Yoga Classes

Yoga is a deep and mindful practice of physical postures and breathing exercises to energise and nourish the body and mind. The benefits of yoga are many, but at its simplest level yoga is a means of maintaining health and wellbeing. This is most important in an increasingly stressful society. Although we usually teach yoga in group classes, it can still be varied to suit your individual needs.

There are many disciplines and styles of yoga. In these courses we teach a gentle Hatha Yoga style, which is a combination of asanas (physical exercises and postures), pranayama (breathing techniques) and meditation, ideal for anyone from complete beginners to advanced levels.

By taking a yoga class, you can improve yourself in many ways:

Gain flexibility, posture and strength
Improved circulation and cardiovascular system
Better breathing, sleep patterns, concentration and body control
Ward off osteoporosis - keeping muscles strong and supple helps to support the skeleton
Lower blood pressure by reducing strength and improving fitness
Release tension and pain
Develop positive emotions, improving self-esteem and reducing depression
Reduce the risk of RSI and other stress related injuries, as well as boosting the body's own healing ability
Long term yoga practice can address weight problems by inspiring conscious eating and a positive body outlook

Yoga can be especially beneficial during pregnancy to ease the natural changes taking place in the body, and to give the mother much-needed rest and exercise. Pregnancy Yoga can:

Alleviate common discomforts such as lower back pain, pelvic pain, heartburn, indigestion, swollen joints, breathlessness, tiredness and sleep disturbances
Strengthen the body and prepare it for birth
Provide deep relaxation and rest
Promote emotional well-being
Give the mother time to connect with her baby

But, first and foremost, whatever your circumstances: yoga is relaxing, energising, and fun!

Anjana Mistri has been practising Yoga since childhood, and is a certified teacher who leads Hatha Flow and Pregnancy Yoga classes.

Anjana combines the use of breath and posture into dynamic sequences designed to promote the flow of energy within the body. She believes that everyone at any stage of life can practise yoga and feel its benefits. She encourages working at one's own comfort level, and believes constant practice of Yoga deepens the awareness and understanding of the Self.

Anjana leads General Yoga classes on Thursday evenings and Pregnancy Yoga classes on Sundays.

We recognise that a regular weekly course may not suit everyone, although obviously your Yoga study and experience will be enhanced if you attend regularly. The class cost for a 5 class pass, valid for two calendar months from your first attendance, is £50; a 10 class pass valid for three months is £90. If this does not suit you, you may attend individual classes as and when you wish for £12 per class. The 2010 course series will start on the 6th January, you are of course welcome to join any class at any time. Please see the Workshops page for full details of dates and times, or please ask for details of other times, private or children's classes.

Classes are small and numbers are limited, so booking is essential to avoid disappointment. Please bring a yoga mat and a blanket with you - if you do not have a mat then these are available for sale.