Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, absolutely! In fact, you are a perfect candidate for yoga. Many people believe you need to be able to touch your toes (and maybe even see your toes!) However, our classes are about creating flexibility and are ideal if you are not naturally flexible or very stiff. You’ll be surprised how quickly your body becomes more supple when you practise regularly.
The main thing to remember is to focus on yourself, listen to your body and work within your own range.
Definitely not. Age is irrelevant for yoga. Often the media portrays images of young size 6 women bending themselves into pretzels, making us believe that this is yoga! Men and women of all ages, shapes and sizes take part and really enjoy Yoga.
Being able to independently get up and down from the floor is the main criteria in a public class. If this is an issue for you, the please get in touch as there are ways of working around this.
All the evidence suggests that movement is an important part of recovering from back pain. Yoga, especially Gentle Yoga, can play a huge part in discovering what works for you and can free you from back pain
Yoga isn’t one-size-fits-all
If you have had long standing chronic back pain, then the Back Care Course may suit you better before you joining a public class.
Please do get in touch if you are unsure on your suitability to join a yoga class or have any concerns you’d like to discuss.
Definitely not. There is no assumed level of fitness required. Men and women of all ages, shapes and sizes really enjoy Yoga. You could be a couch potato or an athlete, yoga can benefit everyone. It can help you gain a sense of physical confidence and overall mental and emotional wellbeing.
Please do get in touch if you are unsure on your suitability to join a yoga class or have any concerns you’d like to discuss.
Being able to independently get up and down from the floor is the main criteria in a public class. If this is an issue for you, the please get in touch as there are ways of working around this, like offering a chair.
Alternatively, private lessons may suit you better to gain more confidence and mobility.
Pilates is somewhat related to Yoga. Pilates was invented in the early 1880’s and was heavily influenced by Yoga and Zen meditation. Both Yoga and Pilates practise similar postures but with different emphasis. Pilates focuses more on the physical mechanics of the body, whereas Yoga combines movement with breathing, and relaxation techniques to enhance mindfulness and mind-body awareness.
You’ll need a yoga mat, blanket and bottle of water. Sometimes it’s helpful to have a cushion and yoga blocks for support. If you are just trialling yoga, you can borrow a yoga mat and block – please just get in touch to check availability.
Loose and comfortable clothing that doesn’t restrict your movement, like joggers, leggings, short or long sleeve t-shirt. Some people wear baggy, loose fitting bottoms or shorts and a t shirt. Other people wear tight, stretchy leggings and tops. It doesn’t matter as long as you are comfortable.
In cooler weather, wear easily removable layers e.g. t-shirt, hoodie and socks. Normally we practise yoga barefooted but many wear socks
The health and wellbeing of our community remains my top priority and so plans are in place.
As a brief overview:
- Face masks are only required when entering/leaving a building, but can be taken off once on your mat
- Classes spaces are marked out
- Hand sanitiser and hand washing facilities will be available
- Rooms allow for good ventilation
- Advance booking is essential (even if this is 15 mins before class)
- Bring your own equipment (yoga mat, cushion/block & blanket). However, spare sanitised yoga mats are available if you forget. Yoga mats will be sanitised and rotated to allow at least 72 hours gap between users.
- Regular touch areas will be regularly cleaned.
The Wednesday 11.15am Gentle Yoga Class will continue online.