Some Interesting Facts About Chair Yoga

If you have ever wondered what chair yoga actually is …

It is a form of yoga aimed towards the less able.

It is traditional yoga, with the aid of a chair.

You do not have to get up from your chair at all throughout the session.

It can be gentle, or not so gentle, and is easily adapted according to ability.

It is suitable for any age or ability.

It is practiced in welcoming and non-judgemental environment.

The aim of yoga is to allow things to happen in their own time, without force, self-criticism or judgement.

It can be silent or loud.

It is an opportunity to practice with others of similar ability.

Many yoga practices do not have to be changed, as they are naturally carried out in stillness some of these practices are: Pranayama (breathing); Mindfulness; Meditation; Relaxation; Visualisation; Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep); Mantra (vocal or silent repetition of one or more words); Mudra (hand and body gestures); bandha (locks or seals); philosophy.

It can be a lot of fun!

If you are curious and would like to give it a try, I am holding an Introduction to Chair Yoga session at Wake House in Bourne on Thursday, 24^th August. The session will take place in the Baxter Room (so no stairs to navigate). No need to bring anything with you, just wear loose clothing.

Space will be limited, so please let Sarah know if you are planning on attending: Telephone/Text/Whatsapp: 07817623330, email: [email protected], or facebook: Free To Think

Because so many of you have asked me about when to bring bolsters and other yoga props to class, I thought I would simplify matters and recap on here, so dig out your yoga bag and get packing!

Most weeks we practice hatha yoga with a yang asana (posture) practice. For those classes you will need:

Your mat!

Ideally, you will also have:

2 x “brick” type blocks.
1 x a yoga belt.
1 x non-fluffy blanket.

Yin classes are held in the last week of the first month of each yoga term (so normally week four, sometimes week five). The primary focus for a yin asana practices is to work on the fascia in the body (including tendons and ligaments). The pace of the class is slower, allowing time for the fascia within the body to open and stretch. This often allows us to release stuck energy more fully. The intention of a yin practice is to “be” rather than ”do”.

For yin classes you will want to bring everything you would normally bring to a yang class. You will need blocks and a strap, so if you have neither, then please bring:

2 x small, firm cushions.
1 x dressing gown cord or similar.

Ideally also bring:

1 x yoga bolster, or 2 firm pillows.

Restorative classes are held on the last class of each term (last week of the second month – usually week eight or nine). A restorative class gives the mind and body the opportunity to relax completely. Postures are not held at all, as a range of props are used to fully support the body in the pose. The intention of a restorative class is to completely let go, rest, restore and drift off …

To be able to fully support your body in a restorative class, you will need to bring all that you would bring to a yin class, and also:

1-2 x extra blankets.
1 x thin hand towel.
1 x eyebag (optional).
Fluffy socks (optional)
Cotton or non-woolly scarf (optional)

So there you have it. Everything you need to know about props and when to use them!