At CAMYOGA, we believe in the transformative power of yoga and its positive impact on individuals of all ages. Last week, we had the privilege of connecting with a member of our community who shared a wonderful initiative with us. A local secondary school expressed a keen interest in introducing yoga classes for their students, recognising the numerous physical and mental benefits that yoga offers.

In response to this heartfelt request, we took action. On a sunny Sunday, our team member, Ana, gathered some of our spare yoga mats and props to make this initiative a reality. Ana's warm-hearted gesture not only delivered yoga equipment but also carried the spirit of mindfulness, well-being, and community to the young minds at the local school.

How You Can Contribute to Our Cause:

If you have any used yoga equipment lying around—perhaps a yoga mat that's seen many sessions or props that have supported your practice throughout the years—consider giving them a new purpose. Your pre-loved yoga items, regardless of their condition, can make a significant difference.

By donating your spare yoga equipment to CAMYOGA, you become an integral part of our mission to spread the practice of yoga and mindfulness throughout our community. Your generosity will allow us to facilitate more requests from local schools and organisations, creating opportunities for individuals to experience the many benefits of yoga.

How to Donate:

1. Gather Your Equipment: Collect any spare yoga mats, props, or accessories that you no longer use.

2. Contact Us: Reach out to our team at info@camyoga.co.uk to coordinate your donation.

3. Drop-Off or Pick-Up: We'll work with you to arrange a convenient drop-off or pick-up location and time.

Your contribution, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on the lives of young students and individuals in our community. Together, we can inspire the practice of yoga and mindfulness, fostering a sense of well-being and connection among all.

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Meet the Team: Aldar

Front of house team member

Aldar is our yoga-loving, circus-acrobatic climbing guru!

With over 7 years of yoga practice (and counting!), Aldar's journey began right here at CAMYOGA. He believes yoga is the perfect companion to his acrobatics, circus aerial, and climbing adventures!

Aldar loves working for such a wonderful community (more of a community than a company)! (his words... not ours!! )

What does the future hold for Al? Well, he's got his eyes set on a yoga teacher training in the near future!

You probably know him from the first 2-3 secs of each recorded/online class 😂 👀

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Barefoot Body’s unique and accredited entry-level teaching qualification takes an embodied approach to yoga practices and philosophy, weaves trauma-sensitivity throughout, and nurtures your personal enrichment as well as your professional development.

Apply now for 2024.

This post was originally featured on the Barefoot Body Blog written by Beverley Nolan.

Embodied, trauma-sensitive, and inclusive with small groups, generous financial assistance, and above industry standard graduate support, our yoga teacher trainings are unique.

On our teacher trainings, we aim to help you discover your own unique style through embodied learning, and to ensure you acquire the knowledge, skills and confidence you need to share your preferred style of yoga in a safe, accessible manner with the communities that matter to you.

We know that our approach is unique. Here's how…

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Our Embodied Approach

Taking learning off the page and into your own felt-experience.

We take an embodied approach across the whole discipline of yoga. We apply it to anatomy, asana, pranayama, philosophy and even ethics because we believe that experiential study is the most effective way to integrate learning experiences.

Embodied practices involve your whole being: 'head-heart-hands'. It's about taking learning off the page, interacting with information beyond the cognitive level and bringing it into the felt experience.

So each individual who participates in a learning encounter with us is held as a holistic being, as someone who has capacity for thinking, feeling and acting. This enables you to take what you have discovered off the mat, out of the training, and into your life at large.

By teaching and learning in an embodied way, we empower you and your future students to use your own experiences as a means of defining your yoga practice. It's a co-creative process that's non-hierarchical, inclusive and accessible.

Exceptional Tutors

Learn from experts in their fields who think outside the box.

Our faculty comprises a core team of highly experienced teachers committed to bringing the very best of themselves to the training room. They have been working and studying together for more than 10 years and are passionate about their own particular fields of interest.

You will also meet Guest Tutors, friends of Barefoot Body, who bring to you specialist and current scholarship in the fields of Yoga History, Culture & Philosophy, and engage you in conversations on contemporary themes and practical, professional Ethics.

In addition, you will have access to two world renowned yoga anatomy tutors for our online anatomy course - Amy Matthews and Leslie Kaminoff.

Meet the tutors.

Small Groups

A more personal, tailored training with limited numbers.

Many teacher training providers have around 30 trainees in their cohorts but we prefer to keep things small, with a maximum of 16 people at any one time.

We limit places because we believe that face-to-face teaching in small groups means everyone participates in co-creating a dynamic for a fully embodied learning experience, breathing new life into tried and trusted lesson plans and content every time.

There's a place for every voice in the room, knowledge and experience is shared, and respectful connections are forged. Small groups also allow us to offer you a deeper level of personal enrichment.

