I teach Hatha yoga and vary my classes each week. My classes focus on mind body connection, feeling into the body and using the breath to help release tension and stress. I guide you through the practice, but the practice is yours. Take from it what serves you and leave the rest. Move in a way that feels good in your body. Everybody’s anatomy is different, and no one will look the same. My focus is on the practice feeling good rather than what the pose looks like. Moving in this way helps us to move out of our thoughts and into the present moment. You cannot do this class wrong, and I will help you move safely. You do not need to be flexible to practise yoga. Ultimately we want to have a bit of fun and enjoyment and my classes are never too serious!
Why do yoga?
Yoga offers ways to keep the mind and body healthy and happy by moving us out of the fight or flight response and into the rest and digest response. It helps to:
- Supports our nervous system
- Supports other systems such as endocrine, immune, respiratory, circulatory etc
- Promotes strength and flexibility both mentally and psychically
- Improves posture and breathing patterns
- Relieve mental and physical tension
What happens during my yoga class:
Classes start with a relaxation and breathing exercise to calm the mind and ground the body. They then move into preparation to awaken the joints and muscles ready to work in the postures (asanas). The main part of the class is asana work in a vinyasa style and classes end with a longer relaxation (savasana). I vary the class depending on how everyone is feeling, the time of the year etc.
Please arrive 5 minutes early to make sure you are on your mat and ready to start the class on time and please allow enough space around your mat so everyone feels comfortable. I will lock the door at 7:15pm. Please don’t arrive too early as there is currently a taekwondo class beforehand.
Yoga is for everyone no matter what age, fitness level or flexibility. You do not need to be super bendy to do yoga. Before you attend the class, you will need to complete my online health questionnaire, which you’ll find here: Health Questionnaire
It is important to listen to your body. You are your best teacher. If you are unsure about anything during a class, ask for assistance. If anything causes you pain or distress let me know as I can modify the posture for you or give you an alternative. If you have any concerns, please let me know at the beginning or the class.
What you need to bring with you:
You will need a yoga mat and a bottle of water. We also use blocks, bricks and belts too, so if you have some, feel free to bring them along. I have a couple of spare mats for new people giving yoga a go. I have some blocks, belts and eye pillows that you can use during our practice if you would like.
Yoga is practised in bare feet, so you can connect more effectively with the earth. You can buy yoga socks if you prefer that stick to your mat as normal socks may be a little slippy! Wear clothes that allow you to move freely and are comfortable. It is wise to wear layers, this way you can control your temperature. Have some thick socks and a jumper for the final relaxation (savasana), as your body temperature will drop and the room can get chilly. A blanket, bolster and eye pillow (if you have them) are also a good idea. It’s probably wise not to eat a full meal before the class, but a snack is fine.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss anything with me then please do not hesitate to contact me.
Book here: https://bookwhen.com/sanctuaryyogadarlington
Payment:
Classes are £8 per class and can be booked as a block or as single classes.
Payment can be made through PayPal or bank transfer. PayPal at rachelltomlin@aol.com (please select friend and family)
Bank transfer name: Rachel Tomlin
sort: 04 00 03 Acc: 23116494
What if you can’t make class:
If you know that you can’t make class more than 48 hours before the class, let me know straight away. That way I can advertise your space and either refund you or credit you. If, however, it is less than 48 hours you will lose your payment/credit.
If I cancel the class, you can choose to be either refunded or credited. Please let me know which you would like to do.
Liability waiver text
Before you attend the class, you will need to complete my online health questionnaire (link below).
It is important to listen to your body. You are your best teacher. If you are unsure about anything during a class, ask for assistance. If anything causes you pain or distress let me know as I can modify the posture for you or give you an alternative.
If you have any concerns, please let me know at the beginning or the class.
Class Etiquette
1. Please arrive 5 minutes before the start of class
2. Please bring your own yoga mat and bottle of water and other props if you like.
3. Wear comfy clothes and bring layers or maybe a blanket.
4. Turn your phone to silent or even switch it off.
5. Payment in full secures your place.
6. If payment has not been made 48 hours prior to class I will cancel the booking.
7. Cancellation 48 hours before the class can be refunded or credited. Less than 48 hours is non-refundable.
8. If I cancel the class, you can chose to be either fully refunded or credited.
Sanctuary Yoga Darlington 