. But I felt like there's something strange about how overly attached people become to their teachers, to their spot in the room, to a specific sequence... I think it's always a good idea to try new teachers, to try different classes, even different styles.

And when someone subs for me, it's such a great gift. It is such a relief to be away and know that your students will be in great hands. Speaking off, I will be in Maui in a few days studying with John Friend and Ram Dass. I am beyond excited. And I am blessed to have Great subs! Tiffany and Jenny at Black Dog. Allison at Still and Monica on Thursday for Restorative at Still. 

From the bottom of my heart: Thank you!

Interesting note, though, when I stared teaching I would sub any and every class. I think that is how I got so fast into the City Yoga schedule when I moved here. John Friend was in town in 2003 and every teacher was there and they needed subs and I said yes to a bunch of classes. I got really good reviews from the students and they put me on the schedule. So new teachers: sub away!

And to any students out there, the next time there is a teacher subbing for your favorite teacher. Don't leave. Don't make them feel weird. Sit with a smile. I guarantee you will learn something from her or him.