A little ritual before class begins.
Every class begins long before the first student walks through the door. It starts in the quiet moments—the studio empty, mats laid out, the room still. Once I’m confident in my class plan, my little ritual begins.
As I clean the studio and tend to each mat, I think about the person who will soon be standing there. I reflect on what I know about them—the joys and challenges they’ve shared, how they’ve moved in class recently, and what they might need today.
Is this someone who’s been navigating a stressful time and might need a slower, softer practice?
Or someone who’s been showing up consistently and feels ready for something stronger and more challenging?
I pause at each mat and ask myself, How can I help this person today? What can I offer that might meet them where they are, physically and emotionally?
A Constant Evolution
Even if the sequence we’ll explore is similar to last week’s, it’s never quite the same. I tweak and adjust based on what I’ve seen and sensed—sometimes adding a little more fire, sometimes dialing it down.
Every class is a conversation. It evolves based on the group, the energy in the room, and the unique needs of that particular day.
And truthfully, it’s one of my favourite parts of teaching. This quiet, mindful preparation feels like a way of holding space for each of you before you even arrive—a way of saying, I see you. I’m so glad you’re here.
An Invitation
My little pre-class ritual is something I keep for myself most of the time. But when I shared it recently, many of you said how much it resonated.
So here’s my invitation:
What’s a small ritual you could create for yourself before you begin your practice?
It could be as simple as pausing to set an intention or taking a few deep breaths before stepping onto your mat.
It doesn’t have to be elaborate—just a small gesture that helps you land, arrive fully, and step onto your mat with curiosity and kindness.
Because, just like our practice, the magic often lies in the small, quiet moments.
I’d love to hear—do you have any pre-class or pre-practice rituals? Tell me next time we chat, or just hit reply and let me know!
