• 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.

Practice: Netra Vyayamam

Practice: Surya Namaskar. (Client excited to add it to the end of his Tai Chi forms that he practices several times a week. He demonstrated it during our session.)

Practice: Wall Headstand

Practice: Viparita Karani - work towards 5 minutes, every day if possible

Practce: Nadi Shodhaha - goal of 2 minutes, at least 3 times during the week

Notice: when he uses one of the "keys" in his interactions with others during the week

Session began with a check-in. Client's pain level in sacral region 2/10, rotator cuff 2/10, knee discomfort 3/10.

Awareness practice

Netra Vyayamam

Surya Namaskar - shared the Embodied Lord's Prayer option with him

Dr. Fishman's Exercise: "Wall Headstand"

Supta Kapotasana - first held the position, then transitioned to Supta Matsyendrasana (option to go in and out a few times before settling into the pose)

Viparita Karani - with focus on inner/medial lengthening, outer/lateral strengthening

Pranayama - Nadi Shodhana

Raja Yoga - Sutra 1.33, the "Locks & Keys" -> shared "Be good. Do good. Be kind, be compassionate."

Client arrived to the session slightly rajasic, as he had just completed 20 minutes of cardio on a treadmill to warm up. During check-in client's pain was very low (1/10) in all major areas of concern - sacral region, shoulder, knees - as he has found that appropriate levels of movement help manage pain.

He engaged well with each practice, with particular enthusiasm for Surya Namaskar, which he seemlessly incorporated into his 10-minute Tai Chi practice he has used for many years. He shared that as his body has changed over the years he has adjusted the Tai Chi forms he has practiced, and he demostrated great presence and awareness of his body, breath, and mind during his practice.

Client stated he felt physical benefits from the practices of Netra Vyayamam, the "Wall Headstand" and Viparita Karani, as well as Nadi Shodhana.

He enjoyed our discussion of Sutra 1.33, the "Locks & Keys", and the teaching very much aligns with how he interacts with others.

Michael is an inspiring individual, who naturally practices pratipaksha bhavana as he goes throughout his days. He initially had approached me about doing a "yoga session," thinking solely about asana, but embraced what I shared with him about the koshas. I still approach each session with a bit of nervousness, wondering if what I've planned will offer benefit to the client - I'm trusting my confidence will grow as my experience grows. I felt our session was at an appropriate pace, with me not trying to accomplish too much with him.

We have not set a date for another session, but he is open to it.