AboutYoga
Yoga has numerous physical benefits including:
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Improved flexibility.
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Increased strength and muscle tone.
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Better balance and coordination.
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Improved sleep.
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Enhanced lung capacity.
And numerous mental and emotional benefits:
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Increased focus and concentration.
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Greater focus on the present moment - enjoying what is and not worrying about what was or what might be.
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Reduced stress and anxiety.
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Improved self acceptance, gratitude and inner peace.
About Me
I am a psychologist by background, specialising in large scale corporate transformation projects. I came to yoga for the physical benefits but stayed for the mental health benefits.
I have a 200 hour yoga teaching qualification, plus a qualification in Mindfulness from Bangor University and I have completed my Level 1 & 2 training in Gentle Somatic Yoga®. Alongside my academic qualifications (Phd and MSc in psychology), I am a qualified teacher and I have a post-graduate qualification in executive coaching.
All this means that I love combining modern evidence-based approaches with ancient yogic wisdom - doing what works for our body and mind and ensuring that my classes are welcoming and that they respect the traditions of yoga.
About My Yoga
There are many different styles of yoga and many different teachers - all of whom add their own sparkle to their classes. My yoga classes are mixed ability, I encourage people to explore different variations of postures to discover what works for their body. I offer vinyasa flow style yoga and somatic yoga both combined with mindfulness.
Vinyasa flow yoga is a dynamic form of yoga that builds heat and energy and encourages the coordination of the breath with the physical movement. It is great for improving fitness and mobility.
Somatic yoga is a gentle, mindful approach to movement that helps re-educate our nervous system allowing the body to release chronic muscular tension. It is accessible for all bodies and perfect for unwinding habitual tension patterns.
I have written a blog describing the difference between vinyasa and somatic yoga to help people decide which style is right for them. You can read it here.
All my classes focus on the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of the practice. They aim to achieve three things:
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To provide a warm and welcoming space to enable you to enjoy your yoga practice.
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To encourage you to slow down, breathe deeply, calm your mind and reconnect with yourself.
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To help you to build strength, flexibility and mobility.
What To Bring
You really do not need any fancy or expensive gear to enjoy yoga. Just you, some comfortable clothes and a yoga mat. In our flow yoga we generate some heat, so you may want to wear layers. In the somatic yoga there is less movement so you might want to make sure you have a sweatshirt or a hoody to keep warm. Some people like to bring a blanket for our final resting pose (śavāsana) but it isn't necessary.
Sarah
"I really look forward to Steph's yoga class . She has a beautiful energy , she is very welcoming and happy to explain anything"
Seranna
“Steph is friendly, welcoming, encouraging and she puts a lot of thought and effort into each weekly class. She makes us smile!"
Maria
"Steph provides a knowledge of yoga philosophy and anatomy together with a heartfelt, spiritual approach. Her teaching is rooted in enthusiasm and compassion, offering mindful variations to every class"