I approach private instruction through a combination of traditional yoga postures, functional life movements, deep lumbar core stability exercises and pelvic floor awareness.
I am a stickler about alignment and breath awareness within the context of safety as opposed to fixed yoga philosophy. After many years of practice, we are starting to see the negative side of yoga alignment.
Traditions that emphasize a one-approach-fits-all alignment philosophy may cause more harm than good. Far too many stories out there about experienced practitioners and teachers who now need surgery to repair labrum tears, rotator cuffs and more. Just because it’s yoga doesn’t mean it’s safe. Repetitive motions, when done in a way that is not in alignment with your body, will cause strain and injury over time. Sometimes, the injury is compounded due to forceful adjustments. Neither are beneficial to you, long term.
My style is informed by your needs. I have trained to assist a physical therapist and bring this knowledge into my private sessions. Awareness of kinesiology and functional range of motion are far more important than “perfectly stylized” postures that may endanger joint dysfunction, especially through quick repetitive motions.
Testimonials:
Best teacher ever …. and I’ve taken a lot of yoga. It doesn’t matter if you are in a full class, you’ll think you are in a private with her attention and care. If you are fortunate enough to take a private with her, it takes the yoga experience to another level. HIGHLY recommend her … in fact, I frequently give gifts to people of a private session with her whether they are a novice or expert. – AK, via YELP
My private prenatal lessons with Aria were simply amazing! I felt so relaxed afterwards as well as energetic at the same time. I highly recommend her – Ghaida A, via YELP
I took private lessons with Aria. She is warm and encouraging without pushing me beyond my level of capability. I really enjoyed working with her and would love to do so on a regular basis. It would allow my yoga practice improve by leaps and bounds, while also helping me feel calm. There is something about her magical presence that is very calming. I can’t imagine there would be anyone nicer and more inspiring with whom I could take classes. – SP, via YELP
I have been doing classes and privates with Aria for over 2 years. She is one of the best teachers I have ever trained with. Firstly, as a former athlete with injuries, she understands the importance of teaching and doing the poses correctly to avoid injury. She always makes the class challenging and I have never been to one class that is the same, so it’s great fun to learn new stretches, techniques or poses every time. I highly recommend her. She is also a Doula and specializes in Pre and Post-Natal Yoga. – Jasmine S.
I’ve known and practiced yoga with Aria from the start (about 12 years now!) and all I can say is that she is truly gifted to the core. There is a level of trust I have in her instruction that is so integral to any practice, and I always feel confident she has my body’s best interest at heart. Intuitive, creative, caring — she’s one of a kind. I always feel amazing when I come out of one of her classes. She has a light that radiates from within, and you can’t help but totally relax in her presence.- Julie B
I live in San Francisco now, but during my time in los angeles I took many classes with aria. she’s a wonderful instructor – her technique provides challenge for people at all levels, and she’s really helpful. she’s also a kind and wonderful person. I highly recommend her. – Diana M, via YELP
Aria’s classes are awesome, and Aria is one of a kind. She’s a yoga powerhouse with a gentle, personable demeanor, and she likes to laugh. She radiates peace. I like how she mixes it up with varying routines, which you can do at your own level, whether you are a beginner or an advanced yogini. Aria’s knowledge of anatomy is impressive, and she’s generous with correcting poses to make sure you have it right. She has a great mix of music, which she changes up as well. Overall her classes are the best, and I would HIGHLY recommend them to anyone! – Heather S, via YELP
I’ve been spoiled by Aria’s yoga teaching and technique. My body never feels better than the few days after a class with Aria. As a student practicing for 12 years with many, many teachers throughout the US, Aria is one of the best! My practice has reached a whole new level with her. Most importantly a session with Aria can cure whatever ails me for the day, whether it be a kink in my back, some mental anguish from work, or some other wandering pain. – Kerri P, via YELP
Aria has a level of integrity and vision about what my body can achieve in yoga. No need to worry during my time with her. She’s literally “got” me, mind and body. – Kat K, via YELP K
