Is Yoga Better With Friends?

Are you a lone yogi? Or do you prefer to practice with friends? According to research by Oxford University anthropologist Dr Emma Cohen exercising in a group actually has many benefits - both physical and psychological. Firstly, training in a synchronised group may heighten tolerance for pain, enabling atheltes to train longer and harder. At Camyoga we certainly don't advocate pushing our members to the point of pain - yoga should never be painful - but this does suggest that practising with friends can improve endurance, which is particularly relevant to more physically taxing forms of yoga such as hot yoga, power yoga and ashtanga.  As Jackie MacLeod and Sukey Novogratz, yoga buddies and founders of The Well Daily, point out, "who better to tackle crow pose with than someone you know is rooting for your success?"

Another recent study, conducted by Virgin Active Health Clubs, reveals that friends who exercise together will visit the gym more regularly, and of women who run, go to the gym or attend group exercise classes with friends, 64% push themselves harder than if they went alone. In terms of attendance, we all know that one of the most mentally challenging aspects of yoga practice can be making the commitment to just do it. Whether it's early in the morning or after work, getting into the right frame of mind to get yourself to class on time can sometimes be pretty tough. Whether you're too tired, too busy, too hungry or simply 'not in the mood', finding excuses to avoid practice, and caving in to them, is probably all too familiar for most of us. Even the most dedicated of yogis have 'off' days! Heading to class with friends can take some of the decision-making out of that process - we've agreed to go and 'that is that'. After all, it's much easier to convince yourself that you just can't be bothered than it is to convince a persuasive friend...

On  a less scientific front, many of us live increasingly busy lives, jam-packed with work commitments, financial concerns, busy calendars full of social events and even more for those of us who are parents! Sometimes socialising, outside of pre-ordained 'social events', can be hard to squeeze in. Neighbours are less and less likely to 'just pop round' for a a cup of tea. Practising yoga with friends can be a beautiful and relaxed way to spend time with pals with no pressure attached.

At Camyoga we value the importance of friendship. That's why our Gold Members can now bring a friend to class, absolutely free of charge. To find out more, ask at reception or email info@camyoga.co.uk for more details.

Adjustments & Consent: Jozef's Viewpoint

To adjust or not to adjust? That is the one of the questions currently being posed in the worldwide yoga community - read our short introduction to the debate here. We've already heard Camyoga teacher Camilla's opinion on this subject, now here's what Hot Yoga teacher Jozef has to bring to the table:

"I work as a physical therapist/masseur and therefore I am used to touching people with sensitivity, and always after an extensive talk with the client, followed by a physical examination. When there are no issues which need further clarification, through X-rays or other medical diagnostic assistance and we are both still happy to continue, then hands-on work will take place. 

In my other work as a yoga teacher most of the time I don't know the students in my class and the way their bodies are constructed, their possible issues whether physical or emotional and sometimes they don't even know themselves.

So in general I would say I prefer to guide my students into postures using a verbal dialogue and when I see they are not doing a posture correctly then I will suggest corrections using dialogue. If they are still unable to self adjust then I will demonstrate the posture myself  and the adjustment I would like them to make, failing this I may use an assistant or address the student after class about it.

When I do touch I will use short, subtle touches to invite them into the direction I think they should go in, maintaining awareness so that excessive resistance can be examined as this may mean that they simply cannot make the adjustment and their or my force should not be applied.

"To me yoga is not about going deep or how you look on the outside"

I use my Hot Yoga Master classes and workshops to invite students, through deepening their knowledge of anatomy/postures, to understand their bodies better and how this can lead to safer posture work and hopefully less frustration and/or confusion. This is another way they can learn how to bring their bodies to the postures instead of bringing the posture to their body and also another opportunity for me to learn more about their specific needs and challenges.

In my classes I tend to emphasise the importance of technique, alignment and how, with the use of your breath, you can allow yourself to emerge in your posture without forcing or pushing. To me yoga is not about going deep or how you look on the outside, when you push yourself beyond your flexibility it can cause harm to your body both in the short term and more importantly in the long term.   

Of course I do value the teacher-student connection and I always make myself available before and after class to help individual students and to answer their questions. However I do not think that human touch is an important part of yoga practice. I deliberately use the term 'human' touch here because when I teach Yin yoga the props used to support the student creates touch and this allows the student to relax more into that specific posture. And yes there are benefits to hands-on adjustments - I myself have been adjusted by some great teachers and the effect can be amazing. However once again, I like to stress that  there can be the risk of injuring students, confusing /frustrating them and the teacher when the intended correction does not take place.

