“I am not flexible,” “I can't sit still and quiet my mind,” “I would look silly,” “I might hurt myself,” “I have an injury and am in pain,” and the list goes on and on …
Yes, I have heard them all as an instructor. Admittedly, I have even experienced these same feelings at one time or another.
The research, the testimonials, the experiences, testify to the benefits of yoga. Yet, you hesitate. It's understandable to feel overwhelmed as a new student in a typical class setting, with teachers leading you into poses your body is just not ready for. It feels impossible trying to keep up with the class, and you leave feeling defeated and ego in hand.
“There is always a way,” my teacher would say. For some, private sessions are the way. Meet several of my current private students who share their stories:
John B.
Yes, I am known as a professional procrastinator, I have been observing, reading and talking about this practice called yoga. From what I could understand there are many physical and health benefits from this ancient art. My main interest and curiosity was the possibility of slowing my thoughts down to a point where I actually felt present and the pure calmness of being in the moment. Like most people today, I am extremely distracted by the current technology demands for instant response and overload of information.With all this said, and the desire to try yoga, I was reluctant due to my age, inflexibility, a male in a female-dominate setting, and simply making a fool of myself in a group class with experienced people. Of course, I know it doesn’t really matter what others may think, but for me it was a roadblock.
Then one day by accident I met Rachel at a neighborhood party. As casual conversations go, we began talking about what we did for a living and she informed me of her yoga practice. What really caught my interest was her private lessons, especially the convenience of actually meeting me at my desired location. OK, I thought to myself, there are no excuses now for putting off this venture I have been mulling around in my head for what feels like forever. Her calm demeanor and nonjudgmental attitude was the closer for me even though it took me about a month to call her and set up an appointment.
My first session was a little awkward, due not to Rachel, but me being self-conscious of my ability to execute the practice of yoga. With Rachel’s patience, knowledge, and encouragement she got me through the first session where I actually gained a little confidence and sense of well-being. We have now been together for a few months and "the flow" as she calls it, is happening. Private lessons have allowed me to learn this art at a faster rate, and given me the confidence to participate in a group one day.
Today I feel stronger, slightly more flexible and have a new tool in my life box to calm my brain down to a peaceful, present state. For anyone out there dragging their feet due to age, gender, physical abilities or being overly self-conscious, private lessons is your answer.
Rae & Bob S.
I injured my neck in 2015, and as a result, had constant shoulder and back pain. Physical therapy, dry needling, chiropractors, and massage offered little relief. It felt as though my actual body was freezing up. My massage therapist suggested I should try yoga with Rachel since my back was just one giant knot.
A few days later my husband and I had our first session with Rachel and the effects were immediate! After four weeks of instruction with Rachel we both feel so much better in our bodies. Rachel has taught us how to relieve and manage the stress we hold in our muscles. Every time we have a session with Rachel, we feel better than the time before. I would recommend Rachel to everyone. Yoga really can be life changing!
Stephen R.
As a 60 year old tennis player, I was battling injuries to my hip and shoulder, and also had nagging lower back issues. I was thinking that my tennis days might be coming to an end. My wife was pushing yoga, and I was desperate enough to agree to give it a go. But, there was no way I could handle a public class. A friend recommended Rachel and I took the leap.
Rachel works with my imperfect body, and over the past 12 months the results have been relatively stunning (for an old guy anyway). Hip pain has disappeared, my shoulder is pretty much pain free, and my speed on the court has significantly improved. For the first time in years, I am waking up without any pain. I'm back to playing singles and my body just feels like a decade younger.
Thanks to John, Stephen, Rae and Bob for allowing me to share their experiences and for trusting me with their bodies, inside and out.
We are so much more than the physical limitations of our bodies, and with a regular practice, you’ll too discover a freedom within to help you quiet your mind and allow your body to release, relax and renew.
I teach private and group classes at a variety of locations. My intention is to help you discover the benefits of this ancient practice of yoga, which provides you with everyday basic tools to help you take care of yourself in today's overloaded world in which we live.
Not sure where or how to begin?
Reach out to me at rachel@yogaflowandgo.com and let's begin a conversation. I would be honored to help you flow through life with more joy and less pain.
September is National Yoga Month
Yoga is so much more than just a physical practice and the lessons we learn spill over into our daily lives. In celebration of National Yoga Month, get 25% off of a series of three (3) private sessions. Reserve and pay for them September 1-30, 2017. You can schedule your sessions whenever convenient through the end of the year. RESERVE YOUR SPACE NOW
Strike A Pose
For now, for fun, let's take our yoga somewhere new. Whether you are an experienced yogi/yogini or a beginner - strike a pose!! It can be outdoors, at work, waiting for a plane, standing in line, during vacation, the sky is the limit. I've gotten the fun started on Facebook - now, it's your turn to post your picture on my Facebook page.
Have fun and flow,
