“Relax as much as you can in the pose without losing the shape of the pose,” says Jacquie The Yoga Teacher*.

When new teachers ask me for guidance, I say, “Your own relaxation is the greatest gift you can give your students. Relax then focus.” 

Someone overheard me saying this and she said, “That’s true for parents, too!” 

The more I play with it, the more I think it is the key to everything. 

Relax and stay engaged. 
Both/And.
Shazamm!

* Jacquie teaches yoga in Seattle, so if you’re in that neck of the woods, go take a class with her!  http://www.every-bodiesyoga.massageplanet.com/