Below in red are some commonly used words that convey important actions to your students. Consider replacing your “crutch words” like “just,” and “feel” words with the suggested words in blue. Notice the words in blue are all verbs. There is some crossover depending on the context. Also, underscore your verbal instruction with directional cues. For example, in Virabhadrasana II try expressing external rotation of the hip like this: “Tug your right hip under you towards your back heel.”

FIRM:

Engage, Activate, , Solidify, Energize, Power Up, Press, Initiate, Squeeze

PUSH:

Press, Squeeze, Propel, Dig, Root, Establish, Delve

PULL:

Tug, Draw, Lengthen, Pitch, Sweep, Roll, Glide

MOVE:

Aim, Direct, Take, Place, Pitch, Glide, Shift, Position

ACTIVATE:

Trigger, Switch on/Turn On, Initiate, Perk Up, Electrify, Fire Up

RELEASE

Extinguish, Liberate, Unleash, Loosen, Discharge, Soften, Yield, Evacuate, Extinguish

NOTICE:

Observe, Watch, Take In, Consider, Take Note, Detect, Locate, Identify, Examine

RECEIVE:

Welcome, Salute, Embrace, Collect, Garner, Invite, Usher In, Embody

FEEL:

Touch, Sense, Detect, Identify, Experience, Perceive, Endure, Be Conscious Of, Be Aware Of, Examine