8 simple things I wish I’d known about delivering private yoga sessions: •Some clients want to talk more than do, there are many reasons for this and it’s perfectly ok •Some clients want to do more than talk, there are many reasons for this and its perfectly ok •This may be the only time they…
Pain is a complex and multifaceted experience that extends far beyond a mere physical sensation. To fully comprehend and address the complexities of pain, the biopsychosocial model provides a comprehensive framework. This model recognizes that pain is multi factorial and influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors and emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach…
One of the most common questions I am asked as a yoga teacher peer mentor is about expanding into teaching regular private sessions and client retention. Teaching a one-off session isn’t difficult, retaining returning weekly, fortnightly or monthly clients requires a whole different skill set. So let’s start at with the basics to put in…
Pain can always cause us concern, but often the words of our doctor, physiotherapist or even friends can cultivate more alarm. The words ‘degeneration’ and ‘herniation’ are the most common when we have pursued imagery of the spine. They can be very daunting and the use of, impact and associated qualities of these words can…
Still in pain a year or more later? Still in pain after pills, meds, injections, operations, massages, treatments and interventions? To treat pain we need to understand it. We need to let go of ideas of a single cure or that a combination of certain ideas may find the perfect mix to resolve it and…
Ever been told strengthening your core will help your bad back ? Correcting your posture will solve that stiff neck or even working on your pelvic tilt will help your pain? These are all well disproven, old fashioned movement myths with no supporting evidence. In fact red flags should pop up when ever we hear…
Yoga has been repackaged by the west to look luxe, aspirational and effortless but when it comes to meditation realities this image could not be more misleading and is why meditation can feel so difficult and full of disappointments. It is also often confused with mindfulness, seeing the words used interchangeably. Practicing mindfulness is bringing…
Neutral isn’t a magical land where injury doesn’t occur. Neutral isn’t a unique zone where you are bulletproof and protected. Neutral isn’t a special place of safety where movement is executed perfectly. Neutral is not a rare sought after unicorn but it is absolutely a myth. Neutral simply cannot exist. If you accept our bodies…
It is a common misconception that more of anything is ‘better’. However, when it comes to exercise and indeed yoga, there is a strong case for less is more. Pushing into shapes and poses on the yoga mat can be a counter productive stress signal to the body, whereas backing off, building your stretch tolerance…
What does a yoga teacher actually need to know about anatomy that has useful connections and practical applications to the reality of teaching? I am very guilty of over learning, overly pursuing advanced anatomy, courses for physios and deep dives into fascia and cadaver work. Anatomy has become seen as a badge of knowledge in…