Trauma Sensitive

Teaching and learning that is sensitive towards the impact of your life experiences.

We understand that life impacts each of us in different ways. That's why everything we do  is informed by an awareness of the potential impact your experiences might have made. We believe this is the most respectful and compassionate way to fully empower you and your students.

Inspired By Inclusivity

Open to all with support in creating your own Outreach Project.

We believe in yoga for all and for every body so if want to share what you love about the practice, then we’d like to help you get the skills and confidence to do this.

Our embodied, trauma-sensitive approach means that everyone can access our teaching, regardless of the forms we inhabit, the communities we come from, or the circumstances we experience. There are no pre-requisites about your ability to do complex forms/asana or to fit any pre-conceived image of what a yoga teacher looks like. We are all learning and creating our practice in our own way.

Ongoing Support After You Graduate

Teaching and business mentoring, outreach assistance, reunions and more in your first year as a yoga teacher.

Our support and enthusiasm doesn't stop with awarding our graduates a well-earned glossy certificate and wishing them luck at the end of their 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training. We take a genuine interest in each of our trainees and our investment in their journey from student to teacher continues well after graduation.

With mentoring hours that continue during your first year of teaching, graduate discounts on further education, and reunion events, no other teacher training provider offers quite the same level of ongoing support that Barefoot Body provides when it comes to yoga teacher graduates.

Generous Financial Support

Bursaries and flexible payment plans.

We're committed to minimising financial barriers to learning, which is why we offer interest free payment plans to support you as well as an Early Bird booking period - don't miss it! View early bird offer >

We're also proud to offer not just two bursary places for each of our teacher trainings. So if you are on a low income or identify/work with underrepresented communities in yoga teaching you may very well be eligible for bursary support.

Bursary Support Award Form

An Exploration of Somatics

Deepening your experience of yoga and movement.

We weave the thread of somatics in our trainings, using movement modalities beyond yoga as a method of exploration.

We believe that this enquiry-based practice encourages you to get curious about your own experience of the forms of yoga, and develop a new understanding about how your body meets them. In turn, you may begin to discover new ways to think, feel, move, and teach. ⁣

Somatics is the study of the self from the perspective of one’s lived experience, encompassing the dimensions of body, psyche, and spirit’ - Thomas Hanna

Personal Enrichment

On-to-one mentoring, peer networking and self-coaching techniques.

The path to becoming a yoga teacher is more than a professional journey in which you develop the knowledge and tools you need to teach yoga. It's also a deeply personal experience that can be very rewarding.

As well as dedicated hours towards one-to-one personal mentoring, our trainings are also enriched with peer networking and embodied self-coaching techniques that offer valuable tools not just for your teaching but your life as a whole.

No Essays or Written Exams

Assessments that capture your learning at its best.

We don't believe that long essays or written exams are a good indicator of the way you teach. That's why our assessments are carried out through a combination of online worksheets and written assignments related to class planning, self-practice, and understanding common Sanskrit terms.

We also ask you to design a 6 week beginners course to teach to friends, family or colleagues as well as take part in an observed practical assessment which takes the form of teaching a mini-class to your peers.

Did you know? Barefoot Body is our Teacher Training partner and we are thrilled that they have brought their unique offerings to CAMYOGA.

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Ashtanga yoga is a unique form of yoga in that the practitioner learns the sequence by heart and guides themselves through the series, with assistance of a teacher. This is a very powerful way to practice that develops svadhyaya – self-knowledge - very quickly, and encourages ahimsa – non-harming – by paying deep attention to the body’s sensations and feelings during the practice, and adapting in terms of energy, physicality and duration, according to each day.  There are many conventions around the practice that come from its long history of development in Mysore, India through the lineage of Krishnamachayra and its subsequent spread around the world.  

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How often should I practice?

Ashtanga Mysore practitioners at the studio

The practice is traditionally practiced 5-6 times per week, with one rest day, and an extra day of rest on the full and new moon – known as moon days.  Some practitioners do practice on moon days but might be softer or a more restorative sequence. It is good to listen to yourself and follow your energy. Many practitioners practice with Sunday as the first practice day, and Friday as the last practice day, or Monday as the first practice day and Saturday as the last practice day. But you can choose what makes sense to you. Traditionally, the last practice day is primary series, and if you are a primary series practitioner this is still what you would do, perhaps doing a bit less, trying to stay on the vinyasa count, with no extras or experiments. 

Beginners might start with practicing 2-3 times per week, and as strength, stamina and confidence increase, the practice days can also increase.  It is good to take your time through, perhaps take 6 months to build from a 2-3 day a week practice to a 5-6 day a week daily practice.

