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Hands on Assisting Workshop with Danielle Vaden BarrSaturday, November 28, 2026
12:30 PM 2:30 PM
Hands-On Assisting
Presence · Integrity · Attunement
A 2.5-hour experiential workshop for yoga teachers, teachers-in-training, and dedicated practitioners who wish to deepen their understanding of both physical and subtle body alignment through the practice of compassionate hands-on assisting.
Hands-on assisting is more than a technique—it is a practice of presence, relationship, and deep listening. Rooted in the wisdom of the 8-limbed path, the Pancha Vāyus, and the living practice of svādhyāya (self-study), this workshop explores conscious touch as a way of cultivating awareness rather than correcting form. Together, we'll discover how skillful assisting can inspire greater ease, spaciousness, and integrity, allowing each practitioner to explore alignment from the inside out.
Drawing from more than a decade of assisting alongside Janet Stone (whose classes can have anywhere from 100-500 students in them), years of teaching diverse communities, an ongoing study of the physical and subtle body, and her own devoted practice of 30 years+), Danielle shares an approach that honors both energetic and structural alignment while recognizing the evolving role of touch in modern yoga. Through discussion, demonstration, and partner practice, we'll explore consent, nervous system awareness, conscious touch, and the quiet cultivation of viveka—clear seeing—the ability to discern what is truly supportive in each unique moment.
Rather than guiding students toward an ideal shape, this approach invites them into a deeper relationship with their own body, breath, and awareness. Assisting becomes less about doing and more about listening—to the wisdom of our own bodies and the bodies of those we support. In this way, touch becomes an expression of presence, compassion, and trust, creating space for each person's practice to unfold with authenticity.
Throughout the workshop, participants will:
Establish a grounded, embodied foundation for hands-on assisting
Explore a support, not fix philosophy
Practice clear, compassionate assists for foundational postures and flowing transitions
Deepen awareness of both physical and subtle body alignment
Learn to care for their own body while supporting another's
Cultivate confidence, discernment, and respectful touch rooted in presence, relationship, and listening
Whether you are an experienced teacher, beginning your teaching journey, or a dedicated practitioner seeking a deeper understanding of yoga, you'll leave with practical tools, renewed confidence, and a fresh perspective on assisting as a practice of service, awareness, and relationship.
With deep gratitude to Janet Stone, whose mentorship, generosity, and blessing continue to inspire this work, and to Jody Greene, whose guidance has helped shape this practice into one rooted in humility, compassion, service, and lifelong learning.
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Event venue
3707 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz, CA, United States, California 95062
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