Yoga is a complete holistic system that works with the mind and body at the same time. The physical side of yoga is one that most people are familiar with – yoga poses (or asanas to give them their proper title) are combined with breathing exercises (pranayama) and meditation. Combined, these have great physical, mental and spiritual benefits.

Any exercise discipline is excellent for mental health, but what makes Yoga stand apart is that the physical asanas along with breathwork/pranayama and meditation are woven together so that each and every class looks after the full sphere of holistic health.

Yoga offers a whole host of health boosting benefits, in fact it could be described as an all-in-one discipline that improves overall well-being and health.

Physically, yoga asanas help to tone and strengthen muscles, overall fitness, and of course, improve flexibility. The latter is what springs to most people’s minds when they think of yoga, and this can put some people off if they consider themselves “not flexible enough.”

But nothing could be further from the truth. One of the huge benefits of yoga is that it is suitable for absolutely everyone. The mindful movement practised in yoga makes it perfect for all levels of fitness and flexibility.

Other physical benefits of yoga include improved cardiac and circulatory health, breathing improvements, better posture and even pain-relieving qualities.

But where it has the advantage over just about any other discipline is the spiritual and mental health benefits that yoga brings. Some of these are immediately apparent. The meditative and side of yoga releases pent up tensions and stresses, producing a “feel good” factor that instantly calms and destresses.

As your yoga journey progresses, yoga teaches you to be more aware of your inner self and your emotional needs. This improves confidence, focus, and mindfulness.

The great thing is that all these benefits are achievable quickly. Most people report improvements in health and well-being in just a few short weeks.

This is largely down to the individual. There are a percentage who practice 3 times a week to

people who practise daily; however even just practising once a week will make a difference to your health. Yoga is a therapeutic discipline that strengthens the body and destresses the mind. With this holistic approach yoga is not competitive and although challenging encourages mindful awareness of your body and your abilities.

While exercise is considered a purely physical workout that improves physical health, yoga goes much further than this.

Yoga can be thought of as an all-over workout that doesn’t just improve physical health (which it does!) but yoga also offers a space for self reflection, pausing and connection which are sorely lacking in our busy day to day lives. We work with our nervous system to create homeostasis and healing in the body along with hormone balancing rejuvenation and energy redistribution At the end of a yoga session, people are left feeling relaxed, destressed,energised, and ready to take on the world.

Yoga is fantastic and is renowned for its “calming” abilities. However, if you are preparing for your first yoga class, you are more likely to be feeling just a little nervous.

Beginners usually worry about whether they will be able to perform the poses or whether they will feel out of place amongst more experienced classmates. Well, don’t worry, although these are natural concerns, most people come away from their first yoga class feeling reassured regardless of how fit and flexible they are to begin with.

Our studio is warm and welcoming with people on hand to show you where to go, where to get a mat or just chat about our different offerings and teachers. Your teacher will offer modifications and guidance as needed and you can take things at your own pace. Our intention with Reformation is that every person that walks through our doors for class leaves feeling empowered, centred and energised.

Absolutely you can, there is no pre-requisite level of flexibility needed for yoga classes. In fact, less flexible people can often make the best yoga students.

Within a few classes, you will begin to notice your flexibility, strength, and agility improving. As your yoga journey progresses, you will also see great improvements in your overall well-being, ability to focus, confidence, and stress levels.

Yes, yoga is a discipline that is suitable for all levels of fitness. Indeed, for those looking to start a fitness journey, yoga is the perfect place to start. The more mindful pace of yoga, combined with its meditative side, can provide an effective way to improve your overall health, fitness, and well-being.

Be comfortable! Wear anything you fancy that allows you to move and stretch easily and will keep you cool, and you won’t go far wrong.

Some people prefer to keep it loose and baggy, others prefer leggings and tops, yoga pants are not obligatory! Comfort and mobility are the only recommendations.

For after the class, you may want to consider a sweater for when you begin to cool down, but apart from that, be comfortable and be yourself!

As with any form of exercise, it is not a good idea to sit down for a big meal just before class. Ideally, you should allow at least two hours between a sizable meal and your yoga class.

Hydration is always important, so drink some water before your class.