Hatha Yoga Classes
What This Actually Is
Hatha Yoga is the physical practice - moving your body through poses while paying attention to your breath. No chanting required, no spiritual commitments necessary. Just practical tools for feeling better in your own skin.
I teach Hatha because it works for real bodies dealing with real stress. Whether you're carrying tension in your shoulders from hunching over a computer, can't sleep because your mind won't stop, or just want to move in a way that doesn't hurt - this is what we work with.
Ready to Try?
Book through our online system. If you're nervous about your first class, email me - I'm happy to chat about what to expect or answer any questions.
Most people are surprised by how approachable it is. You don't need to be anything other than willing to try something that might help you feel more human.
“Yoga isn't about touching your toes. It's about what you learn on the way down.”
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We start slowly: Settling in, noticing where you're at today without trying to fix anything. Some days you'll feel flexible, others like you're made of concrete. Both are perfectly normal.
We move mindfully: No rushing through poses to tick them off a list. We pause between movements because that's often where the real benefits happen - in the space between doing and being.
We work with breath: Not fancy breathing techniques, just remembering that breath connects your mind and body. When you're stressed, your breathing gets shallow. When you breathe consciously, everything else starts to settle.
We finish with deep relaxation: Yoga Nidra isn't just a nice add-on - it's where your nervous system gets to reset. Many people say this is their favourite part. (And yes, this is included in every class - not an expensive add-on like some studios.)
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Complete beginners who think they're "not flexible enough" (spoiler: no one starts flexible)
People dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, or sleep issues
Anyone with a body that aches from modern life - desk jobs, commuting, general tension
Those who tried other yoga classes and felt lost in spiritual language
Regular exercisers who want something that actually helps them relax, not just sweat
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I'm not going to promise you'll find your "true essence" or achieve enlightenment. I'm also not going to pretend every session will be blissful. Sometimes yoga is uncomfortable because life is uncomfortable, and we're learning to be okay with that.
This isn't about perfect poses or spiritual transformation. It's about practical tools that help when everything feels too much.
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Physically: Better sleep, less tension, improved posture, stronger core, more flexibility where you need it
Mentally: Clearer thinking, better ability to handle stress, less reactive to daily annoyances
Emotionally: Space to feel whatever's there without having to fix it immediately
The changes are often subtle at first. You might notice you sleep better, or don't get as wound up by things that used to set you off. That's the real work happening.
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No two classes are exactly the same because I work with the energy of whoever shows up. Morning classes tend to be more energising, evening classes more calming - but I always respond to what's needed in the room.
The general flow is:
Settling in: Checking in with your mind and body today
Breath practice: Various practices depending on time of day and what's needed
Warm-up: Somatic movements, Sun Salutations for morning energy or Moon Salutations for evening calm
Main practice: A mix of standing and floor poses to stretch and strengthen the body
Deep relaxation: Yoga Nidra - guided rest for your nervous system
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Class size: Maximum 8 people (occasionally 10 on Saturdays) - small enough for individual attention
Props provided: Mats, blocks, blankets, bolsters - everything you need
What to wear: Comfortable clothes you can move in
Physical requirements: None. I work with whatever body shows up
Modifications: Always available. Yoga should serve you, not the other way around
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With only 8 people maximum, I can actually see how you're doing, offer modifications that work for your body, and answer questions without holding up the entire class. You're not just another body in the room.
If something doesn't feel right, we adjust it. If you need to rest, you rest. If you want more challenge, we find that too. The practice adapts to you, not the other way around.
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"I'm new to yoga but I think the balance between physical and relaxation is just right. The meditation takes me to places that are very pretty indeed! It's making me eat less, sleep better and it's helping me to deal with the negative people in my life. I can also see an improvement in my posture and physique. My climbing has improved, not just due to flexibility but the ability to control my mind. It's an all round winner!"
"The Yoga Den is the one time and place a week where I can just let everything go - it's like carrying a suitcase which I just leave at the door! Viv is the best teacher you could ask for, and a wonderful person. 10/10"