Hatha yoga is the original kind of physical yoga - others hoped to achieve enlightenment through devotional chanting, service to the community, or the study of sacred texts, but involved no postures. Through improved strength, flexibility and focus on the breath, Hatha Yoga historically sought to prepare the body to sit more comfortably in meditation. Most other physical types (e.g. Iyengar, Kundalini, Ashtanga, Yin, Bikram, etc.) have evolved from this practice. Hatha recognises that awareness of the body and breath when moving through postures leads to a calmer, more focussed mind; for this reason it is sometimes referred to as ‘meditation in motion’. People who practise Hatha Yoga learn to use physical postures (“asanas”), breathing (“pranayama”) and relaxation techniques as a way to release both physical and mental tensions, to improve overall health and self-awareness. Lucy's particular fascination is with anatomy & physiology, and with psycho-somatics: how our minds affect our bodies and vice versa. Her classes are peppered with lots of ancient yogic theory as well, adhering to the idea that, “Without knowledge of the theory, yoga is just exercise. Without the postures, the theory is as dry as dust”.
Description of Classes/Styles of Yoga we teach