At CAMYOGA, there are led classes and mysore classes, and it is great to combine these, attending the led class once a week, the mysore class once a week, and then practice at home once or twice a week. 

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When should I practice?

The practice feels best when the stomach is empty.  For this reason, many practitioners practice early in the morning before breakfast.  Evening practice, before eating, is also beneficial.  As a guide, a 3-4 hour break between eating and practice is helpful. During the practice, do not drink, if you can – try to keep the stomach clear and digestion quiet. 

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What are the foundations of the practice?

Ashtanga yoga is sometimes known as the tristana method in that there is the integration of three actions throughout the practice: breath, bandha and drishti. The breathing pattern of the practice is codified with a count for every single inhale and exhale from the first sun salutation to the last breath before the rest at the end. As we learn the practice, it is natural to take extra breaths and not always stay on the breath count but as experience develops, so does alignment with the breath count.  The bandha is the way that we describe the engagement of the psoas, abdominal and diaphragm muscles, which is best explained by a teacher in the class setting. The drishti is where we focus with our eyes, and every vinyasa and asana of the practice has a specific drishti, which helps to keep balance and the mind focused. There are so many details that often a teacher will just introduce these to you gradually, so that your practice becomes more and more precise and refined, while still giving you the space to flow through the practice in your own time.

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How long should I practice, and which asanas should I do?

Every practice usually contains the sun salutations, the standing asanas, some portion of one of the series, or a complete series, and then the finishing asanas. A short practice of twenty minutes would include the sun salutations and the finishing asanas. A more medium length practice of 30-45 minutes would include sun salutations, the standing asanas and the finishing asanas. Some practice is better than none at all, so a short practice at home is very beneficial and keeps the mind and body focused.

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Where should I stop?

There are lots of conventions around where to stop in the ashtanga practice. Some teachers believe that the previous asana should be very stable and consistent before the next one is attempted.  Some teachers encourage exploration of the series more holistically. What is more important is that you feel a clear purpose in the way that you practice, and that you feel energised by your practice. I have practiced in the very strict way and in the more liberal way. My experience of being stopped until I achieved a level of stability an asana in my body was that it helps to build the energetic qualities of the practice and encouraged deep focus.  In the more liberal way of practicing, asanas beyond where we are currently struggling with an asana can help to acclimatise the body to some of the patterns that are needed for the more challenging asanas, but sometimes this can make the practice too long, so you can also choose to practice these asanas at another time from your practice. The practice should flow with the vinyasa count, and this is helps to develop the moving meditation quality of the practice, as well as keep the heat in the body.  The quality of the practice is something to consider. It is ok to do a few asanas with exploration and warm ups, but the practice can lose its flow, and the body becomes cold, when there are many asanas like this. If you are unsure, you can definitely talk to the teacher about how much to practice and what you would like to practice. 

Stopping at an asana is also to do with safe practice.  For many practitioners, where to stop is clear because the asana is very difficult or almost impossible to do. The limits of the body should be respected and time taken to soften into or strengthen the patterns needed to support the safe execution of an asana. Props can be used and the assist of the teacher can also be helpful. Each body is different and so asana stability and proficiency is different for each person – it does not always mean catching the bind or standing up from the backbend. As a trauma informed teacher, I pay attention to each individual body and try to apply the principles of practice in a specific way that helps them.

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How long does it take to learn primary series?

With a 5-6 day per week practice, it can take a practitioner 1-3 years to learn primary series. Progression should not be rushed and even a very able student should spend time practicing primary series for about a year before progressing further.  Primary series is the foundation and root of all the other series. Primary series is also known as yoga chikitsa, which means yoga therapy. Yoga chikitsa calms the mind, pacifies the digestion, gives strength, clarity and resilience to the body and mind. A proficient primary series includes strength and consistency in vinyasa, a fluid flow through the breath count, and asana stability within the limits of your body. Further series are simply deepening the patterns of primary series. For example, pasasana is an extension of the patterns in marychyasana C and D, dwi pada sirsasana extends the patterns introduced in supta kurmasana. For practitioners who have been practicing primary series for a long time, adding some second series asanas, such as the earlier backbends, and some of the seated postures can be beneficial. As proficiency develops, we can let go of the props and need less assistance from the teacher.  We can then focus on the breath, vinyasa count and flow of the practice. 

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Can I practice during menstruation?

