Ever looked out during a yoga class and thought, “Why do my students look so disengaged? They must be hating this!” Good news: those blank faces are often a sign of deep connection—not disinterest.

In this episode of Yoga Teacher Confidential, Sage Rountree sheds light on the often misunderstood signals yoga teachers receive from their students during class. Discover why blank expressions, furrowed brows, and even sleepy faces could be indicators of a truly engaged, introspective practice. Sage shares her own teaching experiences and valuable insights to help you embrace the quiet, counterintuitive signs of a successful yoga class, freeing yourself from the need to entertain or seek outward validation. Learn to recognize that true connection in yoga is often subtle and inward.

You’ll hear how:

• Students’ expressions in yoga often don’t reflect disengagement; they signal deep personal connection.

• In yoga, unlike in academic or high-intensity fitness classes, students don’t need to actively respond or engage with the instructor.

• Quiet faces, even sleepy ones, often mean students are having an inward experience, processing their practice.

• Focusing on your students’ journey rather than outward engagement frees you from the need to entertain and reinforces your role as a guide rather than the center of attention.

For more, visit Sage’s site: sagerountree.com.

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Want to become (almost) everyone's favorite yoga teacher? Explore my continuing education workshops and 300/500-hour teacher training programs. It's all at sagerountree.com.