Yoga school at Annangrove NSW
The Yoga Studio is in a bush setting in Annangrove, a rural suburb in Sydney's north west.
our method
From this studio, an eclectic style of yoga is taught. All teachers have studied a number of different styles of Hatha Yoga, and have teaching qualifications from the International Yoga Teachers Association. Our teachers draw on their wide range of experience to tailor each class.
the yoga class
When you arrive for your first class, we ask you to complete a health profile. This is to ensure that whilst practising, you are optimising the benefits of yoga and addressing your health issues. There may be some practices that will benefit you, and others that you would avoid. For example, if you had high blood pressure, a back or neck problem, or if you were pregnant, your practice would take these into account. Please let us know when you arrive if you have any health problems, illness, headaches, if you are pregnant, or just feeling stressed.
For the first part of each class, each person works on an individual level, following their personalised program. The yoga teacher assists each person as it is needed. This is a warm up time and the stretches are done mindfully, and with concentration.
Next the class comes together as a group to do some more dynamic postures called 'Salutes to the Sun', which enhance the cardio-vascular system. We also may do some standing postures or 'asanas', which improve muscle strength and flexibility. Lastly we practice some breathing techniques and a guided relaxation.
View our slideshow to see what its like! (Opens in new window)
Individualised Instruction
The first part of the class is set aside for students to work on their own individualised programs. Students are monitored for progress and changes. Once a student is familiar with their program, they are encouraged to practice at home. The benefit of this is that the student is addressing their particular imbalances, rather than working to a set script.
We see it is important to have a one-to-one interaction with students, so that they learn to adapt their yoga practice for life's changing needs. Traditionally this individual connection with the teacher was what shaped the yoga practice, as teacher and student knew each other well.
What to Wear and Bring
Something that is comfortable and stretchy. If in winter, you might bring socks and a jumper for the relaxation. If in summer, wear something light and cool, and bring a bottle of water. No shoes are worn in the practice of yoga.
All equipment is provided - mats, belts, blocks, and blankets. If you sweat excessively you may like to bring a towel to place over the mat for hygiene purposes.
Before the Class
It is recommended you don't eat for at least 2 hours before the class, and that fluid is also kept to a minimum (unless of course it is a very hot day - it's important to keep hydrated!).
If your health is poor or you have been unwell, it is best to get a checkup with your health care practitioner before the class. We are happy to liaise with your practitioner to tailor the class to suit your needs.
Some Considerations for Practising Yoga
Work gently with the breath and do not force any stretch. Your breath is your gauge - if you can't breathe easily and deeply, then you are pushing too hard. Always look for the right effort - not too strong, not too lax. Stop when you need to. Do not practice a posture if it causes you pain in the knees, spine, sacrum (at the base of the spine) or neck.
Everyone has a different body - try not to compete or compare. Work to the best of your ability in a relaxed way, enjoying the postures, will bring results more quickly, safely and easily. Yoga will become a healthy activity to look forward to because it helps you feel good!
To get the full benefits of yoga, it is ideal to do some practice everyday. This may mean some time doing the asanas (physical stretches), breathing techniques (pranayama), or just practising awareness of where you are holding tension, or awareness of your breathing or your thoughts.
For many of us, we carry the imbalances of our body into our yoga practice, and so it is important to practice without distraction, and with awareness and alertness to detail. Whilst you are perfecting the internal eye for detail, it is important to attend a class regularly to get feedback on your practice.
How to get Started
Ring us up to book into a class first as places are limited. Students book into a class for a month at a time. At the end of each month, you can decide to continue and book into the next month. We recommend you start with one class a week, and establish a home practice. If you feel you need the added support of an extra class, please let us know. Benefits of Yoga >>