If you’re a yoga teacher, there’s a good chance you’ve been asked—or will be asked—to teach a private yoga session. And if your first instinct is to feel nervous, overwhelmed, or unsure how to prepare, you are absolutely not alone.
Even after over a decade of teaching private yoga to high-profile clients, I still occasionally feel that same flutter of doubt. But here’s the truth: with thoughtful preparation and a few key systems in place, you can turn that anxiety into confidence. And private lessons are a key revenue stream if you want to make yoga a career.
In Episode 35 of Yoga Teacher Confidential, I break down exactly how to prepare for a private yoga lesson—whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth.
Here’s what you’ll learn—and what you can start doing right now to make your private sessions more professional, effective, and aligned with your values.
1. Start with a Purposeful Intake Form
An effective intake form isn’t just a formality—it’s your blueprint.
Instead of diving into injuries (which can cross the line into medical advice unless you’re licensed), focus on:
- Their goals for the session
- Previous yoga or movement experience
- Their availability and time commitment between sessions
- Any preferences that could shape your plan (styles they enjoy, preferred pace, spiritual components)
👉 Pro tip: Deliver your form ahead of time using tools like Google Forms or Tally so you have time to review and prep a lesson that truly serves their needs.
2. Build a Flexible Lesson Plan with the 6-4-2 Framework
At Comfort Zone Yoga, we teach and sequence with the 6-4-2 framework:
- 6 spinal movements
- 4 leg lines
- 2 core actions
This creates a holistic, balanced session—and gives you a strong starting structure to customize. Use the intake form to identify key focus areas and plug those into a sequence that can evolve in the moment. Always plan about 25% more than you think you’ll need. This gives you room to adapt based on what shows up in the room (or on screen).
And yes, even in a private session, structure is your friend. You don’t want to wing it. You want to serve.
3. Add Value Beyond the Session
Here’s where you separate yourself from the average yoga teacher: give your student something to take home.
That might be:
- A written sequence with notes
- A 5–10 minute video you record post-session
- A list of curated resources—books, online classes, or referrals to bodyworkers
Following up with a thoughtful email not only supports the student—it shows your commitment and professionalism. We’ve got templates for this in The Zone if you want to save time (link below).
4. Be Strategic About Your Teaching Environment
Where you teach matters. Think about:
- Studios: often offer access to props and calm ambiance but may require rent or revenue share.
- Client homes: convenient but make sure you factor in travel time, safety, and setup.
- Outdoors: beautiful, but weather and privacy are factors.
- Online: requires solid tech, strong lighting, and clear camera angles—but offers maximum flexibility.
Arrive early or log in early. Set the tone. You’re creating an experience, not just leading a sequence.
5. Manage Your Nerves with Service-Focused Mindset Shifts
Yes, it’s normal to feel nervous. But here’s the secret: when you shift from performance to service, your anxiety softens.
A few mindset shifts that help:
- You don’t have to know everything. You just have to care and follow up when needed.
- Your student is here because they trust you—give them your full attention.
- It’s OK to pause, adapt, and slow down. That’s the gift of a one-on-one.
One of my favorite affirmations to ground myself before any private:
I am prepared to guide one person toward their goals.
Recap: Your Private Session Prep Checklist
✅ Intake form focused on goals, not injuries
✅ Personalized lesson plan using the 6-4-2 method
✅ Take-home resource or follow-up email
✅ Thoughtful space selection
✅ Service-centered mindset tools
Whether you’re preparing for your first private or leveling up your existing offerings, these tools will help you feel confident and connected.
📄 Download templates for intake, private lesson plans, and a follow-up email in the Zone! Join here.
