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Gentle Yoga
The intention with Gentle Yoga is for it to be accessible to those who are comfortable with getting up and down from the floor. This is the simple prerequisite, although it is not limited to those who may have this ability at risk or in question.
I developed this style as an in between chair yoga and TRY yoga styles when I started teaching at Cordova Bay “55+” club. I wanted to keep those who had the ability to get up and down from the floor being able to do so. Because when it comes to movement, its an “if you don’t use it, you lose it” situation. So for my chair students this was a step up to practice a little more basic strength as well as having more of a variety of hip openers, balance options, and directions gravity can effect the movement.
What I love about this style is that there is a comfort in knowing what to expect. We can have a more active gentle class but overall it will still be gentle, nothing too vigorous or intense. So even if you are more of an intermediate student for example, you may just want to take it easy and know that this style is for you today.
I would say that Gentle yoga has the most variety in the class compared to the other styles I offer. I usually choose what to teach based on requests, which lately have been balance and core. So we do gentle and accessible variations of that. Sometimes though, we will spend the majority if not all of the class doing very restorative stretching and deep breathing which is equally lovey and beneficial.
When it comes to the online studio, I like to include as much detail as possible in the descriptions to give a sense of what to expect when choosing your practice. For in person, I like to incorporate my trauma informed teaching here, giving students the option to take it easy or to practice something all together different if there is a body restriction that conflicts with the request for the class.
In a Gentle class we work on hip and shoulder mobility a lot. Also included but not limited to: intense leg stretches, lots of back movement and stretching, neck releases, spinal twists, standing poses, foot and ankle work, wrist work, some supported chest openers, safe backbends, and standing forward folds. Generally we stick to reclined and standing poses and exercises with the odd seated position.
This class is a lovely addition to your day at any time of day. You can practice to feel refreshed or to release your day and prepare for sleep. Suitable for all ages and most abilities (as outlined). Its a great practice for beginners and to share with a friend or family member. I like to think of it as a gateway to your potential in movement and stress release.
I would love to invite you to join the family and TRY yoga with me.
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