Frequently Asked Questions
I'm not very flexible. Will I be able to do this class without looking silly?
Yes. All my classes have lots of beginners, so there are always people taking time out, using a wall or laughing because their body is just not going to go any further or they are wobbling around in a balance.
We don't go to language classes, piano lessons or football training because we are already amazing at these things. We go to learn, practice and get a bit better week by week. And hopefully have fun. Everybody's yoga poses will look a bit different because every body is a bit different. Never do anything that causes strain, makes you hold your breath or hurts. Listen to and respect your body, gently challenge yourself a little each week and maybe you'll surprise yourself.
Are the other men there? (a very popular question from men)
Yes. At Burntwood there are half a dozen men ranging from their 20's to 78 and at Lichfield there are always one or two men. They're very welcoming as they remember what it was like coming for the first time and I'll let you hide up the back if you want.
What do I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothes you can bend and stretch in easily. Long tops are a good idea so you don't have to fiddle with your clothes while standing on one leg! Wear layers you can take off after warm up and put back on for relaxation.
Do I have to go barefoot?
Yoga is usually practiced barefoot to improve the strength and flexibility of the feet & ankles as well as your balance, but if you wish to leave socks or even shoes on, that's fine. If your feet get cold, keep your socks on. Please just be aware that socked feet can slip, even on a non-slip mat.
What should I bring with me?
Please bring a drink with you and bring a big blanket. Our bodies cool down during breathing & relaxation and it feels good to be covered and a bit warm. Some students bring sleeping bags and pillows, so feel free to bring what you like. If you have a non-slip mat, please bring it along with you. If you don't have one, I have mats to borrow while you decide if this is right for you.
Can I have dinner before I come?
It is advisable to wait at least two hours after eating to practice yoga and you will feel better if that meal is light. Alternatively have a light snack about an hour before class to keep you going until you get home.
I'm pregnant. Can I come?
Pregnant ladies are very welcome at nearly every class. Please call me before you come for the first time so we can have a chat about where you are in your pregnancy and any specific issues you are facing, and then I can plan modifications or alternatives for you if necessary.
I have a bad back / sore neck / high or low blood pressure / weak wrists / dodgy knees / etc, etc. Can I still do yoga?
Yes. If you have an injury or condition that may affect your practice, please let me know before we begin before class so I can show you how to modify things or do something different when you need to.
I can't come every week. Is that OK?
Yes. I appreciate that people work shifts and have work and family commitments which mean they may not be able to come every week. You do not need to book for a certain number of weeks, classes are all pay-as-you-go. I may offer a discount from time to time for bookings of 5 or more weeks but I also offer discounts or the occasional free class to loyal students, so please come when you can.
Do I have to chant?
No. Over many years I have come to love a good chant but I know that for most people this can feel a bit weird. We occasionally chant a short chant but it is entirely optional and we usually have our eyes closed.
Will there be incense?
No. I love it but recognise that it can set off coughs and allergies so I never use it at class.
Yes. All my classes have lots of beginners, so there are always people taking time out, using a wall or laughing because their body is just not going to go any further or they are wobbling around in a balance.
We don't go to language classes, piano lessons or football training because we are already amazing at these things. We go to learn, practice and get a bit better week by week. And hopefully have fun. Everybody's yoga poses will look a bit different because every body is a bit different. Never do anything that causes strain, makes you hold your breath or hurts. Listen to and respect your body, gently challenge yourself a little each week and maybe you'll surprise yourself.
Are the other men there? (a very popular question from men)
Yes. At Burntwood there are half a dozen men ranging from their 20's to 78 and at Lichfield there are always one or two men. They're very welcoming as they remember what it was like coming for the first time and I'll let you hide up the back if you want.
What do I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothes you can bend and stretch in easily. Long tops are a good idea so you don't have to fiddle with your clothes while standing on one leg! Wear layers you can take off after warm up and put back on for relaxation.
Do I have to go barefoot?
Yoga is usually practiced barefoot to improve the strength and flexibility of the feet & ankles as well as your balance, but if you wish to leave socks or even shoes on, that's fine. If your feet get cold, keep your socks on. Please just be aware that socked feet can slip, even on a non-slip mat.
What should I bring with me?
Please bring a drink with you and bring a big blanket. Our bodies cool down during breathing & relaxation and it feels good to be covered and a bit warm. Some students bring sleeping bags and pillows, so feel free to bring what you like. If you have a non-slip mat, please bring it along with you. If you don't have one, I have mats to borrow while you decide if this is right for you.
Can I have dinner before I come?
It is advisable to wait at least two hours after eating to practice yoga and you will feel better if that meal is light. Alternatively have a light snack about an hour before class to keep you going until you get home.
I'm pregnant. Can I come?
Pregnant ladies are very welcome at nearly every class. Please call me before you come for the first time so we can have a chat about where you are in your pregnancy and any specific issues you are facing, and then I can plan modifications or alternatives for you if necessary.
I have a bad back / sore neck / high or low blood pressure / weak wrists / dodgy knees / etc, etc. Can I still do yoga?
Yes. If you have an injury or condition that may affect your practice, please let me know before we begin before class so I can show you how to modify things or do something different when you need to.
I can't come every week. Is that OK?
Yes. I appreciate that people work shifts and have work and family commitments which mean they may not be able to come every week. You do not need to book for a certain number of weeks, classes are all pay-as-you-go. I may offer a discount from time to time for bookings of 5 or more weeks but I also offer discounts or the occasional free class to loyal students, so please come when you can.
Do I have to chant?
No. Over many years I have come to love a good chant but I know that for most people this can feel a bit weird. We occasionally chant a short chant but it is entirely optional and we usually have our eyes closed.
Will there be incense?
No. I love it but recognise that it can set off coughs and allergies so I never use it at class.