Hello to all the yoga enthusiasts in Seattle, especially those who love private yoga sessions. My name is Hajime Jimmy Ito, and I've been practicing yoga for 20 years. Driven by my passion for the benefits of private yoga, I founded a service called ONE OM ONE. In this article, I’ve selected and highlighted 10 exceptional yoga instructors who are actively offering private yoga lessons in the Seattle area. I hope this guide helps you discover a new yoga teacher and inspires a fresh chapter in your yoga journey.
10 Best private yoga teachers in Seattle
Table of Contents
- The History of Yoga and Private Yoga: The Spread of Group Classes in Modern
Times
- The Three Key Benefits of Private Yoga
- Five Types of People Who Benefit Most from Private Yoga
- Top 10 Private Yoga Teachers in Seattle: Your Guide to Personalized Yoga Classes
- Exploring the Option of Online Private Yoga: Flexibility and Convenience at Your
Fingertips
- Best 5 Online Private Yoga Platforms
- Conclusion
1. The History of Yoga and Private Yoga:The Spread of Group Classes in Modern Times
Private yoga, or one-on-one yoga instruction, has deep roots in yoga’s traditions. Here’s a brief overview of its development: In ancient India, knowledge and techniques were often taught individually in a Guru-Kula system (teacher’s household). This approach was based on a deep trust between the guru (teacher) and the disciple, allowing personalized instruction tailored to the disciple’s physical and mental state. This tradition continued into the Middle Ages, especially with the development of Hatha Yoga, where one-on-one teaching in ashrams and temples was prevalent. In the early 20th century, modern yoga began to shift towards group instruction. Notably, T. Krishnamacharya, at the behest of the Maharaja of Mysore, started teaching yoga not only to the king but also to his family and staff, introducing group sequences. Simultaneously, figures like Swami Vivekananda and Paramahansa Yogananda brought yoga to the West, where it gained popularity through the efforts of Krishnamacharya’s disciples, including Pattabhi Jois and B.K.S. Iyengar. These pioneers helped popularize group classes to reach a wider audience. Moreover, societal movements such as the 1960s counterculture and the 1970s-80s fitness boom in the U.S. significantly contributed to the widespread adoption of group yoga classes. Today, while group lessons are common globally, the traditional one-on-one format is less mainstream.
2.The Three Key Benefits of Private Yoga
According to the author, a 20-year veteran in the yoga industry, here are the three key benefits of private yoga:
1. Personalized Attention:
Instructors tailor programs to individual needs, addressing specific health issues like back pain or stress. This allows for a more effective and safe practice.
2. In-depth Feedback:
Direct feedback ensures correct posture and breathing, enabling a deeper understanding of asanas (poses) and continuous progress.
3. Flexible Scheduling:
Private yoga can be scheduled to fit busy lifestyles, making it easier to maintain a consistent practice.
3. Five Types of People Who Benefit Most from Private Yoga
Private yoga suits the following five types of individuals:
1.Beginners:
Learning the basics correctly from the start is crucial. One-on-one instruction helps build a strong foundation.
2.Those with Specific Health Issues:
Personalized practices for conditions like chronic pain or stress can be highly beneficial.
3. Advanced Practitioners:
Deepening the practice with advanced poses and techniques is easier with personalized guidance.
4. Busy Professionals:
Flexible scheduling accommodates hectic lifestyles, allowing for consistent practice.
5. Privacy Seekers:
Those uncomfortable in group settings can practice confidently with private sessions.
4. Top 10 Private Yoga Teachers in Seattle: Your Guide to Personalized Yoga Classes
As the wellness scene in Seattle continues to thrive, more and more people are discovering the benefits of private yoga classes. These personalized sessions offer a unique opportunity to focus on individual goals, receive tailored instruction, and practice yoga at a pace that suits your lifestyle. Whether you're a busy professional, a retiree, or someone with specific health concerns, finding the right yoga instructor can make all the difference in your practice.
In this guide, we've curated a list of the top 10 private yoga teachers in Seattle. Each instructor has been selected based on their expertise, qualifications, and commitment to providing personalized yoga instruction. Whether you're looking to deepen your practice, manage stress, or simply find a moment of peace in your day, these instructors offer something for everyone.
Selection Criteria
To ensure that you're getting the best private yoga instruction in Seattle, we've used the following criteria to select these top 10 instructors:
Personal Website: Each instructor maintains a personal website, allowing easy access to
information and booking.
Private Class Availability: All instructors offer private yoga sessions as part of their services.
In addition, we've scored each instructor on a variety of factors:
- Teaching Experience: 15 points
- Qualifications: 15 points
- Social Media Followers: 10 points
- Passion for Private Instruction: 20 points
- Scheduling Flexibility: 15 points
- Pricing Competitiveness: 25 points
Top 10 Private Yoga Teachers in Seattle
1. Richard Schachtel
About Richard: Richard Schachtel, the founder of The Center for Yoga of Seattle, has over 30 years of experience teaching Iyengar yoga. Trained extensively in India, Richard offers both in-studio and online private lessons that emphasize alignment, breath work, and personalized care. His methodical approach is especially beneficial for therapeutic purposes, making his instruction ideal for those recovering from injuries or managing chronic conditions.
