As yoga teachers, we know that our students come to class not just for the physical practice but also for the sense of connection practicing in community offers. One of the most powerful ways to foster this connection is simple: learn your students’ names and use them—correctly.
But learning names, especially when they are unfamiliar or difficult to pronounce, can feel intimidating. I get it: I’ve been teaching for over 20 years, and it’s still something I have to consciously work on. However, taking the time to learn and use your students’ names can make them feel seen and valued in a way that goes beyond any theming or cues you might offer during class. It’s a simple win that goes a very long way.
what’s in a name?
Think about your own name. Have you ever had it mispronounced or called by the wrong name altogether? It’s frustrating, right? It makes you feel like the person doesn’t really know or care about who you are. When you flip that around and think about your students, you realize that getting their names right is about more than just avoiding embarrassment—it’s about making them feel welcome and seen.
When I meet new students, I’ll often ask, “Hi, are you a new face for me?” (I picked this up from my colleague and coauthor Alexandra DeSiato, an excellent communicator.) It’s an easy, friendly way to start a conversation and learn their name.
If you’ve seen the student before but can’t remember their name, simply say, “Help me remember your name” or “Can you remind me how to pronounce your name?” It’s better to ask again than to call someone by the wrong name or avoid using their name altogether.
Don’t Be Too Proud to Ask
Sometimes we get in our own heads and think, “I should know this already,” and then we feel too proud to ask. But the longer you go using the wrong name in your head, the longer that student will feel unseen by you. So get over yourself and ask! It’s an easy fix that can make all the difference in the sense of community you’re creating in your class.
For names that are unfamiliar or tricky to pronounce, I suggest using whatever tools help you remember. Maybe you write it down phonetically in your notes app, or you repeat it a few times to yourself. Or record it!
If it’s still not sticking, ask the student again after the second or third class to confirm you’re saying it properly. You’d be surprised at how appreciative people are when they see you making the effort.
should you use names during class?
Using names during class is a more nuanced decision. While names can be a great tool for connection, there are times when calling out a student by name might make them feel singled out or uncomfortable—especially if it’s in the context of a correction. I recommend using names to praise or encourage students, but only if you can do so for everyone in the class, so no one feels left out.
However, don’t use names if it might create a dynamic where students are performing for your approval. Remember, your role as a teacher is to guide your students toward inner connection, not to have them performing the pose for external validation.
the power of names in building community in your yoga class
When you greet your students by name as they come in, and again as they leave, it fosters a sense of connection that’s so important in creating a welcoming environment. “See you next week, José!” or “Hope to see you soon, Gloria!”—these simple gestures can leave a lasting impact on your students and encourage them to come back.
Using your students’ names is about more than just avoiding awkwardness—it’s about making sure that each person who steps into your class feels seen, respected, and valued for who they are.
the affirmation to remember
Here’s an affirmation to remind you of the power of names in building connection: I greet my students by name. I see my students.
Remember, when you take the time to learn and use your students’ names, you’re telling them they matter—and that’s one of the greatest gifts you can offer as a teacher.
hear more
This is the subject of today’s episode (S1E4) of Yoga Teacher Confidential! Listen to it wherever you get your podcasts or right here:
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