Who can practise yoga ?
Almost anyone can practise Yoga, regardless of your level of flexibility, strength or balance. Yoga is non-competitive. This means you learn how your body works and maximise its potential. Yoga works with your body, it does not impose a system of goals towards which you must push yourself, but allows you to discover what you are capable of. Depending on your individual circumstances you may prefer a very gentle class or one that is athletically challenging. We also have special classes for people living with serious illness or injury, for children, for pregnant and for post-natal women.
What happens in a class ?
During a Yoga class, you will be guided through a series of Yoga Postures (called Asana). The teacher will both explain and demonstrate. He/She may also help you learn a posture by adjusting you. Some classes include breathing exercises (pranayama) and some include chanting. At the end of class there is a relaxation, which is generally done lying down.
What should I wear ?
Wear comfortable clothes that you can move in freely. You do not need shoes. In the more dynamic classes you will tend to get hot, so we recommend that you wear thin leggings or shorts and light T-shirts. For the gentler classes you might want to wear a little more clothing.
Do I need my own mat ?
Yoga mats, blankets and other props are provided for Wellbeing Wednesdays, but you are welcome to bring your own if you have one. We also have yoga mats for our Yoga in the Park classes, but these are in limited supply – we can only carry so many. 😉
What if I am pregnant ?
It is possible to attend regular classes through a pregnancy, but not advisable to so anything too strong and heating. If it is your first class with Yoga Wellbeing please ensure the teacher knows that you are pregnant before the class.
Injuries, mobility problems, high blood pressure and other health problems
Yoga postures can be adapted for most conditions. We would be happy to discuss the most appropriate classes for you. If you do come to a class and you have any injuries or health problems, please inform the teacher before the class begins.
Eating and drinking
Do not eat for at least an hour before class and even an hour may not be enough to digest a heavy meal. It can be very uncomfortable to practise with a full stomach.
Practising yoga helps to eliminate toxins from the body. It is important to drink water to assist this process. Obviously, you do not want a lot of liquid sloshing around in your stomach when you are practising; so don’t drink a lot just before class. We also do not recommend drinking water during practice. But make sure you have some water after a class.
