Yoga / Yoga Information
What is Yoga?
Our practise and teaching of yoga takes place within a context of Buddhism, which emphasises an integration of awareness and kindness leading to positive mental states.
Regular practise of yoga has many benefits as it integrates body and mind, bringing vitality, flexibility and a sense of wellbeing.
- level 1 for complete beginners or for those returning to yoga after a break
- level 2 suitable after approximately one year of level 1
- all levels mixed group for newcomers and experienced
Booking
Places on our courses and workshops are booked up quickly.
To secure a place, full payment in advance is required.
Health Considerations
Pregnancy is not a good time to start yoga and we cannot accept newly pregnant women into our classes. If you are already practising and are known to our teachers, they can teach you during the second trimester, provided there are no complications with the pregnancy and that you have your doctor's assurance that it is safe to practise yoga.
If you experience any other chronic or acute conditions, please ask your doctor’s advice and also speak to the yoga teacher before booking classes or workshops.
yoga questions
What do I need to bring with me to yoga?
You can wear anything non-constricting to practice yoga, such as leggings, shorts, joggers, and t-shirts.
There’s no need to bring any equipment: we provide mats, blankets, blocks, and other yoga props. If you have a mat you prefer to use, you are welcome to bring it.
yoga questions
Iyengar Yoga
Karunachitta and Vimalamitra both teach Iyengar yoga.
Iyengar yoga was developed by B.K.S. Iyengar of Puna, India and teaches classical Indian postures with attention to the breath, ie, standing postures, sitting, supine, and inversions.
Karunachitta’s teaching includes Pranayama – the distribution of the life force through breathing.
Karunachitta only teaches courses at the Centre, and these are taught at two levels. Anyone new to her teaching starts with Level 1, which gives the basic principles and is slower and simpler. Once you have completed a Level 1 course, you can speak to Karunachitta about whether to move to Level 2.
Vimalamitra teaches a drop-in class on Thursdays. We recommend that you consider yourself fairly fit to attend his class as it includes standing poses and emphasises alignment and precision in the postures.
yoga questions
yoga with Sarah
Sarah Whiteley has completed a teacher training course based on the work of Vanda Scaravelli.
This approach allows you to work at your own pace, responding to gravity and becoming attentive to your breath. There is not an emphasis on particular postures, and it may suit those who wish to contact the relaxing element of yoga, rather than focussing on the effortful element.
Sarah teaches one drop-in class on Wednesdays and also runs courses. You are welcome to attend her drop-in class before enrolling on her course so you have an opportunity to experience her teaching. You do not need to be fit or flexible to enjoy the class. This class is good for beginners and those wishing to experience a more meditative side of yoga.
yoga questions
Dynamic Yoga
Rijusiddha (Miles Drewett) teaches Dynamic Yoga, which is an ancient oriental practice that brings into balance the five basic elements: earth, fire, water, air and ether. Dynamic Yoga has within it elements of such styles as tai-chi and chi-kung as well as utilising the full spectrum of traditional yoga postures. This is an active healing class with some quick-flowing movements as well as slower and relaxing stretches and can be powerful and transforming.
Rijusiddha teaches one drop-in class on Tuesdays. His class is for all levels, and he is experienced in tailoring his teaching to suit both beginners and regular practitioners. You do not need to have any previous experience in yoga to attend his class.
yoga questions
yoga with Anya
Anya Konefal is currently training with the British Wheel of Yoga and the British School of Yoga. Her classes emphasise body awareness and gentle stretches. They are restorative and relaxing: they have been described as great “de-stressers”.
Anya teaches one drop-in class on Fridays. You do not need to be fit or flexible: this is an excellent class for beginners, for those returning to yoga after a break and for everyone willing to experience gentler practice.
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