Karuna: The Yoga-Minded Teacher

The purpose of this study was to observe university teachers who practice yoga outside of the classroom and explore how they interact with and care for their students. Following observations and interviews of these yoga minded teachers, patterns emerged regarding these teachers’ intentions in relation to presence and care. They were dialogical, cared for their students, and allowed their practice of presence to carry into other areas of their lives, including teaching. This research also illuminated a lens for applying what was seen from these teachers using a structural image focused on mountains and valleys of the physical practice of yoga as outlined by YogaFit. Finally, this study provided thematic conclusions related to teaching during a pandemic and further potential applications regarding the easing of trauma