Gemma Murphy Yoga

Exciting news, everyone! I have made it to the final top five shortlist for the Best Yoga Studio in Warwickshire & West Midlands category at the prestigious Muddy Awards!

Yoga isn’t just a practice for me—it’s a way of life. In my Yoga classes in Rugby, I strive to create a space where people can tap into their inner energy, find balance, and experience the incredible power of yoga. Whether it’s an invigorating vinyasa flow or a yin session, I put my heart and soul into each class, aiming to leave everyone feeling refreshed, empowered, and connected.

I’m thrilled to be recognised for the energy and passion I pour into my yoga teachings. Now, I need your support. Your votes can truly make a difference! Vote now at the Muddy Awards! Thank you for your support.

Embarking on a yoga adventure is pretty exciting! There’s something captivating about finding inner peace, getting more flexible, and connecting your mind and body.

But let me tell you, there are a few things no one told me before I stepped into that yoga class. In this post, I’m going to share the hidden gems that will help you navigate your yoga journey with confidence and a smile.

1. Yoga is for Everybody: Yoga doesn’t care about your age, body shape, or how fit you are. Seriously, everyone is welcome! You don’t need to be a human pretzel or a fitness fanatic to start yoga. It’s all about your personal progress, at your own pace.
2. Don’t Sweat the Modifications: Okay, so maybe you can’t nail every pose right away. That’s totally cool! Yoga teachers are there to guide you and offer modifications for every level. Don’t be shy to modify the poses to suit your needs. It’s your practice, and no one expects you to be a yoga superstar from day one.
3. Breathe, Breathe and Breathe: Here’s a little secret: breath is the key ingredient in yoga. Focusing on your breath makes your practice come alive. It helps calm your mind, stay present, and flow through poses like a graceful yoga ninja. Inhale the good vibes, exhale the stress!
4. Prepare for Unexpected Feels: Yoga has a sneaky way of unlocking emotions you didn’t even know were there. It’s totally normal to feel a rush of emotions during or after a yoga class. Tears, laughter, or a sudden burst of happiness—it’s all part of the process. Embrace it and know that you’re releasing tension and making space for positive energy.
5. Savasana is the ultimate pose: Now, let’s talk about the big chill pose—savasana. Don’t underestimate the power of lying down and relaxing. It might seem easy, but trust me, it can be a challenge to quieten your mind. Savasana is your time to soak in all the benefits of your practice, rejuvenate your body, and find deep, blissful relaxation. It’s like a little holiday in the middle of your day.
6. The other yoga students will support you too: Yoga classes aren’t just about you and your mat. They’re also about the amazing people you’ll meet. The yoga community is super supportive and welcoming. Strike up conversations, ask for help, and learn from others who have been on the mat longer.

Starting your yoga journey is an adventure filled with surprises and self-discovery. While there’s plenty no one tells you before your first class, these insights will help you navigate your yoga journey with confidence and a smile. Remember, yoga isn’t just about the poses—it’s about nurturing your mind, body, and spirit. Embrace the journey, keep an open mind, and let yoga work its magic in your life.

‘Flow + Chill’ yoga class takes place on Tuesdays 7.15pm-8.15pm at Houlton School in Rugby. Designed for beginners and those seeking to unwind and decompress. Find out more.

Thinking of stepping onto a yoga mat and not sure which class to come to?

I run two different types of yoga classes in Rugby ‘Flow + Chill’ and ‘Dynamic Flow’.

Flow + Chill (beginners/moderate level): This class is designed specifically for beginners or students seeking a relaxed yoga experience. Here’s what you can expect:

• Suitable for beginners: Whether you’re new to yoga or prefer a more moderate practice, this class is accessible for all skill levels.
• Unwinding and decompressing: It focuses on helping you unwind and release tension, providing a space for relaxation and restoration.
• Mindful movement: The class encourages a mindful connection between your breath and movement, fostering a slower-paced practice.
• Alignment and deep stretches: You can anticipate more cues on alignment, slower movements, and deep stretches to alleviate physical and mental stress.
• Perfect wind-down: It serves as a wonderful way to wind down from a busy day, preparing you for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Overall, the Flow + Chill class prioritises gentleness, self-care, and finding balance in your life.

