About

_{What if the question is not why am I so infrequently the person I want to be, but why do I so infrequently want to be the person I really am? How would this change what you think you have to learn?}

Oriah Mountain Dreamer

Mind and Movement Yoga is simply all about freedom to be who you are. Classes aim to help align you towards a sense of embodied freedom.

Freedom of the mind by bringing attention to the present, to embrace each moment and reconnect to your true self.

Freedom in movement by building confidence in your body to explore movement with awareness and acceptance.

Freedom of spirit by realizing that all that you need, is already within you.

Mind and Movement Yoga creates a peaceful space for you to come to, away from distractions. Where you will feel supported as you pause, breathe and practise mindful movement. Classes will at times be challenging, as we explore the asanas (poses) together with pranayama (breath). Especially if you are new to the practice. But with kind, consistent and patient practise, you will begin to feel empowered by your progress.

I was initially introduced to yoga at the age of 27. As a way to help ease my asthma and anxiety. Through learning breathing techniques that synchronized with movement, I discovered strength in both my mind and my body. A sense of freedom came with that discovery. Cultivating strength within and finding freedom with the breath, remains fundamental to my approach in self-practise. And how I share the practice of yoga in my classes.

In the past I have had health scares which forced me to make re-evaluations in my life and work. At the age of 33, I underwent a thyroidectomy to remove a tumour. I left behind a successful 12 year career as a Creative, Technical Designer, to focus on healing.
After a motorcycle accident in 2014, I needed rehabilitation to regain my right shoulder mobility. The range of motion in that shoulder is still slightly limited.
Growing up with a family member who had severe mental illness, I experienced how mental illness effects the person suffering. But also how it impacts the entire family.

Being blessed as a mother of two children, which I didn’t think would be possible after my thyroidectomy. I understand the tolls that childbirth can have on our bodies. Also the conflict there can sometimes be in regaining a sense of identity, amidst juggling motherhood. Now almost fifty years old, managing peri=menopause, and the ups and down of life. Yoga continues to help me find balance and navigate through this journey of life. With a continued sense of gratitude of being alive.

No matter the circumstances or challenges that we face in life. Whether in our control or not, the choice in how to respond is always entirely ours. We have the capacity to transform our perceptions. We can choose how to allow situations, that are in the past or in the present, to affect our inner peace. Acknowledging the struggles that we’ve overcome in the past can be a source of strength in the present. Which can help us to face the future with positivity.

By becoming conscious of the power of focusing and listening inwards with the breath. I discovered and I rediscovered my strength and freedom in mind and in movement. With that discovery, came acceptance, resilience and inner peace. This is the journey I hope that you will discover too.

With light, love and gratitude, namaste.

Sophie