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Getting Your Mind in the Right Place: A Journey into Mindful Yoga

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.

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Crow Pose: Are Ready to Take Flight?

Crow Pose, or Bakasana in Sanskrit, holds a special place in my heart—it was one of the first arm balances I learnt.

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.

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New Ticketing Options for Your Yoga Classes in Rugby

It’s not always easy to commit to a weekly yoga class.

Life happens…

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Book Your Yoga Class in Rugby: starts 17 September!

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.

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Yoga with Houlton WI Group in Rugby

This month, I led a fun yoga session with the amazing Houlton Women’s Institute (WI) group.

The Houlton WI is all about connecting women through activities and social gatherings. They warmly welcomed me, and their enthusiasm for yoga was contagious!

 We explored the ancient origins of yoga and its connection to self-care. We started with a short meditation and some breathwork, followed by a sun salutation variations and a series of standing postures.

In true WI tradition, we paused for a delicious tea and cake break – a lovely chance to chat and relax.

Afterward, we focused on restorative postures to unwind and de-stress. The session ended with a guided meditation, leaving everyone feeling calm and centered.

Leading yoga with the Houlton WI group was a fantastic reminder of the power of community and connection. If you’re looking for a welcoming environment to try yoga, consider reaching out to your local WI group! You might just love it.

A big thank you to the Factory48 Photography for capturing some of the action.

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How Your Yoga Practice Improves Pain Management

Have you ever wondered why you can hold a challenging yoga pose a little longer than when you first started? Or why you seem to manage everyday aches and pains with more ease? New research by Dr. Andrew Huberman, a Stanford neuroscientist, sheds light on the incredible connection between yoga and pain tolerance.

The study revealed that yoga practitioners, regardless of their background or experience level, had double or even more pain tolerance compared to non-practitioners. Here’s the exciting part: this wasn’t just about physical conditioning.

The research also showed increased grey matter volume in the brain’s insula region for yoga practitioners. The insula is a powerhouse area responsible for interoception, our ability to sense internal signals from the body. This includes pain signals, but also hunger, thirst, and even emotions.

Think of it this way: a stronger insula allows you to not only detect pain but also understand it. You can make judgements about the pain, whether it’s a passing discomfort or something needing attention. This newfound awareness empowers you to leverage or even utilise that pain – perhaps by modifying a pose or taking a mindful breath – rather than simply shying away from it.

And the good news doesn’t stop there. The study found a direct correlation between years of yoga practice and increased grey matter in the insula. The longer you practice, the stronger this crucial brain region becomes!

Building these brain areas allows yoga practitioners to cope with pain more effectively in all aspects of life. It’s not just about surviving a challenging pose; it’s about cultivating a deeper understanding of your body and its signals, leading to greater resilience and well-being.

So, the next time you step onto your yoga mat, remember – you’re not just stretching your body; you’re strengthening your mind’s ability to manage pain and navigate life’s challenges with greater ease.

Ready to unlock the pain-management potential of yoga? Join me in Rugby for a class and experience the difference for yourself!

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Unwind in Nature & Support a Charitable Cause!

Join me for a relaxing hour-long outdoor yoga session in a beautiful Clifton-upon-Dunsmore garden (specific location given upon booking).

This is a charitable event! All donations go directly to Clifton upon Dunsmore Primary School PTA, who are fundraising for 17 x mobile computing devices for the children to use in class.

The class is suitable for adults of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just starting out, this class will help you stretch, de-stress, and find inner peace. We’ll focus on mindful movement and connecting your breath with your body. Please note: This class is not suitable for children.

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Meditation Made Easy: Your Guide to Getting Started with Science-Backed Benefits

A few of you have been curious about meditation – how to get started, what apps can help you, and if it’s really for you. The answer? Absolutely! Meditation is a practice that trains your attention and awareness, and the benefits are backed by a growing body of research. We’re talking stress reduction, improved focus, and a calmer, more centred you.

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Register Now for June/July Yoga Classes in Rugby

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.

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What is a Drishti? Delve into the Yoga Gaze

Drishti, a Sanskrit word meaning “gaze,” is more than just looking in a certain direction during your yoga practice. It’s a powerful tool that harnesses the power of intention to enhance your experience on the mat.

Drishti with Intention, Not Tension

Forget staring rigidly at a single point. Drishti is about directing your gaze with awareness and focus. Different postures have designated drishti points to guide you. Remember to keep your gaze soft and relaxed – no need to strain or clench your eyes.