Though the teacher may have the best intention, the student may never be comfortable with the adjustment brought about by forced touch."

 Jozef Wiewel teaches Hot Yoga and Yin Yoga at our Central Studios in addition to teaching a Hot Yoga Masterclass on the first Saturday of every month.

How Do You Feel About Adjustments?

As befits a diverse and global practice, the yoga world is chock full of debates. If you pay attention to the yoga press, you might be aware of the recent talk of "consent cards". These cards have been designed for students, who prefer not to receive adjustments or assists, to use in class in order to communicate their preference to the teacher. Kula Annex in Toronto is one of the studios pioneering this initiative. Their director, Christi-an Slomka, explains why:

“We can’t always know what someone has been through and if touch may be a trigger (especially when it comes without consent),” she continues. “Rape and sexual abuse can continue unchecked in a culture that doesn’t value consent. By demonstrating that consent is important to us, I believe we may be able to empower a shift in culture. Ultimately consent helps us to cultivate a safer space.”

We asked some of our teachers to share their thoughts on adjustment and consent and we'll be publishing these over the coming weeks.

At Camyoga we want our students to feel as safe and comfortable as possible. Are consent cards something you feel are necessary? We'd love to hear your thoughts on this matter! Use the comments space below or send us an email.

Image: Decolonizing Yoga

Breathe In Yoga, Breathe Out Peace

If you've seen the posters or read our newsletter, you'll know that Andrea Kwiatkowski's next extended and themed Jivamukti class on Saturday 22nd June is in support of the AZAHAR Foundation and their Yoga For Peace Yogathon. We're sure you're keen to learn more about this wonderful cause and how you can play you're part in the Yogathon, so read on...

What Is the AZAHAR Foundation?

AZAHAR Foundation is a not-for-profit international organisation that promotes cross-cultural communication and non-violent conflict resolution through Yoga and the Arts. As a result of the foundation's programmes, hundreds of children and young adults have been able to experience the healing benefits of yoga, developing the mindfulness and empathy necessary to heal from cycles of violence and trauma. The foundation's educational and leadership training programmes instill renewed confidence in young adults, enabling them to succeed in school, the workplace and to become leaders in their community.

How the Yogathon Works

We are all witnessing the power of Yoga every day. Their vision is to bring this wonderful tool to many more people in particular to disadvantaged youth in conflict affected settings.

Breathe in Yoga – Breathe out Peace: We hope to unite yogis across the world to practice one class together in the spirit of World Peace. It is an exciting opportunity for global yogic connectedness!

The aim of the event this year is to raise $ 20.000 for the peace work of AZAHAR Foundation: broadening access to Yoga classes in Cambodia and the organization of our first Yoga Leadership Camp.

On the Day

We will be encouraging people to donate to AZAHAR at both centres over the weekend and will be making a contribution from Camyoga as well. The cafe is open before and after the workshop serving lunch, snacks, juices, smoothies, coffees and teas. Andrea is also hosting an Asana posture workshop after this masterclass, we do hope you can join us.

Discounted prices are available for students booking both Andrea's masterclass and the Asana posture workshop, and Gold and silver peak members booking the Asana workshop get the masterclass included. Find out everything you need to know here. More info on AZAHAR here – www.azaharfoundation.org

Get to Know Camyoga Teacher: Rachael Moore

Name: Rachael

Age:  38

Occupation: Mum and yoga teacher

What brought you to yoga?

As with many people, I first came to yoga as many people do, to help combat 'stress' as a result of my job. I worked as a speech and language therapist for children with profound medical and learning difficulties and although hugely rewarding, it was also at times highly emotional and stressful. Yoga helped me find a way to deal with the challenges I faced in a calm and grounded manner, reacting to situations in a more balanced way.

As a teacher what is Yoga about and not about?

Oooh how long have you got!!!! It is probably easier for me to say what I personally think it is not. Yoga is not about being the best in the room, yoga is not about being competetive (even with yourself), yoga is not always the glossy images you see in the magazines, practising yoga, does not  mean that you no longer experience hardship or tough times (unfortunately). The practice of yoga is far greater and deeper than all of that. Yoga gives you the tools for everyday living, it helps you on every level of your being. Yoga releases your tired stiff body from sitting at a desk all day helping you re-find that childhood softness and agility. In helping you re-claim physical flexibility, this flexibilty then leads to greater flexibility in the mind and how we react to life situations off the matt. It leads you towards a truer more honest you! Wherever you are in your life, yoga can be there for you . It can transform the body physically, energeticly and emotionally. It can energize, detox, heal and nourish you . It can be a soft landing when you fall.

What do you do when you are not doing yoga?

