A 75 minute sample class recorded during lockdown, 2020

The Practice

What are classes like?

My teaching has been influenced by various teachers. My first yoga teacher had an eclectic background, and a very open approach, not defined by any one tradition or School, and I attended her classes for about 8 years before I trained as a teacher myself. My teacher training was with The Bihar School of Yoga (Satyananda Yoga), known for its more meditative approach, and tantric teachings. When it became mired in scandal, I wanted to try something else, and in more recent times I have studied with Pete Blackaby, who describes himself as a humanist and takes a modern approach. Have a look at his website to give you a taste of his teaching, which I find inspiring, sound and enriching. The shift to on-line teaching during the pandemic has also meant I can learn from teachers in far-off places, including Monica Voss, who studied with Vanda Scaravelli. Her love of poetry speaks deeply to me. And I have continued to draw on the meditation practices that come from the Tantric tradition, by studying with Big Shakti. I’m fascinated by how some of the more contemporary understanding that neuroscience brings, such as polyvagal theory, and insights from Western psychology about the mind and the psyche tie in with – and help illuminate – concepts and teachings from the yoga tradition.

What we do

Classes are usually 90 mins and include a balance of movement and postures (asana), breathwork (pranayama), and deep relaxation (usually Yoga Nidra), or a short meditation practice (dharana).

The physical practices of yoga are not the same as an exercise class, or a work-out. It’s the paying of attention that changes the way we move and how comfortable we are in our bodies, rather than what we look like or can do. Yoga encourages us to direct our attention inward. This can be challenging, as we are so used to being externally focused. Over time, we become more familiar with our inner world and the potential of its vast richness. I teach in an inclusive and friendly way, and encourage you to notice yourself in a spirit of curiosity, compassion and self-acceptance – and then to respond to what you notice with kindness. In the end, this is the transformation!

What experience do I need to attend?

An open mind, and a willingness to pay attention to yourself is more important than what postures you can do. I am always happy to have a chat beforehand if you would like to try a class but are not sure if it is right for you.