Female practitioners may opt to take days off from practice when they are menstruating – known as ladies’ holiday or I like to call it ladies’ festival. Some women find relief in the rest around their period and others find that practicing is helpful.  The sequence can be varied, asanas skipped, and a restorative sequence also practiced in place of the regular sequence.  Key asanas for menstruation can include badha konasana (seated and reclined), upavista konasana, bhujipidasana, prasarita padottasana with the head supported on a block. Because of the use of the bandhas (muscle locks in the core that draw upwards), Ashtanga yoga can emphasise pranic energy – energy that moves up – and during menstruation, apanic energy – energy that moves down - is generally more dominant, so this can be supported by changing the focus of the practice – softening and releasing bandha, and encouraging down focus in the energy.  I am a restorative yoga teacher as well as ashtanga teacher, and can guide you in a restorative sequence in the mysore class, if you wish. 

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Can I practice during pregnancy?

Practice is not advised during the first trimester. After that, you can ask a teacher to advise you on how best to practice. It is also not advised to practice ashtanga yoga during your pregnancy if you have never practiced ashtanga yoga before.

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Thank you, Tamara for sharing this amazing guide to Ashtanga Yoga with us!

Tamara teaches the Ashtanga mysore classes on Sundays 7-9am.

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Ashtanga Schedule

Tuesdays 18:15 - 19:30 (Led class)

Fridays 13:00 - 14:15 (Led class)

Sundays 7:00. -9:00 (Mysore class)

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*June at CAMYOGA*

Special events coming up this month:

03/06/23: Saturday Special: Yang & Yin: Music is the space between the notes with Janine Tandy

Book: https://bit.ly/yangyinmusic

17/06/23: Saturday Special: Ashtanga Led with Emma Lindsay

Book: https://bit.ly/ashtanga0623

24/06/23: Saturday Special: Jivamukti Spring into Summer with Rebecca Leam

Book: https://bit.ly/jivamuktisummer23

25/06/23: Iyengar Yoga Together II Workshop with Shaili Shafai

Book: https://bit.ly/iyengaryogatogether2

25/06/23: Embodied Wisdom Teachings: Bhagavad Gita with Andrea K

Book: https://bit.ly/ews-june

Plus…. Puppy Yoga TBA!

We look forward to welcoming you to the studio this month.

14 George IV Street, Cambridge, CB2 1HH

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This post was originally featured on the Barefoot Body Training blog and written by Beverley Nolan, view it here.

One of my first Odissi teachers told me, "Your body is a temple, and every movement is a prayer." And when I asked him how to approach a particularly challenging pose, he replied: "Close your eyes for a moment, find your centre, breathe, then go for it"

Does this sound familiar to you as a yoga practitioner? The union of body and soul, of breath and movement.

There is a profound connection between asana practice and Odissi dance. Yoga forms the solid foundation upon which I build my dance skills, while Odissi enhances my progress in the path of yoga.

Through both disciplines, I have come to appreciate the significance of mindful movement, core focus, proper alignment, the use of drishti (gaze), and the power of mudras (hand gestures). These key concepts serve as bridges between the two practices, deepening my understanding and connection to each.

Yoga and Odissi are not merely physical activities but gateways to spiritual elevation. They both act as stepping stones toward an elevated state of consciousness, which is the ultimate goal. They both guide us to go beyond the limitations of the body and connect with something greater, something divine.

So what should you expect in the Odissi workshop?

Now, let's delve into what you can expect in an Odissi workshop. The workshop is an open-level introductory workshop, so wholly suited to those new to yoga, and seasoned practitioners seeking new avenues of exploration.

In the workshop, we will embark on a journey exploring the fundamentals of the Odissi dance form. We will dive into the most common foot positions, delve into the movements of the head and eyes, and embrace the invigorating experience of basic footwork (think lots of stomping!).

But Odissi is not solely about footwork and technicality; it encompasses a rich storytelling vocabulary. We will learn about hand gestures known as mudras and their profound ability to convey a range of emotions and narratives.

Rhythm is an integral part of classical dance, and Odissi is no exception. Throughout the workshop, we will unravel the intricacies of rhythm in Odissi, clapping along to learn playful and challenging tongue-twisting rhythmic syllables. This immersive experience will awaken your senses and expand your understanding of the profound connection between movement, rhythm, and expression.

Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the history of the Odissi dance form and explore the richness of Indian culture from which it originates. This cultural context will deepen your appreciation for the artistry and heritage surrounding Odissi, adding layers of meaning to your dance practice.

To culminate our journey together, we will weave all the elements we have learned into a short composition. This composition will be a piece of art you can take home, practice, and share with your loved ones, enabling you to preserve the beauty and essence of Odissi beyond the workshop.

~ Tamara Tirjak

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The parallels between yoga and Odissi dance are undeniable. Both practices guide us towards spiritual transcendence through the medium of physical movement.

Whether you are a yogi or a dancer, seeking a deeper connection with movement and spirituality this workshop will be an insightful introduction to this traditional and unique dance form.