Dynamic Flow (intermediate level): For those seeking a more invigorating and challenging yoga experience, the Dynamic Flow class offers a blend of strength, flexibility, and balance. Consider the following features:

• Intermediate level: This class is designed for individuals with some prior yoga experience or a moderate fitness level.
• Heat-building and energising: The focus is on creating heat within the body through dynamic movements, helping you build strength and flexibility.
• Meditation and breathwork: The class incorporates meditation and breathwork practices to deepen your connection with the present moment and enhance your overall experience.
• The flow may range from slower and strength-focused to more uplifting and fast-paced, where each movement is synchronised with a breath.
• Relaxation and inspiration: Regardless of the pace, the class aims to leave you feeling relaxed, empowered, and inspired after each session.

The Dynamic Flow class is ideal for individuals who enjoy a more vigorous practice and want to explore their limits within a supportive environment.

Whether you opt for a chilled out experience or a dynamic and empowering practice, both classes offer unique benefits for your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Enjoy your yoga journey!

Find out more about weekly yoga classes in Rugby.

Throughout the past five weeks, in our yoga classes in and around Rugby area, we have been delving into the theme of Santosha. We have explored the essence of contentment and its transformative impact on our practice and daily lives. The journey has been a beautiful exploration of self-discovery, gratitude, and acceptance.

Together, we have practised gratitude, recognising the positive impact it has on our overall well-being. From the gentle opening stretches to the challenging asanas, we have learned to approach our practice with a sense of joy and appreciation. Each breath, each movement, and each moment on the mat has become an opportunity to cultivate Santosha and find contentment in the present.

Off the mat, the theme of Santosha has woven its way into our daily lives: embracing the practice of gratitude, taking time to acknowledge the simple joys that surround us. We have discovered the beauty of letting go of expectations and surrendering to the natural ebb and flow of life. By finding joy in simplicity and practicing self-compassion, we have experienced a newfound sense of balance and peace.

Come and experience the power of contentment on and off the yoga mat, and witness the positive impact it can have on your overall well-being!

Yin yoga, a beautiful counterpart to its yang sibling, takes us on a journey of self-discovery through its slow-paced and meditative nature. By delving deep into the connective tissues of the body, including the fascia, ligaments, and joints, Yin yoga offers a unique and profound experience of release and rejuvenation.

In the realm of yoga, the concepts of yin and yang represent the duality of life, where yin symbolises stillness, receptivity, and introspection, while yang embodies movement, strength, and action. In our fast-paced world, where yang practices often dominate, Yin yoga provides a much-needed balance, allowing us to tap into the quiet, nurturing aspects of our being.

During a Deep Stretch Yin class in Rugby, we embarked on a journey of self-exploration, surrendering to the gentle yet sustained stress applied to the tissues. As we held each pose for several minutes, we not only allowed the physical body to soften and open but also created space for the mind and emotions to unwind and find equilibrium.

The practice of Yin yoga goes beyond the physical benefits of increased flexibility and improved joint mobility. It taps into the subtle energy channels within our bodies, enhancing the flow of prana (life force) and restoring energetic balance. By cultivating stillness and presence, we create an opportunity to observe and release any stagnant energy or emotional blockages that may hinder our overall well-being.

Throughout the class, the participants and I embraced the gift of time, exploring a range of poses specifically designed to target different areas of the body. From gentle forward folds to deep hip openers, each pose encouraged us to find our edge, a place where we experienced a gentle stretch without strain. This delicate dance of finding the right balance allowed us to honor our bodies’ unique needs, supporting the natural process of release and relaxation.

