A: Absolutely! At Yoga Madewell, I believe yoga is for everyone, regardless of experience, flexibility, or fitness level. My Accessible Yoga approach ensures that poses can be adapted to your body, using props or modifications as needed. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to gently ease into movement, we’ll create a practice that works for you.

A: Safety is my top priority. During our consultation, we’ll discuss any health concerns, injuries, or limitations you have. I’ll tailor your practice focusing on safety and support, offering modifications and alternatives as needed. Accessible Yoga is all about making yoga work for your body, exactly as it is.

A: Absolutely! Yoga is for everyone, and we can adapt poses to suit your needs, whether you’re seated, standing, reclining, or a combination. Chair yoga, for example, allows for more steadiness while seated, making it an excellent option for those with limited mobility. During our consultation, we’ll discuss what works best for you and tailor sessions based on your needs.

A: Traditional yoga classes often follow a standard format that may not accommodate everyone’s bodies and abilities. Accessible Yoga, on the other hand, focuses on making yoga adaptable for all bodies, regardless of age, size, or physical ability. It’s about creating a practice that works for you, rather than you trying to fit into a specific mold.

A: Trauma-informed yoga emphasizes creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where students feel empowered to make choices about their practice. The focus is on offering options, fostering a sense of control, and avoiding triggering language or cues. This approach is particularly supportive for individuals who have experienced trauma, but it’s also beneficial for anyone seeking a gentle, compassionate yoga experience.

A: The first consultation is a relaxed, conversational session where we’ll discuss your goals, preferences, and any specific needs or limitations you might have. We’ll talk about your experience with yoga (if any), areas of focus (like stress relief, flexibility, or strength), and any challenges you may be facing. This helps me to design a personalized plan that aligns with your unique journey.

A: You can join me in a variety of local community classes, seasonal workshops, and events in the Bloomington area, or connect with me one-on-one in person or online for tailored personalized offerings. All practices are designed to be accessible, welcoming, and adaptable to your body, abilities, and needs. Check out my Local Offerings and Events pages for community offerings or reach out to me about a custom personalized collaboration via my Contact page.

A: Online sessions are conducted through a video platform like Zoom. I’ll guide you through the session just as I would in person, demonstrating poses and offering verbal cues and modifications. You’ll need a quiet space with enough room to stretch, a device with a camera, and an internet connection. If you’re unsure about setup, I’m happy to help you prepare before the session.

A: Yes, they are! Online group classes at Yoga Madewell are designed to be gentle and inclusive, with clear instructions and options for all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, you’ll feel supported and encouraged to go at your own pace.

A: Sessions are typically scheduled for 45, 60, or 75 minutes, but this can be adjusted based on your needs. How often you practice is entirely up to you—some students enjoy weekly sessions, while others prefer practicing multiple times a week. During your consultation, we’ll discuss a schedule that fits your lifestyle and goals.

A: While a quiet space is helpful, it’s not always possible, especially in busy households. Yoga is about working with what you have, and interruptions are a natural part of life. We’ll adapt as needed, and I’ll provide tips to help you create as calming an environment as possible.

A: You don’t need fancy equipment to get started! A yoga mat is helpful, but if you don’t have one, a non-slip surface works. Other useful props include a sturdy chair, blocks (or books), cushions or bolsters, and a strap (or a belt/scarf). I’ll guide you on how to use everyday items you already have to support your practice.

A: Getting started is simple! Explore my website, www.yogamadewell.com, to learn more about my teaching philosophy, private 1:1 sessions, workshops, and local community offerings. You can visit the Community Classes page to see where I teach, Private Sessions page for information about 1:1 sessions, check out upcoming Events, or reach out via the Contact page if you have questions or want to connect. I’m excited to support you on your yoga journey!