Combine an exercise session with a float or massage afterwards for the best result.

The yoga postures or asanas are a great way of keeping fit and healthy, increasing muscle tone, flexibility and stamina. In addition, it improves inner concentration, balance and strength of mind.
Breathing done in conjunction with the postures creates a lighter, stronger body and helps to calm the mind.
This class is perfect for people new to yoga or those who would prefer a more gentle option. Individual attention is guaranteed within a small class of maximum 4 people.

Day: Tuesday
Time: 09:30 - 11.00 am

ASHTANGA YOGA

Ashtanga yoga is a dynamic form of the traditional Hatha yoga, and has become very popular since the likes of Madonna, Gwenyth Paltrow and Sting have endorsed its benefits. We learn a type of breathing called 'ujyi' breath, which helps energy to flow more fluidly through the body, and enables us to rid the body of toxins. Ashtanga follows a sequence of postures, each one preparing the body for the next and in Laura's class we will be learning the sequence slowly and carefully. With a regular practise you will discover you become more present in the moment, anxieties and stresses play a much smaller role in your life and your attitude may be more relaxed and flexible.

Day: Monday
Time: 8.00 - 9.30 pm

The benefits of yoga as an exercise:

Although a reasonable level of fitness will benefit your yoga practise it doesn't matter if you have not exercised for some time. One of the wonderful benefits of this practise is that your levels of fitness will increase quite quickly. You will notice your body becoming toned and quality of sleep improving with an all round feeling of well being and vitality. Laura believes yoga is for everybody, young and old, all shapes and sizes although do consult your doctor first if you have any doubts relating to your health. Also, men seem to really resonate with this style of yoga as it is more physical than some other types - even some professional footballers are reported to be converts. It is a fantastic way to stretch and lengthen tight muscles such as hamstrings and can also prevent further injury occurring.

LAURA GATE-EASTLEY

Laura has been practising yoga for 7 years and always enjoyed it but when she discovered Ashtanga in New York in 2000 she became utterly hooked and has not looked back! Upon returning to London in 2001 she came across Laurel Sutherland at Triyoga who has been her daily teacher since then. After completing a foundation course with the British Wheel of Yoga she went on to specialise in Ashtanga and studied with Brian Cooper of Union Yoga, Edinburgh to certify as a Yoga Alliance teacher. Laura is also a qualified Yogabugs teacher for children.

An individual assessment session is required with Laura before joining the class.
e-mail: lauralotus@gmail.com
mob. 07984 201 843
tel. 020 8346 8198

Joseph Pilates a German fitness instructor developed a series of exercises in the 1920's which were primarily used by dancers, gymnasts, athletes and actors. The exercises, some of which were advanced, have been modified and changed over the years by fitness experts and Physiotherapists in touch with the current research on spinal stability and the importance of effective control of the trunk muscles and breathing which affects the rest of the body and mind.

At Amara we use modified Pilates mat exercises which are particularly useful for people with back problems or who have a history of back or neck pain.

Sessions are available on a 1:1 basis or in a small group class. Individual assessment will be carried out in the first session.

Walking is well known to be the easiest and most accessible form of exercise recommended by all doctors and fitness experts. Now a new walking exercise technique from Finland takes ordinary walking further by using lightweight poles, which give a total body workout and reduce joint problems in the legs. It strengthens back, legs and arms, and reduces neck and shoulder tension, as well as improving the health of heart and lungs. This outdoor exercise is suitable for all ages and abilities and is great fun.

There are three regular weekly classes with Anni Fast, who is a qualified instructor with the International Nordic Walking Association and a Chartered Physiotherapist:

TOTTERIDGE

Saturday 9.30 - 10.45 pm
Meeting place: 25 Totteridge Lane, London N20

HAMPSTEAD

Tuesday 9.15 - 10.30 am
Thursday 9.15 - 10.30 am
Meeting place: corner of Wellgarth Road and Hampstead Way, London NW11

	Evening walks and other venues are available.
	Private sessions for individual, groups and families on request.
	Please book in advance.
	Poles provided free of charge for the session.