Q. What should I wear to class?
A. Wear something you feel comfortable in for exercise. Form fitting clothing such as leggings are preferable to allow the teacher to see the body more easily and therefore give more specific instruction. Yoga is practiced barefoot, but it is also advisable to bring warm clothing and socks for the more restorative classes.
Q. What do I need to bring to class?
A. If you are attending one of my classes at The Sunflower Centre, they provide all the props you will need. For one-to-ones and private group classes necessary props are provided, but it is advisable that if you decide to stick with it that you get your own sticky mat. This way you can start to practice at home.
Q. How do i get to Ths Sunflower Centre?
A. We are on the corner of Tressillian Road and Montague Avenue, overlooking Hilly Fields. To find us, look for the top of Montague Avenue; we are on that corner of the crossroads.
Adress: 81 Tressillian Road, Hilly Fields, Brockley, London SE4 1XZ
Parking: There is usually ample on-street parking near to the Centre.
Buses: We are close to buses that stop along Adelaide Avenue and Brockley Road. The 484 stops a stones' throw from the Centre.
British Rail: to Brockley, Ladywell and St Johns stations. Lewisham station is around 15 minutes walk, or else take the 484 bus from the station to the crossroads/corner of Tressillian Road.
Q. Do i need to book for a class?
A. All classes at The Sunflower Centre are small, maximum 8 students, and you will need to call ahead, either me or the centre, to check that there is space in the class before coming along.
All private sessions are booked through me and all corporate classes through Stretching The City.
Q. Can I eat before class?
A. We are all different, but a general guideline is to leave a 3 to 4 hour gap before practice since a full belly can get in the way of the different yoga poses and may make you feel nauseous. If you must eat then a small or light snack is fine.
Q. Where do I start if I am new to Yoga?
A. If you are new to yoga the the best way to start with a beginners class or course or one-to-one sessions. That way you will be in a safe and specific environment that sets the foundation for further practice. Always let the teacher know before the class begins that this is your first yoga class.
Q. I'm pregnant, can i still come to class?
It’s advisable to get the go ahead from your midwife or GP before starting yoga, (especially if you have a history of miscarriage). Generally, during the first trimester, take it easy. If you don’t already have a yoga practice, this is not the time to start. If you already have a yoga practice, stick to very gentle classes and restorative yoga. The rule of thumb during this time is to take it easy and allow for the pregnancy to stabilize. The second and third trimesters are a great time to do yoga if you are healthy and your doctor gives you the go ahead. Adjust postures so that the belly is not restricted or impinged upon in any way: No deep twisting, deep backbends or abdominal strengtheners. Sun Salutations are not advisable unless it is specifically modified to suit the pregnancy. Stick to standing poses and poses that open the pelvic floor and hips and focus on breath awareness. The best way to do yoga during pregnancy is in a specifically designed ‘pregnancy’ yoga class. If you cannot find a specific class, talk to the teacher ahead of the class to make sure it would be a suitable class for you to attend. Note: This is not intended as medical advice - you should always consult a medical doctor in regards to your personal health and potential risks.
Q. What if I have an injury or condition?
A. If you have an injury or a condition that may affect your ability to do the different physical postures, make sure you let the me know before the class begins or contact me in advance to discuss your situation. It’s also highly advisable that you get the go ahead from your GP or doctor before you start taking yoga classes. In most cases, i will beable to modify the poses to suit your needs. In some cases, it’s better to start with private yoga lessons to assess your ability and specifically address your needs.