Beginners Yoga classes..

and why I don't have them on my weekly schedule.. 

I know lots of teachers do and I’m genuinely not here to comment on, or criticise, what others are doing 🙏 But I do get asked this a LOT and I’d like to clarify and hopefully reassure newcomers not to worry about trying yoga for the first time 

In my opinion there are two ways of looking at it. 1) you could argue that you are only truly a beginner the first time(s) you step onto the mat.. but 2) we all remain beginners throughout our yoga practice as we can discover something about ourselves, our body and the physical or philosophical aspects of yoga EVERY time we step onto the mat

The reality as a teacher is.. if I started a “Beginners Yoga” class and this ran continuously, starting with 10 “beginners” then a few weeks later someone comes along for the very first time - they may not feel at the same stage as those who have been coming longer and the remaining class don’t really want a “beginners” lesson anymore (and so it goes on)

One of the joys of yoga IS progression. Not for progressions sake, but that comfort found in being able to now sit in stillness, the finding of “your edge” and moving beyond it, experiencing how breathwork can be both invigorating and calming, building confidence, strength, flexibility. This is a joy to watch as a teacher - seeing the once wobbly student balance on one leg, for example, and experiencing that progression in yourself feels amazing!

All of my classes are suitable for ALL and plans contain modifications or alternatives to suit different bodies, experience, conditions and fitness levels. All offer the opportunity to develop, at your pace, listening to your body and meeting you where you are at. I encourage you to approach your time on the mat with the curiosity of “beginners mind” EVERY time you practice but you won’t actually be a beginner for long!

One of the many special (dare I say it, magical) aspects of yoga is that feeling that you find something new each time. Why else would people practice for years and years without feeling bored in their 10000th downward facing dog. As we grow, change, age, bend and bough through the years so does our yoga experience.

I DO run special beginners COURSES throughout the year as I know that for some people that's the only way you may feel comfortable exploring yoga and I fully respect that. These are set programmes for 4-6 weeks only, depending on the location.. after which those students can choose to continue practicing with me in my regular Yoga for All classes. I also offer bespoke sessions on a 121 basis if you would like to learn the basics of yoga in a more personalised setting. You will find details of these and all of my offerings on my website and via my online booking system.