Being mum to my three gorgeous daughters and being taken for a walk by my two huge labradoodles Molly and Floss! What is your favourite yoga pose and why?

Wow! It's almost impossible to choose one as depending where I am on any particular day will determine my favourite pose!. Generally though, I absolutely love and standing balance, especially Natarajasana for its openness and grace and Garudasana for that beautiful feeling of opening up the shoulders.

What is your least favourite yoga pose and why?

I know it sounds cheesy and a bit of a cop out, but I really don't have a least favourite pose. If pushed though, I probably shy away from strong core work a little more readily than I should do!

What is one quality you have taken off the mat and incorporated into your daily life? Patience

An interesting fact about Rachel that you may not know is:

I used to do synchronized swimming as a teenager!!

To book into Rachel's classes click on link

Here's our Vegan Brunch Menu!

Come by Camyoga on Saturday the 6th of April for our Vegan Brunch, all the food will be freshly prepared by our vegan/vegetarian chef Sam. No bookings are necessary, just come by anytime between 10.00-15.00 and order one of our delicious meals at reception.

Check our menu here: Vegan brunch

Wood Fired Hot Tub & Sauna in Cambridge!

How good would you feel in a woodfired hot tub & sauna, in a secret location in nature 5 mins walk from centre of Cambridge?

We are thinking relaxed and rejuvenated. Its happening this Saturday 16th March 2pm - 10pm

Wild Being Now http://wildbeingnow.tumblr.com/ is a small project set up to help people have unique experiences in nature. Yes it is that simple.

Anyone from Camyoga can enjoy the unique venue and bar for free, they just need to register with Wild Being first via the link above.

If you fancy the heat and relaxation of hot tub and sauna then you can just pay on the day. Between 6pm and 10pm there will be two short ancient ceremonies which will be centred around mindfulness and chanting.

Once you register the venue details will be sent to you Friday night.

Is there a better way to start the spring season?

Get to Know Camyogi: Jessica Ashby

Name: Jessica Ashby

Age:  21

Occupation: Unemployed

What brought you to yoga?

A friend suggested I tired yoga as a way to deal with stress and just improve my general wellbeing.  My previous job meant that I was always stressed, exhausted and had left me with little motivation to do anything.  I could never have anticipated the positive impact that coming to yoga would have on my life.  It has given a real sense of self-worth, as well as the courage to make some drastic changes to my lifestyle.

What do you do when you are not doing yoga?

Anything creative! I’m always drawing and I try to carry my camera with me everywhere.  I enjoy travelling and meeting new people, but I also spend a lot of time with my family.

What is your favourite yoga pose and why?

I don’t think I’ve been coming to yoga long enough to have a favourite pose but I enjoy most of the standing balances I have tried so far.  I feel like they really connect my mind and body.  If I begin to wobble it’s usually because my mind has started to wander.  As soon as I bring complete focus back to the pose I see a real improvement.

What is your least favourite yoga pose and why?

Equally, I don’t think I have a least favourite pose although I do find poses like Dolphin Plank (not sure if that’s the correct name) very challenging.  I definitely need to work on strengthening my core!

What is one quality you have taken off the mat and incorporated into your daily life?

Not to compare myself to others.  I have often judged myself and my abilities against the success of others, and for me that usually induces feelings of resentment and inadequacy.  It became clear to me from my first yoga lesson that yoga is about finding what is right for you, and that principle can be applied to any aspect of life.  There is no point looking to the person on the mat next to you and thinking ‘I wish I was that flexible and strong.’  Equally there is no point in looking to your next door neighbour and thinking ‘I wish I had a big house and an expensive car.’  It is far more productive to focus your energy into being the best version of yourself that you can be, whether that is on the mat or just going about your daily life.

An interesting fact about Jessica that you may not know is… I have a terrible fear of flying!

Yoga for Beginners

Open Yoga

Workshops

Day Retreats

 Get to Know Camyogi: Paula Williams

 Name: Paula Williams

Age:     59 Occupation:    Retired

What brought you to yoga? 

Ever since I was a kid I was heavily into sports.  When I left school I joined a gym and became a regular gym bunny.  I worked out twice a week with a personal trainer, went running 5 miles a day and was at the gym very day.  All this and I was putting on weight not losing it.  I needed to get a life, I think, although I have to say I absolutely loved every minute of it except the weight gain.  I couldn’t understand why I had a weight problem with all this exercise.  I carried on like this for years and had people who didn’t know me, telling me to lose weight I needed to get to the gym, and people who knew me telling me the gym obviously wasn’t working.  I still carried on because it was such a huge part of my life and I thought I couldn’t do without it.