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Odissi Dance Workshop

with Tamara Tirjak

Sunday 28th May

11:30-14:00

£40 / £35 (concs)

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Latest blog posts

This post was originally featured on the Barefoot Body Training blog and written by Beverley Nolan, view it here.

This post was originally featured on the Barefoot Body Blog written by Beverley Nolan, view it here.

A prop-lite guide to blanket folding to enrich your restorative yoga practice for those that don't have the luxury of bolsters or blocks.

Blanket folding, or blanket origami, is a great tool when it comes to a restorative practice, particularly if you don’t have a cupboard load of props available at home.

Believe it or not, all blankets weren’t created equal. At least not when it comes to folding and rolling to support the body in restorative yoga forms.

Here are the types of blanket we recommend:

1. Cotton blankets and/or throws wash well and sustain their quality over time. Their softness and closely woven fibres mean they are quite firm and hold their shape well when folded offering you support as well as comfort

2. Wool blend blankets also hold their shape well depending on how finely woven they are.

3. Fleece blankets feel beautifully soft and fold well initially but given the texture of the fibres, they have a tendency to collapse which isn’t as beneficial when it comes to supporting the body

You may not have any of these blankets available but worry not, there are other prop-ready items you may have at home that will do the job.

• bathroom towels that are made of cotton, particularly the big ones as they can be rolled into a replacement style bolster quickly and easily. Hand towels may also come in handy to support the back of the neck

• flannels or face cloths are very useful as they are small and can be rolled into compact shapes

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TOP TIPS FOR BLANKET ORIGAMI 💡

1. Use the right blanket — softly woven cotton

2. Take your time

3. Keep the material smooth

4. Be precise with your folds

5. Be ready to unfold and refold if it’s not quite right… It’s worth it!

We cover all blanket origami, prop-lite practice and more on upcoming IN-PERSON Restorative Yoga Teacher Training course with our training partner Barefoot Body held in our Central Cambridge studio. The next training course is coming up in May 2023. There is still time to apply.

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Ready to get started with blanket origami?

We’ve put together a few instructional videos to give you inspiration and help you to get the right blanket shapes to fit your practice.

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This post was originally featured on the Barefoot Body Training blog and written by Beverley Nolan, view it here.

“Don't wait for a better world. Start now to create a world of harmony and peace. It is up to you, and it always has been.” - Sharon Gannon

Our April special events/classes:

📆 08/04/23: Saturday Special: Ashtanga Led with Emma

Book here

📆 22/04/23: Art of Assists CPD Workshop with Andrea K

SOLD OUT

📆 29/04/23: Spring Yang & Yin Workshop: Cultivating Compassion with Janine

Book here

📆 30/04/23: Embodied Wisdom Series: The Yoga Sutras

Book here

We look forward to welcoming you to the studio this month.

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Have you attended CAMYOGA classes before and are thinking of rejoining?

Sign up for our Welcome Back New Client Offer: £45 for 30 days of unlimited yoga!

(if you have any issues with the booking system when you go to make this purchase, drop us an email - info@camyoga.co.uk)

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We are very lucky to have Shaili Shafai and Karen Stamper teach Iyengar Yoga for us, here at CAMYOGA offering 3 classes per week!

As there has been an influx of new Yogis to the studio over the last few months, Shaili has kindly put together a guide for those unsure if they are ready for the Saturday Intermediate Class.

What to expect in an Iyengar class

• Taught in 4-week blocks. Expect a different focus each week while working with the same theme. Week 1= Standing Poses, Week 2= Forward Bending, Week 3= Backward Bending, Week 4= Restorative/Pranayama.

• You will be focusing your attention on the details in the posture as guided by your teacher. Postures will be held for a time for you to feel the sensations.

• In the Iyengar style, the teacher will demonstrate postures, and then you’ll be asked to repeat them - the teacher will not be practicing the whole class with you.

• You will be corrected/assisted in your postures, verbally and/or hands-on (the teacher will ask if you’re happy to be assisted physically)

• If you have health issues or are menstruating you will be given an alternative posture.

• You will use props in the class. We have plenty of props for you to use at the studio. If you’re practicing at home we’d recommend purchasing your own props.

• If you’re new to the style (or teacher), the teacher will take the time to give adequate attention to getting to know you and your body.

• The names of poses will be in Sanskrit alongside the demonstration (in the intermediate class, you will be expected to know what the poses are without demonstration).

• Inversions: Sirsasana (headstand) and/or Sarvangasana (shoulder stand) will be practiced every session. In an open class, you don’t need to be able to do the “full” pose but will be expected to work towards it while being guided by your teacher.

If you’re not an experienced Iyengar practitioner, and want to try the style our recommendations are:

• Join our Tuesday (10am), or Wednesday (18:30) Iyengar open classes. You can join either in-studio (preferred for new practitioners) or online (live or recording).