As we surrendered into the poses, the magic of Yin yoga unfolded. The extended holds created space for introspection, self-reflection, and a deep sense of presence. In this stillness, we embraced the opportunity to witness our thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations with compassion and non-judgment. The practice became a powerful tool for cultivating mindfulness and nurturing a greater connection with ourselves.

The beauty of Yin yoga lies in its ability to create a harmonious blend of physical, mental, and energetic benefits. Through the gentle stress applied to the connective tissues, we encourage the body’s natural healing mechanisms, allowing for increased flexibility, improved circulation, and enhanced vitality. Simultaneously, the practice provides a sanctuary for the mind to quieten, fostering a sense of calm and inner peace.

As the class at The Barn in Houlton came to a close, a collective sense of tranquility and gratitude lingered in the air. The deep stretch Yin practice had touched each participant in a unique way, allowing us to embrace the wisdom of stillness and surrender. We left the class feeling lighter, rejuvenated, and with a renewed appreciation for the power of Yin yoga.

Incorporating Yin yoga into your regular practice can be a transformative experience, inviting you to slow down, connect with your inner self, and find balance amidst the chaos of life. Whether you’re seeking physical release, mental clarity, or a deeper connection to your spiritual essence, Yin yoga offers a sanctuary for growth and self-discovery.

So, I invite you to explore the world of Yin yoga, to embrace the gentle embrace of stillness, and to honor the profound interplay of yin and yang within yourself.

Join me for a Deep Stretch Yin class at The Barn in Houlton, Rugby and together, let us embark on a journey of deep relaxation, flexibility, and energetic flow.

Many of you who have been following my yoga journey, will know that earlier this year, I received my 50 hour Yin Yoga Teaching module. Yay! This means I’m now able to lead yin yoga classes in the Rugby area and this makes me so happy.

I realise that many of you will be brand new to yin so today’s blog post is all about yin and props and how they can support your practice.

While props are not essential for practising Yin yoga, they can greatly enhance your experience, making it more accessible and comfortable for yogis of all levels.

The Benefits of Using Props in Yin Yoga

1. Increased Comfort and Relaxation: Props provide additional support, allowing you to relax and settle deeper into each pose. By using props like bolsters, blocks, blankets, and eye pillows, you can find a more comfortable position, releasing tension and promoting relaxation in both your body and mind.
2. Improved Alignment and Stability: Props help you maintain proper alignment throughout the poses, reducing the risk of strain or injury. They provide stability and support, allowing you to focus on the deep stretch rather than worrying about balance or alignment.
3. Increased Flexibility and Range of Motion: Props can assist in deepening your stretches and increasing your flexibility. They offer gentle support, enabling you to stay in a pose for a longer duration, gradually opening up tight areas of the body and improving your overall range of motion.
4. Reduced Risk of Injury: Props act as a safety net, ensuring that you practice Yin yoga in a safe and mindful manner. They help you find the right amount of support and prevent overexertion, minimising the risk of strain or injury.
5. Increased Accessibility: Props make Yin yoga more accessible for beginners and those with physical limitations. They offer modifications and variations that cater to individual needs, allowing everyone to experience the benefits of this calming practice.

Options Props for Yin Yoga

1. Bolsters: Soft and supportive, bolsters are ideal for providing comfort and relaxation. They can be placed under the knees, back, or any other area that requires support, promoting deep release and soothing tension. (this is the one that I really like although there are lots of different shape ones so feel free to see what suits your body)
2. Bricks/blocks: These are versatile props that assist in maintaining proper alignment and balance. They can be used under the hands, hips, or to support different parts of the body, ensuring stability and ease in various poses. Blocks are lower and wider than bricks and are useful for sitting on.
3. Straps: Yoga straps aid in increasing flexibility and deepening stretches. They allow you to extend your reach and gently explore your edge in poses, providing support without strain.
4. Blankets: Blankets offer extra cushioning and warmth during Yin yoga practice. They can be used to support the hips, knees, or head, creating a cozy and comforting environment for deep relaxation.
5. Eye Pillows: Eye pillows are wonderful props that enhance relaxation and create a serene atmosphere during Yin yoga. Placing an eye pillow over your eyes helps to block out light, induce a sense of calm, and deepen your experience of inner stillness. I provide these in my yin classes so don’t’ feel that you have to bring your own with you!

