What style of yoga is taught?
The yoga class is based on the Akhanda style with Iyengar inspiration (the use of props). ‘Akhanda’ means ‘whole’ or complete’ and works with posture, breath, mantras, meditation and mudras. Each session covers the 8 movements of the spine. The lesson is balanced by working on postures that are yang (active/strong) and those that are yin (surrendering/lengthening).
It is a static style of yoga meaning that we hold poses and take time to achieve the correct alignment in the best way that we can. This is important for the safety and protection of your body.
Every lesson should be and feel different as I theme each class. The overarching theme changes every six weeks. This ensures variety and interest for you and you may learn something about the broader aspects and philosophy of yoga.
Where are the classes held?
I run online group sessions every Monday at 9.30am via YouTube. You are welcome to join in live, but if this time is not suitable, you can follow the lesson when it is convenient for you.
All of my face-to-face yoga classes are held at St Andrews Church in, Redditch, Worcestershire. These groups are a mix of abilities (beginners to low intermediate), ages, genders and body shapes and sizes (see image gallery). Classes tend to average out between 15-18 people so it is not so large that you feel lost within the class and not too small that you feel self-conscious. I offer daytime and evening yoga sessions at this venue during the week and throughout the year. All equipment is provided so there is no need to make any investment in a mat until you feel comfortable that yoga is for you.
I offer a term-time yoga day time class at The Redi Centre, just on the outskirts of Redditch town centre. This group runs according to the school holidays so it works around parents who want to support their own wellbeing but also need to be there for their family. Anyone is welcome to this class, whether you are parent or not. In fact, I have some people who are part time workers, self-employed or retired attend this class. (this lesson is not currently running at this venue, but I do have a term time class on Tuesdays at 9.30am at St Andrews Church).
My private yoga classes are held at my yoga studio at my home in Redditch, Worcestershire. Typically, the private sessions are made up of individuals or couples who like to practice together. On some occasions, I have had whole families have lessons together (a group of 4-5 people). The studio is fully equipped with a yoga rope wall, blocks and belts. Please note that the studio is in a converted loft, so you must be able to climb a small integral ladder.
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How much are the group classes?
Online group sessions are £5 per person for a one hour class hosted via Youtube. I use this platform as many people are familiar with it and find it easy to watch on their TV screen.
In-person group yoga classes are £7 for one hour. You will be asked to commit to a series of 4 lessons at a time, at a cost of £28 (4 x 1hr lessons). The reason why you are asked to pay for a few sessions in advance is that it makes you more committed to attending (sometimes we need this when trying something new) and gives you the opportunity to find out if yoga or this style of yoga is for you. One trial lesson won’t give you a true indication as to whether or not you like it, as each week the lesson is different and also the way that you feel on a given day will be different (depending on what has happened to you during the week or before attending class).
Some people are undecided as to whether to opt for yoga or pilates. From a yoga teacher’s perspective, yoga is not just about the poses you do on the mat, but you will find that it will reach into your everyday life. It becomes more of a lifestyle than a class that you attend each week. For those that are seeking it, yoga has hidden depths that reveal itself to you when the time is right. Both yoga and pilates work the whole of the body, but with pilates there tends to be greater a focus on the core. Yoga is ancient and with that comes wisdom and knowledge. You never master or come to the end of yoga, The more you learn, the more there is to learn!
These are not one off courses or programmes but a continuous series of lessons. You are then most welcome to re-book every four weeks if you have enjoyed or benefitted from being in the classes.
Please contact me to book your place.
When are the classes?
Online group lessons are held every Monday at 9.30am, but you can watch the recording if you cannot make this time.
Face-to-face classes run on Mondays (6.30pm and 8pm), Tuesdays (9.30am, 6.30pm & 8pm) and Thursdays (6.15pm & 7.45pm). Private yoga lessons are daytime only on Mondays, Tuesdays and from time to time on Thursdays. Please contact me for details on availability.
What can I expect from a class?
If it is your first class, you will be asked to complete a short registration form asking for basic contact information and about any injuries or conditions you might have. The classes are suitable for those new to yoga, beginners or low intermediate students. Wear comfortable clothes such as leggings, jogging bottoms or shorts and a t shirt. During the class you will be asked to be barefoot. Bring something warm to wear for the end of the lesson.
My intention is for you to learn yoga in a supportive environment, enjoy yourself and meet like-minded local people whilst improving your overall wellbeing. We have a lovely and ever-growing yoga family who all help each other on their yoga journey, both on and off the mat.
