A private gives you the opportunity to personalize and modify to a client’s individual needs while building confidence. Modifications should be body specific and working towards strengthening the muscles in order to keep the joints safe and in proper alignment. Privates also give the teacher an opportunity to explore Yoga as more than an exercise regimen and a share some of the belief system of it.
Marketing
Private clients can be found in many places including your classes and workshops. You can also begin private sessions with friends or family members that do not feel confident or prepared to begin regular classes. Print and hang flyers at local health food stores, colleges, massage therapy offices, or acupuncture offices. Team up and offer discounts if the client books a session with you and an appointment with the other provider. Or offer the client a discount. Social media can also been an asset in promoting. Be safe and meet people in a public place if you have never met them before. Once you begin private sessions, you may even gain more clients through referrals. Every class you teach is possible exposure to new people.
Location
You will need to think about where you will have your sessions. Studios usually have you pay a percentage or a rental fee. Host the session at your house, or even the client’s house, but make sure to set up boundaries. A neutral meeting place like a park, beach, or community center may be a nice alternative.
Props
Some props to consider investing in are blocks, straps, mats, blankets, and bolsters. Some little extras that make your sessions extra special are eye pillows and essential oils. I like to give head rubs during savasana with essential oils and then place an eye pillow over their eyes. Some extra attention that they may not get in a group class will help to harness a bond that will give value to your sessions. Don’t be afraid to ask them what they want.
Paperwork
When setting up your first meeting with a private client, you should have a few forms handy:
- Liability insurance (To ensure that you are covered in case there was an injury.)
- Liability waiver yp_consent – waiver -or- yp_intro letter.financial
- Medical history yp_Yoga_Private_Medical_History_Release_Form
- Personal information (About the clients wants, needs, and anything they would like to learn or practice) yp_coaching.training agreement-blank
- Pricing sheet (Including and group pricing or package deals you may offer. A good rule in pricing is that your hour-long session should cost about the same as a massage in your area. Charging more for more experience and for traveling.)
Preparing
Your first meeting with your client should be invested in learning about them: goals, medical considerations and out about their life. Being able to create a safe environment, so they may be able to express what might be coming up for them, can be one of the most important aspects of your sessions.
How deep of a medical background you obtain is up to you; however once you learn of a physical ailment or injury from a client, you are responsible for providing modifications. If there are extensive injuries or any medical conditions, it is also a good practice to make sure they clear yoga with their doctor. Research as much as you can about any medical conditions or injuries and prepare yourself to modify.
Thank you to Courtney Snyder for providing this commentary of considerations for offering private sessions. Contact her here.
FORMS
These documents are voluntarily given as templates. You will want to look them over, adapt as appropriate, and/or have a lawyer examine them for you (if applicable). These templates come from various sources and are for you to copy and use as you wish.