Yoga Classes
Yoga Classes
My teaching style is slow and methodical, focusing on bringing the body into a neutral optimal posture. I provide detailed and concise instructions to make subtle engagements and continual awareness of the breath. The class content leans more toward beginners and intermediate levels, along with those who would like to take time to evolve their practice. Stability and safety are of paramount importance, so props form an essential component to the practice and should never be seen as a sign of weakness. Blocks, blankets, bolsters and belts are used to provide support, stab ility and comfort. This approach is adopted across all my classes, including the weekend retreats.
My range of classes include
~ Functional Mobility & Strength sessions combine everyday movement, paying particular attention to strengthening the thighs, abdomen, and shoulders.
~ Mindful Movement is a softer approach using gentle breathing techniques. Ideal for beginners or anyone who is looking to re-ignite their practice.
~ Energising morning sessions are dynamic and include a form of sun salutations.
~ Hip classes focus on the 6 ranges of motion of the hip joint and the various muscle groups that provide movement and stability in this area.
~ Core classes look to strengthen the deeper abdominal muscles, whilst keeping an element of softness and control to the practice.
Private Tuition
The approach means the practice can be tailored for your requirements.
Whether you are interested in a particular posture or would like some hints & tips on how to evolve your practice.
Contact Neil to book a session in the beautiful surroundings of Five Peaks studio.
Yoga Therapy
Yoga therapy is the professional application of the principles and practices of yoga to promote health and well-being within a therapeutic relationship that includes, personalised assessment, goal setting, lifestyle management, and yoga practices for individuals.
Contrary to popular belief, yoga practices are not suitable for everyone. Many general yoga poses that are taught in yoga classes and found on the internet are inappropriate for people suffering from high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, scoliosis, herniated discs, inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune disease, cancer, asthma, COPD, and many other physical health issues. Some yoga practices can also be counterproductive, even dangerous, for anyone suffering from mental illnesses, eating disorders, clinical depression, PTSD, and panic disorder.
Yoga Therapy changes the dynamics of the traditional yoga teacher-student relationship to one of collaboration and partnership.
Neil is currently in his second year of study to become a fully certified Yoga Therapist. The curriculum allows him to work closely with clients on a 'case study' basis and receives close support from the Director of Teaching at the Yoga Therapy Institute.
Rejuvenate
Give new energy and restore
Nurture
Take care of yourself
Relax
Unwind and take rest
Recover
Health, mind & strength
My Journey
Following a 25 year corporate career, I wanted a more fulfilling aspect to my work and wanted to help people and bring tangible benefits to those who needed support. Adventures and comprehensive training in India, Bali, and Thailand has enabled him to guide students through Yoga and wellbeing practices.
During my pre-training time on the mat, I was practicing with little awareness. I continually pushed myself physically, quite often beyond my range of motion. This finally resulted in a severe lower back injury, which happened to coincide with my time in India.
From that moment, I pursued a softer more therapeutic aspect to teaching and was lucky enough to meet Tal Swissa of Luna Alignment Yoga, who provided detailed training to help students avoid injury, by practicing with safety and stability in mind.
My teaching style has continued to evolve, combining functional movement with continual references to postural alignment and how this awareness can benefit students in everyday life.
I'm now training as a Yoga therapist, at the prestigious Yoga Therapy Institute in Amsterdam, to help those with common health conditions via close 1-2-1 support, incorporating gentle movement, tailored breathing practices, and deep relaxation techniques.
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Where to find us
Nearest Train Station is Cam & Dursley
- less than 3 miles away
Nearest Motorway is M5
- J13 North 7 miles away
- J14 South 8 miles away
Dursley, Glos, GL11 4EP
Tel: 07967 028911 / 07976 572740
Email: Five.Peaks@hotmail.com