Yoga FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can’t I book directly from your website?

I work with small groups and individuals, creating a friendly and safe space for yoga practice. Before your first session, it’s important for us to connect and discuss your unique needs and goals. This helps me tailor the practice to suit you and ensures you join the class that’s right for you.

To get started, please get in touch via email, text, or phone, and we can arrange the perfect session for you.

I’m not very flexible – can I still do yoga?

Absolutely! Flexibility is not a requirement to practise yoga. Many people begin yoga because they feel stiff or tense, and over time, yoga helps release that tension and gently increase flexibility.

My teaching focuses on starting where you feel comfortable, listening to your body, and moving at your own pace. With regular practice, you’ll notice improvements in both strength and flexibility, but the main goal is to feel more relaxed and connected to your body.

I’m really stressed – can yoga help?

Yes, yoga is an excellent way to relieve stress. In my sessions, you’ll learn how to rest deeply, reconnect with your body, and find moments of stillness.

By focusing on the present moment and noticing physical sensations, yoga helps to calm the nervous system and release mental and physical tension. I’ll guide you in identifying areas where you’re holding stress and teach you techniques to let go, creating a greater sense of ease and balance. With consistent practice, yoga can be a powerful tool for managing stress and fostering relaxation.

Am I too old to begin yoga?

You’re never too old to start yoga! Yoga is for everyone, regardless of age or ability. It’s about cultivating a kind and respectful relationship with your body.

My classes encourage mindful, gentle movements and are adapted to suit your individual needs. Much of the practice is done lying on the ground, making it accessible and comfortable. You’ll move at your own pace and develop greater awareness and curiosity about your body. It’s never too late to begin your yoga journey.

I suffer from back pain – can I still do yoga?

Yes, yoga can be very beneficial for back pain. Through mindful movements, you can improve posture, strengthen weak muscles, and release tension, helping to support and balance the spine.

My classes focus on gentle, integrated movement and awareness of the body to address unhelpful habits that may contribute to back issues. If you’re unsure about your specific condition, I recommend consulting your GP or a back specialist first. Yoga can be a safe and effective way to improve your back health.

What is Scaravelli-inspired yoga, and how is it different from other types of yoga?

Scaravelli-inspired yoga is a unique approach to Hatha yoga developed by Vanda Scaravelli, an Italian yoga teacher deeply influenced by the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar and J. Krishnamurti. This method is less about following strict sequences or striving for perfect poses and more about cultivating a deep connection with your body and its natural rhythms.

At the heart of Scaravelli-inspired yoga are three key principles:

1. The Ground: Developing a relationship with the earth to find support and stability.

2. The Breath: Allowing the breath to guide movements naturally and effortlessly.

3. The Spine: Awakening and freeing the spine through gentle, exploratory movements.

Unlike more structured styles such as Ashtanga or Bikram, Scaravelli-inspired yoga emphasises a slower, more intuitive practice. It encourages students to let go of tension, be present in their movements, and discover their own expression of the asanas (poses).

This approach is particularly beneficial for calming the nervous system, improving posture, and fostering a sense of ease in the body. With its focus on “doing less” to achieve greater depth, Scaravelli-inspired yoga is ideal for those seeking a mindful, meditative practice that prioritises body awareness and relaxation over achieving external goals.

Whether you're new to yoga or looking for a practice that complements healing or stress management, Scaravelli-inspired yoga offers a compassionate, personalised approach that meets you where you are.

I have insomnia – can yoga help me sleep?

Yes, yoga is known to help with insomnia. Gentle, mindful movements and deep, focused breathing help calm the nervous system, reduce mental tension, and prepare the body for rest.

By practising yoga regularly, you can create a deeper sense of relaxation, which promotes better sleep and helps you fall asleep more easily. Over time, yoga can be a powerful tool for improving the quality of your sleep.

How Can Yoga Help with Anxiety or Mental Health?

Yoga helps reduce anxiety and improve mental health by calming the nervous system and promoting relaxation. Through mindful movement, breathwork, and meditation, yoga helps release tension, increase self-awareness, and foster a sense of inner peace. Regular practice can reduce stress hormones, improve mood, and enhance overall emotional resilience, providing a powerful tool for managing anxiety and improving mental well-being.

I’m recovering from an injury – is it safe to do yoga?

Yes, yoga can be an excellent part of your rehabilitation. I can work with your physiotherapist, osteopath, or GP to ensure your yoga practice is safe and supportive of your recovery.

With over 20 years of experience teaching yoga, I’ll guide you through gentle movements tailored to your needs. If you’re recovering from an injury or illness, one-to-one sessions may be particularly beneficial, providing time to explore what feels best for your body. Together, we’ll create a practice to support your healing and help restore strength and mobility.

What Should I Do If I Feel Self-Conscious in a Yoga Class?

Feeling self-conscious in a yoga class is completely normal, especially if you're new. Remember, everyone is focused on their own practice, not on you. Yoga is a personal journey, and there’s no pressure to look a certain way or "get it right."

Start by choosing a small, friendly class where you feel supported. Let the teacher know how you’re feeling—they’ll create a welcoming environment and offer gentle guidance. Focus on your breath and how your body feels in each pose rather than comparing yourself to others. Over time, your confidence will grow as you become more comfortable with your practice.

Do I Need Any Special Equipment for Yoga?

No, you don’t need any special equipment to start yoga. A comfortable space to move and a non-slip surface, like a yoga mat, are all that’s required. Many people simply use a carpeted area or a rug if a mat isn’t available. If you’d like additional support, items like cushions, blankets, or sturdy household objects can be used as props, but they’re not essential. Yoga is about working with your body and can be adapted to suit whatever you have at hand.

Have more questions?
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch – I’d love to hear from you!