The history and philosophy of yoga are evident in a number of ancient cultures. The underlying thoughts and practices can be seen in not just Indian culture but South American, Chinese and North American culture.  

A number of reliable yoga texts dating back to between 6th and 15th centuries AD refer to yoga such as the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and the Gheranda Samhita. There is also reference to yoga in the Upanishads, which date back to before the 6th century BC.  

Hatha yoga, which is  a popular term in Western culture, refers to a branch of yoga that is concerned with creating harmony in mind and body to create a state of higher consciousness. Hatha focuses on breathing techniques (pranayama), poses (asana), mudras (hand-gestures) and bandhas (locks) to create this union between mind and body. 

The word Hatha comes from the Sanskrit words Ha (sun) and Tha (moon). Whilst the word Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word Yuj, which can be translated as the words join, union or yoke. Yoga as opposed to other practices such as pilates involves coordinating movement with breath.

GWY yoga classes focus on classical hatha yoga as well as the eight limbs of Patanjali Yoga, sometimes referred to as Raja yoga, which provide guidance on how to life a purposeful and meaningful life, as well as incorporating Bhakti yoga principles, which is a devotional pathway or spiritual practice.

Classes are a blend of pranayama (breath-work), asana (poses) and dhyana (meditation) to achieve inner peace and harmony in the mind, body & soul. 

Classes are open to all ages, shapes and fitness-levels.  We can give modifications and assistance depending on your fitness or yoga experience so wherever you're at in your yoga-journey you can enjoy flowing together.

GWY yoga focus on classical hatha yoga as well as the Eight Limbs of Patanjali Yoga, sometimes referred to as Raja yoga, which provide guidance on how to life a purposeful and meaningful life, as well as incorporating Bhakti yoga principles, which is a devotional pathway or spiritual practice.

Yin yoga is based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, where poses are held from between a minute to five or ten minutes in order to allow deep connective tissues like the joints, fascia and ligaments to release. Because of this the practice is deeply meditative.

The poses are predominately seated or lying down.

Nourish & Nurture Yin is the GWY style of yin yoga. It focuses on the traditional practice of yin by working on meridan pathways and their associated paired organs but Gemma also weaves in meditation, breathwork, and Qi Gong practices.

This 90 minute class is designed to gently stretch and flex the body, soothe the mind with gentle yoga poses delivered at a slow and steady pace.

A great introduction to yoga for beginners and those returning to yoga after a break.

What to wear

Loose and comfy gym kit or sports clothes. Layers are good so you can remove or add layers based on your temperature/preference.

What to bring/have with you 

A bottle of water, cosy socks,  a blanket and a cushion/pillow.

What is provided in class

Mats, blocks and yoga strap.

Yoga Equipment

If you're ready to get your own kit then a mat, two blocks and a yoga strap are worth investing in, as are a blanket and eye sac for relaxation. 

We can advise you on the type of equipment most suitable as well as order equipment for you through our trade account with Yoga Mad so you'll get a discount of the full RRP.

Food & Drink

Try to avoid eating a large/heavy meal three to four hours before class. After class, a light meal is good along with water or herbal tea to flush away any toxins released during the practice.

Tuesday class held at:

Hythe Cricket & Squash Club, Ladies Walk, Hythe CT21 6AX with free onsite parking.

Thursday class held at:

Sene Valley Golf Club, 40 Blackhouse Hill, Hythe, CT18 8BL  with free onsite parking.

Friday class held at:

The Marigold Centre, 65 Shaftesbury Avenue, Folkestone,  CT19 4NS. In Age UK. There is a small car park at The Marigold Centre and lots of on road parking near by.