• Start from the first week of the block where we work on standing poses (drop us an email to find out which week we’re on).

• Only, move to the Saturday class, once you’ve had significant experience specifically with IYENGAR yoga and/or at your teacher's recommendation.

• This is so that more experienced students are able to work to their level, and less experienced students will not be overwhelmed.

We hope to see you in class very soon!

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You can practice Ashtanga Yoga with Tamara and Emma on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Make sure to check out Hakan’s YouTube Channel, Yoga Diaries for more chats and insights

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Art and Yoga are intertwined in Gurpran’s life and each practice inspires the other.

Let the waves and stars relax you at the end of your day.

Mixed media artist and Yoga teacher, Gurpran Rau treats us to a relaxing and mindful practise every Wednesday evening from her beautiful home studio space.

Gurpran’s class Breathe, Release, Restore focuses on key elements such as mindful movement, breath work, and visualisation techniques, intelligently sequenced to activate the parasympathetic nervous system - decreasing anxiety and bringing you into a state of bliss. 

If you don’t have time for a 75-minute class every day, here are 3 simple stretches that allow oxygen to flow throughout your body after a long day:

Let the light shine in as you restore your mind and body

Sit in a comfortable seat, and lift your arms above your head. Feel your roots connect with the earth and your spine growing longer. Relax your shoulders, bringing them away from your ears. Hold for up to 6 breaths.

Reach for the stars as you unwind for the night

Place your left hand to the side of your left hip and reach up your right arm. As you exhale, anchor your right hip down and send your lifted arm over the head creating a side stretch. Look up to the lifted hand if this feels good. Hold for up to 6 breaths and switch sides.

Letting go as you breathe, release, restore

Place each hand on each knee and take Chin Mudra (hand position where your thumb and first finger are touching). Close the eyes or have a soft gaze. Start to scan your body noticing any sensations that arise. When you feel ready, without changing your natural breathing pattern, start counting your breath. Do this for at least 10 cycles (one cycle = inhale and exhale). Once you’ve finished, open the eyes (if they have been closed) and take some time to notice stillness before moving from this position.

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Gurpran teaches her class on a Wednesday evening from 7-8:15pm, you can book in to join live and/or get the recording (which is available for 7 days after the class).

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“Action is movement with intelligence. The world is filled with movement. What the world needs is more conscious movement, more action.” - BKS Iyengar

March special events/classes:

📆 04/03/23: Saturday Special: Jivamukti Open Experience with Vicky and Hakan
Book here

📆 18/03/23: Saturday Special: Ashtanga Led with Emma
Book here

📆 19/03/23: Odissi Indian Dance Workshop with Tamara Tirjak
Book here

📆 19/03/23: Yin Yang Yoga and Sound Experience with Bhramari (Bianca)
Book here

📆 25/03/23: Saturday Special: Candlelit Ananda Yoga with Heemali
Book here

📆 30/03/23: Renew & Restore Sound Experience with Andrea K & Bhramari (Bianca)
Book here

We look forward to welcoming you to the studio this month.

🏠 14 George IV Street, Cambridge, CB2 1HH

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Have you attended CAMYOGA classes before and are thinking of rejoining?

Sign up for our Welcome Back New Client Offer: £45 for 30 days of unlimited yoga!

(if you have any issues with the booking system when you go to make this purchase, drop us an email - info@camyoga.co.uk)

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Is shrove Tuesday one of the best days of the year (Yes, yes it is). We’ve been discussing in the office whether pancakes should be savoury or sweet. So, lay down your cards - what team are you on?

But what have pancakes got to do with Yoga? If you look deeper into the philosophical side of a Yoga practice you’ll discover the Yamas (moral discipline) and Niyamas (guidelines) - principles and guidelines which will aid you on your spiritual path.

Iyengar describes the Yamas and Niyamas as “golden keys to unlock the spiritual gates” as each action taken in accordance with these guidelines has the power to give your life a deeper meaning, and even if you’re not inherently spiritual taking these actions can make the world a better place.

The first Yama is Ahimsa, which can be translated as non-harming / non-violence. An easy way to incorporate this Yama into your wider life is by adopting a vegan diet (or by consciously eating less meat and animal products, if veganism is not for you).

So… back to pancakes! Good news, we’ve done the searching for you and found 2 completely different vegan recipes, one for savory lovers and one for those with a sweet tooth.

