Why I Level My Classes and Videos

When you look at my classes and video titles, you’ll notice that I offer options labeled beginner, intermediate, advanced, and all levels. I do this intentionally, not to separate people or create hierarchy, but to support your safety, help you grow in your practice, and set clear expectations for what you’ll experience when you show up to class or play one of my workouts.

Safety and Support

Every body is different, and so is every stage of practice. A beginner class is designed with the basics in mind...slower pacing, more explanation, repetition and plenty of time to explore form and technique. This helps newer students build strength, stability, and confidence without feeling rushed or pressured. Intermediate and advanced programs layer on more complex sequences, longer holds, and higher intensity - things that could be overwhelming or even risky for someone just starting out. By leveling classes, I can meet you where you are and guide you safely forward.

Clarity and Confidence

Another reason I level my classes is so you know exactly what to expect. If you're new to the fitness or yoga world, it can be intimidating in many ways. By knowing what to expect, you don't need to worry about being thrown into anything you're not ready for. If you have more experience, you'll know which classes and videos match your experience and abilities. It's all about clarity and helping you choose the space that best supports you on any given day. Remember beginner, intermediate and advanced does NOT mean bad, good and great. The levels are not labeling you as a participant, but they are labeling the difficulty and complexity of the movements, so you can be safe, successful and proud of your accomplishments.

All Levels = Inclusivity

In addition to beginner, intermediate and advanced, I also offer all levels classes and videos. These are meant to bring everyone together, offering options and modifications so each student can practice at the intensity that feels right. I like to set the foundations, and then offer modifications to build from there. This way, no matter how experienced (or not) you are, you always have that foundation to go back to. These classes are a reminder that wellness isn't a competition, but about showing up as you are, whatever that means each day.

All Levels classes and videos are appropriate for people of all experience levels, who are not experiencing any current joint or muscle pain or injury.

Are Classes and Home Workout Videos Right For You?

With safety, expectations and clarity in mind, before starting any new live group classes or video workouts, first ask yourself if this is the right method for you to reach your goals. If you've never participated in any organized exercise program, or if you have a condition that limits your mobility, you might benefit from private sessions before starting a group or pre-recorded program. Not only will this help you fine tune your form, understand the importance of breathing properly, get comfortable with foundational exercises and learn proper modifications, but it will also give you the confidence to succeed if you choose to workout on your own.

The Beginner’s Mind

From a Zen perspective, there’s a beautiful teaching called shoshin, or “beginner’s mind.” It’s the idea of approaching practice (and life itself) as if you're seeing it for the first time, with openness, curiosity and a lack of preconceptions, no matter how experienced we are. A beginner’s mind is humble, willing to learn and free from the ego that says “I already know this.”

Even if you've been practicing yoga or committed to a workout program for years, there's real value in stepping into a beginner class or clicking on that beginner video with this mindset. You might rediscover small details, refine your alignment, or notice something new about your breath or body. Often, it’s in the so-called “simple” practices where the deepest insights and breakthroughs arise.

Discover Something New

Leveling classes is about creating clarity, safety, confidence and growth. Whether you’re stepping into your very first class or deepening a long-standing practice, the most important thing you can bring with you is your beginner’s mind. Be open, curious, and ready to discover something new.