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What to expect at our Cheltenham Yoga In Person and Online classes

Our yoga classes take a ‘viniyoga’ approach to hatha yoga inspired by the teachings of T.Krishnamacharya, his son T.K.V. Desikachar and latterly Peter Hersnack. It is THE mindfulness approach to yoga.

The term ‘viniyoga’ is found in The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, one of the key texts on yoga written over 2000 years ago. ‘Viniyoga’ relates to the appropriate application of yoga techniques to the individual, which is reflected in our style of teaching. Students are encouraged to work to the best of their ability but also to recognise their strengths and limitations. So, we generally offer alternatives for those who can work stronger in a posture or who need to modify their work because of an injury or specific condition.

Students are also encouraged to listen to their bodies and take rest whenever needed. We find this approach very accessible and appropriate for beginners and those with injuries, as well as those with more experience who might want to work more intensely in their yoga practice.

Our yoga classes are slowly dynamic, in that we move in and out of postures at the pace of our longest, deepest breath.  Working slowly and mindfully can often be stronger and more effective than faster, mechanical movements. Further more, it allows the body time to feel the posture developing and to decide whether to accept what we’re asking of it, before injury occurs. Subject to our agenda, we may also hold the posture and deepen the work there using the breath and mindfulness.

The structure of the yoga classes typically involves asana (physical ‘posture’ work) and sequence work. We generally end the practice with a guided relaxation followed by pranayama (specific, seated, meditative breathing techniques).  This works to further contain the mind, refine our focus and influence our energy to leave us feeling ‘sattvic’ (calm, clear and relaxed) in preparation for meditation should we choose to do any.

Within this structure we vary the content of every class, in terms of the physical work and the focus or theme, to keep things fresh and interesting.

How we run our Cheltenham Yoga In Person and Online classes

Our yoga classes run in terms of six weeks, with one week off in between.  Yoga is an ancient tradition and a discipline and was never intended to be a practice that you dipped in and out of. The only way to truly benefit from a yoga practice (whether it be physical or mental) is to practice on a regular basis which is why we book people on for 6 week terms. You can attend as many as our online classes as you can fit in plus you’ll have access to our pre-recorded videos too.

What do I need to bring to the yoga class?

IN PERSON CLASSES:  Please bring your own yoga mat. We have a few spare in case you forget! They’re available in some High St retailers as well as online but do make sure that you buy a proper yoga mat as opposed to a padded ‘exercise mat’ which might be more comfortable but won’t be as practical!

Please wear something comfortable (no jeans!), so you can move freely. Ideally all classes take place barefoot.  Do avoid eating a big meal up to 2 hours before the class. Our yoga classes are in a warm environment with heating for our winter months and lots of windows for ventilation However, at the end of a yoga session you’ll be lying down in relaxation so you might think about bringing socks and something warm, as it’s important that you remain comfortable.

Individual yoga tuition IN PERSON or ONLINE

Individual, one to one yoga tuition is available for those who either have specific issues to address through yoga or would like to deepen their yoga practice.

In person or online – whatever suits you!

Read more here

Bespoke yoga groups IN PERSON or ONLINE

ONLINE ONLY: By arrangement, we can also run bespoke yoga classes for groups in your workplace or for your sports team etc. Please contact us to discuss your needs.