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Recipe & Image from: https://veganpunks.com/savoury-vegan-pancakes/

Best Vegan Savoury Pancakes

with Creamy Mushrooms

12 Servings

Ingredients

For the pancakes:

• 2 cup plain flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 2 tbsp baking powder

• 1.5 cup oat milk unsweetened

For the creamy mushrooms:

• 450 g chestnut mushrooms – sliced

• 2 cloves garlic – crushed

• 2 tbsp fresh chives – roughly chopped

• 2 tbsp vegan crème fraîche or cream

• 2 tbsp vegan butter

• Salt and pepper – to taste

Method:

1. Sieve the flour into a large mixing bowl and then add the baking powder and salt.

2. Pour the milk and apple cider mixture into the large bowl and whisk by hand, or on a low setting with an electric mixer. The batter should be thick but not gloopy. Like a thick smoothie.

3. Heat a non-stick frying pan on a medium-high hob – if you're not using a non-stick pan, use a tiny bit of oil spray or vegan butter to stop the pancakes sticking.

4. Using a quarter cup measurer, pour in a quarter cup of the pancake mixture into the frying pan, and let it cook for a couple of minutes.

5. Small holes or bubbles should start to form on top of the pancake – this is usually a sign that it's ready to flip. Lift up a bit of the pancake using a spatula to see if it's ready - it should be a golden-brown colour.

6. Using a spatula, carefully flip the pancake and allow it to cook for a couple of minutes on the other side. Be careful it doesn't burn by keeping a close eye on it – the second side will brown a bit quicker! Repeat until all the mixture is used up. It should make 12 pancakes.

7. Time to make the creamy mushrooms. Add the vegan butter to a medium-sized saucepan over medium-high heat. It should start to melt gradually.

8. Pop the garlic in and give it a stir.

9. After a minute add the mushrooms and give it a good stir

10. Let it cook for around five minutes and then add in the chives, vegan crème fraîche, salt, and pepper.

11. Cook for another few minutes and stir well. Make sure the crème fraîche is well mixed in. Serve the mushrooms on top of the pancakes with more chives and crème fraîche.

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Recipe from: https://tasty.co/recipe/the-fluffiest-vegan-pancakes

Best Vegan Fluffy & Sweet Pancakes

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 cup flour (125 g)

• 2 tablespoons caster sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup non-dairy milk (240 ml)

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla essence/extract

• Maple syrup and icing sugar, to serve

Method

1. In a medium bowl, add the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt, and stir to combine.

2. In a medium bowl or liquid measuring cup, add almond milk, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla, and stir to combine

3. Pour the liquid mixture into the dry mixture and whisk until smooth.

4. Let batter rest for 5 minutes.

5. Pour about ½ cup (65 grams) of batter onto a nonstick pan or griddle over medium heat.

6. When the top begins to bubble, flip the pancake and cook until golden.

7. Serve warm with maple syrup and a dusting of icing sugar.

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Let us know how you get on… bonus points if you show your allegience to team savoury or team sweet.

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💚Heart Chakra Affirmation💚
I am ready and open to receiving love and blessings.

Our February special events:

📆 04/02/23: Saturday Special: Water Element Vin to Yin with Maya Marie

📆 11/02/23: Teacher Training Weekend with Barefoot Body 🥰

📆 18/02/23: Saturday Special: Ashtanga Led with Emma Lindsay

Book here

📆 25/02/23: Saturday Special: Crow to Dragonfly - Arm Balancing for all Levels with Esther Beierl

Book here

We look forward to welcoming you to the studio this month.

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Have you attended CAMYOGA classes before and are thinking of rejoining?

Sign up for our Welcome Back New Client Offer: £45 for 30 days of unlimited yoga!

(if you have any issues with the booking system when you go to make this purchase, drop us an email - info@camyoga.co.uk)

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Latest blog posts

January’s competition is here! All you have to do to enter is attend 3 classes in any 1 week. Every week that you attend 3 classes is an entry, so keep up the good work and you might be rewarded with a prize worth £100!

That’s not all, to make this month super-sparkly, we’re adding another chance to win an ADDITIONAL month - have you seen our open day on January 22nd? Free classes all day long and for every class you attend you’ll be entered into another prize draw to win unlimited classes for a month.

So, 2 ways to win this month (you might even win both 😱 which would be absolutely outrageous but could happen).

Good luck Camyogis 🍀

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Latest blog posts

Amy Holly has been bringing her out-of-this-world, positive energy to our studio for many years now, but what is Barre? Here it is in a nutshell:

• Barre was developed by dancers to keep mobile and strong when returning from an injury

• It’s a muscle endurance class with elements of all the good things: Ballet, Pilates, strength training, Yoga, and cardio

• During class expect to be using both full-range and small-muscle groups

• Every class you attend will build your alignment, improve your posture, and strengthen your core while toning and elongating muscles

• Barre is inspired by Ballet - but don’t let that put you off - you do NOT need to be a dancer to come to class

When you come to class, you can expect loud music, soulful dance, energetic release, and of course, laughter and SWEAT!

