In 2001 the very first place I taught yoga was Juvenile Hall in San Jose. I was a volunteer teacher for almost 3 years. The sent me to Block 8, which was the block for the worst of the worst- kids under the age of 18 who had already received long term sentences and were waiting to turn 18 years ago when they’d be transferred to prison. It was heart breaking to see their hunger for yoga and meditation. Since then I taught mostly in the Bay Area for a family of clubs and corporate classes.
I often get asked what style of yoga I teach. This is a very difficult for me to answer but a good opportunity to describe my class.
My teaching style comes from what style of yoga I practiced the most, which was Iyengar and Forrest Yoga. I also practiced various styles of vinyassa from many different teachers. My goal as a teacher is to teach the alignment of each pose and challenge you in a way that leaves you feeling accomplished, not discouraged. The order of poses (sequence) can depend on the style of class I’m teaching and the theme or goal of that class.
When I teach a specific pose I explain with words (auditory learners), demonstrate on myself or somebody else (visual learners) and have you hold a pose (kinesthetic learners). I teach with many options by saying “beginners- do this, if you’re more flexible do this, if you feel strong do this”. This language allows the student to pace themselves and develop an awareness to the both their breathing and their body.
In my classes, you can expect detailed instructions, thoughtful sequencing, and a compassionate approach tailored to meet each student where they are.
Most classes go like this:
- A few moments of silence
- Breathing directions to establish set a pattern and pace of breathing
- Yoga poses with explained directions
- Meditation, seated or laying, followed by a few minutes of laying flat.
- A few moments of silence