FAQs for Yoga and Somatics

We’ve put together a bit of information in response to questions we are often asked, but if you still have questions, then please do not hesitate to contact us.

The majority of our classes are suitable for all levels, including beginners.  We suggest modifications to the yoga postures depending on your level of fitness and ability so the class feels appropriate for you.

Somatics movements are performed very slowly so you’ll be able to gauge what you can and can’t do.  The classes are mainly floor-based, so you’ll need to be able to get down onto the floor (and back up at the end of the class).

View our class timetable.

I’m not sure if I should come to a Yoga class or start 1 to 1 Somatic movement?

If you’re looking to get fit, tone up, strengthen and stretch your muscles and chill out, we’d recommend one of our yoga classes.

If you’re suffering from chronic pain or discomfort, then Somatic Yoga will be more suitable for you. Somatic exercises are performed slowly and are mostly floor-based, so you’re not having to hold up your body.

What should I wear to a class?

Wear loose fitting clothing that you can move in easily – most people wear leggings or tracksuit bottoms and a t-shirt, and a fleece in case it’s a bit chillier.  Yoga and Somatics are best done in bare feet.

What should I bring to a class?

For yoga, you will need a specialist yoga mat.  You may also like to invest in a yoga strap, a yoga block and a yoga blanket.   For your first few sessions we can loan things to you.   It is best to have your own equipment though, and you can buy these from us – please ask.

For Somatics, you’ll need a thick yoga, pilates or exercise mat as most of the class will be floor-based, and you want to be comfortable when lying down.  We also recommend something to support your head so that lying on the floor is more comfortable (this could be a soft pilates cushion, soft yoga block, cushion or pillow or a rolled-up towel or blanket).

You may like to bring a drink, such as a bottle of water, to your class too.

Are classes suitable for beginners?  I am also overweight and not very flexible

Yes, our classes are suitable for all ages and abilities, even beginners.  We have people of all fitness and abilities in most of our classes, and can suggest modifications to the postures we do.  Please note that our Somatics sessions are mainly floor-based, so you’ll need to be able to get down onto the floor and back up again.

I have joint pain – is it still ok to practise yoga?

A lot of our students suffer from joint problems or restricted mobility, and find that regular yoga practice helps them.  We are used to treating people with such problems in our clinics every day, and a lot of people in our classes come to us via our clinic.

When you first start doing yoga, sometimes your body may feel uncomfortable in a posture/movement.  As you learn to breathe and let go, it will become easier.  Feeling uncomfortable is OK, pain is not.   Stop and ease back a little if it is truly painful and speak to your teacher about it.

Please note – Ultimately your health is your responsibility, so if you are in any way unsure, please be advised by your GP or healthcare provider.   Although we are in the business of helping to treat injuries, we are not trained medically to make a decision about what exercise you should or shouldn’t do.   We are experienced teachers and will advise you and offer alternatives to exercises where we think it is needed, and encourage you to practise safely under our guidance.

I cannot commit to attend every class in the block, so can I just pay for those classes I come to?

No, we’re sorry but many of our classes are fully subscribed and you are paying for your place, even when you are unable to attend every week. Paying for all the classes at the start will encourage you to give your class your commitment as we give you ours. We are in the business of teaching, this is not our hobby, it is our full-time job.

If you cannot attend your regular class for some reason, you can come to one of our other classes (subject to there being a space available – please speak to your teacher).  Ideally this catch-up class will be in the same or following term if possible, but we are prepared to be flexible.  However, we would ask that you take your classes whilst you are still a paying customer (and don’t save up missed classes to be able to have a ‘free’ term).  We cannot refund fees for missed classes.

If you’re new to a class, you can pay for the first one at the rates above, and then pay for the remaining classes in the block when you’re sure it will be suitable for you – we want it to be the right thing for you.

Will you save my space for me if I can’t come for a block?

If your class is full and has a waiting list, and you choose to miss a block because of holidays etc., we will ask you to pay 50% of the missed block’s fees to ensure your space is kept for you.

Should I let you know if I cannot come to a class?

Yes please, if you can.  It’s nice to know how many people we can expect in a class, and for fully-subscribed classes, it means we can make your place available that week to another student who cannot attend his/her regular class. You can call, text or email us – whichever option suits you best – see the contact us page for our details.