I have been practicing yoga for around 15 years, my journey started as the result of a serious road accident where I severely injured my back and spine. After months of physiotherapy it was recommended that I start Pilates and basic yoga in order to aid my recovery in the long term. I started off learning the Iyenga yoga method and taking part in basic Vinyasa classes before being drawn to the Ashtanga style. I am particularly focused on working with the breath and bandhas, thus making dynamic classes as ‘light’ and ‘floaty’ as possible, using yoga to defy gravity in an intuitive and safe way by mixing in calisthenics body weight control - the more effortless and controlled your practice is, the more relaxing and meditative it can be, and the less chance that you will develop an injury. On the other hand, there is nothing more invigorating than practicing backbends, arm balances and handstands in a playful and childlike way… especially at the beach! I have had many yoga teachers over the years and I do not believe that any one person is ‘the’ expert or ‘guru’. Every single yoga teacher, Pilates instructor or fitness trainer that you meet can give you new inspiration, knowledge, techniques and ideas that you can bring in to your physical practice, leading you to the realisation that YOU are your own teacher and everyone else is just there to guide you along the way and share their unique expertise, specialisms and experience. I believe that self practice alongside regular led group classes is the ultimate way of improving your own personal yoga experience and achieving your fitness and wellbeing goals. Major teachers who have influenced my practice include the fantastic Hatha, Ashtanga and Scaravelli inspired teacher Steve Davis, who I believe is one of the best yoga teachers I have ever come across after attending his classes for around ten years https://stockportyoga.wordpress.com, Ashtanga and Jivamukti with the amazing Andrea Everingham https://www.andjiva.comand the very traditional, knowledgeable and inspiring Ashtanga teacher Donna McCaffrey https://www.manchesterashtangayoga.com
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