Regardless of the settings where I teach, without exception, the students are what make the classes special.  Each studio is palpably and energetically distinct.  Many factors can sensually affect the class experience, like room temperature, the quality of acoustics, air and lighting, not to mention the commingling of staff and student attitudes.  Lunar cycles and seasonal fluctuations in available sunlight also prompt reactions, no matter what they say about Miami not having "seasons."  Each student represents a different universe, and when an unpredictable combination of people come together, the class ritual can evolve in unforeseen and potentially magical ways.

Everyone does yoga for their own reasons, with distinct abilities, delusions and goals.  Some of us do it for a workout, some do it for the relaxation or the meditation, some do it to reboot or connect socially with others.  But why doesn't matter, the fact that we show up is what counts.  But for most of us it's hard to stay focused during yoga practice.  Love, health and work issues, blessings and addictions, mania and responsibilities often distract us to the point that we dampen the divine spark we each possess for our limited time on earth.   While the body is occupied by the physical practice, the mind is often elsewhere, habitually editing the past or planning the future.  In the flowing dance of a vinyasa practice, the thick backdrop of thought sometimes lifts like a fog, giving way to stunning clarity, revealing the ineffable stillness of our true nature which can't be defined by mere titles, accomplishments or perceived shortcomings.                          

While in class, little else matters.  We can safely strip away everything irrelevant to the present moment, bearing witness to the unique landscape that spreads out before each of us in our own imagination or inner reality.  Whatever domestic, ethical, professional, legal or romantic adventures you face, you will soar if you can get yourself to let go of everything else while on your mat.  Whatever might be going on in your life, no matter how busy you are, how much trouble you're in, how great things are going, how madly in love you are with your partner or job or children or projects... just pause for a moment, and come to your mat with the rest of us.  Whatever it is, just drop it.  See you in class.