When was the last time you stopped 'doing'?

When did you last listen to your own body?  My guess, is that you notice when things go a bit wonky and you're feeling run down... but do you also notice the ease that you carry elsewhere?

I encourage you to give yourself the permission to just 'be', and by doing so you might find a little bit more out about yourself and feel like you've had a little mini break in the day!  

Just a few minutes before we begin each class, we make time to arrive. And then we can move more mindfully.

 Each physical practice can improve your active mobility,  build strength, increase flexibility and calm your busy mind to feel restored and more connected to yourself. And no, you don't need to be able to touch your toes or be flexible. Just an open mind and a yoga mat is all you need to bring. 

All my classes are suitable for beginners and if you are more experienced, I encourage you cultivate sthira and sukha—steadiness and ease. Find strength to remain present, and enough softness to listen.


My Yoga for cancer training allows me to offer a safe and nourishing practice for those undergoing or post active treatment on a group, or 1:1 basis. See my yoga for cancer page for more details and specific classes and 1:1 support available. 

Feeling a bit hot? Try a little guided breathing with me.

​I thought I’d share a little breathing practice with you that might help to cool you down. It is called Shitali breath, and is done by breathing in through a rolled tongue.
 
If you can't roll your tongue into a tube, it’s ok, you can imagine you are using a straw, to breathe in, or, place your tongue behind your teeth, teeth together and breathe in through the sides of the mouth. 

Breathe in for 3 counts and then close your mouth and breathe out through your nose for the count of 3. If you’re able to take the exhale longer, go ahead. 

Begin by finding a comfortable seated position. A chair is fine. 
Sit up nice and tall. 
Take a nice body stretch. 

Relax your jaw, relax your shoulders. 

Relax your belly, so you can breathe into your diaphragm more easily. This will help you to regulate your nervous system, taking you into a more rested state (which allows your whole body to regulate itself better!)

Without force, can you encourage your belly to expand as you inhale, and draw back as you exhale, remember no force, just a natural movement. 

Breathe in for the count of 3, and out for the count of three.  Maybe this count is four for you, but try and make the exhale long and slow, through your nose. 

Then once you’re nicely settled, roll your tongue and place it outside of the mouth (or take the other options). 

Inhale through the tongue. 

Bring the tongue in.

Exhale through the nose.

Inhale through tongue and continue for 9 breaths. 

Then, just sit, and notice your bodies reaction. 

Did you try it? Let me know!