Iyengar Yoga

In Iyengar Yoga, created by BKS Iyengar, postures (asanas) are used to correct the body’s alignment, strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility, balance and poise. Yoga is a very mindful form of exercise, requiring calm concentration. Correct breathing and precise positioning of the body – body-mind-breath awareness - are emphasised.

Although some of the classic postures familiar from books and photographs may look impossibly difficult, remember that yoga is a gradual process and is not about forcing the body into unnatural positions. In Iyengar, props such as belts, blocks and bolsters, are used to help students achieve the postures in gradual stages, making it a safe and user-friendly form of yoga. As you practice, you will become increasingly strong and supple, but you will begin to feel the benefits from your very first class.

Murielle Carrasco and Catherine Barnes-Holt teach Iyengar yoga in a small, friendly class. Each session ends with a relaxation period and you will leave the class feeling calm and energised.

Iyengar Yoga times and prices

GENERAL LEVEL:
Thursday 10.30-12.00
90 min: 10 classes £125 (valid 3 months)/ £15 per class.

For further information or bookings, contact Murielle Carrasco:
mob: 07941 674 931     
email:  muricarr@yahoo.co.uk

BEGINNERS LEVEL:
Tuesday 9.15-10.30
75 min: 10 classes £125 (valid 3 months)/£15 per class.

For further information or bookings, contact Catherine Barnes-Holt:
mob: 07909 995408
email: cathbarnes.holt@googlemail.com

For more information about Iyengar yoga, see www.iyengaryoga.org.uk.

Active Birth Yoga

This class teaches stretches and postures that improve flexibility, strength and wellbeing in pregnancy. It is a powerful preparation for birth because the postures replicate those adopted in labour. You learn correct breathing (the best natural tranquillizer) and relaxation - the keys to a positive birth - and receive practical guidance and support. The class ends with a discussion where women share their experiences and apprehensions. Refreshments are provided.

Teacher Natalie Meddings says: 'It troubles me that women are more fearful and unsure about birth than they have ever been. Though modern obstetrics has made amazing strides, its blanket protocols and conveyor-belt management of labour have done much to undermine women's instincts and erode faith in their own bodies. Active birth yoga provides an antidote for that – helping women to take responsibility for their pregnancy and birth experience and, with regular practice, to rebuild trust in what their bodies can do.'

Active Birth Yoga times and prices

Thursday 6.30-8.30pm   £15 per class, monthly payments.

For further information or bookings, contact Natalie Meddings:
mob: 07976 261 542     
email: nataliemeddings@googlemail.com
website: www.activebirthlondon.co.uk