FAQs
What should I wear ?
Comfortable, stretchy clothing such as a t-shirt and leggings/tracksuit bottoms, (ideally not too loose as to get tangled around you as
you move) with a sweatshirt or warm top for relaxation. Yoga is normally done barefoot, but you can wear socks during relaxation.
What equipment do I need ?
A Yoga/pilates mat (these are now available nearly everywhere – including Tescos !), and a blanket to use if you want to keep you
warm during relaxation. Yoga blocks and belts are useful tools as props and I have some of these for you to use, you may decide to
get your own if you find that these are helpful to your practice.
What about eating and drinking ?
Ideally you should avoid practicing yoga on a full stomach, try not to eat for two hours before a class. You can bring water to drink
into the lesson.
What will happen in the lesson ?
Lessons usually commence with a short relaxation to allow you to settle and focus, followed by limbering to warm-up and prepare
the body for the yoga asanas (postures). We will also include some pranayama (breathing exercises) and conclude with a guided
period of relaxation.
What if I’m not very flexible or fit ?
Everyone can enjoy yoga, whatever their fitness, flexibility or age. Some postures may need to be modified or props offered to suit
individuals. There are classes suitable for all levels of fitness, for example a mixed ability class will at least require students to be able
to get up and down from the floor, and some classes are even chair-based.
I have a certain health issue, can I still take part in the classes ?
If you have a health condition you should seek medical advice from your GP prior to commencing yoga. Some postures may not be
suitable and an alternative, modification, or prop will be offered.
Is there lots of religious chanting ?
Yoga is a philosophy not a religion; the classes give a balance of asana practice and introduction of some of the philosophies. It is up
to you to take from the classes what you feel you need of these.
What are breathing techniques ?
I know how to breathe ! Pranayama (breathing exercises) can help to improve your lung capacity, release tension and improve
relaxation, lowering stress levels and calming our busy minds. In class we harmonise much of the movement with our breathing.
I hope that this will help to answer any initial queries you may have, but please contact me if you need any more information
about your yoga practice. The British Wheel of Yoga has useful information for people who are new to yoga on their website:
www.bwy.org.uk
Yoga can help us to cope with the daily challenges of life, improving our personal welfare physically, mentally and emotionally.
Enjoy your classes, benefit from taking time for yourself.
Yoga Classes
Hatha yoga encompasses many types of physical yoga and is suitable for all ages and levels of ability. Yoga practice can develop balance,
flexibility and stamina in both the body and mind, lowering stress levels through developing relaxation and breathing techniques.
I focus on a blend of various styles learnt over several years, working with postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama) and
relaxation. The classes are mixed ability and students are encouraged to practice to their own level, with extensions and modifications
being offered to enable everyone to participate and enjoy the benefits of yoga. Yoga is non-competitive, I encourage you to listen to your
body and do what you feel is suitable for you during each lesson; your balance, flexibility and strength can vary from week to week.