Firstly, lets set the record straight, you don’t have to be flexible to ‘do’ yoga. You don’t have to be anything other than yourself to have a regular yoga practice.

I provide one-to-one and small group yoga classes (with only people you know) in your own home environment or live online via Zoom.  Whilst my teaching draws on the influence of various styles of yoga that I love including Yin/Yang, Restorative, Vinyasa flow and Iyengar, I don’t teach one style in particular but rather adapt my classes to an individual’s requirements.

 

“Teach what is inside you. Not as it applies to you, to yourself, but as it applies to the other” Krishnamacharya

 

The intention of my classes is to allow you the time, in a space you are comfortable in, to go beyond a purely physical practice and find a sense of calm, presence and ultimately a deeper sense of self.  I combine my passion for the traditional teachings of yoga with my other branches of knowledge such as the use of aromatherapy essential oils or massage within a class sometimes, to enhance your experience.

 

In a class tailored to your individual needs, we can explore yoga as it is relevant to you at the time.  Your class might include body-centred practices, where you can move your body into yoga poses (asanas) that may not only improve strength and flexibility, but which also direct life force energy (chi/prana) and impact how you feel physically, emotionally and mentally.  You might need dynamic, flowing movement, longer held static poses or a more restorative class.  You are free to choose and change your mind depending on how you feel on any given day.  We may also explore breathing practices (Pranayama), chanting, meditation or discuss some of the other principles of yoga and how we can adopt them in our lives like Ahimsa (non-harming) Sauca (keeping the body clean/healthy) or Samtosa (manifesting contentment with what we have). 

 

“We begin where we are and how we are, and whatever happens, happens” T.K.V. Desikachar

 

All these practices encourage a real awareness of where restrictions reside in your body and mind.  Over time, we become more sensitive to the subtle sensations and messages that the body is constantly giving us and learn that whilst we can listen, observe and take action where necessary, they don’t define us.  By manifesting compassion for ourselves and others, we start to feel more harmonious, connected and accepting of ourselves. More at one with ourselves, both on the mat and off the mat as our yoga practice becomes part of everyday life rather than separate from it.  This is when we start to understand the transformative nature of yoga.

 

“Yoga is a light, which once lit will never dim. The better you practice, the brighter the flame”

B.K.S Iyengar

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"Having taken classes with Gemma for nearly a year  in relaxation and yoga I want to say how much I have enjoyed the classes.

Gemma is an excellent, knowledgable and sympathetic teacher who inspires every time!

I can’t thank her enough for maintaining my energy and well being in this last year. 

I can’t recommend her enough"

Carol Stewart