For years I put up with friends watching my weight for me and eventually I stopped seeing these friends as I realised they were making me even more unhappy about my weight.  I could do that for myself without their help.  I went to see a few nutritionists who didn’t seem to be a lot of good either.  After a great deal of surfing the internet I found a nutritionist in Harley Street who I really felt could help me so I arranged to see her.  She took some samples from me which was sent off to a lab but she said she knew what the problem would turn out to be.  She said with all the exercise I was permanently stressing my body so it was in a constant state of fight or flight.  This meant everything I ate was being stored as fat (even salad).  My immune system couldn’t handle the stress either so I was constantly getting colds etc.  When the results came back the outcome was that I had drained my adrenals and this in turn had had an effect on my thyroid (my thyroid was functioning but the T4 process wasn’t).    She told me the heavy training and running had to go.  She told me to take up yoga instead as she felt I could do this every day without hurting myself.  It would be quite a while to get my adrenals back up to speed and I needed to eliminate the stress from my life.  Easier said than done but at least I can feel in my body when I am getting stressed now so I throttle back.

I started yoga 3-4 years ago and during this time have lost 4 stones in weight.  I still have some to lose but at least I feel like I am getting there.  When I first started yoga I really struggled and some of the poses actually made me cry because my body was hurting.  This was because my body was so tight from the stress.  I feel like a different person now.  I only wish I had discovered the nutritionist and the yoga earlier.  Still it’s never too late!!!  I now do yoga every day – if I cannot get to a class then I do it at home.

What do you do when you are not doing yoga?    

I love music, films, travel and being outside.  We moved to Cambridge from London at the end of October 2012.  I feel really privileged to live here.  It feels like a really special place.  Cambridge has so much to offer with City living but also so much countryside on the doorstep.  I also love going out to eat now (particularly as there are so many lovely foodie spots here) and I can eat without feeling guilty.

What is your favourite yoga pose and why?      

One of my favourite poses is child.  I think the reason for this is because with all the heavy training I never felt in control of my body.  My body just hurt.  In child I feel like everything has been let go of and it brings a total sense of freedom and lightness.  I also like tree for the same reason as long as I can keep my balance.  If I want a strong pose then I really like warrior.

What is your least favourite yoga pose and why?  My least favourite pose would have to be eagle.  There are also a couple of others I am not fond of (forward bending and shoulder stand).  The reason for this is because my body still needs work to free it and I really struggle in these positions.  I know the longer I do yoga the better I will become at these poses and then I will grow to like them.

What is one quality you have taken off the mat and incorporated into your daily life?

To try and stay calm.  I never knew what this feeling of calm was until I started yoga.  I listen to my body now and if I am tired I just say no.  This is something I would never have done before I started yoga.  I was an all or nothing person.

An interesting fact about Paula that you may not know is… 

Can’t think of one. (I beg to differ, see above story! Anna)

Membership Specials for New Members and Students

Yoga retreats in the UK, Spain and Italy with Camyoga

Get to Know Rebecca Dennis, our Transformational Breathing Therapist

Hi everyone,

Today we brought you an interview with our therapist Rebecca Dennis who offers one to one transformational breathing sessions. Read about what you can expect from the class and whether everyone can be 'transformed' :).

CY: Hi Rebecca, you have been doing regular Transformation Breathing therapies at our centre for some time but I don’t believe our clients have had a chance to get to know you yet. Do you mind telling us a little bit about yourself?

Rebecca: ....Hi, I moved from London 2 years ago to live in St Albans with my husband and our 18 month old son. I divide my time between seeing clients and hanging out with Louis, family and friends. We love living closer to the countryside and exploring it whenever we can. My passions are travelling, yoga, music, cooking good food and I try to return to my spiritual home India as much as I can.

CY: Coming back to what it is that you do, how did you come across transformational breathing?

Rebecca: I worked in media for over 20 years and during that time began my studies with massage and bodywork. I travelled to India, studied Reiki and my curiosity for the mind, body and soul connection began. I had been suffering with back problems and bouts of depression. I was on medication and paid regularly for massages, however I came to the realisation that this was only masking deeper issues.

When I came across Transformational Breathing in a workshop with Alan Dolan it was like a lightning bolt and the physical and emotional sensations I received were nothing that I had ever experienced before, it was extremely powerful.  The method has enabled me to come off the medication and I found it incredibly easy after years of searching. I travelled to Mexico and Italy to study Transformational Breathing with the founder of the technique, Judith Kravitz and now I am qualified and practicing in Cambridge, St Albans and London.

CY: So what is transformational breathing? What can people expect to do?

