CHOOSING A YOGA CLASS
Embarking on your yoga journey is an exciting and transformative step towards holistic well-being, although we acknowledge that taking a look at a yoga studio timetable can potentially be an overwhelming experience! This short guide aims to provide you with some tips for choosing a class which aligns with your goals, preferences, and experience level.
Yoga is a vast and ancient practice that delves into the depths of the human condition, seeking to address suffering and foster a profound connection with the world around us. Over time, various branches have emerged, resulting in a diverse range of practices in the modern era.
At Luna Wave, we believe in embracing a wide range of yoga styles, acknowledging their unique benefits and understanding that people have individual needs. We welcome all paths into yoga, recognising that each journey is valuable in its own way.
If you prefer a slower and more meditative approach, we recommend the beginner friendly classes below as they feature longer-held postures and guidance that enhances the meditative experience:
Vajarasati with Pablo (Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8 am)
Hatha with Giselle (Tuesdays at 6:15 pm)
Mindful Flow with Sarah (Wednesdays at 5 pm and Saturdays at 9:15 am)
While these classes are beginner-friendly physically, it's important to acknowledge that there will still be some challenge, especially in the long forgotten art of slowing down! Ultimately finding comfort in the moments of stillness fostered by these practises can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and our teachers are experts in guiding you through this process.
For those who crave movement, a faster pace and a balance of both strength and flexibility practices, Vinyasa Flow is an ideal choice. Widely popular in Europe and the US, Vinyasa Flow encourages you to synchronise your breath with continuous movement. In these classes, postures are held for shorter durations, with less emphasis on precise alignment. Instead, the focus is on creating a seamless "flow" that merges breath and movement, akin to a moving meditation.
We have a large team who teach Open level (suitable for all) Vinyasa Flow. Each of these classes will vary depending on the teacher’s style, so if you are brand new to the practice, be sure to let the teacher know before class so they can offer you tailored guidance as needed.
Annabel (Sunday 8am & 12:15pm)
Cherry (Tuesday 12:30pm & Saturday 10:45)
Jas (Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday all at 7am)
Jamie (Thursday 9:30am)
Lizzie (Sunday 9:15pm),
Mike (Thursdays 7am)
Shay (Monday 5pm & Thursday 12:30pm)
On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have Yin and Yoga Nidra. These practices prioritise deep relaxation, restoration, and encourage inquiry into the subtle aspects of oneself. Yin yoga involves gentle poses held for extended periods, targeting deep connective tissues to promote flexibility and inner tranquility. Yoga Nidra, a guided meditation practice, induces a state of profound relaxation and heightened awareness.
Yin with Live Piano (Monday 6:15pm), & iRest Nidra (Thursday 7:45pm) with Christina
Yin with Jamie (Sunday 11am).
Some classes combine periods of higher intensity (yang) with periods of stillness (yin) to bring in the benefits of both! Look out for:
Yang to yin with Charlie (Monday 9:30am & Saturday 12:15pm)
Flow & Restore with Christina (Friday 5pm)
If you're seeking a physical challenge with both strength-building, balancing and more physically demanding postures like inversions (going upside-down), we recommend exploring Jivamukti, Flow Beats, and our intermediate Vinyasa Flow classes. These dynamic practices incorporate flowing sequences, strength-building poses, and breath control. Jivamukti also has a deeper spiritual element, involving chanting and ethical teachings.
Jivamukti with Maxine (Tuesday 9:30am & Friday 8am)
Intermediate Vinyasa with Vinyasa (Thursday 6:15pm) & her Flow Beats (Friday 6:15pm)
Intermediate Vinyasa with Cherry (Saturday 8am).
And finally if you feel like something a little different, something a little funky that perhaps draws on a wider range of methodologies and inspirations take a look at:
Mixed Movement Flow with Olive (Tuesdays 5pm & Thursday 5pm)
Yoga & Myofascial Release with Oli (Wednesdays & Fridays at 9:30am)
Handstand Foundations with Laura (Wednesday 6:15pm).
Remember, everyone's yoga journey is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's essential to listen to your body, be patient with yourself, and trust the process. Don't be afraid to try different classes and instructors until you find the ones that resonate with you best.
We think that choosing your first yoga class is an opportunity for self-exploration and growth. Take a leap of faith, step onto your mat with an open heart, and allow yoga to guide you. Enjoy the adventure!
LW xxx
In a nutshell…
Physically accessible slower classes
Vajrasati (Pablo on Tuesdays + Thursdays at 8am)
Hatha (Giselle on Tuesdays at 6:15pm)
Mindful Flow (Sarah on Wednesdays at 5pm and Saturdays at 9:15am)
Beginner friendly faster paced & mixed pace classes
Vinyasa Open (at least one open Vinyasa every day)
Wave Series (Laura on Monday & Wednesday 8am & Friday 12:30pm)
Flow & Restore (Christina on Friday at 5pm)
Yang to Yin (Charlie on Monday 9:30am & Saturday at 12:15pm)
Mixed Movement Flow (Olive on Tuesday & Thursday 5pm)
More physically demanding classes
Jivimukti (Maxine on Tuesdays at 9:30am & Fridays at 8am)
Viny intermediate (Christina on Thursday 6:15pm & Cherry on Saturdays at 8am)
Yoga Beats (Christina on Friday at 6:5pm)
Handstand Foundations (Laura on Wednesday at 6:15pm)
Very slow and meditative classes
Yin (Christina on Mondays at 6:15pm & Jamie on Sundays at 11am)
Nidra (Christina on Thursday 7:15pm)