Yoga Classes
CLASS STYLES
There are lots of different types of yoga classes which can be a bit overwhelming for beginners. Below I have outlined the types of classes I run, if you have any questions please feel free to message me to find which class will suit you best, or why not just give one of them a go!
VINYASA FLOW
In this class, we move fluidly from one pose to the next, connecting breath to movement. I aim to make it accessible to most levels, as long as you have a basic understanding of yoga poses. I use a lot of alignment cues to ensure you are practicing safely and paying attention to your body. I weave in intentions to optionally allow you to explore your practice beyond the physical poses.
MINDFUL MEDITATION
Meditation often has a common misconception of 'getting rid' of thoughts. This is not the goal! Instead, we use meditation to help quieten the mind and slow down the thoughts. I offer focus points such as the breath to keep your awareness in the present moment.
I like to use affirmations, body scans, visualisations - each meditation session offers something different for you to explore!
GENTLE FLOW
This class is more suitable for beginners or those who would like to slow down. We keep our breath our main point of focus, while slowly and gently moving the body. Paying extra attention to not only the postures, but also how we move from one posture to the next. This class provides a space of comfort and deep relaxation.
ENERGISING FLOW
Give this class a go if you have been practicing yoga for a while, and have a good understanding of your body/ your limits. This class will challenge you! I encourage you throughout to listen to your body, finding that 'line' but not going beyond it. We work on holding standing poses for a longer period of time, building strength and heat in the body and firing up the core! I always like to throw in an arm balance or some sort of 'fancy' pose towards the end of class, it is always optional whether you would like to have a play with that!
WORKSHOPS / RETREATS
Myself and Kate Chartres currently run two Retreats per year at Wasdale in Wastwater in The Lake District, a long weekend away to immerse yourself in yoga, hypnotherapy, EFT, EDMR, Reiki drumming, sound baths, massage and more!
I tend to run different monthly workshops at Apta Vita in North Shields, ranging from Yin & Soundbaths, Partner Yoga, Mindfulness Workshops, Hip opening sessions, Posture focus and more!
Keep an eye out for workshops that I'm holding as I advertise them on my social media platforms prior to the workshop taking place. Similarly if you have any requests for anything specific you'd like to spend more time on or go more into depth with, please let me know!
RESTORATIVE YOGA
This style of yoga is a slower paced class, with slightly longer holds of postures and an emphasis on deeper breathing with the intention of becoming more relaxed in each pose. It 'restores' the body to its parasympathetic nervous system function, which in turn, helps the body rest, heal, and restore balance. It is appropriate for all levels. If you have blankets, pillows or any props - you are welcome to use them (not essential).
YIN YOGA
Yin is a much slower, more meditative form of yoga. We hold postures between 2-5 minutes, allowing time for the body to completely release into each pose. This form of yoga targets the connective tissues such as the ligaments, bones and even joints of the body that are generally not exercised. Yin is yielding, allowing and nourishing. We use many props to support us in this practice; a bolster, blocks, strap and a blanket to help find ease in each pose. This class is suitable for anyone to try!