The ancient practice of Yoga is thousands of years old and originated in Northern India. Translated from Sanskrit (the language of Yoga), the word Yoga means yoke or union. This union can be interpreted to a union between the physical body, the mind, and on a deeper level our soul or spirit. It can also be understood as a connection to not only oneself, but to the world around us.
Whether you are looking to strengthen the body and become fitter and more flexible, learn to deal with stress and anxiety, live more mindfully and in the present moment, or a combination of many elements- Yoga really can take you on a wonderful journey of self-discovery and understanding.
A bit of background into my own personal journey. A cliché maybe, but a true story none the less- after running into a pretty tough period in my life, I believe that Yoga found me. It had and continues to have a huge impact on my life- both on and off the mat.
I was so inspired to learn more myself, and to be able to share this amazing practice with others that I embarked on a 2 year 200 hour teacher training course.
Since qualifying I have quit a long-term corporate career to follow my passion of sharing Yoga with others and promoting a happier and healthier lifestyle through more holistic based approaches.
Yoga is the journey of the self, to the self, through the self. The Bhagavad Gita
There are many misconceptions about Yoga, including that it is just about being able to touch your toes or do a handstand (maybe we have social media to thank for that)! Some think it is a very serious or even religious practice.
Although physical movement (asana) is a part of Yoga, as a teacher I want to share with people that Yoga is so much more than this. It is a wonderful and inclusive practice that I truly believe can create balance and harmony of mind, body and soul- leading us to live more compassionately towards ourselves and others.
I teach regular studio classes, private Yoga, University Yoga and Corporate Karma (Yoga in the workplace). I am also hugely passionate about trying to share Yoga with everyone, and work with charities and community projects in an effort to do so.
My signature styles are "Empowering Hatha" & "Meditative Yin" suitable for complete beginners and beyond.
Whilst I remain true to the traditional roots of Yoga, combining physical practice (asana) with other elements of the Eight Limbs of Yoga and a philosophical approach, I also incorporate somatic movement and encourage freedom and exploration of mind, body & soul both on and off the mat.
In addition to my 200 hour training I have since gone on to follow my passions and inner calling, exploring and gaining qualifications in Yin Yoga, Traditional Chinese Medicine for Yoga, Yoga for Stress & Burnout and Shamanism. Many elements of which are intertwined within my classes, as well as offering longer and more in-depth workshop experiences.
We can read into an assigned label for a class, or a "style" of Yoga that is referred to- (effectively referring to the lineage), and I often get asked what type of Yoga I teach. The answer in its simplest form is essentially what I teach is just Yoga. Movement of body, stillness of mind, greater connection to self.
If you are interested in finding out more, take a look at my website, or feel free to contact me, I would love to hear from you.
The light & dark within me honours the light & dark within you – Namaste x
