Class Outline
Classes will vary to work on specific areas and adapt to the needs of the students as the course progresses but generally they follow the same structure.
RELAXATION – Stilling the mind of anxieties and busy thoughts by concentrating on the breath and bringing ourselves into the present moment, focusing to see where any tension may be in the body and focus on deepening the breath
WARM-UP AND LIMBERING – We begin by doing: gentle curling and stretching movements to warm up the muscles, Structural yoga movements to gently stretch the spine and to articulate the joints
SUN – SALUTATIONS (SURYA NAMASKAR) – This is a sequence of 12 postures that we synchronise with our breathing to make a continuous cycle of movements. We do a few cycles to really warm-up the body, these cycles increase the flow of energy round the body energise the spine and work every muscle.
MAIN PART OF CLASS –During this part of the class we perform a series of other yoga asanas or postures. These are taught through demonstration and vocal instruction. During the course postures and exercises can be challenging, but easier alternatives/modifications are always suggested.
BREATHING (PRANAYAMA) EXERCISES – These are done to improve lung capacity and to learn good breathing techniques and habits, energising and at the same time relaxing the body sytems, these techniques assist the movements and the stretch throughout the practice.
RELAXATION – At the end of the class a comfortable position either lying or sitting is adopted, where we can deeply relax, either a visualisation is used or soft music is played. This part is completely enjoyable and feels like a reward for the work performed in the class
Attending yoga classes will improve both mental and physical well being. It will also help the body maintain its mobility and agility, and support a growing clarity for dealing calmly with everyday pressures along life’s way