Rebecca: ....Transformational Breathing is a self healing technique that helps people to access the full potential of their respiratory system for better physical, emotional and mental well-being. TB helps correct old unhealthy breathing patterns and encourages a fuller conscious breath. The majority of the population only use approximately 25% of their full capacity so it’s no surprise that improper breathing is a contributor to ill health. As human beings we hold onto emotional stuff within our bodies and in doing so create physical, mental and emotional blockages.  This technique helps to release the blockages and transform the energetic field.

At the beginning of the session the client is lying down in a comfortable room. I like them to feel safe and secure.  I undertake a case study and breathing analysis.  I then go on to ask what it is the client would like to gain from our session. This could be improving the way they breathe i.e people with asthma or coping with panic or anxiety attacks. It might be letting go of unwanted emotions and releasing tensions that are deep within them. During the session I will use acupressure around the body. This helps to turbo boost the release of blocked energies. I work with the client using movement, sound and affirmations.

The client can expect to feel a number of sensations, often tingling and numbness, changes in temperature as well as experiencing emotional release.  People often speak of this as a very spiritual experience but I leave this open to the client.

CY: Guessing from its name I suppose that people can expect to be ‘transformed’ after the session. In what way would that be? What are the benefits of transformational breathing?

Rebecca: In order to gain maximum benefits from the sessions it is advised to practice at home between treatments for as little as 5 minutes a day.  After the first facilitated session people will definitely notice a difference.  Each session is usually unique and a different experience to the previous one.

Some of the benefits reported are:

Emotional detoxing

Increased energy

Balance flow of energy

Reduce stress and anxiety

Release and let go of past traumas

Improves self-esteem

Relieve depression and negative thought patterns

Expand awareness

Strengthen spiritual connection

The list goes on…….

CY: And can anyone do transformational breathing? And who do you think could especially benefit from the session?

Rebecca: ....Yes definitely, anyone can do Transformational Breathing from babies to the elderly. I first worked with children in a school in Mexico whilst training and the results were profound and touching.  I believe that this work benefits everyone and what I love about it is that every session is unique to the client.  I find this work fascinating, rewarding and humbling at the same time.

CY: Thank you Rebecca for all the valuable information, is there anything that you would like to add?

Rebecca: ....I am here every other Thursday and you can book appointments through Camyoga Reception.

To learn more about Rebecca Dennis' sessions click here.

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.

We want to express our gratitude and appreciation for your participation in our Donation Weekend which took place in January. The event was a big success and together we managed to raise over 1200 pounds which will go to the Arthur Rank Hospice, Camfed and Women for Women charities. We prepared two brief interviews, one with Donna Talbot, Fundraising and Marketing Manager from Arthur Rank Hospice and Sarah Fearnes, Development Assistant from Camfed to give you a little insight about what the charities do and what will be achieved thanks to the money raised by our Camyoga clients. Another big thank you to Camyoga teachers who donated their time for the cause and made it possible for the Donation weekend to be such a success.

Interview with Dona Talbot Interview with Sarah Fearnes

See you all soon around the centres, The Camyoga team x

Get to Know Camyogi: Ellie Carter

Name: Ellie Carter

Age: 34

Occupation: Anaesthetist

What brought you to yoga? A hamstring injury from running - I realised that working on my flexibility might be a good idea!

What do you do when you are not working? When I'm not working, I like doing slightly crazy endurance sport events. Last year I did an Ironman triathlon and this year I'll be attempting a cross-country ski marathon.

What is your favourite yoga pose and why? I like balance poses  because of the focus required and the satisfaction if/when you manage not to fall over.

What is your least favourite yoga pose and why? Supta Vajrasana - my  quads are far too tight from running & cycling to make this pose comfortable.

What is one quality you have taken off the mat and incorporated into your daily life? Learning that it can be good to incorporate a bit of stillness and quiet into my busy life!

An interesting fact about Ellie that you may not know is… I appear in my bikini in the Rough Guide to eco travel....not the most flattering shot but there is a nice Finnish lake in the background!

You have been taking yoga classes for a while and know it makes a difference to your life.  You have started to think about teaching and wondering about the next step. A momentum builds and before you know it you are looking into courses.  A very human hand brake that is often applied is the thought ‘but am I good enough?’

It is a completely natural and isolating feeling.  Take a Masterclass with some of the best teachers in the world and you will quickly see they do have a solid practise but it is not about their practise it is about the students.

Let’s take a peek at three of the world’s best teachers:

There are photos of David Swenson, a top Ashtanga teacher, in challenging arm balances. But in a workshop with him, instead of demonstrating his own skill in these postures, he utilises a wicked sense of humour and light hearted comments to illustrate deep teaching points.

