Teacher/Class Profile: Rhonda Duffaut—Yoga for Balance

Tuesdays at 10am will be all about balance at Yoga Horizons. But what does that mean exactly, and why should you care? Rhonda Duffaut answers some questions…

1. Iyengar yoga incorporates many aspects, such as strength, alignment, nimbleness...why a class series that will particularly highlight balance?

My journey with Iyengar Yoga hasn't been a singular one. I have trained in Iyengar Yoga, including in Pune studying with the Iyengar family, as well as in hatha, prenatal, and trauma-based yoga. But I always return to what, for me, is foundational: alignment, which brings about "balance." 

2. And while we're talking about it, what do you mean by "balance," is it just physical aspects?

Balance is often thought of in physical terms. I work with older adults and children. Both groups struggle with physical balance on one leg, or two legs for that matter. For both, I have found that accessing mental and energetic (breath) dimensions of action can significantly aid physical access. Isn't this what mindfulness is? Rigidity doesn't help balance, but rather an evenness of effort, of direction, and of breath.

3. What kind of class can students expect?

The kind of class I'm envisioning is a fun class that explores this concept. Balance isn't merely standing on one leg. Every pose is balanced. So, no, we won't only be doing standing balances, arm balances, and inversions. I hope to go deeper because our body communicates with us. If you can't stand quietly in Tree Pose, does that mean you are having an off day? Maybe. Or maybe your hips are tight, or your ankle is weak, or your mind is with something else. Balancing poses reveal something you might not be aware of. 

4. Does this topic have any particular personal reverberations for you?

I was an anxious, high-achieving youth. Sports were my outlet, but I ignored what my mind and body were trying to message me until I had an anaphylactic episode out of the blue in high school. After that, I began watching what I ate, slowed down, and sought more balance in my life, despite a fear of missing out (“fomo” in youth parlance). Or maybe it's because I'm a Libra sign? I don't know!

5. Are there elements, in addition to what you might have mentioned above, that you hope students take away from these sessions?

In my experience, students don't think much about balance until they have trouble with it. I'd like people to learn to interpret their balance, instead of seeing a pose as great effort. Also, a lot in the outside world affects our mind and brings tension to the body. I am seeing this more and more lately. People are exhausted. This class will be a nice reprieve. 

6. What level or type of yoga student might benefit most from this class?

The class will be a continuing yoga class of rigor and renewal. Anybody who is ready to take some time for themselves will benefit from this class.