When you need to stop
Breathe. Meditate. Relax.
Written by Vivien Row, yoga teacher at The Yoga Den
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What this is
If your mind jumps from one thing to the next and sleep is difficult, you don't need to force it quiet. I give it something simple to follow.
Each class combines gentle physical preparation, breathing exercises, guided meditation and Yoga Nidra relaxation. If you have a health condition, mention it on your booking form and check with your GP.
No physical fitness needed. If you can sit or lie down, you can do this class.
£12 per class. See dates and times on the timetable
"We can't take away life's stresses, but we can learn how not to be so affected by them."
The practice
Class structure
Gentle preparation
Simple neck and shoulder exercises to release physical tension - similar to what a physiotherapist might teach you.
Breathing exercises (pranayama)
Simple techniques that give your mind something steady to follow. Nothing complicated or mystical.
Meditation practice
I'll guide you through different approaches so you can find what works for your type of mind. With regular practice, switching off gets easier.
Deep relaxation (Yoga Nidra)
A guided relaxation lying down to finish the class. Many people say it's their favourite part.
Is this for me?
This is for you if...
The benefits
What you can expect
You'll learn practical tools you can use at home. Even 5 minutes a day is worth doing.
Many students say that coming regularly helps them sleep better and feel less reactive to daily stresses. Your mileage will vary, and that's normal.
Common questions
Do I need any yoga or meditation experience?
No. This is a drop-in class designed for beginners and for people who've tried meditation and found it difficult. We use techniques that give your busy mind something useful to do rather than expecting you to sit in silence, and if one approach doesn't suit your mind, we try another.
Is this class physically demanding?
Not at all. There's no fitness requirement - we do simple neck and shoulder exercises to release tension, then spend most of the class in comfortable seated or lying positions. If you can sit or lie down, you can do this class.
I've tried meditation apps and they didn't work - will this be different?
Apps work for some people, but many need real guidance and the ability to ask questions. In class, I can see when you're struggling and offer alternatives. We also explore different techniques - if one approach doesn't suit your mind, we try another.
What is Yoga Nidra?
You lie down and follow a guided relaxation. Some people stay awake and some fall asleep. You don't have to do anything except listen.
Can this class help with insomnia?
Many students say they sleep better after coming regularly, and you'll learn techniques to use at home when sleep won't come. It's a class, not a treatment - if insomnia is wearing you down, talk to your GP as well.
Ready to stop for an hour?
Book online. This class is popular because people protect this time once they realise how much they need it.
Come exactly as you are - stressed, tired, sceptical, or curious. That's what this practice is for.
Nervous about your first class? Email me first. I'm happy to talk through what to expect.