What is Yoga?

Yoga, like anything in life is whatever you make it. That is not the easiest or safest response to your question, however, it is the most honest answer I can give.

The Sanskrit word "Yoga" means "Union". Union with what you may ask? I would suggest as a starting point, union with your self. In my eyes yoga can be seen as a complete science of life in that it incorporates so many depths and facets a lot which you do not seek but just stumble upon as you practice. As your body opens up many of the blockages and old habits you develop from birth start to shift and change till your subconscious and consciousness begin to merge.

In practical terms yoga is a system of postures aimed to stimulate the glandular, lymphatic, nervous, muscular and skeletal systems to cleanse, massage and elongate the body, eliminate toxins and to operate with increased vigour and vitality. In this respect yoga can be used to address a whole host of health issues.

Enjoyment is the key! If wrapping your legs behind your head is your goal then go for it, if you merely want more slender thighs then regular practice can lead you to leaner legs. Personally I came to yoga through my dancing so I generally gravitate to a fluid blend of yoga poses some traditional some not, flowing from one pose to the other and weaving a dynamic routine which creates a sense of strength, presence and equilibrium throughout the body and mind.

In summation, whatever your motivation with an open mind, yoga will help you lead a better lifestyle and that is as good a reason as any for going to your first yoga class.

What is Pilates?

Pilates is a technique designed to improve breath, co-ordination, concentration, strength and body awareness. In the UK the largest regulating body is the Pilates Foundation which works to maintain the integrity and training of all its teachers. The minimum training course for the Pilates Foundation is 12 months ensuring that all teachers are highly trained to the maximum level for your safety and welfare.

The Pilates technique focuses on specific muscle groups, usually stabilising muscles that are the small supporting muscles of the body as opposed to the larger torque producing global muscles. In this respect, Pilates can be a great method for re-educating the muscles after injury or before and after pregnancy.

Pilates is open to interpretation and as with yoga I like to incorporate other techniques within my Pilates sessions to personalise my class and make life that little bit more interesting. I generally prefer to teach Pilates one-to-one since the minimalist nature of some of the exercises are often assimilated more efficiently from a one-to-one session to begin with. Having said that group classes are worthwhile and available (see Where you learn for details).

I have an injury...

If you are injured or recovering from an injury obviously it is best to proceed with caution. I would usually recommend a few private classes to build confidence and address any issues you are unsure of. Yoga and Pilates can be a great way to heal the body and I would certainly recommend you giving it a go. Whether you attend my class or someone else's make sure you arrive a little early to tell the teacher about your condition before the class starts and take it easy, listen to your body and you should be fine.

I can't touch my toes...

Have you tried bending your knees!?!. Contrary to popular belief you don't have to be really bendy to do yoga or Pilates. The more you worry about lack of flexibility the tighter you are likely to become. Come to class, make a start there is always a modification that can help you work and progress at your own pace for an altogether bendier you!

Will I lose weight?

Both yoga and Pilates are very good for toning and strengthening muscles giving a leaner and stronger appearance. Therefore I would say yes, Yoga and Pilates can assist weight loss if they are a part of a healthy lifestyle.

What should I wear?

Whatever you feel comfortable in; bare feet so you can feel the floor and something comfortable that you can move in. I find tight fitting clothes can sometimes be beneficial for seeing your alignment, but if you don't feel confident in tight things a pair of loose fitting trousers and a t-shirt works every time. You don't need a mat as these are often provided for you. For private sessions I can provide a mat.