What is Yoga? Yoga translates as ‘union’, a union or joining of the mind and body, which for many in the Western world are seen as acting wholly independently. One of the most common branches of yoga is Hatha Yoga – hatha embodies ‘ha’ the sun and ‘tha’ the moon, symbolising the union of the sun and moon, of male and female, of right and left and all opposites. Hatha Yoga endeavours to bring balance to the body and the mind and to the flow of energy in the body.
Sorrel de la Hey
Yoga & Massage Therapist
How to prepare
for a yoga class or session?
General Hatha yoga classes will introduce you to the foundations of the yoga practice through the combination of physical postures, breathing exercises and relaxation techniques.
Yoga postures
Yoga postures (or asanas) promote health and increase flexibility in the physical body. The postures exercise all parts of the body, helping to stretch and tone muscles and joints, the spine and the entire skeletal system. They also help to release both mental and physical tension allowing us to release energy to help readdress imbalance rather than leaving you feeling tired and depleted. Through the practice of these postures, you will learn about your body and how it functions, thereby developing a greater sense of awareness and sensitivity, of which yoga is all about.
Breath
The breathing exercises will teach you to breathe more naturally and fully, helping to cleanse the body, increase lung capacity and improve mental clarity.
Relaxation
​A variety of relaxation techniques covered, including visualisation and yoga nidra, will allow the body to rest and rejuvenate, reducing stress and creating a calmer mind.
Each class will be different but the framework will help to stretch and strengthen the body, at the same time as reconnecting us to our breath and learning to relax.
It is important that you go only as far as feels comfortable in any postures or breathing exercises.
What to expect in the class or session?
Friendly & Supportive
An environment where we are all students of yoga, and learning from one another. Sorrel will be a sensitive and attentive instructor to guide you safely through your practice. Classes will retain a small class size to ensure plenty of personal attention.
There is no competition
A non-competitive atmosphere both with others and with yourself. You’re encouraged to honour your body, listen to its needs, and practice with awareness. These needs may change from class to class, and that’s perfectly natural.
All inclusive
Yoga is for everyone, whether you are young or old, feeling well or if you are working with challenges. All bodies are welcome. We will each work at our own pace within the structure of the class. Small adjustments or alternative postures may be offered to support individual needs
How to be ready?
Wear loose fitting clothing so that you feel comfortable and can move. Bring warm clothes, socks, blanket or sweatshirt, for relaxation at the end of class.
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Please don’t eat a heavy meal less than two hours before the session.
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Try to arrive a few minutes before class so you have time to ‘arrive’ and be fully present at the start of class.
Leave any stress or worries at the door, this is your time.
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Come with an open mind and heart and a sense of exploration.