Why We Believe in Hands-On Adjustments & 3 Important Things to Remember When You Give Them
The Art Of Hands-On Adjustments
There’s something special about a well-placed, intentional hands-on adjustment in yoga.
We’ve both had moments in our own practices where a teacher’s touch completely shifted our experience—helping us find more ease, better alignment, or a deeper connection to our bodies. These moments have stuck with us, shaping how we teach and approach adjustments in our classes.
Verbal cues can only do so much. Sometimes, a touch communicates what words cannot.
“Hands-on adjustments aren’t just about refining alignment — they build trust, presence, and transformation in your students’ practice.”
The Power of Touch in Yoga
Touch is a natural way of communicating. In yoga, adjustments extend this language, helping students experience a pose in a way words alone can’t. A small shift in weight, a gentle lengthening, or a supportive press can completely change how a posture feels.
Why Hands-On Adjustments Can Elevate Your Teaching
Refining alignment through skillful touch helps students move safely and effectively in their practice. Hands-on adjustments also deepen awareness, guiding students to soften, engage, or explore new layers of a pose. A mindful touch encourages breath and release, serving as a gentle reminder to let go of tension and be more present. Most importantly, a well-given adjustment builds trust and connection, creating a sense of safety and confidence between teacher and student.
3 IMPORTANT Things to REMEMBER When Giving HANDS-ON Adjustments
Always Ask for Permission
Not everyone likes to be touched, so always ask first! Whether at the beginning of the class or when you approach a student, always get their consent before offering an adjustment. If a student doesn’t want to be touched, don’t take it personally.Know the Pose
Make sure you understand the energetics of the pose and how to safely perform the adjustment. Never experiment on your students—test it out on a yoga teacher friend first who can give you honest feedback.Be Confident
When you approach a student, do so with confidence. Touch is intimate, and if you come toward them unsure, they’ll feel it. Approach the student’s body slowly, perform the adjustment with firm intention, and exit just as slowly.
Are you a yoga teacher looking to deepen your skills and want to learn more about hands-on adjustments, we’ve got a 50-Hour Yoga Teacher Training coming up this April!
Not only will you get confident in giving you’ll also have the chance to get feedback from other teachers and us, as well as gaining lots of other teaching skills.
Read more about our training by clicking the link below and if you have any questions we’re more than happy to set up a call, simply email us on info@inspiroyoga.com
