ABSTRACT
The chapter begins with a discussion of what is meant by persona, speech, and voice. Voice is clarified through a process of discovery and then crafted to express one’s persona. The danger surrounding inauthentic voices of teachers and gurus is critically examined through controversies within the yoga community. The meta-message in one’s speech is shown to be interpreted through the various aspects of the teacher’s presentation, particularly through their use of language. Practical skills like building and maintaining a clientele, studio etiquette, and professional demeanour are outlined as is the importance of self-practice and its role in the teacher’s development of empathy for students and their experiences. This chapter details the ways teachers manage and maintain an authentic voice while being cognisant of its impact. An appendix with practical exercises is included at the end of this chapter.