Although we, as a studio specialise in Yoga, we also have a range of specially chosen fitness-style classes which are designed to complement your Yoga practice. Our teachers are non-judgemental, community-focused, and overflowing with positive energy.

We hope to see you in one of Amy’s classes soon! Give it a try, you have nothing to lose, but everything to gain.

Barre at CAMYOGA:

Tuesdays 10am - Barre Open with Amy
Sundays 10am - Barre Intermediate with Amy

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Latest blog posts

Enjoy free taster classes in a huge range of yoga styles, plus Barre & Pilates, at our Open Day on Sunday 22nd January. Our Open Days are a fantastic way to try something new, completely free of charge, and to introduce your friends and family to the joy of yoga! Never tried Flow before? Now is your chance! Wondering what Ashtanga is all about? Discover what you've been missing! Keen to try out Barre, the hottest workout in town? Give it a whirl, for free!

OPEN DAY SCHEDULE:

08:00 - 08:45 Jivamukti Open with Hakan

10:00 - 10:45 Yoga Beginners with Vicky

11:00 - 11:45 Ashtanga with Emma

12:00 - 12:45 Barre with Amy

12:15 - 13:00 Jivamukti Restore & Renew with Andrea K

13:15 - 14:00 Pilates with Lynsey

13:30 - 14:15 Warm Flow with Amanda

14:15 - 15:00 Yoga Flow Open with Daisy

14:30 - 15:15 Hot Yoga with Naomi

15:15 - 16:00 Yang & Yin Yoga with Janine

16:00 - 16:45 Yoga Open with Laura

16:15 - 17:00 Flow into Yin with Rebecca

17:00 - 17:45 Hot Power Yoga with Hakan

Booking essential. Click here to book a class and go to January 22nd 2023.

Our yoga experts will be on hand throughout the day to discuss your yoga needs. Perhaps you've been considering a membership? Maybe you’re looking to start a healthier lifestyle alongside other likeminded individuals.

• Find the yoga style that best suits your needs

• Ask any burning questions you might have about Yoga, Barre, Pilates

• Try our classes for the very first time, and see what we are all about

• Enjoy discounts and competitions throughout the day

• Meet our teachers and staff members in a friendly and inclusive atmosphere

• Yoga is for EVERYONE no matter your size, age, gender, and all those other things we tell ourselves.

All this, for FREE!

There will also be special offers on the day the perfect time to commit to doing more yoga! PLUS every one who attends a class will be entered into a draw to win a whole month of free classes.

The more the merrier so be sure to bring along your friends and family. We’re based in the centre of town, 14 George IV Street, CB2 1HH.

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Latest blog posts

“Each morning we are born again. What we do today is what matters most.” Buddha

Our January special events:

📆 07/01/23: Saturday Special: Encompassing Jivamukti with Rebecca Leam 

Book here

📆 14/01/23: 200hr Yoga Teacher Training Course with Barefoot Body Starts! 

📆 21/01/23: Saturday Special: Iyengar Open with Kate Middleton

Book here

📆 22/01/23: Practice Piggy Bank! Iyengar Yoga Workshop with Shaili Shafai

Book here

📆 22/01/23: OPEN DAY!!! Free taster classes all day long

Book here

📆 28/01/23: Saturday Special: Slow Saturday with Janine Tandy 

Book here

We look forward to welcoming you to the studio this month.

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Have you attended CAMYOGA classes before and are thinking of rejoining?

Sign up for our Welcome Back New Client Offer: £45 for 30 days of unlimited yoga!

(if you have any issues with this purchase, drop us an email - info@camyoga.co.uk)

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Latest blog posts

Make Time for YOU

Here's John, one of our Yoga students just after practicing Vicky’s Jivamukti Spiritual Warrior class.

He joined CAMYOGA in August 2022 and has been experimenting with the different classes, styles, and approaches we have on offer at the studio.

John is currently using our Monthly Unlimited Membership to attend classes and it has been a pleasure to see his growth at CAMYOGA - in his words:

"I’m really impressed with how the CAMYOGA crew consistently delivers a wide variety of professional, nurturing, and fun lessons. It’s a great spot to enjoy yoga and the overall experience has been excellent. It has really helped my practice get back on track.. big thanks to everyone there"

Do Make time for YOU and join our vibrant community!

Thank YOU, John

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Have you attended CAMYOGA classes before and are thinking of rejoining?

Sign up for our Welcome Back New Client Offer: £45 for 30 days of unlimited yoga!

(if you have any issues with this purchase, drop us an email - info@camyoga.co.uk)

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Latest blog posts

It’s Here!

Put your feet up, or get on your mat and move to our December Playlist on Spotify.

Chosen by staff and teachers, especially for you 🥰

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