Remember to Listen to Your Body

When incorporating props into your Yin yoga practice, it’s essential to listen to your body and adjust accordingly. Props should never cause pain or discomfort. If you experience any discomfort, modify the prop placement or remove them entirely. It’s crucial to honour your body’s limitations and find the balance between support and challenge.

Don’t have any props?

And if you don’t have any of these props for your first class, don’t worry, just come with you yoga mat and a big pillow and see how you get on! And, if you feel like yin is something that you’d like to do more often, then it might be worthwhile treating yourself to a few props.

I love to weave in ancient wisdom into my yoga classes. We have recently been looking at Asteya, one of the yamas and how it applies on and off the mat, bringing a sense of respect and abundance into our everyday routines.

Understanding Asteya:

Asteya is not just about physical theft; it’s about respecting what belongs to others. It’s about appreciating the time, energy, possessions, and experiences that people hold dear. Asteya teaches us to be content with what we have and to let go of the desire to take what isn’t freely given.

On the Mat:

When we step onto our yoga mats, Asteya encourages us to let go of comparisons and competition. It reminds us that each of us has our own unique journey and progress to celebrate. Instead of stealing the joy or progress of others, we learn to honor our own path and be grateful for the present moment.

Asteya on the mat also means listening to our bodies and practicing self-care. It reminds us not to push ourselves beyond our limits or neglect the rest and recovery our bodies need. By respecting our boundaries, we create a sustainable and compassionate practice.

Off the Mat:

Asteya extends beyond our yoga practice and becomes a way of living. In our modern lives, it calls us to examine how we interact with others and the world around us. In a world driven by comparison and consumerism, Asteya reminds us to be mindful of our actions and choices.

In our relationships, Asteya encourages us to respect the time, energy, and boundaries of others. It means truly listening and being present, rather than stealing attention or seeking constant validation. By honoring the experiences and perspectives of those around us, we foster genuine connections.

Asteya also urges us to consider our impact on the environment. By consuming mindfully, reducing waste, reusing, recycling, and supporting sustainable practices, we avoid stealing resources from future generations and contribute to the well-being of our planet.

Practising Asteya:

Incorporating Asteya into our modern lifestyles requires self-reflection and conscious effort. Here are some practical ways we can cultivate Asteya both on and off the mat:

1. Embrace Gratitude and Contentment: Focus on appreciating what we already have, rather than constantly seeking more. Cultivate contentment and celebrate the abundance in our lives.
2. Mindful Consumption: Pause and reflect before making purchases. Ask ourselves if we genuinely need something or if we’re seeking fulfillment through material possessions. Choose sustainable and ethical options whenever possible.
3. Respect Boundaries: Be mindful of others’ time, energy, and personal space. Truly listen and give them the space to express themselves. Avoid stealing attention or dominating conversations.
4. Sustainable Living: Adopt eco-friendly habits by reducing waste, conserving resources, and supporting sustainable initiatives. Opt for reusable products, minimize single-use items, and recycle responsibly.
5. Self-Care and Balance: Prioritise self-care and respect our own boundaries. Give ourselves the rest and rejuvenation we need to maintain balance in our lives.

Asteya, the practice of non-stealing, offers us a beautiful way to live with respect and abundance on and off the yoga mat. By embracing gratitude, respecting boundaries, and making mindful choices, we create a world where everyone’s experiences and resources are valued. Let’s cultivate Asteya in our everyday lives and spread a sense of respect, gratitude, and abundance wherever we go!

Hope you can join me for vinyasa and yin yoga classes in Rugby!