Classes loosely fall into 3 categories

Somatics - Creating foundations for better movement

Somatics - Restorative practice for mind and body

Blended Somatics - Mixed mind body movement practice

All classes:

Will be taught using basic principles of a somatic movement practice

Being Present and self/body aware

Encouraging a comfortable supportive breath practice

Sensing the body as moving as whole interconnected structure

Developing good movement from the centre of the body – strong yet mobile core

Somatics – Creating foundations for better movement

 Developing sensory/motor skills within the nervous system to improve movement coordination and develop better movement. Learning to let go of habits which may be restricting you or creating joint imbalance , improving breath control and thus core support.

Classes may include body scans , some Qigong standing movement ( like Tai Chi) , learning good practice in functional movements such as squats, lunges, chest and overhead presses ( incorporating light weights to help feedback) and Hanna Somatics the deeper practice of Somatics which helps to release chronic tension and re-educate the nervous system.

 Requirements: mat, head cushion/block/blanket, soft pilates ball , a few basic weights ( I will have a selection to try out but once you know what you need each person will then be expected to bring their own to a session)  a willingness to learn new things.

Appropriateness: This session will require a certain amount of fitness and mobility and will/may not be appropriate to those who experience difficulty or pain with movement. Please check with me if you are not sure.  

Somatics : Restorative practice for mind and body .

This class is largely based on Hanna Somatics and Feldenkrais methods . We will be exploring the ability to recognise and release tension from places we hold it in the body . Yoga Nidra and body scans will help to anchor the mind and settle the breath and help find a feeling of calm and trust through the support of the ground externally and the breath internally . Movement is approached with recognition of these supports thereby reducing the need for excessive effort and tension.  The class will include some standing Qigong practicing integrated balanced, flowing movement in upright position .

Requirements: mat, head cushion/block, blanket.

Suitable for anyone looking to manage stress and tension and build a more easeful and effective relationship with themselves and their body.  Not suited for anyone who finds it difficult to lie on the floor for extended periods. If uncertain please drop me a message .

Somatics and Qi

Combining elements of Qigong , Pilates, Functional movement  and Hanna Somatics to help with movement , balance and coordination. Geared towards people who want to maintain functional  movement and improve balance ( general age range 65-80 yrs`) This is a combination of activating, energising , balancing and calming the body and mind through  movement and awareness.

Requirements: mat , blanket and head cushion/block

Suitability : Suitable for most people , does require ability to get up and down from the floor,

Go gently , Go slowly

Don’t strain or force stretch

Seek ease and grace

Avoid Pain

Observe, sense, feel

Rest, learn, enjoy