Before your first private yoga session, it's helpful to prepare both mentally and physically to make the most out of the experience. Here are some suggestions to help you feel more confident and ready:

1. Clarify Your Intentions

- Think about what you want to achieve from the session. Are you focusing on flexibility, strength, relaxation, stress relief, or recovering from an injury? Being clear about your goals will help me guide the session.

- Be open to exploration. Private sessions allow me to tailor the practice to your body and needs. Stay open to trying different poses and techniques. But rest assured I will never ask you to try a pose or movement that you aren’t comfortable trying!

2. Communicate Your Needs

- Be sure to let me know if you have any past or current injuries, chronic pain, or any physical limitations. This will allow me to create a session that will prevent injury and ensure you're working at a pace that suits you.

- Mention any emotional or mental states — even if it’s right before we meet! If you're feeling stressed, anxious, or have any emotional concerns, let me know. Yoga can be an emotional experience. And our bodies are different every day! You may think that your body wants to work hard, but then you might decide that you want to slow things way down on a given day. I am flexible ;)

3. Consider the Format of the Session

- Some of your private sessions may involve more stretching, while others may focus strength work, meditation, or breathwork. It’s completely up to you. Unsure what to ask for? I will offer a variety of options and you can decide when we meet. One of the biggest benefits of a private lesson is that it’s designed just for you.

4. Wear Comfortable Clothing

- Choose flexible, breathable clothing. Wear clothes that allow for movement and are comfortable to stretch in. You don’t need to have specific "yoga clothes.” Think comfortable but supportive.

5. Hydrate and Eat Light

- Hydrate: Drink water before the session, but avoid drinking too much right before class. Of course, the beauty of meeting at your home is that you can always excuse yourself to use the restroom if needed!

- Eat light: If you’re hungry before your session, have a light snack. Avoid heavy meals that might make you feel sluggish.

6. Prepare Mentally

- Let go of expectations: A private session is different from group classes, so try not to compare it to what you’ve seen or experienced in group settings. This is a space for you to focus on yourself.

- Stay present: One of the beautiful aspects of private yoga is that I can guide you more deeply into breath and body awareness. Try to be present and mindful during the practice, focusing on what your body is telling you.

7. Ask Questions

- Don’t hesitate to ask: If you're unsure about any posture or technique, ask me to explain or demonstrate further. It's also okay to ask about breath patterns or how to customize poses for your body. I consider myself a master of customizations!

- Inquire about takeaways: Many people like to get a set of personalized instructions or home practice recommendations. Feel free to ask if I can give you some tips to work on between sessions. I’m happy to record a short video or just send a list of instructions.

8. Have an Open Mind

- Try new things: Private sessions are a great opportunity to explore different styles or approaches to yoga. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, whether that’s trying a new pose or delving into breathwork or meditation.

- Be patient: Establishing a yoga practice doesn’t happy overnight. And your body may not do everything that you want it to do on a given day. Do your best to “Accept what is, let go of what was, and have faith in what will be.” ~ Sonia Ricotti

9. Relax and Enjoy

- Remember it's your time: A private yoga session is a rare opportunity to have a teacher fully dedicated to you, so relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about others or comparisons.

10. Follow Up

- Give feedback: After the session, let me know how you felt about it. I may suggest next steps for you, such as working on specific areas or refining certain techniques. And you are most welcome to suggest things that you would like more — or less — of for our next session!

With these tips in mind, you’ll feel more grounded and prepared for your private yoga session. Enjoy the process of deepening your practice with personalized guidance!