Have you ever considered using a Sliding-Scale Pricing Model for your yoga classes? If so here is a description of the concept to see if it could work for you.
The objective of Sliding-scale pricing is for yoga students to pay-what-they-can or what they can afford. In other words, participants choose how much they are willing to pay for a yoga class or a studio membership. This model makes yoga accessible to all, even yoga students that are enduring harder financial times. In short, financial resources should not be the only reason why a person can or cannot access a service, such as a yoga class. No proof of income is required. I trust my students and clients. The kindness of participants that can pay a little more gives those unable to afford the class the chance to practice yoga.
The fee structure for my Community yoga classes varies between $5 and $15.
Karma yoga, or yoga of selfless service, is a way to give back and open yoga to your community and your neighbourhood.
The success of a Sliding-Scale Pricing Model is based on three yogic principles:
- Satya or truthfulness;
- Asteya or non-stealing;
- Aparigraha or generosity.
Another advantage of community classes is that they provide diversity in race, gender, employment types and financial statuses.
My yoga classes are not free. Aside from money, they are different ways to support and impact a small business like mine. Sharing on social media. Writing a review. Bringing a friend. Participants should not feel ashamed of paying less, I try to make them feel empowered that they found creative ways to support and to give.
In essence, offering sliding scale pricing is a way to recognize and encourage participants to take care of themselves – of their body, mind and soul.
Namaste,
Sarah xo