
WHAT IS YOGA?
“Yoga is the settling of the mind into silence.” Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras 1:ii
Yoga is not just physical exercise – the Sanskrit word yoga means union or integration: of the body, breath, mind and spirit. The practice of asana (physical postures) together with pranayama (breathing techniques) and relaxation or meditation combines to create a sense of wellbeing, physical harmony, mental clarity and self-awareness.
It is believed that yoga originated in India approximately five thousand years ago. It is an ancient, eastern philosophy offering a holistic approach to body, mind and spirit that helps equip us to cope with the challenges of daily life, so we can enjoy all it has to offer. Although there are many different styles of yoga they all share the same core values.
Today yoga is practised by millions of people around the world, old and young alike, and its enduring popularity is a testimony to its timeless teachings, enabling us to change ourselves for the better. SEE OUR LATEST TIMETABLE HERE
“Yoga is to attain what was previously unattainable.” TKV Desikachar, The Heart of Yoga
WHY PRACTICE YOGA?
A regular yoga practice can bring benefits on many levels, including:
- Increased flexibility, stronger muscles and bones.
- Improved posture and balance.
- Healthier joints.
- Improved lung function with slower and deeper breathing.
- A stronger immune system.
- Increased concentration and focus.
- Lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
- Reduced anxiety and stress.
“Yoga is quite simply the most powerful system of overall health and well-being I have ever seen…as preventive medicine, yoga is as close to one-stop shopping as you can find.” Timothy McCall MD, Yoga as Medicine.
OUR YOGA CLASSES
“Yoga is a light which once lit, will never dim. The better your practice, the brighter the flame.” BKS Iyengar
Yoga For All & Yoga Express
Hatha yoga classes offering exercises to stretch, flex and strengthen the body, develop breath awareness and finishing with complete relaxation, revitalising body and mind. Suitable for everyone, including beginners at all levels of fitness.
Hatha Yoga
A dynamic 90-minute class suitable for students wanting to work towards more challenging asanas and pranayama techniques. The combination of breath and movement increases strength and flexibility and re-energises body and mind.
Vinyasa Flow Yoga
A form of Hatha yoga that links poses together into a continuous flowing movement to stretch and strengthen the body. A more energetic practice for fit beginners and experienced students.
Iyengar Yoga
A very precise view of the yoga postures. It focuses on correct physical alignment, using props such as blocks and straps to help maintain this, and postures are frequently held for long periods. It is suitable for all levels of strength, experience and flexibility.
Yoga for Beginners
If you’ve never done any yoga before, come to our Introduction to Yoga workshop or join a beginners’ group for the best start. We have six week courses where you can learn the basics of Vinyasa Flow or Hatha Yoga as well as our regular Wednesday lunchtime beginners class. Another option is to book a 1:1 session.
The next Introduction to Yoga workshop is on Saturday January 11, from 11.30am – 1.30pm. BOOK HERE
Check out the blog for more tips about starting yoga and come and give it a go.
Restorative Yoga
Simple, gentle yoga to quieten, heal and rejuvenate body and mind. Props, such as blankets and blocks, are used support the body so you can enjoy complete rest. Monthly classes suitable for all. Learn more here
YOGA WORKSHOPS
Master-classes, half and full day workshops on Fridays and weekends often taken by guest teachers, including Michael Hutchinson and Gary Carter. These sessions, which explore some of the deeper aspects of yoga, are suitable for those with some experience of yoga, teachers and trainee teachers.
CHILDREN’S YOGA
Children can benefit from yoga in the same way as adults. It helps them keep their natural suppleness and flexibility, build strength and improve stamina and coordination. It can also aid youngsters who suffer from issues such as anxiety or poor sleep patterns. Yoga offers children a healthy way to look after themselves. It is non-competitive and can be practised by everyone.
Tamsin has more than 12 years experience of teaching children aged 4-8 and has worked in many schools throughout the Test Valley. Please get in touch if you are interested in bringing yoga into your school as a regular event or for a one-off occasion.