A Note About Payment was first sent in May 2020 to my newsletter recipients. I’ve since expanded it to this post that explains my philosophy on payment and how to pay me.

Since April 2020 I’ve received many questions about payment, concerns about my financial well-being, and concern that I’m not well compensated for the value I provide. Some folks have even inquired as to the possibility of their insurance benefits, like Silver & Fit, might be directed to me personally.

First and foremost, thank you all for your compassion and concern. Please do know that I am not in financial straits due to the closure of Portland Parks & Recreation Community Centers. While my career was upended on March 13, 2020, my wife continues to enjoy her career as a software engineer for a large company who provide network infrastructure for the world. We enjoy the relative security this offers us, including fairly generous benefits. 

Because of this great privilege, I am able to offer online classes for a suggested donation price. Not all yoga teachers/therapists are able to do this, but I am. My wife and I made this decision together and it was not made lightly. 

The suggested contribution for my online classes, Yoga in Chairs and Yoga for Vitality, is $2.50 per 75-minute class.

Special, First Saturday Sessions, Yoga for Grief, Healing Our Relationship with Our Bodies, or Yoga Nidra, suggested contribution is $5-$25.

Private Yoga Instruction: $25-$75 per person, per hour, suggested contribution.

Integrated Movement Therapy Session: $50-$120 per person, per hour, suggested contribtion.

How to pay me:

• PayPal
• Venmo
• Send a check made out to “Samatha Yoga” (check the spelling!) to
  Sherri Koehler/Samatha Yoga
  P.O. Box 80156
  Portland, OR 97219

However, if for any reason at all the price is too dear for you at this time, or at any time, just come. For private sessions, reach out to discuss my sliding scale, don’t assume I will turn away anyone who really needs assistance.

The thing is, teaching classes and working with clients is as much about providing a service to a community I care deeply for, as it is a tool for supporting my mental health. I live with Complex PTSD (Complex Trauma), which means I’m always managing anxiety and am often managing depression as well. Connecting in community to teach is one of my most important tools. It turns out that it is even MORE important during a pandemic!

Come to class. Just come.

Bringing your energy and intention to share with us is payment!

Email me a photograph of flowers in your garden as payment!

Send a paper note to my address above as a payment. I truly treasure and save notes from my students to read when I feeling despair for the world.