• 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.

MMa was given a short home practice to complete several times during the week, consisting of 7–10 minutes of gentle strengthening and functional movement using a chair for support, followed by a daily 3-minute breathing practice. She was encouraged to pause before fatigue and to take rest breaks as needed. A reflective prompt was offered: “Where do I notice myself pushing, and what happens when I choose to soften or pause?”

This session built upon the initial foundation by introducing gentle strengthening to support MMa’s knees, with a focus on the hips and thighs. Chair-supported and standing exercises were used to promote stability while allowing for frequent rest and modification. Sit-to-stand movements were explored slowly, with attention to alignment, breath, and effort. Breath awareness was integrated throughout the session, emphasizing a slow, steady pace and a longer exhale to support nervous system regulation. Verbal cues encouraged curiosity around sensation and highlighted moments where effort could soften without compromising safety.

MMa tolerated the session well and demonstrated increased confidence with movement compared to the previous session. She was able to recognize subtle signs of fatigue and responded appropriately when reminded to slow down or rest. She engaged thoughtfully with the concept of non-harming (ahimsa), noting how the tendency to push physically felt familiar in the context of how she cares for others. She expressed appreciation for the permission to move at her own pace.

I remained attentive to MMa’s cues for overexertion and adjusted the pace of the session accordingly. I noticed that while she continues to default toward effort, she is beginning to pause and self-correct when invited to do so. I was mindful to offer inquiry rather than interpretation, allowing MM to make her own connections between physical sensations and broader patterns. This session reinforced the importance of maintaining a slow progression and continuing to frame rest and choice as integral parts of the practice.

In the next session, I plan to continue building strength and confidence by introducing supported balance work and gentle weight-shifting exercises, while maintaining a strong emphasis on pacing and breath awareness. I will reinforce coordination of movement with a slow, steady breath and continue to emphasize stopping before fatigue or discomfort arises. Gentle inquiry will remain part of the session, supporting MMa in noticing patterns of overextension in both movement and daily life, while ensuring that the therapeutic environment remains grounded, safe, and non-judgmental.