Yoga is pretty much a household name nowadays and there are so many different forms or styles available. I have always said that Yoga is personal and if you do not accord with my way of teaching (for any reason) then don’t be put off yoga but go to another teacher.
I have had many different yoga influences over my time of nearly 40 years of practicing and 30+ years of teaching. My understanding and teaching grew dramatically when I trained as a Shiatsu practitioner as I learned that, not only does yoga stretch and relax our physicality, which then affects our mind but it also works on our energetic flow by stretching our energy channels and beneficially affecting our emotional and spiritual natures.
Elsa’s training
I trained in my teaching Diploma with the British Wheel of Yoga, the umbrella organisation for Yoga in the UK, completing in 1991. I have had many different classes over the years and currently teach for South Downs Leisure. I enjoy the class atmosphere of large or smaller groups, including work with paired supportive yoga when this is appropriate.
Elsa’s classes
My Yoga sessions usually start with a short relaxation followed by a few warm-up stretches whilst lying on your back. From there, the middle part of the session will include some general stretches along with classical Yoga postures, all guided through with demonstrations and explanations. The end relaxation is longer than the beginning one and is often guided then you are left quiet for a few minutes before I invite gentle movement once more.
I follow the basic pattern when working on a one-to-one basis or in a class of 26! The main difference when working with an individual is that the yoga and stretching work can be tailor made to the needs of the person.
Testimonials
Here’s what my students say:
Lindsay
2022
Elsa and her classes are wonderful. Food for the mind, effortless effort for the body and calming relaxation for the soul. Truly amazing. Thanks Elsa.
Amanda
2022
Having experienced several different types of yoga and classes over the years, I was pleased to find Elsa’s class offers a simple and clean approach without any fussiness.
Steff
2022
Elsa’s class is the highlight of my Wednesday.
Thoughtful and gracious with her teaching and movements.
I highly recommend Elsa and her classes.
James
2022
As a beginner Elsa made me feel comfortable, explaining each move and transition. She also takes an interest in you as an individual helping work on my particular areas of weakness.
Making Yoga work for you
Yoga does not require a lot of equipment. The most essential is a Yoga mat. Beyond that, depending on flexibility and general health, a yoga belt, blocks or bolsters can be used as support.
Sometimes adapting by using cushions, chairs, the stairs or kitchen work surfaces can be very helpful too! This is when we can have fun in family groups, as couples or on a one-to-one in your own home.
When working on a personal basis sessions would last for one hour in total, apart from the initial meeting as this requires an extra 30 minutes or so for me to take a health history to make sure the yoga taught would be appropriate.
As with all exercise, it is best not to have eaten for at least one hour before undertaking the practice of Yoga. Comfortable leggings or tracksuit trousers and a T-shirt are probably the best combination of clothes to wear and enough uninterrupted space for the yoga mats (including one for me!) spaced apart is required.
Testimonials
I’ve been attending Elsa’s yoga classes regularly for several years.
Elsa is extremely knowledgeable about the human body, she’s supportive and takes genuine delight in our yoga journeys and ‘yoga miracles’!
I often arrive to her classes feeling tired and tense after a day’s work. I always leave feeling stretched, unwound and more at peace.
Sarah
2022
Elsa gives clear easy to follow instructions and she explains the benefits of particular moves and stretches. During the sessions, Elsa imparts some of her vast knowledge of yoga and tailors her feedback to coach individuals in the class without interrupting the flow for others. Elsa has a calm welcoming and friendly manner, I highly recommend her classes.
Nigel
2022
While not a beginner, I was once, and know anyone starting would find Elsa’s sessions a useful way of starting and progressing with Yoga. I can go into the positions hold them and challenge myself a little more each time. Elsa outlines how and why each position will work as it does. It is reassuring to be told where the stretch will be happening when it is. Thank you for the marvellous Yoga over the years. The sessions are always so worthwhile.
Anthony
2022
I love Yoga as it enabled me to become physically stronger and more balanced after my motorbike accident. It has helped me throughout life on many different levels and has given me some wonderful experiences in helping others and enabling them to benefit in their lives.
Some of my students have gone on to become qualified Yoga teachers and are doing wonderful work with students and groups of their own.
Testimonials
Alison
2022
Elsa’s classes help me to relax and unwind after a busy day.
I also find the exercises help my movement and Elsa’s explanation of how to achieve the correct posture is excellent!
Katy
2022
Elsa is such a great yoga instructor. She is really in tune with what is needed. I’ve struggled in recent months with certain physical setbacks but she is always on hand for advice and gives great direction to ease the struggles. Never miss a session with her.
Kay
2022
Elsa lives and breathes yoga. Her yoga classes are based on a profound knowledge of the human body and the impact of the various yoga postures on it. By the end of the session, you feel transformed, breathe calmly with body stretched.
If you’re interested to find out more or come to a class…