I will be honest: teaching virtually, can sometimes feel like I talking to a wall of tiny boxes.

No energy exchange. No eye contact. No way to read the room or adjust based on what we are sensing. At times we may feel disconnected. 

But here’s what I’ve learned: teaching virtually can feel distant—but it doesn’t have to. Connection isn’t about being in the same room. It’s about showing up with authenticity and presence, wherever you are. And yes, you can absolutely create that through a screen.

1. Start with the Human Touch

Before you start teaching, take a moment to actually see your students.

Greet each person by name as they join. Ask how they’re doing. Notice who’s there. A simple check-in like, “Hey Sarah, good to see you! How’s your week been?” builds instant warmth.

It only takes a minute, but it shifts the entire energy of the class. Suddenly, it’s not a video call—it’s your community gathering online.

Why it matters: Students don’t just want instruction. They want to feel seen. When you acknowledge them as individuals, they show up differently. More present. More engaged.

2. Set the Stage (Make It Easy for Them to Connect with You)

Your students are trying to focus on your cues, your energy, your presence—not the pile of laundry behind you or the weird lighting that makes it hard to see your face.

Simple adjustments make a big difference:

• Good lighting (natural light or a ring light facing you)
• A calm, uncluttered background
• Camera at eye level (not looking up at you from your laptop)

You don’t need a perfect setup. Just intentional enough that students can focus on you, not what’s behind you.

Why it matters: When the tech and visuals feel smooth, students can drop into the practice. When things feel chaotic on screen, their nervous systems stay activated. Keep it simple and clean.

3. Invite Engagement (Small Moments of Connection Go a Long Way)

Virtual classes can feel like you’re teaching into a void if no one’s interacting. So invite small moments of reflection and response.

Try:

• “If you’re feeling grounded right now, give me a nod”
• “Drop one word in the chat about how you’re feeling”
• “At the end, we’ll go around and each share one thing we’re grateful for today”

These aren’t mandatory. But for students who want to engage, it creates connection. And for those who prefer to stay quiet? They still feel part of something.

If you’re using platforms like Zoom or SutraSuite’s live class links, make sure the tech is seamless. The moment students have to struggle with technology, the flow breaks.

Why it matters: Engagement reminds everyone—including you—that there are real humans on the other side of those screens. It shifts the energy from “watching a video” to “being in class together.”

The Real Win: Presence Over Perfection

Here’s the truth: your students aren’t judging your background or your lighting setup. They’re just hoping to feel something—connection, calm, a sense of belonging.

You don’t need fancy equipment or a professional studio. You just need to show up as yourself. Greet them warmly. Teach with intention. Invite them into the experience, not just the poses.

That’s what creates meaningful connection online. Not perfection. Presence.

Quick Action: Record one virtual session this week and rewatch it with fresh eyes.

Ask yourself:

• Where did I bring warmth and personality?
• Where did I sound like I was just giving instructions?
• Where could I pause, connect, invite engagement?

You’ll learn more from watching yourself teach than from any tutorial. And the small adjustments you make will transform how your students experience you online.

What’s been your biggest challenge teaching virtually? Or if you’ve found something that works, I’d love to hear it—we’re all learning as we go.

Always in your corner,

Alicia H. – SutraSuite Founder