Forrest Yoga is a contemporary style of yoga which is physically intense, deeply healing and internally focused. It is named after its founder, Ana Forrest (pictured), and draws from both Sivananda and Iyengar traditions.

Designed to treat typically modern aches and pains such as back pain, neck strain and tense shoulders, Forrest Yoga uses powerful breathwork to release both physical and mental tension, breaking down emotional blockages. Poses are held for long periods of time, with props used to ensure the practice is suitable for all bodies and even students with injuries. Core strengthening, in order to support a healthy back, is a key element of all Forrest Yoga classes.

Forrest Yoga does not require strength or flexibility; it only requires a willingness to learn how to feel authentically and respond honestly. The tenets of the method are breath, strength, integrity and spirit. This style has found particular application in overcoming negative patterns of behaviour, and has been effectively used to treat addictions, eating disorders and even post traumatic stress disorder. Forrest developed this style of yoga after fighting with her own demons over many years. As such, the style cultivates a sense of strength and positivity, encouraging students to walk their own path, regardless of any perceived stumbling blocks or limitations.

Click here to book into a Forrest Yoga class!

GREAT FOR: core strength, flexibility, weight loss, back pain

Top 5 Habits of Healthy, Happy Mums

How often are you left feeling frazzled as a mother? Torn between  your kids, your job, your partner and a hectic social life? Sometimes it just feels like there aren't nearly enough hours in the day, let alone the possibility of a little "me time" - what a luxury that would be, right? Well, we have some great news for you! There is time. It's simply a case of taking time to make a little time. Discover a way of being in the world that is a little less stressful, a little more luxurious, and you'll soon find that by being good to yourself, you're much more able to fulfil all of your duties and obligations to others, with ease and a genuine smile! Here's how:

1. Practice mindfulness.

Most of us don’t realise that our daily lives are dominated by distraction and mind chatter. And that distraction and mind chatter winds up being the force that drives us much of the day in terms of what we do, what we react to, and how we feel. Mindfulness teaches us simple practices to move beyond this, bringing calmness, focus, clarity and inspiration. Find out more about Mindfulness here.

2. Ask for help when you need it.

Sometimes we worry that by asking for help we're sending out signals that we can't cope, or that we're not fully independent. Healthy, happy mums are confident in just how nonsensical a notion this is! Developing a healthy interdependence with those around you can be challenging as when we ask for something, we put ourselves in a position of vulnerability. According to Brene Brown our ability to be vulnerable requires courage and forms the basis for our connection with others, a connection that is critical if we are to inspire others and live healthy, happy lives.

3. Practice acceptance.

Stop being at war with yourself. If heavy traffic is making you late, think how much more stressful the situation is because you are angry about the fact that heavy traffic is making you late. Accept that which you cannot change. By doing so, you are accepting reality.

4. Remember to breathe.

The next time you find pulling your hair out stop, step back from the situation and take 3 deep breaths. It's amazing how we have our own "reset" buttons right at our fingertips yet rarely do we fully utilise the power of the breath to change the way we think and feel. Learn more here

5. "Me time" is not a luxury!

Healthy, happy mums recognise that "me time" is not a luxury but an absolute essential. By taking time out to recharge your batteries you're not only helping yourself but everyone around you too. We're all a lot more fun to be around and more productive, after a little pampering. It needn't break the bank either. Why not take a bath, head to yoga class, try something you've never done before or simply put your feet up with a good book? You absolutely deserve it, remember that.

Mother's Day is just around the corner...

Bring your mum (or mum-in-law) along to Camyoga for free from Mon 24 March to Sun 30 March. Call us on 0223 847930 to book her in! "Health is the greatest gift", said the Buddha. So forget the flowers and chocolates this year and give your deserving Mum the enduring gift of yoga. We've a wide selection of Gift Cards available to suit all budgets. How about a month's pass to get her started? Learn more... 

Get to Know Carina McKeown, our new Hot Power Yoga Teacher

We have a new addition to our Hot Yoga teaching crew! Carina McKeown will be covering Zita's Hot Power Yoga class tonight at 6.15pm and 8pm and hopefully we get to see more of her in the future. Carina has done her training with British Wheel of Yoga and followed with a "hands on" assisting programme with Baron Baptiste master teachers, Gregor Singleton and Claire Este-McDonald. Under the guidance of Dylan Ayloo and Craig Norris, she then qualified as a teacher at the Hot Power Yoga studio in London.

Carina sent us few words about what clients can expect from her classes: 'I describe my practice as powerful and physical, whilst being light, spiritual and fun. I love combining yogic philosophy, and positive affirmations with the intensity of the physical practice. My aim is to help students sweat off the excess weight from their bodies and their minds, as not only in the practice great for weight loss but it helps students sweat the mental weight which is what really weights them down and holds them back in life.'

Have a look on Carina's teacher's profile on our website.