As our first YTT Gathering drew to a close, we had so many positive feelings and comments. Everyone had a fantastic time; we had only a few small hiccups, and, organisationally, I was really proud of what we had achieved. There was an overriding feeling that we should do it again (some people even suggested that we hold two Gatherings a year!)
We certainly always had in mind to make it a regular/annual event, and as lovely as the positivity was, I knew improvements could be made. Feedback is the breakfast of champions, and I was hungry. So, we sent out a survey to the attendees for clarification of what they loved and what could be improved.
What did you like most about the event?
One of the things that really came across was that people loved the opportunity to meet and mingle with other like-minded yoga teachers. The camaraderie and friendliness were very much something I felt. Everyone was so amenable to any short notice changes and there was a positive and joyful atmosphere.
People loved the wide range of different styles of yoga that were taught, and the opportunity to experience classes that they wouldn’t normally attend. I wasn’t the only one who went into Tamara Ashley’s ashtanga class with some trepidation but found a real beauty in the experience!
Gracious Grub’s amazing catering was very highly rated, getting a clean sweep of 5/5 scores from all! The stunning location of Brathay and particularly the lake got a lot of love – unsurprising when a group of us sat by the lake until late on Saturday, some still swimming until nearly midnight!
What would you most like to change or improve?
This all-important question brought up two main themes.
The accommodation came in for a little criticism, primarily the sleeping arrangements of bunk beds and a wish to have the option of single rooms (attendees could arrange this directly with Brathay at a premium, but we couldn’t offer it ourselves). It was also commented that it would have felt different if we had had the entire site to ourselves. I have to say, when we were meditating to a background sound of someone inflating a paddleboard, I was thinking something similar!
The other main “complaint” was that the programme was too “jam-packed”! People didn’t want less content, but more time between classes or more free time would have been appreciated. Our thinking was that people would opt out of a class or two if they wanted some time to themselves, and our teachers should take it as a huge compliment that people didn’t want to miss any of the sessions.
To mitigate this, many people suggested a longer event next time, and there was certainly an overwhelming agreement that there should be a next time. An opening circle with the opportunity for everyone to introduce themselves, payment plans and attention to how we can encourage more diversity were also suggestions that we will take on board.
What topics would you like us to cover next time?
Despite the packed programme, our attendees still wanted more! There was definitely a sense that our YTT members would have liked pranayama, mantra, and philosophy. We had some mantra during our kirtan session on Saturday night, but I agree the programme was lacking in these areas.
In particular there is an overwhelming sense that sessions should be tailored towards how teachers can apply principles and practices with their own students. Ideas such as “the power of language in teaching,” and “creative sequencing” will certainly inspire me when we are planning the next one.
Other mentions include kriyas, anatomy, yoga nidra, yoga history, walking meditation and sound / gong baths.
We also asked if there were any teachers that people would like to see. There was a variety of names mentioned, but we’ll keep those to ourselves for now! Some did say they like the idea of classes being taught by YTT members, rather than those outside of the organisation.
Is there anything else you’d like us to know about your experience at our event?
Let me quote some of our respondents!
“That it was brilliant.” – Jennie
“I had the most phenomenal weekend with likeminded yogis. Without judgement, in an environment of honest group workshops. Thank you” – Vimala
“Very enjoyable. I wonder if it could start a little earlier.” – Marcy
“A brilliant weekend with like-minded yoga folk. One of the best events that I’ve been to.” – Premadaasi
“Love it, an amazing event.” – Sharon
“My gratitude... the food was amazing... the whole thing was very memorable... thank you xx” – Helen
“I felt that the whole event was well organised. The scenery was the perfect backdrop to the weekend. The caterers smashed it too!” – Karen
