QUESTIONS?

Q. What style of yoga is this?

This is a common question these days! I do not have a simple label to describe the Yoga practices we will do. Yoga has traditionally been practiced on a one-to-one basis so that it can be adpated to the individual and their needs. Some people may need a restorative, soothing practice and others may need something more stimulating and energising. And of course at different times of the day, month, year and stages of our life we require different practices. Viniyoga in Sanskrit means appropriate application or adaptation of Yoga and this 'label' takes into account this adaptable application of Yoga. 

The practices will combine breath and movement with your breath taking centre stage, with flowing sequences and gentle stays in key postures. We will also practice some breathing techniques and voice work.

Q. I am not flexible, can I still practice Yoga?

Absoutley YES! As Desikachar said, "If you can breathe, you can practice Yoga". Yoga isn't about being flexible or how the posture looks from the outside. It also isn't solely about becoming more flexible, although you may get more flexible doing Yoga. Rather it is about your experience in a posture. In classes we will connect the mind and body through the breath, directing our attention inward. Through this process of inward attention, we learn to be with ourselves without labeling, judging, or trying to change how or who we are. Through practice we may learn to be a little bit more at peace with some of the resistances and realise that we don't want to be constantly struggling against them. And once you make peace with those, that's when they really actually start transforming in ways you couldn't possibly imagine.

Q. I have been to other classes but found them difficult?

By paying attention to your breath, you can not go beyond your limit. I will guide you through the practices, paying particular attention to your breath. Your breath is a mirror to your internal world and rather than trying to fit ourselves into poses, we will listen closely to the breath and respect our own edges and limits, adapting the practices and postures to suit your individual needs. Yoga practice is a paradox; we will explore holding two opposites between effort and surrender through our body and our breath will be our guide.

Q. I have a pre-existing condition, can I still come along to a general class?

If you have a pre-existing condition, I would recommend you speak to your GP first. Before you begin any classes with me, I will ask you to fill out a health questionnaire (which is fully confidential), where you will be able to tell me about any pre-existing conditions or anything that may affect your practice. I will then be able to adapt postures, practices to your needs. During classes, you are asked to listen to your body and if something doesn't feel right, to stop. Where possible, I will offer modifications and adapt practices based on what you have disclosed. I am fully qualified and insured to teach Yoga and I will endeavour to ensure that we practice safely. However, you are asked to be responsible for your health and well being. If you are in doubt about anything, please do speak to me. If you would like to discuss how Yoga Therapy can support you, then please feel free to contact me for a 30 minute free consultation. 

Q. When can I start Yoga classes if I am pregnant?

Yoga classes during pregnancy are suitable for women in their second and third trimesters. If you would like to start practising yoga in your first trimester, then I would recommend individual sessions to support your practice safely for you and your baby.

Q. I am going to have an elective C-section are the Pregnancy Yoga classes still suitable?

Yes absolutely. Regardless of the type of birth you are planning to have, these classes will support your physical and emotional health during pregnancy and beyond, helping you to surrender and embrace the changes within.

Q. How do the Yoga therapy sessions work?

An initial consultation session usually lasts 90 minutes, where we will explore how you would like Yoga to support you and how it can be integrated into your daily life. I will then devise a home practice which I will guide you through during the session and write out for you to practice at home. Based on your feedback, subsequent sessions build on this initial practice and can develop in many different ways. Subsequent sessions usually last between 30 minutes to an hour. Frequency of sessions entirely depends on your choice and what seems appropriate and possible for you. It is best to initially commit to a minimum of four sessions to get started and feel the benefits.

I offer a 30 minute free consultation to discuss your challenges and to explore how you would like Yoga to support you. These can be done face to face or via Skype or Zoom.

Q. Can I pay per class? 

You are welcome to try a class before signing up to a term. An individual class is £10 and if you choose to carry on for the whole term, you only need to pay the remainder of the cost for a full term.

Q. How do I sign up?

There are 10 spaces per term. Contact me by email or phone to book your place.

Q. How do Online classes work?

Classes take place via Zoom. When you sign up to a class, you will be sent an invite which you will use each week during the term. You will need a mat and a block or some cushions and a blanket. You will be on mute until the end of the class. If you would like to be seen by Rupal during the class then you will need to have your camera on.

 Do you have any further questions?