We Love Teaching Beginners

Being in a yoga class and consistently scanning the room to make sure you’re in the pose the instructor is communicating feels like yet another way to be in your head instead of your body.

As a journalist turned yoga instructor, I've experienced firsthand how the language of yoga can sometimes feel like a barrier. In my teacher training, I was keenly aware of the challenge of communicating how to get into poses in a way that's both efficient and accessible. Terms like “stack your hips,” “hinge at your hips,” and “knit your ribs” can feel like ae, especially when you’re not familiar with the poses or the Sanskrit terms foreign languag.

I intentionally threw myself into teaching colleagues over Zoom. Eventually, I taught at the YMCA because I wanted to ensure that, as a teacher, I was prepared to teach whoever walked in the room. It’s important to me that you get the benefits of yoga and that my communication style isn’t a hindrance.

Tailoring Yoga for True Beginners

At Touch Grass Yoga, we believe that yoga is for everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or experience. Our mission is to make yoga accessible and enjoyable for beginners by creating a welcoming and supportive environment. We have taught kids as young as two years old, folks in wheelchairs, and seniors. We specialize in consulting with clients to understand their intentions, physical conditions, and specific needs. Here’s how we do it:

Consulting with Clients

1. Understanding Intentions and Ailments

Before starting any yoga program, we consult with our clients. We ask about their goals, intentions, and any physical ailments they may have. This helps us tailor our approach to meet their unique needs. For example, if a client seeks to reduce stress or improve flexibility, we design sessions focusing on these areas.

2. Conducting Research

Once we understand a client’s needs, we delve deeper into research. This might involve studying specific conditions or looking into modifications for certain poses. We aim to provide the most effective and safe practice for each individual. For instance, we had a client with vertigo, and we learned that too many downward dogs caused them to feel dizzy. By researching alternatives, we offered modifications without calling them out to avoid these triggers and empower them by offering options.

Modifying Poses for Individual Needs

3. Adapting to Physical Limitations

Everybody is different, and we respect that. Before, during, and after class, we use our expertise and curiosity to ask probing questions about how a client feels in each pose. Based on their feedback, we offer modifications and adjustments. For the client with vertigo, we replaced the downward dog with a child’s pose, which provided similar benefits without causing dizziness.

4. Meeting You Where You Are

At Touch Grass Yoga, we meet you where you are mentally, physically, and energetically. We believe that you are the expert of your body. Our role is to guide and support you in your practice. Whether you are dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply new to yoga, we tailor each session to ensure you feel comfortable and confident.

Empowering Clients

5. Encouraging Self-Awareness

One core principle is empowering clients to listen to their bodies. We encourage self-awareness and mindfulness, helping you tune into your body’s signals and adjust as needed. This practice not only enhances your yoga experience but also promotes overall well-being.

6. Offering Continuous Support

Our support doesn’t end with the yoga session. We provide ongoing guidance and resources to help you continue your practice safely and effectively. Whether through follow-up consultations or personalized yoga plans, we are committed to your journey of growth and wellness.

At Touch Grass Yoga, teaching to the midline is just the beginning. Our deeply personalized approach ensures that every beginner feels supported and empowered. We create a safe and effective yoga practice tailored to your unique needs by consulting with clients, conducting research, and modifying poses. We meet you where you are, honoring the expertise of your body and using our curiosity and knowledge to offer the best possible support. Join us at Touch Grass Yoga and discover a practice that aligns with you.