Yoga
Yoga is an ancient science for living well; originating from India, but recognised globally for its mental, physical and spiritual benefits.
Combining physical postures (asanas), breathwork (pranayama), meditation and relaxation, it provides tools for living with greater calmness and ease.
Some people can feel a little intimidated by yoga. Many people have told me “I'm no good at yoga, I can't even touch my toes!". This comment makes me feel sad. In a culture in which yoga is often visually portrayed through photos of young, thin, strong and super flexible bodies, it's easy to understand where this response comes from, however this really isn’t what yoga is about.
We don't have to be flexible to enjoy the powerful effect of easing space into places that have held tension. Whatever shape, size or physical strength we have, we can connect to and deepen our breath, to bring about a calmer, more stable mind. In our busy lives, with its demands and challenges we can use our time on the mat to learn to be with our present moment experience with patience, acceptance and a big dose of compassion. We then take what we learn on the mat off the mat, into where yoga is most helpful, our everyday lives.
How can Yoga support you?
Whether looking to feel strength and ease in your body, calm a busy mind, or promote a deeper sense of well-being when living with a health condition, yoga holds huge benefits including:
relieving muscular tension
increasing muscle tone and strength
improving joint-mobility
increasing spine strength and flexibility
boosting circulation / lowering blood pressure
boosting the immune system
promoting correct, deep breathing
promoting deep relaxation
aiding restful sleep
improving concentration and alertness
increasing sense of energy and vitality
improving awareness and balance between body and mind
connecting to a deeper sense of self
What style of yoga is right for me?
Yoga is for everybody, however, different styles of yoga will suit different people’s needs. There are many different styles of yoga (from dynamic vinyasa yoga, to the gentle resting of restorative yoga), so it can be worth experimenting with what you like, and what suits you at this point in your life.
My own approach to teaching combines my passions and training in a range of yoga styles, yoga therapy & mindfulness and compassion. My offerings include Slow Flow Yoga (open to all levels but some classes are aimed towards beginners), Yin Yoga and Restorative Yoga (both still and quiet forms of yoga). Details of the group classes that I offer can be found here.
If you are living with significant health conditions, and group classes don’t feel appropriate for you at the moment, take a look at my Yoga Therapy offering, to see how a one-to-one tailored approach might better suit your health needs.
