So you're thinking about coming along to one of my yoga classes. Great, well done! But which one should you go for? In this blog I'll give you a brief overview of each of my group classes to help you make the best decision...and remember, you can always change your mind! If you're interested in taking a private class with me then please contact me for a chat.
Yin Yoga; A dedicated Yin yoga class offers you space for deep relaxation and restoration. Slow down and rest into long-held poses (1-5 minutes), primarily targeting connective tissues like ligaments and tendons. Working in this way promotes flexibility and circulation, but interestingly also stimulates the tissues to strengthen. The sustained holds and emphasis on stillness create a profound sense of calm and inner peace and is the perfect antidote to busy modern life. I feel Yin is a beautiful blend of body and mind. We use the postures to develop awareness of body sensation at a deeper level, emphasising mindfulness and surrender, allowing you to release tension and rest in the present moment. If you want to experience the benefits and cultivate a deeper connection to your body and mind, you will find us at the Deeside Wellbeing Collective studio in Banchory.
Chair Yoga; Aimed at those of you who want something very gentle and accessible. In my seated yoga classes we usually start with a little self massage to gently wake up energy in the body. We'll always include some joint rotations and a few dynamic movements to improve blood circulation. We will then do a few more yoga like stretches and sequences from the chair, finishing with a little bit of standing work often with a leg strength/balance theme. There is always time for a short meditation to wind down at the end. Those who attend often tell me they feel so much better afterwards and ready for the day. I run this one online and in person here in Banchory.
Hatha Foundations; This class focuses on the basics. We begin standing up with a dynamic warm up. We then ease our way into some foundational standing postures, practiced both dynamically and statically. Our main aim is to find integrated ways of moving with a balance of stability and mobility. There is an emphasis on foot and leg strength as so often weakness in our foundation can be at the root of problems further up. We often finish with a little floor work done from either all fours, sitting or supine. We close with a short relaxation. This class would be ideal for you if you if you want to begin to strengthen your body and improve your mobility in a very gentle controlled way.
Hatha Flow; This class is aimed at those who want to move a bit more.
In this class we cover a broader range of poses with the option of slightly more challenging transitions. Often starting from a seated position, we will do some preparatory work, gradually working our way up to standing. Here we will usually work our way though slow flowing sequences often based around the sun salutation. If we have time we will include some pranayama to finish. I run this one on a Monday and a Friday. A great class if you want a safe accessible practice but with the option to challenge yourself just a bit more.
Although each class is slightly different they are all slow paced and have a strong mindfulness element woven through them. It is important to understand that yoga is much more than simply a way to improve your body (although if that's why you're coming that's perfectly fine). At it's essence it really is a mindfulness practice. Our practice allows us to slow down and really connect with our present moment experience. As we move and breathe we have the opportunity to explore the relationship we have with our mind/body. If we can begin to relate to ourselves with kindness, we find that our outlook changes and the way we relate to others changes for the better as well.
Current timetable
Mon: Hatha Flow- 7.50-8.50 Deeside Dance centre
Tues: Chair Yoga- 10-11am Online
Wed: Chair Yoga- 10-11am Banchory Guide Hut
Wed Yin yoga- 7.45-8.45 Deeside Wellbeing Collective Studio
Thurs: Hatha Foundations- 9.30-10.30am Deeside Dance Centre
Fri: Hatha Flow- 9.30-10.30 Deeside Dance Centre
Private classes;
1-1- I offer bespoke classes tailored to your specific needs. Whilst you can just book a one off session if you have something very specific you'd like some help with, You will benefit greatly if you book a block of 5 lessons. Any less than that makes it difficult to see any results. I would love to have a chat with you about it so please reach out! You can read more about my approach here
Private group class- I am happy to come along to your special gathering or workplace to offer a class, whether it be an asana class, a relaxation session or meditation. Contact me to discuss your requirements.
I hope this little article has given you some idea as to my classes and my approach. There are a few free classes on my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@thehilltopyogi8586 so go check them out! If your interested in mindfulness sessions or courses please let me know. If you'd like to find out more or sign up to receive my newsletter you can do so at www.thehilltopyogi.com .
Click the button below to go straight to my booking page. If you have any problems booking or you have a question, feel free to message me at yogalisa@hotmail.co.uk.
Wishing you warmth and wellness.
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