Tag: Yoga Teacher in Rugby

I was checking the weather forecast and saw that temperatures are set to rise here in Rugby – hooray for that! I’m looking forward to more time outdoors, pottering in the garden and enjoying a barbecue or two, and feeling the sun on my face. And it got me thinking about sun salutations.

They’re such a regular part of yoga classes – especially in vinyasa or flow-based practices – that it’s easy to go through the motions without thinking much about them. But have you ever wondered where they actually come from, or why we practise them?

The name Sun Salutation comes from the Sanskrit Surya Namaskar, meaning “salute to the sun.” In ancient India, the sun was seen as a vital source of energy and light – both physically and spiritually. People would rise early and offer prayers or movements in honour of the sun, as a way to welcome the day and connect with something bigger than themselves.

The flowing versions of sun salutations we’re familiar with today have more recent roots. In the early 20th century, yoga teachers started blending traditional postures with breath-led movement to create something dynamic and accessible – a way to build heat, focus the mind, and shift energy. Over time, this evolved into a staple in many modern yoga classes.

What’s lovely is that there’s no one “right” version. Sun salutations come in all sorts – from simple, gentle flows to more energising and complex sequences. Some include lunges or twists, others are tailored for slower days or beginners. You’ll even find styles that build in restorative pauses or focus more on strength. There’s something very adaptable about them – they can suit your energy and needs on any given day.

They’re not always at the start of class either. Sometimes they weave into the middle of a sequence, and sometimes they’re left out altogether. They’re a tool – a way to link breath and movement, to feel your body waking up, to create a steady rhythm. Like much of yoga, they’re there to support your practice – not define it.

Why do we keep coming back to them?

Sun salutations offer a lot, in a short space of time. Practised regularly, they can help to:

• Warm up the whole body gently and effectively
• Strengthen and stretch muscles from head to toe
• Connect movement with breath, which can calm a busy mind
• Improve circulation and encourage deeper breathing
• Ground you in the present moment, especially on hectic days

So whether it’s sunny outside or not, sun salutations can offer a moment to move with purpose and presence. A way to shift from thinking to feeling. From rushing to arriving. And maybe that’s reason enough to roll out your mat and have a go!

Yoga can often feel like a mix of separate parts— asana (postures), pranayama (breathwork), and meditation. But what if they could seamlessly blend into a single mindful experience? That’s exactly what Perry Lewis’s one-day hybrid course with the British Wheel of Yoga, Getting Your Mind in the Right Place, explored. I attended virtually.

Update 11/08 Last few spaces left at Dynamic Flow 6-7pm Houlton School. Block booking spaces for all over classes are full.

Are you ready to dive into tranquility and immerse yourself in a thoughtfully crafted sequence of yoga postures designed to help you get stronger, more flexible, and balanced?

Book your spot now for yoga classes starting on 17 September! Seize this opportunity to begin your journey towards balance and well-being!

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Flow + Chill: Tuesdays 7.15-8.15pm (Houlton)

Suitable for beginners and those seeking to unwind and decompress. 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. It’s the ideal wind-down from life’s busyness to prepare for a peaceful night.

Dynamic Flow: Tuesdays 6-7pm (Houlton) & Fridays 9.15-10.15am (Eastlands)

These intermediate level, heat-building classes are thoughtfully curated to encompass meditation, breathwork, yoga postures, and relaxation techniques. Embrace the opportunity to explore your limits and challenge your practice as you build strength, flexibility, and balance. Leave each session feeling not only relaxed but also empowered and inspired!

Testimonials: Hear what some of my students say about their experience in my classes:

Ashleigh: “My favourite yoga teacher! I’ve been attending Gemma’s Flow and Chill classes for nearly a year. It really helps me to relax and switch off. As well as the poses, Gemma explains the meaning behind what you’re doing and helps you to understand the mind/body connection. She is such a lovely, caring soul, and her classes are incredibly welcoming, I recommend for all levels.”

Vanessa: “I’ve been going to Gemma’s classes for nearly a year and I love them. The yoga is great, and I’m getting so much stronger! But it’s more than yoga, Gemma cares and makes you feel so welcome … each week I give myself this hour to reground and look after myself. It’s great!”

Angela: “I’ve been going to Gemma’s classes for nearly a year and they are fantastic. She puts great thought and care into her lessons. I always come away feeling energised, calmer and ready for the rest of the week! I would recommend her classes whether you’ve done lots of yoga or are just starting out. Gemma will make you feel welcome and guide you through, whatever your level.”

Carmen: “If I could give Gemma a 10* review, then I would. Gemma doesn’t just teach yoga, she offers us a beautiful, soulful experience, a sense of peacefulness, mental, and physical wellbeing. She’s a beautiful soul who demonstrates care for each and every one of her class attendees with such a warm welcome. Her yoga teaching is exceptional, and I always feel that I’ve entered into my happy place.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Curious about whether you are ready for yoga, what to expect or what to bring to classes? Check out my FAQ section here.

Booking Information: Limited Availability. Don’t miss this opportunity to secure your spot. BOOK NOW.