Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

Do you work with beginners?

Yes—private yoga instruction is ideal for beginners. I work with complete beginners as well as people returning to yoga after years away. You don't need to be flexible, and you don't need to have a calm mind. Flexibility and stress resilience are what we build through practice—not prerequisites.

Every private yoga session is customized to your current body and experience level. You'll build a strong foundation at your own pace with personalized attention and feedback.

I'm not flexible - can I still do private yoga?

Yes — you don't need to be flexible to start private yoga.  Flexibility is something you develop through practice, not a requirement to start. In fact, yoga is one of the best ways to build flexibility safely and gradually. I'll meet you where you are and work with your body's current range of motion.

Many of my clients start with very limited flexibility—tight hips, stiff shoulders, can't touch their toes—and see significant improvement within weeks of consistent practice.

How do I get started with private yoga?

Schedule a 15-minute intro call through the contact form.  We'll discuss your goals, challenges, and what you're looking for in a private yoga practice. On the call we'll schedule your complimentary intro session so you can experience personalized instruction firsthand before committing to weekly sessions.

After your intro session, you'll have the option to choose a package and start practicing with me 1 to 3 times per week. The entire process is low-pressure and focused on finding the right fit.

What happens on the intro call?

The intro call is a brief 15-minute conversation where we discuss your goals, challenges, and what you're hoping to achieve through private yoga. I'll ask about your current stress levels, any physical discomfort or pain you're experiencing, your schedule, and whether you prefer in-home or virtual sessions.  We'll also discuss the logistics of working together - session frequency, timing, equipment, and next steps.

There's no pressure or obligation—it's simply an opportunity to see if we're a good fit to work together. If everything feels right, we'll schedule your complimentary intro session.

Do you work with injuries or chronic pain?

Yes — many clients come to private yoga specifically to address chronic pain and navigate injuries—back pain, neck and shoulder tension, hip tightness, or other discomfort from desk work or injury. Private instruction allows me to work directly with your body's specific needs and limitations.

I'm trained to work with diverse populations and have over a decade of experience teaching in medical settings, recovery centers, and therapeutic contexts. That said, I always recommend consulting with your doctor or physical therapist before starting any new movement practice, especially if you have acute injuries or serious medical conditions.

What style of yoga do you teach?

I teach a personalized integrated blend of yoga styles in every private yoga session — not a single fixed style. Sessions draw from vinyasa (active, flowing movement), hatha (postural alignment), restorative yoga (gentle, supported postures), pranayama (breathwork / nervous system regulation), and meditation. The balance shifts based on what you need each week. Some days we focus on building strength and flexibility. Other days we emphasize stress relief and nervous system recovery. The practice adapts to you rather than following a rigid curriculum.

Do you teach restorative yoga?

Yes — restorative yoga is a core part of my private yoga sessions. Restorative yoga uses gentle, supported postures held for longer periods to help your body deeply relax and recover. It's especially effective for professionals dealing with burnout, poor sleep, or chronic stress. Most clients are surprised by how much they need this style — and how different they feel after.

Do you teach breathwork and meditation?

Yes — breathwork and meditation are integrated into every private yoga session. You'll learn practical techniques you can use beyond our sessions — before a stressful meeting, when you can't sleep, or any time you need to regulate your nervous system. These aren't abstract spiritual exercises; they're evidence-based tools for managing stress in real time.

Logistics

Where do private yoga sessions take place?

Private yoga sessions take place in your home, office, or virtually via video call. You'll need a comfortable, quiet space to move—any room where you can stretch out and fit a couple yoga mats works great.  Most clients practice in a living room, spare bedroom, or even outdoors on a deck or patio.

I serve Berkeley, Piedmont, Lafayette, Oakland Hills, and the surrounding East Bay. Virtual sessions work well for clients outside my service area or those who frequently travel.

Do you offer virtual private yoga sessions?

Yes—I offer both in-home and virtual private yoga sessions via video call. Virtual sessions work well for clients with busy travel schedules, those outside my primary service area, or anyone who prefers practicing in their own space without someone physically present.

The personalized instruction is the same—just delivered remotely. You'll still receive real-time feedback, adjustments, and the same attention to your unique needs.

What do I need for a private yoga session?

All you need for a private yoga session is a yoga mat and comfortable, quiet space where you can fit a couple yoga mats.

I also highly recommend having 2 yoga blocks, 1 yoga strap, and 1 bolster.  If you don't have a yoga mat or other props yet, I can recommend quality options.

How long are private yoga sessions?

Each private yoga session is 60 minutes. This gives us enough time for a complete practice—movement, breathwork, and meditation—customized to your needs and goals each week. Sessions are focused entirely on you, with no distractions or rushing.

What areas do you serve?

I teach private yoga sessions in Berkeley, Piedmont, Lafayette, Orinda, Oakland Hills, and the surrounding East Bay communities. I primarily offer in-home instruction throughout these areas, and virtual sessions are available for clients outside my service area.

If you're unsure whether I serve your location, just ask—I'm happy to discuss options during our intro call.

Can I practice with a partner or friend?

Private yoga sessions are designed for one-on-one instruction for maximum personalization.  However, if you'd like to practice with a partner or friend, we can discuss options.

Keep in mind that sessions with multiple people are less personalized—I can't give the same level of individual attention and feedback when working with two or more people simultaneously. If you're interested in partner sessions, let's discuss your goals on the intro call.

Pricing & Packages

How much does private yoga cost?

Private yoga is a premium, personalized wellness service with pricing based on session frequency and commitment level.  Most clients practice weekly or twice per week.

I discuss specific rates and package options on the complimentary intro call after understanding your goals, schedule, and needs.

Do you offer packages or discounts?

Yes—I work with private yoga clients on a package basis rather than single sessions. Packages create the consistency needed for lasting results—most clients practice 1-2 times per week. Practicing twice per week (vs. once per week) offers both faster results and a better per-session rate. I discuss specific package options and pricing on the intro call.

Can I take just one private yoga session?

For prospective clients ready to commit to a weekly practice, I offer a complimentary first private yoga session so you can experience the practice before choosing a package.  After that, I work with clients through packages rather than single drop-in sessions.

This approach creates the consistency needed for lasting results—reducing stress, building flexibility, and developing a sustainable practice. Yoga is most effective when practiced regularly, not sporadically.

Workplace Yoga

Do you offer workplace yoga programs?

Yes—I provide customized workplace yoga programs for companies throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.  Most organizations choose weekly ongoing classes as an employee benefit.

Programs can be in-person (at your office, conference room, or courtyard) or virtual for remote teams. Classes accommodate 5-20+ participants and are accessible for all levels. Learn more about workplace yoga programs →

 

How much does corporate yoga cost?

Workplace yoga rates depend on session frequency and commitment level. Most organizations invest in weekly ongoing classes rather than one-time workshops.

Contact me for a custom quote based on your organization's needs and schedule. I'm happy to discuss options and provide a trial class so your team can experience the program firsthand before committing.

Can you teach virtual yoga for remote teams?

Yes—I offer virtual workplace yoga sessions via video call for remote and hybrid teams. Virtual sessions work well for companies with distributed workforces or teams that prefer the flexibility of practicing from home.

The format is the same as in-person workplace yoga—accessible instruction for all levels, customized themes (stress management, desk stretches, energy and focus), and consistent weekly sessions that support employee wellbeing.

 

Ready to Get Started?

Private yoga session in Oakland Hills living room