Matthew Sanford, an incredible Iyengar teacher is a paraplegic after a car accident at the age of 13.  Matthew has learnt to listen to the quiet voice of his own body, this helps him to understand what is needed in a pose. In one workshop a lady with a disability asked him if what she was doing was a good modification.  He gave her power back and suggested she needed to teach this to others and asked when her book was coming out. 'If I hadn't met Matt I would be more defined by my injury instead of the person that I am.' This is inspired teaching. Matthew Sandford on Teaching Yoga

Max Strom is one of the world’s most respected teachers on personal transformation and was born with physical challenges, showing there is more to Yoga. Can Yoga help with sleeping, depression, anxiety when a student does not know what else to do? See more with Max's talk on TED. There is no App for Happiness.

Max addresses the internal, emotional and spiritual aspects of our lives.  Max  is visiting Camyoga on the 18^th April, book here

Take a moment to look around at the types of people there are in the world, Yoga is increasing 30% each year in the UK and the USA, this includes all ages and abilities.  A variety of teaches are needed to match this need.

Camyoga’s Yoga Teacher Training Diploma course is taught by the best in their field, this gives a great foundation to becoming a teacher.  To start with as a new teacher you may emulate those who you admire, keep learning and developing and teach from the heart and from your own values, be inspired to inspire and remember the very best teachers are the students.

If you are passionate about sharing Yoga. You are good enough. Teach.

Camyoga Foundation Course

Camyoga Diploma Course

http://www.camyoga.co.uk/studios/events/workshops/

You have been taking yoga classes for a while and know it makes a difference to your life.  You have started to think about teaching and wondering about the next step. A momentum builds and before you know it you are looking into courses.  A very human hand brake that is often applied is the thought ‘but am I good enough?’

It is a completely natural and isolating feeling.  Take a Masterclass with some of the best teachers in the world and you will quickly see they do have a solid practise but it is not about their practise it is about the students.

Let’s take a peek at three of the world’s best teachers:

There are photos of David Swenson, a top Ashtanga teacher, in challenging arm balances. But in a workshop with him, instead of demonstrating his own skill in these postures, he utilises a wicked sense of humour and light hearted comments to illustrate deep teaching points.

Matthew Sanford, an incredible Iyengar teacher is a paraplegic after a car accident at the age of 13.  Matthew has learnt to listen to the quiet voice of his own body, this helps him to understand what is needed in a pose. In one workshop a lady with a disability asked him if what she was doing was a good modification.  He gave her power back and suggested she needed to teach this to others and asked when her book was coming out. 'If I hadn't met Matt I would be more defined by my injury instead of the person that I am.' This is inspired teaching. Matthew Sandford on Teaching Yoga

Max Strom is one of the world’s most respected teachers on personal transformation and was born with physical challenges, showing there is more to Yoga. Can Yoga help with sleeping, depression, anxiety when a student does not know what else to do? See more with Max's talk on TED. There is no App for Happiness.

Max addresses the internal, emotional and spiritual aspects of our lives.  Max  is visiting Camyoga on the 18^th April, book here

Take a moment to look around at the types of people there are in the world, Yoga is increasing 30% each year in the UK and the USA, this includes all ages and abilities.  A variety of teaches are needed to match this need.

Camyoga’s Yoga Teacher Training Diploma course is taught by the best in their field, this gives a great foundation to becoming a teacher.  To start with as a new teacher you may emulate those who you admire, keep learning and developing and teach from the heart and from your own values, be inspired to inspire and remember the very best teachers are the students.

If you are passionate about sharing Yoga. You are good enough. Teach.

Camyoga Foundation Course

Camyoga Diploma Course

http://www.camyoga.co.uk/studios/events/workshops/

You have been taking yoga classes for a while and know it makes a difference to your life.  You have started to think about teaching and wondering about the next step. A momentum builds and before you know it you are looking into courses.  A very human hand brake that is often applied is the thought ‘but am I good enough?’

It is a completely natural and isolating feeling.  Take a Masterclass with some of the best teachers in the world and you will quickly see they do have a solid practise but it is not about their practise it is about the students.

Let’s take a peek at three of the world’s best teachers:

There are photos of David Swenson, a top Ashtanga teacher, in challenging arm balances. But in a workshop with him, instead of demonstrating his own skill in these postures, he utilises a wicked sense of humour and light hearted comments to illustrate deep teaching points.

