Hello!  

I hope you all enjoyed some down time during the Easter break.  A reminder that we are running on a holiday timetable this week before starting Term 2 on Monday 28 April.  Here are the offerings for this week.  All classes are general in nature and open to all students.

Tuesday 22 April 6.00-7.30pm - General Class with Tricia

Wednesday 23 April 6.00-7.30pm - General Class with Fiona

Thursday 24 April 9.30-11.00am - General Class with Kim

Saturday 25 April 7.30-8.30am - General Class with Kim.

See you all next week!

Namaste

As the Easter holidays approach, many of you may find yourselves caught up in festivities and family gatherings.  This is a lovely time to hang out with family and friends - the weather is ideal, and you get a few extra public holidays thrown in the mix.   It's also a great opportunity to prioritize your own self-care and relaxation to maintain balance during this busy time.

Step into the studio for an hour or so to unwind, recharge, and reconnect with yourself.  Attending a class or two over the break will leave you feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to embrace the joys of the Easter break.  All of the classes on the Easter Timetable are open to all students of all levels of experience.  Everyone is welcome!

Easter Holiday Timetable

Monday 14 April 6.00-7.30pm - General Class with Tricia

Wednesday 16 April 9.30-10.45am - General Class with Sharon
Wednesday 16 April 6.00-7.30pm - General Class with Fiona.

Tuesday 22 April 6.00-7.30pm - General Class with Tricia

Wednesday 23 April 6.00-7.30pm - General Class with Fiona

Thursday 24 April 9.30-11.00am - General Class with Kim

Saturday 25 April 7.30-8.30am - General Class with Kim.

Namaste

Hi everyone,

I hope your week is going along well.  A quick note to let you know that the Wednesday 5.45pm class has been cancelled this week (19 March) due to the scaffolding being relocated at the front door of the studio.  This is the last time we will have to cancel a class so hang in there.  

Instead of Fiona's class in the studio tomorrow night, you have the choice of coming to another class this week or booking the recorded class tomorrow night.  If you wish to access the recorded class, book as usual and log into your PunchPass account at 5.45pm tomorrow night.  You will see the recorded class sitting in your account.  You have access to the recorded class for 3 days.  If you have any questions, please let me know.  

I have already emailed the usual Wednesday night class about this change to the timetable but thought it would be worth sending a general email as well.

Thanks for your understanding.

Namaste,

Tricia

Hello Yogis,

Are you ready to take your yoga practice to the next level? Dive into the world of backbends and unlock a whole new realm of physical and emotional benefits. Backbends are not just about bending your spine; they are about opening your heart, expanding your lungs, and cultivating courage and resilience.

What are Backbends?

Backbends in yoga involve bending the spine backward, creating a deep arch that opens up the front side of the body. From baby backends to Urdhva Danurasana, there are various backbends that can be incorporated into your practice, each offering unique benefits for the body and mind.  Backbends can also be supported and very restorative in nature.

Benefits of Backbends

Backbends are powerful heart openers that can help release tension and stress stored in the chest and shoulders. They also strengthen the back muscles, improve posture, and increase flexibility in the spine. On an emotional level, backbends can boost confidence, uplift your mood, and cultivate a sense of fearlessness - just ask Fiona!

How to Practice Backbends Safely

When practicing backbends, it's important to listen to your body and work within your limits. Warm up the spine with gentle stretches before attempting deeper backbends. Engage your core muscles to support your lower back and avoid compressing the spine. Remember to breathe deeply and mindfully throughout the practice.

Embracing the Challenge

Backbends can be challenging, both physically and mentally. It's normal to feel resistance or fear when exploring these poses, but remember that growth happens outside of your comfort zone. Embrace the challenge, stay present in the moment, and trust in your body's ability to adapt and evolve.

Invest in Your Practice

Whether you're an experienced student or a beginner, incorporating backbends into your practice can bring a sense of empowerment, freedom, and joy. So, roll out your mat with Fiona this weekend, open your heart, and embrace the transformative power of backbends in your yoga journey.

Times

Saturday 8 March 3.00-4.30pm

Sunday 9 March 9.30-11.00am.

Link to book:  https://orangeyogaroom.punchpass.com/classes/16922039

By coming along to Fiona's workshop, you'll learn about the transformative benefits of Pranayama, a powerful practice that delves into the essence of breath and its profound impact on our well-being.  Fiona will look at basic anatomy, set ups for for Pranayama and go through some of the many pranayamas that yogis have practised for thousands of years.

What is Pranayama?

Pranayama is more than just a breathing exercise; it is a sacred art that connects the body, mind, and spirit. By harnessing the breath, practitioners can tap into a source of vitality and inner peace.

How Does Pranayama Affect the Nervous System?

Through the practice of Pranayama, we can regulate our nervous systems, promoting a state of calm and balance. By engaging in specific breathing techniques or Pranayamas, we can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to relaxation and stress relief.

What are the Longevity Benefits of Pranayama?

Studies have shown that regular practice of Pranayama can have a positive impact on longevity. By optimizing the breath, practitioners can enhance oxygen flow throughout the body, supporting overall health and vitality.

How Can Pranayama Help with Anxiety and Depression?

Pranayama offers a natural and effective way to manage anxiety and depression. By focusing on the breath, individuals can quiet the mind, reduce stress levels, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and clarity.

Why Science Supports the Benefits of Pranayama?

Scientific research has validated the numerous benefits of Pranayama on both physical and mental well-being. From improving lung function to enhancing cognitive function, the evidence is clear.  

Anyone can practice Pranayama who has done at least a term in our classes.  Asanas that are taught in class prepare the nervous system, and the physical body to practice Pranayama.   By embracing Pranayama with an open heart and a curious mind, and practising regularly, it can have a profound impact on our overall well-being.

The workshop is from 3.00-5.00pm this Saturday.  Use this link to book your place.

https://orangeyogaroom.punchpass.com/classes/16914845

The year has started brilliantly with the General KickStart Program and the January Intensive.  The feeling in the studio has been one of enthusiasm and a willingness to learn and go deeper to explore yoga as a subject.  

We have a great year of workshops planned for 2025 with lots of opportunities to study and learn about yoga.  Details to follow in the next few days.  In the meantime, here are the offerings next week.  All classes are open to all students to attend.  The KickStart Program for Beginners is also open to casual attendance.  If you haven't yet rolled out your mat, now is the time to start.  

Tuesday 28 January 6.00-7.30pm - Relax and Restore class with Tricia
Thursday 23 January 9.30-11.00am - General class with Tricia

Saturday 1 February 7.30-8.30am - General Class with Sharon.

Beginner KickStart Program

Sharon is also teaching the Beginner KickStart Program next week.  Again it is open to casual attendance but it's ideal to enrol for the 4 days and receive a free class on Saturday 1 February 7.30-8.30am.  It's perfect for those wanting a refresher, students who want to ease back onto the mat after holidays or for students who are new to Yoga.  

If you know anyone who might benefit from starting yoga, please flick this email to them and spread the word.  

Tuesday 28 January 7.00-8.00am Beginner KickStart
Wednesday 29 January 7.00-8.00am Beginner KickStart
Thursday 30 January 7.00-8.00am Beginner KickStart
Friday 31 January 7.00-8.00am Beginner KickStart
Free class Saturday 1 February 7.30am for students enrolled in the KickStart Program.

We commence Term 1 and our full timetable on Monday 3 February.  We look forward to seeing all students back in the studio.  We have a great year planned for you.

Namaste

Tricia, Fiona, Sharon and Kim