Covid-19 Statement

We would like to reassure students that we are mindful of the situation and that we continue to monitor daily to follow government advice  https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-the-public 

The importance of Self-Care and Empowerment

Practice self-care! You are the vehicle of self-care for so many. Take care of yourself by maintaining your own yoga practice, including postures, prayanama, meditation and relaxation. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, eat nutritious foods, stay hydrated, and manage your stress.


Visit our Practices page to help you build your home practise. 

 

Saucha - the first observance

The direct translation of the Sanskrit word, saucha, is purity, or cleanliness. The yogic path offers many weird and wonderful practices for the purification of the body, by cleansing from inside out, as well as eating and drinking food that are healthy and nutritious.  Saucha is also about purity of energy, keeping our homes and environment clean and organised.  


But the real gift of saucha is the purification of our minds. It is our grand teacher of self-love, for it asks us to place our judgements aside, and take a deeper look at everything we have labelled as ‘impure’ about ourselves. That deep sadness that follows us around? The impatient streak? Those ‘dirty’ little habits we have when we are alone? 


If you would like to explore the Niyamas or observances in more depth, please visit the Yoga page.

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Classical Yoga Classes

  

The focus is on the development of our whole being (physical, energetic, emotional, mental and spiritual).   Usually each class includes:

  • short relaxation (mindfulness of breath)
  • asanas (postures to strengthen and stretch, remove energy blocks),
  • pranayama (breathing techniques) & meditation 
  • yoga nidra (guided and including autogenic relaxation).


A couple of spare mats might be available but please bring your own if you can and a blanket for relaxation.   


Please see our Covid-19 statement below.  Please check our WhatsApp group for updates on whether the class is taking place or not (contact Anne by text 07968 125345 to be added to the group).

Where & When & Cost

When: Tuesday 19:30 - 21:00


Where: The Small Hall, Goldsmith Community Centre, Castillon Road, Catford SE6 1QD


Price: £25 for 5 classes or £8 pay as you go


Payment:  Please quote your name

Account Number: 11467762 

Sort Code: 09-01-29 

Find out more

DISCLAIMER

 Please do you let your teacher know about any medical conditions affecting you such as diabetes, recent injuries, pregnancy... because while some of the practices might be beneficial some others might be injurious and should be modified or avoided.  If you have any doubt about your medical condition or the suitability of yoga for you, please consult your doctor.  


Please click on the Instructions button below for tips and guideline to practicing safely.

Instructions

Guidelines for safe practice

 

  • Wear comfortable closing which allows you to move and breathe freely. 


  • Yoga is practised bare feet: no exceptions


  • Always practise yoga on an empty stomach (that means do not eat for a minimum of 2 hours before your practice). If you are really peckish you can have a small snack such as a banana. You can also bring water but it is recommended that you drink after you have finished rather than during.


  • Please have your own yoga mat: your mat is where you build your practice; see it is your own private oasis, your temple.
  • Have a blanket large enough to cover you during relaxation.  It also does come in handy to help you in some of the postures.

 

  • Leave the ego out of the mat: yoga is non-competitive (and yes that means no competition with yourself either)  


  • Be aware of your breathing.  If your breathing become strain then it tells you that you are trying to hard.  The tutor will usually give you guidelines as to when to breathe in and out.  If in doubt breathe out and always breathe through the nose unless otherwise indicated.


  • Work within your own body and within your own capacity at that moment in time.  The saying “no pain no gain” has no relevance in Yoga. 


  • Every individual is different and progress will come on a case by case basis with practice. 


  • Be aware of your body and which parts are being used.


  • Go into and come out of the postures slowly and carefully.


  • Listen to your body:  If anything hurts or doesn’t “feel” right for you, stop at once and come out of the posture gently.  Your teacher will give general safety advice for each posture, but  you must take responsibility for your own safety by listening to your body and respecting it: only YOU know how YOU feel