Recommended for: Individuals seeking precise, alignment-focused yoga sessions with a therapeutic focus.
Visit Richard
2. Nancy Lea
High Scoring Areas: Qualifications.
About Nancy: Nancy Lea is a 500-hour E-RYT certified instructor who integrates mindfulness and holistic health practices into her yoga teaching. She offers in-studio, virtual, and private sessions, as well as yoga retreats in stunning locations. Nancy’s compassionate and supportive teaching style makes her classes accessible to all levels, emphasizing alignment, breath work, and meditation.
Recommended for: Students looking for a balanced practice that includes meditation and breathwork, as well as those interested in yoga retreats.
Visit Nancy
3. Chris Maloney
High Scoring Areas: Passion for private instruction.
About Chris: Chris Maloney specializes in personalized yoga and meditation sessions that cater to the unique needs of each individual. Offering both in-person and online sessions, Chris focuses on holistic wellness, helping clients achieve physical, mental, and emotional balance. She also offers special events like wedding day yoga and weekend retreats, making her services versatile and accessible.
Recommended for: Individuals seeking a holistic approach to yoga, including meditation and mindfulness, with personalized attention.
Visit Chris
4. Marna McNaughton
High Scoring Areas: Pricing competitiveness.
About Marna: Marna McNaughton offers private and semi-private yoga sessions with a focus on restoring strength, flexibility, and energy flow. Her gentle and safe approach makes yoga accessible to everyone, regardless of experience level. Marna emphasizes breath work and mindfulness, ensuring that each session is enjoyable and beneficial.
Recommended for: Those looking for affordable, customized yoga sessions that emphasize gentle, holistic practices.
Visit Marna
5. Lilia
High Scoring Areas: Qualifications.
About Lilia: Lilia is a passionate yoga teacher and wellness entrepreneur who integrates yoga and reiki into her practice. Based in Seattle and Whidbey Island, Lilia offers private classes, workshops, and consulting services focused on holistic health and mindfulness. Her teachings are rooted in the belief that true well-being encompasses the body, mind, and spirit.
Recommended for: Individuals seeking a comprehensive approach to wellness that includes both physical and energetic healing.
Visit Lilia
6. Nicole Bratt
High Scoring Areas: Qualifications.
About Nicole: Nicole Bratt is a certified yoga teacher and yoga therapist-in-training, specializing in therapeutic yoga. She offers customized private sessions that address individual needs, with a focus on alignment, breath work, and meditation. Nicole’s approach is both therapeutic and transformative, making her an excellent choice for those dealing with physical or mental health conditions.
Recommended for: Those in need of therapeutic yoga, whether recovering from injury or managing chronic conditions.
Visit Nicole
7. Laura Yon
High Scoring Areas: Qualifications, specialization in aging gracefully.
About Laura: Laura Yon specializes in "Aging Gracefully Yoga," catering to older adults with gentle, sustainable yoga practices. Her services include on-demand videos, live online classes, and personalized sessions that promote physical health, mental clarity, and emotional well-being. Laura’s approach integrates somatic meditation techniques to enhance body awareness and mindfulness.
Recommended for: Older adults or those looking for a gentle, sustainable yoga practice that supports aging well.
Visit Laura
8. Alice Harper
High Scoring Areas: Pricing competitiveness.
About Alice: Alice Harper, the founder of Balanced Flow Yoga, integrates strength, flexibility, and mindfulness into her teaching. Based in Seattle’s Montlake neighborhood, Alice offers private sessions and workshops designed to fit into the busy lives of her students. Her classes focus on flowing with breath and end with restorative poses, leaving students feeling balanced and rejuvenated.
Recommended for: Busy individuals seeking an efficient yet comprehensive yoga practice that balances physical and mental well-being.
Visit Alice
9. Meagan Lass
High Scoring Areas: Passion for private instruction.
About Meagan: Meagan Lass is the founder of Sugarcane Yoga and is known for her inclusive and nurturing approach to yoga. Her classes blend physical practice with mindfulness, breath work, and alignment, creating a holistic experience for her students. Meagan also offers workshops and retreats that provide an immersive experience in yoga and mindfulness.
Recommended for: Those interested in a holistic approach to yoga, blending physical practice with mindfulness and personal growth.
Visit Meagan
10. Jennifer Weston
High Scoring Areas: Pricing competitiveness, passion for private instruction, teaching experience.
About Jennifer: Jennifer Weston, a licensed massage therapist and yoga instructor at Sunbreak Massage, combines therapeutic bodywork with mindful yoga instruction. Her holistic approach addresses both physical and emotional well-being, making her services a comprehensive wellness experience. Jennifer offers specialized treatments, including prenatal massage and yoga for stress relief.
Recommended for: Individuals seeking a holistic approach to wellness that includes both yoga and therapeutic bodywork.