Matthew Sanford, an incredible Iyengar teacher is a paraplegic after a car accident at the age of 13.  Matthew has learnt to listen to the quiet voice of his own body, this helps him to understand what is needed in a pose. In one workshop a lady with a disability asked him if what she was doing was a good modification.  He gave her power back and suggested she needed to teach this to others and asked when her book was coming out. 'If I hadn't met Matt I would be more defined by my injury instead of the person that I am.' This is inspired teaching. Matthew Sandford on Teaching Yoga

Max Strom is one of the world’s most respected teachers on personal transformation and was born with physical challenges, showing there is more to Yoga. Can Yoga help with sleeping, depression, anxiety when a student does not know what else to do? See more with Max's talk on TED. There is no App for Happiness.

Max addresses the internal, emotional and spiritual aspects of our lives.  Max  is visiting Camyoga on the 18^th April, book here

Take a moment to look around at the types of people there are in the world, Yoga is increasing 30% each year in the UK and the USA, this includes all ages and abilities.  A variety of teaches are needed to match this need.

Camyoga’s Yoga Teacher Training Diploma course is taught by the best in their field, this gives a great foundation to becoming a teacher.  To start with as a new teacher you may emulate those who you admire, keep learning and developing and teach from the heart and from your own values, be inspired to inspire and remember the very best teachers are the students.

If you are passionate about sharing Yoga. You are good enough. Teach.

Camyoga Foundation Course

Camyoga Diploma Course

http://www.camyoga.co.uk/studios/events/workshops/

You have been taking yoga classes for a while and know it makes a difference to your life.  You have started to think about teaching and wondering about the next step. A momentum builds and before you know it you are looking into courses.  A very human hand brake that is often applied is the thought ‘but am I good enough?’

It is a completely natural and isolating feeling.  Take a Masterclass with some of the best teachers in the world and you will quickly see they do have a solid practise but it is not about their practise it is about the students.

Let’s take a peek at three of the world’s best teachers:

There are photos of David Swenson, a top Ashtanga teacher, in challenging arm balances. But in a workshop with him, instead of demonstrating his own skill in these postures, he utilises a wicked sense of humour and light hearted comments to illustrate deep teaching points.

Matthew Sanford, an incredible Iyengar teacher is a paraplegic after a car accident at the age of 13.  Matthew has learnt to listen to the quiet voice of his own body, this helps him to understand what is needed in a pose. In one workshop a lady with a disability asked him if what she was doing was a good modification.  He gave her power back and suggested she needed to teach this to others and asked when her book was coming out. 'If I hadn't met Matt I would be more defined by my injury instead of the person that I am.' This is inspired teaching. Matthew Sandford on Teaching Yoga

Max Strom is one of the world’s most respected teachers on personal transformation and was born with physical challenges, showing there is more to Yoga. Can Yoga help with sleeping, depression, anxiety when a student does not know what else to do? See more with Max's talk on TED. There is no App for Happiness.

Max addresses the internal, emotional and spiritual aspects of our lives.  Max  is visiting Camyoga on the 18^th April, book here

Take a moment to look around at the types of people there are in the world, Yoga is increasing 30% each year in the UK and the USA, this includes all ages and abilities.  A variety of teaches are needed to match this need.

Camyoga’s Yoga Teacher Training Diploma course is taught by the best in their field, this gives a great foundation to becoming a teacher.  To start with as a new teacher you may emulate those who you admire, keep learning and developing and teach from the heart and from your own values, be inspired to inspire and remember the very best teachers are the students.

If you are passionate about sharing Yoga. You are good enough. Teach.

Camyoga Foundation Course

Camyoga Diploma Course

http://www.camyoga.co.uk/studios/events/workshops/

You have been taking yoga classes for a while and know it makes a difference to your life.  You have started to think about teaching and wondering about the next step. A momentum builds and before you know it you are looking into courses.  A very human hand brake that is often applied is the thought ‘but am I good enough?’

It is a completely natural and isolating feeling.  Take a Masterclass with some of the best teachers in the world and you will quickly see they do have a solid practise but it is not about their practise it is about the students.

Let’s take a peek at three of the world’s best teachers:

There are photos of David Swenson, a top Ashtanga teacher, in challenging arm balances. But in a workshop with him, instead of demonstrating his own skill in these postures, he utilises a wicked sense of humour and light hearted comments to illustrate deep teaching points.

Matthew Sanford, an incredible Iyengar teacher is a paraplegic after a car accident at the age of 13.  Matthew has learnt to listen to the quiet voice of his own body, this helps him to understand what is needed in a pose. In one workshop a lady with a disability asked him if what she was doing was a good modification.  He gave her power back and suggested she needed to teach this to others and asked when her book was coming out. 'If I hadn't met Matt I would be more defined by my injury instead of the person that I am.' This is inspired teaching. Matthew Sandford on Teaching Yoga

Max Strom is one of the world’s most respected teachers on personal transformation and was born with physical challenges, showing there is more to Yoga. Can Yoga help with sleeping, depression, anxiety when a student does not know what else to do? See more with Max's talk on TED. There is no App for Happiness.

