Weekly Classes - Slow Mindful Yoga

Small classes of 5 are held in a serene attic space, offering stunning views of the rural landscape in Spithurst, Barcombe, near Lewes, Newick, Chailey, Uckfield and surrounding villages in East Sussex. Through the practice of slow, mindful Yoga the aim is to regulate the autonomic nervous system and build resilience.

Class Philosophy: The nervous system, like a musical instrument, requires tuning. The aim is not to eliminate stress entirely, nor to remain lethargic, rather, the practice builds vagal tone and adaptive flexibility—the capacity to meet a stressor with presence and return swiftly to calm. See below for details…

Tuesdays 9.30 - 10.45
September 1st to October 20th
Tuesdays 19.15-20.30
September 1st to October 20th
Wednesdays 19.15-20.30
September 2nd to October 21st
Fridays 9.30 - 10.45
September 4th to October 23rd
Beginner’s - Click here

You can join a class at any time. Get in touch.

CONTACT ANNELIESE TO BOOK

Nervous System Regulation

  • Breath: Breathing techniques work directly on the autonomic nervous system (ANS) which plays a key role in maintaining homeostasis or equilibrium. The ANS is made up of two branches, parasympathetic (rest & digest) and sympathetic (fight, flight, freeze). Extended exhalations directly stimulate the vagus nerve, slowing down the heart rate via the parasympathetic nervous system, while other breathing techniques energise through exciting the sympathetic nervous system. Combining the two increases heart rate variability which itself is regulated by the autonomic nervous system.

  • Interoceptive Agency: Taking active, conscious control through mindful cognition and bodily awareness empowers you to override the ego's desire to strive or push beyond physical limitations. Safety is the prerequisite for self soothing.

  • Controlled Stressors: Employing moderate, stable physical holds (asana) to intentionally trigger a minor stress response, followed immediately by conscious self soothing.

Benefits of This Approach

  • Mind-Body Connection: Encourages you to be attentive to the present moment and adapt accordingly.

  • Stress Management: Techniques learned can be applied in daily life.

  • Empowerment: Helps you take control of your wellbeing, fostering a more intentional and balanced lifestyle.

“I’d been accustomed to striving towards a position but with Anneliese’s approach, I’m learning that less is often more. I’m learning to listen to and respect my body and work with it rather than force it into submission. Anneliese is warm, gentle and respectful. I’m really impressed.”
— Ania

Prices

Lessons are taught in rolling 8 week blocks throughout the year -
8 week blocks are priced on a sliding scale so you choose to pay £60, £70 or £80 per month for your lessons.
Drop In £20.

Terms and Conditions: Regular attendees paying by monthly standing order benefit from the ability to swap or make up missed lessons during the 8 week block only where space is available. Drop ins can book any lesson where there is availability. There are no refunds for any missed lessons.

 

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Classes at Birchwood Yoga are no longer taught in the studio but from my beautiful, airy attic space with views over the tree tops (as seen above)!