Gemma Murphy Yoga
As we move through the changing seasons, I’ve found myself thinking about the small things that give shape to our days – the habits and moments that quietly anchor us. The first sip of tea in the morning. Rolling out the yoga mat. Taking a deep breath before speaking. These are all rituals – simple, repeated actions that create steadiness amidst life’s swirl.
That’s what inspired my latest vinyasa series: Rituals.
You can now book onto my yoga classes in Rugby starting on 4 November 2025!
Classes run Tuesdays and Fridays, with two types to choose from: one for beginners/moderate level and one for intermediates or advanced students. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to deepen your practice, classes are designed to help you feel stronger and more comfortable in your body while staying connected to your breath.
Flow (beginners/moderate level)
Suitable for beginners and those seeking to unwind and decompress. Join the breath with movement in a mellow and mindful way. This class is a way of slowing down, showing your body kindness and finding balance in your life.
Expect more cues on alignment, slower movements and deep stretches to melt away layers of tension from the day or from physical exertion. A perfect wind down from a busy life to prepare for a peaceful night.
When? Tuesdays 7.15pm-8.15pm, Houlton School
Dynamic Flow (intermediate level)
These intermediate level, heat-building classes include meditation, breathwork, yoga postures and relaxation. You’ll be encouraged to explore your limits and challenge your practice as you build strength, flexibility and balance.
Each series centers around a theme where elements of yogic wisdom are often weaved into the class. The sequence for each block varies, ranging from a slower flow with an emphasis on strength or flexibility to an uplifting flow with one breath per movement. No matter the pace, you’ll close each class feeling relaxed, empowered and inspired.
When? Tuesdays 6pm-7pm, Houlton School and
Fridays 9.15am-10.15am, St Peter & St John’s Church.
Classes are friendly and inclusive Whether you’re looking to build strength, find more calm, or simply carve out some regular time for yourself — you’ll be in good company. There’s no pressure here—just a relaxed, friendly space where everyone’s welcome. Expect some good vibes and maybe a few wobbles along the way!
Enjoy weekly yoga classes at £8 per 60-minute session, available in a block of 6 consecutive weeks. If you’re looking for more flexibility, I offer a limited number of drop-in spots every Tuesday for £11 per class. New students are welcome to experience their first class for only £5.
Got a question? Check out my Frequently Asked Questions page.
Do you ever find yourself hitting a plateau in your practice, no matter how much you stretch? It’s a common struggle. Our bodies seem to resist every attempt at flexibility. But there’s a solution: Yin Yoga.
Yin Yoga targets your deep connective tissues, the often-ignored ligaments, tendons, and fascia that hold you together. By gently holding poses for extended periods (minutes, not seconds!), Yin allows these tissues to release tension and lengthen, ultimately increasing your flexibility and range of motion.
Discover the Power of Long Holds
Yin Yoga is a gentle, slow-paced practice where poses are held for extended periods, sometimes minutes at a time. It’s not about quick movements or intense stretches; instead, it’s about sinking into each posture and allowing your body to release tension gradually.
Think of Yin as a luxurious massage for your inner self. With each long hold, you’re giving your connective tissues the time they need to soften and lengthen, leading to greater flexibility and ease of movement.
Benefits That Go Beyond Flexibility
But the benefits of Yin Yoga extend far beyond just physical flexibility. By embracing this practice, you can:
Embrace the Stillness, Embrace the Change
Yes, Yin Yoga can feel challenging at first. Holding a pose for several minutes requires patience and persistence. But as you surrender to the stillness, you’ll find a profound sense of peace and freedom within yourself.
So, let go of frustration and embrace the transformative power of Yin. Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you for it.
Ready to Experience Yin Yoga?
Join me at the Barn, in Houlton, Rugby for a Deep Stretch Yin Yoga class. You’ll leave feeling amazing, and your yoga practice will never be the same.
After the lighter, looser days of summer, routines return and life becomes a little more structured again. For me, it is a time when I look for steadiness, and yoga is where I find it. I love sharing that same sense of grounding with my students here in Rugby.
This term, our focus is on Presence. It is something so simple, but so easy to lose. We spend so much time replaying yesterday or racing ahead to tomorrow, and miss the one place where life actually happens — right here. On the mat, presence shows up in the breath, in the way we move, and in the quiet moments between.
Balance, as it turns out, isn’t always still.
There’s a moment when you lift your foot and extend it forward in hand to big toe pose – Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana – that feels like anything could happen. You might hold steady and breathe through it… or you might wobble, laugh, and have another go.
When I first started practising this pose, I thought the aim was to stay perfectly still, like a statue. But over time, I’ve realised that real balance isn’t about freezing in place – it’s about responding, adjusting, and staying present through all the little shifts.
This pose has taught me a lot. About patience, focus, and letting go of the need to get it “perfect”. Some days my leg lifts easily. Other days, I bend the knee or use a strap and just work with where I am. It’s all part of the practice.
Physically, hand to big toe pose is brilliant for:
It’s one of those poses that works both body and mind – grounding and uplifting all at once.
So, if you find yourself wobbling – on the mat or in life – know that it’s all part of the process. Balance isn’t about being perfectly still; it’s about finding your centre even when things shift.
And each time you fall out of a pose and come back in, you’re not just building strength in your body – you’re strengthening your ability to adapt, stay grounded, and keep going. That’s the real practice.
If you’re interested in joining my Weekly Flow Classes, they’re currently fully booked until 3rd June. To get early access to new class openings, join my mailing list and be the first to know when bookings are available. I don’t send a ton of emails – just the important stuff.
Looking for a yoga class that suits your energy? Whether you want to move and challenge yourself or slow down and relax, we’ve got two great options—Dynamic Flow and Flow + Chill. Both will leave you feeling good in your body and mind.
I remember the excitement (and slight fear) of lifting my feet off the ground and experiencing the sensation of balance for the first time. It’s a pose that combines strength, flexibility, and focus, and with patience and consistent practice, Crow Pose is a challenge you might like to have a go at too.
It’s not always easy to commit to a weekly yoga class.
Life happens…
The past four weeks have been all about backbends! These powerful poses boost your strength, flexibility, and overall well-being. They help counteract that slouchy posture we all get from daily life, leaving you feeling energised and amazing.
But let’s be honest, sometimes those deeper backbends can feel like reaching for the stars. No worries though – I’ve got some tips to help you transform your backbends!
Ready to de-stress, gain flexibility, and feel stronger? Join my yoga classes in Rugby, starting w/c 10th June! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, there’s a class for you.
Register now for the June/July block and secure your spot! Space is limited.