• Check in, centering, balanced hatha yoga set considering contraindications, relaxation (with imagery as appropriate),
• Balanced pranayama considering contraindications, meditation/centering.
• Include at least one suggestion from Karma, Bhakti, Raja, or Jnana Yoga tailored for this client.

DD was asked to practice 3-Part Breath for five minutes daily, engage in gentle pendulum arm movements once per day, and use a simple grounding technique (feet on the floor with slow exhalation) during moments of stress or overwhelm.

The session focused on establishing safety, rapport, and nervous system orientation. Grounding practices were introduced to support present-moment awareness and choice. Dirga Pranayama was practiced to expand breath capacity and gently re-engage bodily sensation. Gentle, breath-led pendulum movements and supine arm sweeps were explored within pain-free range to begin reintroducing safe shoulder movement. The session concluded with a short guided relaxation emphasizing containment and ease.

DD demonstrated initial guardedness in the shoulder and upper body but showed noticeable softening as the session progressed. She responded positively to breath-based practices and reported feeling calmer and more settled by the end of the session. She was able to identify areas of tension and expressed appreciation for the slow, non-demanding approach.

In this initial session, I focused on establishing safety, rapport, and client autonomy. I was mindful to pace the session slowly and emphasize choice to avoid overwhelming DD, given her freeze response and high stress levels. I observed that breath-led grounding practices were effective in supporting regulation. I intentionally limited physical demands and maintained a trauma-informed approach. Moving forward, I will continue to refine my cues to further support nervous system orientation and deepen the client’s sense of safety.

The next session will continue to prioritize nervous system safety and regulation while gently expanding DD’s awareness of her shoulder and upper body. Breath-based grounding practices will be reinforced, and movement will remain slow and exploratory to avoid triggering protective guarding. The focus will shift toward noticing patterns of physical and emotional holding in the shoulder area, introducing gentle yogic movements that invite curiosity rather than change. Care will be taken to assess DD’s response to home practices and adjust pacing accordingly.