Visit Jennifer
5. Exploring the Option of Online Private Yoga: Flexibility and Convenience at Your Fingertips
How did you find the list? I hope you've discovered the perfect yoga instructor to meet your needs. However, if you didn’t find a nearby instructor that suits you or if none of these options feel quite right, I encourage you to consider the next section on online private yoga as an alternative. While it may not fully replicate the experience of in-person sessions, online private yoga offers the convenience of practicing from home anytime, along with the potential for cost savings. It's a great option worth considering.
6. Best 5 Online Private Yoga Platforms
Here are five recommended online private yoga platforms. The first service is operated by my own company, but I aim to provide objective and unbiased information to ensure a balanced overview.
ONE OM ONE
Headquarters: Tokyo, San Diego Number of Instructors: 20 Cost: $58/month for weekly sessions $98/month for twice-weekly sessions Class Duration: 45 minutes Pros: ONE OM ONE offers the most competitive pricing among the five platforms. With a monthly pass, you can take up to 30 classes for $98. Despite the low cost, the instructors are highly experienced, supported by a company that runs the largest yoga teacher training school in Japan and Malaysia. This ensures a robust supply of quality instructors and solid quality control. Cons: As a relatively new service, the number of instructors is lower compared to other platforms like MyYogaTeacher. The booking system is also still in development and may not be as user-friendly as others. Best For: Those looking to integrate one-on-one online yoga into their daily routine and whose schedules align with the available time slots offered by the platform.
Visit ONE OM ONE
MyYogaTeacher
Headquarters: San Jose, California Number of Instructors: 150 Cost: $165/month for weekly sessions $279/month for twice-weekly sessions Class Duration: 55 minutes Pros: MyYogaTeacher offers both group and private sessions, making it a great option for those who enjoy a mix of both. The company is well-funded by major venture capital firms, ensuring a stable foundation. The booking system is also highly developed and user-friendly. Cons: If you are only interested in online private yoga, MyYogaTeacher might not be the best option due to higher pricing and the emphasis on group sessions. Best For: Those looking for a combination of group and private yoga classes, and who are comfortable with the monthly expenditure of $165, which includes access to group classes.
Visit MyYogaTeacher
YOGA BEYOND THE STUDIO
Headquarters: USA Number of Instructors: 1 Cost: $476/month for weekly sessions $952/month for twice-weekly sessions Class Duration: 60 minutes Pros: Yoga Beyond Studio is a prime example of a private yoga service provided by an individual instructor. The website content is comprehensive and provides valuable information for those interested in private yoga classes. The instructor is highly experienced and passionate about offering personalized yoga instruction. Cons: The pricing is on par with mid-range private yoga instructors in the U.S., and the high cost might not justify the benefits of remote private yoga compared to other options. Best For: Residents of San Diego who value highly personalized sessions with a local, experienced instructor and can afford the higher cost.
Visit YOGA BEYOND THE STUDIO
WOWFIT
Headquarters: London Number of Instructors: 6 (50 including non-yoga instructors) Cost: $116/month for weekly sessions $231/month for twice-weekly sessions Class Duration: 45 minutes Pros: WOWFIT is significantly cheaper than platforms like MyYogaTeacher and Yoga Beyond Studio. It connects students with instructors from regions with lower costs of living, making it an affordable option. Cons: The initial survey is thorough, but the actual classes tend to follow a general structure. WOWFIT is not exclusively focused on yoga, and the quality of instruction may vary, as it's more of a matching service. Best For: Individuals seeking a cost-effective option who are interested in combining yoga with other fitness services.
Visit WOWFIT
superprof
Headquarters: Paris, France Number of Instructors: 400+ (accessible from the US) Cost: Approximately $80/month for weekly sessions Approximately $160/month for twice-weekly sessions Class Duration: 45 minutes Pros: Superprof offers a vast pool of instructors, providing a wide range of choices. As the world’s largest one-on-one learning marketplace, it offers customization options to suit individual needs. Cons: The search accuracy is low; even when looking for nearby instructors, online providers may appear as local. The platform is not yoga-specific, and the quality of instruction depends entirely on the individual instructors. The filtering options are not comprehensive, making it difficult to find the perfect match among 400 instructors. Best For: Those who prioritize having a wide range of instructor choices and prefer to customize their learning experience.
Visit superprof
7. Conclusion
While group yoga classes are widely popular, the traditional method of private yoga offers unmatched personalized benefits. Despite its niche status, private yoga can significantly enhance your practice. Online private yoga provides a cost-effective, flexible alternative to in-person sessions. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned yogi, exploring these platforms could transform your yoga journey.
Author Bio: Hajime "Jimmy" Ito
Founder of ONE OM ONE, Jimmy Ito, born in Niigata, Japan, is a former judo champion and seasoned yoga industry expert. He pioneered Studio Yoggy in Japan, managed the largest yoga chain in 2004, and expand his business in Malaysia by launching UNDER THE LIGHT YOGA Malaysia in 2016. In 2022, he founded ONE OM ONE, driven by his personal experience overcoming back pain through online private yoga. He currently resides between San Diego, Tokyo, and Malaysia. He believes, while group In-person yoga classes are widely popular, the combination of traditional method of private yoga with modern internet technology offers unmatched personalized benefits.
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