Max addresses the internal, emotional and spiritual aspects of our lives.  Max  is visiting Camyoga on the 18^th April, book here

Take a moment to look around at the types of people there are in the world, Yoga is increasing 30% each year in the UK and the USA, this includes all ages and abilities.  A variety of teaches are needed to match this need.

Camyoga’s Yoga Teacher Training Diploma course is taught by the best in their field, this gives a great foundation to becoming a teacher.  To start with as a new teacher you may emulate those who you admire, keep learning and developing and teach from the heart and from your own values, be inspired to inspire and remember the very best teachers are the students.

If you are passionate about sharing Yoga. You are good enough. Teach.

Camyoga Foundation Course

Camyoga Diploma Course

http://www.camyoga.co.uk/studios/events/workshops/

Name: louise lloyd Age: 41 Hometown: cambridge Training Background: BWY Foundation Course with Tara Fraser. BSY teaching diploma. Camyoga teaching diploma. (Distinction Ed.) How long have you practiced yoga? 10 years

One Yoga Philosophy that means a great deal to you and why?

Mmmm hard to choose one, I would say that both satya (truth) and ahimsa (non harm) are both something that we could all spend our entire lives learning. If we all worked on just those two the world would be a far better place.

What brought you to yoga? 

Crazy as it sounds, I used to meditate regularly and around 2002 every time I sat to meditate I just kept getting 'teach yoga.' After quite a bit of resistance, and the fact i didn't even practice asana at that time, I eventually gave in and went to my first yoga class and here I am!

What does teaching on the Foundation and Diploma course mean to you?

I love teaching on these days.  Seeing students deepen their own enquiry into yoga is so inspiring whether they are doing the courses for their own interest or to go on to be amazing teachers.

What do you do when you are not doing yoga?

I love spending time with family and friends - usually involving eating nice food and drinking nice wine. I also love being outside, occasionally running (have entered the cambridge half marathon so better be a bit more regular now!) and I have just come back from skiing which I really loved!

What is your favourite yoga pose and why?

Ardha Chandrasana - I love the feeling of being grounded, centered and open and in this pose I feel all of these and truly expanded beyond the physical body.

What is your least favourite yoga pose and why?

I can honestly say I don't have a least favourite pose - there are loads of poses I can't do myself but I get to enjoy them anyway by seeing students practice them with ease.

What is one quality you have taken off the mat and incorporated into your daily life?

Self enquiry - the more I learn about myself the more I can make better choices to become more loving, open and generous. I try to see my own insecurities in life where I may act from a place of fear rather than love - it is a working progress of course! ;-)

An interesting fact about Louise that you may not know is…

Before yoga I rode horses for a living and hold my HGV driving licence as I used to drive a 40ft horse box to competitions - this skill definitely helps parking in the central centre's carpark!

As well as classes and teaching on the Diploma and Foundation Courses Louise also leads workshops and retreats for Camyoga

Louise's Classes

Diploma Courses

Apply Now For Diploma Course

Foundation Course

Apply Now For Foundation Course

Retreats

Workshops

We are now launching a new customer reward program on Perkville on which you earn points for attending classes or workshops, referring friends, following us on Twitter or Facebook and more. You will be able to redeem your points on Perkville in form of vouchers which you can use towards payments or exclusive Camyoga offers (refreshment in form of juice or therapy session with one of our amazing therapists). And if you’re wondering when can you start collecting your points the answer is now!

From today, when you attend class, you’ll receive an email to enroll in the program. After that initial enrollment, for which you will gain 10 points to get you started, and you’re all set to earn more points! Learn more at Perkville and call one of our studios if you have any questions. Earn points, and some good karma while you’re at it, just by continuing your practice and sharing your love of yoga at Camyoga with your friends. It’s as simple as that!

Our special intro reward points are:

1 point per class attended

5 points for following us on twitter

10 points per workshop or day retreat attended

10 points for posting on your facebook or twitter about us (this must be done through the perkville website)

10 points for joining the programme

20 points for a therapy appointment attended

50 points for referring a friend

And you can redeem your points in form of:

100 points gets you a yummy fresh juice

250 points a £10 voucher

500 points a £20 voucher

1000 a 1 hour therapy appointment

Collect away...:)

The Camyoga team