Is Yoga about stretching?

Sort of....  In a physical sense yoga includes stretching, strengthening and improving balance, but it is also so much more than that - if you want it to be. Yoga is the union between body and mind created by breath work and mindful stretching and movement. The practice is an opportunity to really listen to your body and take care of it. And because we are so focussed on the body and the breath it then allows the mind to become more calm and peaceful. 

Do I need to be flexible to do Yoga

No! This is the most common question and the answer is a definite no - you do NOT need to be flexible to do yoga. You go into yoga poses (asanas) just as far as feels good for YOU. Yoga is not about flexibility but it definitely does help to improve flexibility over time, so if you are not flexible all the more reason to do yoga.

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Will I have to keep up with everyone else in class?

No - you go at your own pace. We leave our egos at the door and we don't compare ourselves to anyone else. Yoga is very personal, it doesn't matter what anyone else is doing!  Your teacher will be demonstrating in class but you do not have to keep the same pace as them or other participants - you go at a speed that works for YOU. And if you want to miss out a pose/exercise and rest that is absolutely fine - lie down and rest, for as long as you want. 

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What style of Yoga do you teach?

Hatha Flow - in most classes Helen teaches a mix of traditional Hatha Yoga (where we go into poses and hold the pose whilst focussing on the breath) and more flowing sequences.

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Do I need to have good balance to do Yoga? 

No - you can use the wall or a piece of furniture to help you to balance in yoga poses. If practiced regularly, yoga will help to improve your balance. 

 

Does my body need to be a particular shape or size?

Yoga is for all bodies - you do not have to have a certain body shape or size to enjoy yoga, to reap the benefits of yoga, or to be "good" at yoga.  

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I sometimes struggle getting up and down from the floor - is is this a problem?

No - you can use a chair or stable piece of furniture to help you up and down. You might benefit from Helen's Slow Yoga Class as this will give you more time to move between poses and positions.  

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I struggle to relax and focus - can I still do yoga? 

Yes, in fact yoga is likely to help you to relax and focus. The breath is the key here. The more you focus on the breath during the yoga the more your body and mind will be able to connect and you will be able to get into your own relaxing "flow."

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What are the benefits of yoga?

Benefits of yoga include but are not limited to:

• Bringing about a sense of calm

• Improving sleep quality

• Increasing strength and flexibility

• Improving balance

• Reducing stress and anxiety

• Improving decision making skills

• Lowering levels of cortisol (stress hormone)

• Higher levels of 'feel good' hormones: endorphins, oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine

• Improving all bodily systems: digestive, endocrine, respiratory, lymphatic and cardiovascular.

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Do you need to do yoga for long to feel the benefits?

You are likely to feel some of the benefits straight away - feeling calmer and more comfortable in your body, but the benefits definitely increase over time and to continue to feel the benefits of the yoga you need to continue with the practice. 

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How often do I need to attend class?

You can attend class as often as you wish. Some people like to attend class once a week whereas others attend 3, 4 or 5 sessions a week - you can find what works for you. And if you need to miss a week every now and again that is fine too, but the more consistent you can be with your practice, the more you will feel the benefits. For yoga to work, you actually have to do the yoga. 

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What should I wear for yoga class?

Clothes that you can move easily in and feel comfortable in. It is always good to have extra layers to hand so you can make sure you are warm, especially in slower poses and relaxation. Shoes and socks are not usually worn for yoga. If you feel like you need to wear socks then it is best to wear the ones with grips on the sole. 

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What do I need for a yoga class?

• A yoga mat  - or a big towel if you don't have a yoga mat

• A cushion and a blanket

• A yoga belt - or normal belt/dressing gown belt

• Yoga bricks, blocks and bolsters are also great if you have them,  do not worry if you don't

• You might like to have a drink of water with you too

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How much are Yoga Classes with Helen? 

£10 drop in/pay as you go (90 minute classes)

£85 for 10 classes - valid for 14 weeks

£45 for 5 classes - valid for 7 weeks

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How do I sign up to classes?

You ca book your classes here on the booking page

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Where can I find the weekly timetable? 

The weekly timetable as well as a description of the different classes can be found here.

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Where can I find what other people say about Helen's classes? 

You can look at the testimonial page or have a look at Helen's Facebook reviews