Do I need to be flexible to do Hatha Yoga?

No. Nobody starts flexible - yoga creates flexibility, it doesn't require it. I've taught people who couldn't touch their knees, let alone their toes. Your body will open up over time, but that's a result of practice, not a prerequisite.

What's the difference between Hatha Yoga and other styles?

Hatha is the foundation - physical poses held with attention to breath and alignment. It's slower and more accessible than Vinyasa or Ashtanga, and more active than Yin or Restorative. Perfect if you want to move your body without rushing through poses.

What should I wear to Hatha Yoga?

Comfortable clothes you can move in - nothing fancy. We practice barefoot, so bring socks for the relaxation if your feet get cold. I provide mats, blocks, blankets, and bolsters - just bring yourself.

How often should I come to Hatha Yoga classes?

However often feels right for you. Some people come once a week, others twice. There's no perfect schedule - consistency matters more than frequency. Even once a week makes a noticeable difference.

I have back pain - can I still do Hatha Yoga?

Usually yes, and yoga often helps. Fill in the health form when booking so I know what we're working with. I'm trained in somatic movement and modifications - we'll adapt poses to work for your body, not against it.

What happens if I can't do a pose?

We modify it. Every pose has variations, and I'll offer alternatives that work for your body. Yoga should serve you, not the other way around. Resting is always an option too - that's still yoga.

The Foundation Practice

Hatha Yoga

What This Actually Is(No mystical promises)

Hatha Yoga is the physical practice - moving your body through poses while paying attention to your breath. 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.

"Yoga isn't about touching your toes. It's about what you learn on the way down."

A Typical Class

What You Can Expect

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.)

Is This For Me?

Who This Works For

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

What This Isn't

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.

Real Benefits

How It Actually Helps

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.

The Flow

Class Structure

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.

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

Good to Know

Practical Details

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

Why Small Classes Matter

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.

Real Feedback

What Students Say

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!

— Lindsay

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

— Mimosa Percy

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.

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.

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