The class includes gentle movement that is suitable for all levels, including beginners. You don’t need to be flexible or super-fit to attend! Adaptations are offered for each of the movements, e.g. the option of using a chair rather than sitting on the floor.
Students are encouraged to only join in the parts of the class that feel right for them and to skip any movements that don’t feel right or that they don’t want to try. Mel will offer some optional short breathing and relaxation practices which students are welcome to join in with or not, depending on their individual preferences.
Students may find this class to be a helpful for exploring yoga practices, tools and techniques that can be beneficial not only for improving our physical health, but also our ability to cope with the various challenges that life can throw our way, e.g. difficulties with work/money, family/relationships, housing, bereavement, ageing, managing life changes etc.
Many participants find that yoga can be a great complement to managing physical, mental and emotional health issues alongside regular treatment from their G.P / qualified health professional. Often, people find yoga beneficial for helping to manage chronic stress, anxiety/depression, fatigue/overwhelm, sleep difficulties etc as well as helping to improve self-esteem, confidence levels and reduce feelings of isolation. If you have health issues please check with your G.P and discuss with Mel before attending a class to ensure it is safe for you to practice yoga.
If you haven’t been to a yoga class before and feel nervous about trying it out, you’re very welcome to drop Mel an email at somayogaleeds@gmail.com or give her a call on 07498 297867 to have a chat beforehand and discuss any concerns.You’d be very welcome to pop in even for 5-10 minutes to say hi and do a tiny bit of the class!
Please wear comfortable clothing for the class e.g. leggings and a t-shirt/, tracksuit bottoms etc. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy!
The class is guided by Yoga teacher Mel Hibbert. Mel’s teacher training offered a trauma-sensitive approach to teaching yoga and Mindfulness. Mel continues to draw on this in her teaching in order to create a safe and inclusive space for all. Whilst the class is not intended as a trauma treatment or therapy programme, it does incorporate good-practice from trauma-informed approaches to teaching Yoga and Mindfulness.
Free to anybody who is currently experiencing financial challenges, is on a low-income or in receipt of benefits and would find it difficult to meet the costs of attending a weekly yoga class.
If you would like to book a space please email Mel at at somayogaleeds@gmail.com or call/text Mel at 07498 297867 .
Community and charitable organisations can also refer clients on their behalf.
