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INTRODUCTIONS AND ASSESSMENTS
If you are a new client interested in attending private or group classes we encourage you to come in to the studio for an assessment and introduction to Pilates or Yoga.
During the initial assessment you will complete a health questionnaire, discuss your health history and get to know your body better with some simple screening tests.
We will cover some of the fundamentals such as breathing, alignment and correct muscle activation so that you have this vital knowledge to take home and practice. From here we will decide which classes best suit you!
Yoga Group Classes
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Our Yoga classes are suitable for all levels, variations are always offered to make postures more accessible or more challenging. Everybody is welcome but please contact us prior to coming to discuss any health conditions or injuries that your instructor will need to be aware of.
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YOGA FOUNDATIONS
This class is designed for beginners. Traditional sequences like Sun Salutation A and B are deconstructed giving you time to link your breath with your movement. Enjoy the freedom to move at a slower pace, release tension and restore a fuller range of movement. Suitable for beginners and for more experienced practitioners wanting a gentler class.
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VINYASA FLOW
Our Vinyasa Flow classes link breath with movement to build core strength, balance and flexibility. In this creative class, Yoga poses are linked with Pranayama (breath work) and meditation in a flowing sequence. The beauty of Vinyasa Flow is the variety. There is no standard sequence, so the style, pace and intensity will all vary depending on the teacher. Classes may be sequenced around a peak pose or an aspect of Yoga philosophy. The class can be dynamic with strengthening postures or it may be a slower flow with emphasis on mobility and flexibility in the spine or hips.
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VINYASA YOGA
Our vinyasa yoga classes are based around the Astanga Yoga primary series. All of our Vinyasa Yoga classes contain Surya Namaskar A and B and some (or all) of the standing sequence. The structure of these classes varies, sometimes beginning with longer-held floor-based postures. In our Vinyasa Yoga classes we link the postures together, flowing from one to the next, with particular attention on combining each movement with a breath and drishti (gaze point). These classes are suitable for all levels; variations to postures are always available and often suggested.
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SUNDAY SLOW DOWN
Our Sunday Slowdown classes are a wonderful way to ease into your Sunday evening.
These classes are a rotation of Yoga Nidra, Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga and Meditation/Mindfulness sessions.
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YIN
Our Yin Yoga classes are suitable for all age groups and all levels and focus on increasing the circulation in the joints and improving flexibilty through a series of slow and deep stretches. Here we find space to connect to a meditative state bringing a sense of calm and quiet to the mind. In Yin we hold our poses for a long period of time, utilising props to practice stillness and completely relax and stretch deeply into our connective tissue. Expect to walk out of the class feeling like you have just had a massage, with a completely revitalised body, mind and spirit.
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RESTORATIVE YOGA
Restorative yoga is a beautiful practice suitable for anyone wanting to enjoy the benefits of deep relaxation including those with restricted mobility or injuries.
Unwind, switch off, increase flexibility, de-stress, and enhance the body’s natural healing abilities with this practice.
This is a very gentle form of yoga and a wonderful way to nurture yourself.
Wear comfortable warm clothing and expect to be in supported floor postures for several minutes at a time.
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YOGA NIDRA
In our yoga Nidra classes we begin with simple, breath focused joint rotations from an uncomplicated yet powerful practice known as pawanmuktasana, along with long held restorative postures to ease and soothe body and mind.
In the final part of the session your teacher will guide you through the restful and nourishing practice of Yoga Nidra. In Yoga Nidra the body is completely still, resting in shavasana, wrapped in blankets and cushioned with bolsters for warmth and comfort. Our Yoga Nidra practice lasts approximately 30 minutes and is a deep meditative practice in which we try to stay present with the guiding voice of the teacher as we are taken through a full mind-body relaxation.
Bring additional warm layers and (if you wish) your favourite blanket and pillow to drop more deeply into a content and sleepy state and enjoy the benefits of this deeply relaxing and regenerative practice.
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MYSORE
Mysore style is the traditional way of teaching Astanga Vinyasa Yoga.
Originally yoga in India was taught one-to-one with the teacher introducing the student to asanas and adapting the practice to suit the student’s needs. In a Mysore class this approach is continued as the teacher is able to work individually with students whilst in a group setting.
In Astanga the asanas are practiced in a set sequence, each posture prepares the body and mind for the postures following. The sequence is learned and added to over time. At first it may seem a lot to remember but with regular practice you begin to move through the sequence in a natural flowing movement to the pace of your own breath. Mysore classes enable students to develop their own practice in a way that suits their body and needs. It also fosters a more meditative practice by encouraging an inward focus with particular emphasis on pranayama (breath control and focus), drishti (focussed/fixed gaze) and bandha (internal locks).
These classes are suitable for all levels from total beginners to experienced practitioners.
Typically you might expect to stay for between 35 to 60 minutes if this is your first class and with that time frame in mind you can arrive anytime between 5 and 6.30. Over time your practice will lengthen to approximately 90 minutes.
Pilates Group Classes.
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Pilates classes are graded and it is important that you attend classes at your level. In our group classes you will be led by the instructor who will occasionally offer variations to either simplify an exercise or increase the difficulty so you can adapt your workout as needed. Group classes vary between circuits with equipment and body weight mat classes.
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MAT CLASSES
Here we offer a modern version of the classical Pilates method. Bringing strength training principals in at times whilst also focusing on the flow and fluidity of the classical mat sequence. The use of props such as light hand weights, rollers, resistance bands and Swiss balls can spice things up or be assistive depending on requirements.
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CIRCUT CLASSES
Using equipment such as reformers, suspension trainers and smaller props such as Swiss balls, we transition between stations, repeating an exercise for 40-60 seconds before taking a short rest and moving to the next station. With up to 8 stations per circuit and up to 4 circuits per class these sessions are highly effective in building strength and conditioning.
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BEGINNER’S PILATES
Start here if Pilates or physical activity is new to you. Learn the basics and fundamentals. This class is suitable for a wide demographic, age and ability. If you’re new to exercise or recovering from injury this is a great option too. A gentle, low impact, slow to moderate paced whole body workout offering strength and flexibility benefits. All the building blocks are here to set you up for movement joy and success. Joint nourishment, gentle but effective with a sprinkle of spiciness for anyone wanting a nudge!
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PILATES FOUNDATIONS
Advance your workout and pick up the pace a little here. Still low to moderate intensity and beginners often do well in this class too. Well balanced, supportive, but challenging and empowering, strength and mobility delightfulness.
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PILATES FLOW
High intensity, faster flow, contagious movement joy! Modifications and variations are still available but this class is better suited to individuals with more Pilates experience or those who are already reasonably fit and active. A well rounded, energetic and creative movement experience to lovingly push you out of your comfort zone, bookended with dynamic and static stretches to soothe you from the main event!
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SUNDAY SLOW DOWN
Our Sunday Slowdown classes are a wonderful way to ease into your Sunday evening.
These classes are a rotation of Yoga Nidra, Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga and Meditation/Mindfulness sessions.
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CORE BLIMEY
This is a demanding and challenging session! It operates on an invitation only basis - please call the studio to see if it’s right for you. High intensity, outgoing and fun!