The approach

The approach to the yoga practised here is based on the teaching of the German spiritual teacher Heinz Grill. This approach is not well-known in this country and so a description of it is given here.  Initially we work to stretch and strengthen the body. We soon learn to bring greater and calmness and focus to the mind. With more experience we begin to bring a more artistic expression into our practice.

Stretching and strengthening the body

the scales

We practice the classical yoga postures which were developed thousands of years ago. Each exercise is approached with calmness and clarity. Most postures are held for some time so that we can experience ourselves in the pose. The breath is allowed to flow freely. Some poses are very active whilst others have a more contemplative character. 

The exercises work to strengthen many muscles, particularly in the back, the body becomes more flexible, circulation improves, the organs receive a greater supply of oxygen and nourishment and can function more efficiently, the breathing becomes freer, energy levels and mental alertness improve.

Calming and focussing the mind

the tip-toe pose

As well as learning to use our bodies more skillfully, we also train our ability to form clear thoughts, our perceptive awareness, and our will power. During the practice of a posture a clear thought-content is always given so that the mind does not wander aimlessly but focusses more easily on the task in hand. As our awareness is brought more to the here and now, we learn to feel the more subtle qualities and expreriences in the various postures. The physical action is then no longer weighed down by mental or emotional pressures, but can happen freely and naturally. This aproach leads to calmness, sensitivity and naturalness.

Yoga - a science or an art?

 

the half moon

Recent years have seen an increasingly "evidence based" approach towards the practice of most forms of physical exercise, including yoga. The results of scientific research are used to formulate practice methods which will produce known benefits for the body.

A deeper warmth and joy can come into our practice if this scientific knowledge is enhanced by an artistic sense. This approach to yoga views the postures as artistic gestures which express deep truths and meanings. So for example in the half moon we sink into the earth with our legs, and open to the vastness around us with the upper body. Thus we express how we can be down to earth and yet open and sensitive at the same time.

Which level?

Classes are offered at various levels to suit a wide range of physical ability. All levels include relaxation and some concentration exercises.

The gentle class is suitable for those of more senior years, or with more "delicate" bodies. More gentle stretches are practised, alongside some classical yoga postures where possible. The sessions will aim to gently strengthen and stretch the body, and to calm and focus the mind.

The beginners classes are suitable for those who have not done yoga before. A 6 week introductory course teaches you a cycle of basic yoga poses which you will be able to practise at home. There is a particular emphasis on learning to breathe freely, and the book "Harmony in Breathing" will be referred to during the course (see Recommended Reading). You will also learn relaxation and concentration exercises. The course aims to prepare you for the intermediate level classes.

The intermediate classes cover a wide range of yoga positions. The aim is to understand the meanings of the poses more deeply, as well as the qualities of the 7 chakras. The book "The soul dimension of yoga" provides the main basis for these classes (seeRecommended Reading). A mixture of calm and active postures are practised. Some can be quite challenging. Holding times are longer than in the beginners classes.