Yoga Jingle: What Time is It? The Playful Antics of My First Yoga Teacher

The Beginning of My Yoga Journey

As I reflect on the beginning of my yoga journey, I can vividly recall the mix of excitement and nervousness that filled me as I stepped into the world of yoga. It all started with my first encounter with a yoga studio, a place that exuded an air of tranquility and serenity. The soft lighting, soothing music, and the faint scent of incense immediately put me at ease. Little did I know that this space would become the birthplace of a transformative journey.

Meeting Michael Cooper, my first yoga teacher, was an experience that left a lasting impression on me. His warm smile and playful demeanor instantly made me feel welcome. As he guided me through my initial steps into the world of yoga, his approachable nature helped alleviate any apprehensions I had about starting this new practice.

The reality of my first yoga class turned out to be quite different from what I had initially expected. Like many others, I had envisioned serene sessions filled with gentle stretches and peaceful meditation. However, the surprising turn of events in my first class shattered those preconceptions. The class was challenging yet invigorating, pushing me beyond my perceived limits both physically and mentally. It was in that moment that I realized there was so much more to yoga than meets the eye.

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The Playful Teaching Style of Michael Cooper

As I delved deeper into my yoga journey, I encountered the playful and unconventional teaching style of Michael Cooper. His approach to yoga went beyond the traditional norms, infusing a sense of lightheartedness and fun into each session.

The Signature "What Time is It?" Yoga Jingle

One of the most memorable aspects of Michael's classes was his signature "What Time is It?" yoga jingle. At unexpected moments during our practice, Michael would pause, look around with a mischievous twinkle in his eye, and ask the class, "What time is it?" This simple yet amusing interruption never failed to elicit laughter and confusion among us. It became a cherished part of our sessions, breaking the seriousness often associated with yoga and adding an element of playfulness.

Dawn Hayes has been my primary teacher since I moved to Santa Cruz seven years ago (in 2012). I can definitively say I have never met a more erudite, thoughtful and intellectually curious yoga instructor. Dawn’s perpetual studentship and love of yoga shines in her group classes and one-on-one teaching. Her infectious sense of humor, humility, and innate kindness help facilitate an enjoyable learning experience that is highly accessible to students of all levels.

Other Playful Antics and Their Impact

In addition to the iconic jingle, Michael incorporated various other playful antics into his classes. From unexpected animal-inspired poses to incorporating light-hearted anecdotes into his instructions, he found creative ways to make yoga fun. This approach not only changed my view on yoga but also transformed the entire class dynamic. The once-intimidating practice became an enjoyable experience filled with laughter and camaraderie.

This playful teaching style didn't just entertain us; it inspired me to incorporate similar elements into my own practice and teaching.

How the "What Time is It?" Yoga Jingle Inspired Me

As I reflect on the impact of Michael Cooper's playful teaching style, I find myself inspired to incorporate a similar sense of playfulness into my own practice and teaching. Taking a leaf out of Michael's book, I began infusing elements of lightheartedness and fun into my yoga sessions.

Incorporating Playfulness into My Practice

Drawing from the Viniyoga practice and philosophy, which focuses on practitioners' needs, breath, movement, chant, meditation, and serving others, I sought to create an environment that emphasized adaptability and deep connection. By integrating playful and explorative elements into my classes, I aimed to offer students a chance to step back from their everyday lives and embrace a sense of joy and spontaneity in their practice. This approach not only made the sessions more engaging but also allowed students to connect with yoga in a way that felt personal and meaningful.

The changes I noticed in my own practice and teaching were profound. Students responded positively to the incorporation of playfulness, expressing how it helped them feel more at ease and connected with the practice. The atmosphere in the studio became filled with laughter and a sense of camaraderie as students embraced the opportunity to explore yoga in a light-hearted manner.

The Lasting Inspiration from Michael Cooper

Michael's teaching style continues to influence me today as I recognize the importance of fun in learning and teaching yoga. His emphasis on creating an environment where laughter is welcomed has become an integral part of my approach. The inspiration derived from his playful antics has shaped not only how I teach but also how I continue to evolve as a practitioner.

Reflecting on the Lessons Learned

As I look back on my journey, I realize the profound impact of a good teacher. Michael Cooper not only imparted the physical and philosophical aspects of yoga but also demonstrated the significance of humor and creativity in teaching.

The Impact of a Good Teacher

Appreciating the role of humor and creativity in teaching is essential. Through Michael's playful approach, I learned that fostering a lighthearted atmosphere can enhance the learning experience. His ability to infuse laughter into our practice created an environment where we felt comfortable exploring our boundaries and embracing the joy of yoga.

The unforgettable lessons from Michael Cooper continue to resonate with me. His unconventional methods challenged my preconceptions about yoga, encouraging me to approach it with an open mind and a sense of playfulness.

Carrying the Torch Forward

My commitment to keeping yoga fun has been deeply influenced by Michael's teachings. I am dedicated to creating an inclusive space where students can engage with yoga in a light-hearted manner while still honoring its essence.

Encouraging others to find their own "Yoga Jingle" has become a personal mission. By sharing my experiences and insights, I aim to inspire individuals to discover their unique ways of infusing joy and playfulness into their practice, ultimately enriching their connection with yoga.

In this spirit, I invite you to explore your own "Yoga Jingle" and embrace the transformative power of playful yoga practice.

See Also

Yoga Basics: A Beginner's Guide to Yoga

Hello World: Get Inspired with This Yoga Music Playlist

Exploring Yoga: Uncovering Its History, Philosophy, and Sanskrit Roots

Greet the Sun: A 60-Minute Yoga Practice Playlist by Shiva Rea

Beginner's Guide to Yoga Philosophy: Embracing the Light Within