Bliss Yoga Norwich Newsletter

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2012-01-08T19:19:00.002Z

I trust you have all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year. Christmas for most is a busy time and it certainly was for me, unpacking my grandparents house and cooking Christmas dinner. Although a little mad, it has been wonderful to spend lots of time with family and friends.

January is traditionally a time for fresh starts. New Year, New You. A time to look at yourself and set a resolution, a change for the better ‘stop eating chocolate’, ‘lose weight’, ‘stop drinking caffeine’ or whatever it may be for you. If you have set yourself a resolution already take a look at the language. A resolution tends to have a negative affect on your subconscious and if you fail tends to leave you feeling angry at yourself or guilty.

In Yoga we use positive language. It is more of an intention rather than a resolution. In Yoga we call this a Sankalpa. Sankalpa is Sanskrit which means ‘will, purpose or determination’. It is a short positive phrase. So rather than a resolution of ‘I will stop smoking’ that reaffirms the negative how about the Sankalpa ‘I will lead a healthier lifestyle more and more each day’ or instead of ‘I will not lose my temper and be angry anymore’ change it for the gentler Sankalpa ‘I will remain calm and positive no matter what is put in front of me’

How to make it work... Remember change does not happen overnight. If you stray from your Sankalpa do not berate yourself instead gently remind yourself of your intention. Set triggers for yourself, incorporate your Sankalpa into your daily routine. Use it as a mantra during pranayama or meditation. Change your screensaver at work or on your phone to remind you, wear a piece of Jewellery that you have set as a reminder of your intention so whenever you see it you can gently remind yourself. Let go of the outcome, and especially let go of the “how”. Just by setting a positive intention, and spending a little time with it each day, you are already helping to shift negative thought patterns in the mind. Remember that you are embarking upon a journey, if you hit some bumps along your path, accept them for what they are: challenges to learn from.

A Sankalpa should be a short positive statement in the present tense that occurs naturally. Take some time out before your next class and see if you can change your resolutions for a more gentler, kinder positive statement or Sankalpa.

Classes start tomorrow!

General Yoga Classes

Monday: Inner Space 7:30pm

Wednesday: Old Catton 9:30am

Pregnancy Yoga

Wednesday: Silver Road 7pm

Baby Yoga

Thursday: Silver Road 1:30pm

Yoga is traditionally taught one to one. Have you considered fine tuning your practice? Want to practice in the comfort of your own home? I have a private session that has become available on Thursday afternoon. Please contact Jessica on 07501 303 546 or Jessica@blissyoganorwich.co.uk for further information.

Look forward to seeing you on the mat! xxx

Christmas 2011

2011-12-12T21:45:00.004Z

Hello Everyone

Just a reminder of the details of Classes over the Christmas Break and Christmas gatherings before the end of year.

Christmas Break:

Last Inner Space Class 19 December – returning 9 January 2012

There are Christmas drinks at the Bicycle Shop after class on 19^th – everyone welcome.

Last Catton class 14 December – returning 11 January 2012

Christmas Lunch at the Woodman 1pm on the 14^th – Bookings only

Pregnancy Yoga

Current course finishes 21 December – 2012 course commences 11 January

Baby Yoga

Classes 1,8,15 December & 11, 18, 25 January 2012

Birth Preparation Workshop

15 January 1:30 - 4:30pm, St Mary Magdelane Church Hall, Silver Road (where Pregnancy Yoga is held)

I am running a birth preparation workshop on Sunday 15 January at Mary Magdalene Church Hall. This is for you and your birthing partner to help your partner feel more involved and useful during the birth,or of course you can come on your own. We will go over things learnt in class. We will discuss and learn breathing techniques, birthing positions, visualisation and relaxation techniques to help you on your babies birthing day. Cost: £35 per couple Time:1:30pm-4:30pm Venue: St Mary Magdalene Church Hall, Silver Road Please let me know if you are interested as soon as possible so I can reserve you a place.

Synerprotein Are feeling a little run down at the moment? I used an amazing drink during pregnancy and still use now so I thought I would share it with you all. The drink is called Synerprotein. It is a fabulous drink that is designed to give you a powerhouse of nutrition and energy providing a high quality non-genetically modified soya protein supplement which is dairy free, wheat free, yeast free, gluten free and virtually fat free. It is balanced protein supplement providing essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals, and a great vanilla flavor. It also provides 3g of fiber per serving. SynerProTein also contains the exclusive SynerPro Concentrate, which provides a rich and wholesome base of fruits and cruciferous vegetables with antioxidant benefits. This product is only available to healcare providers including Nutritionists, I can provide this for you for the cost of £15 for a massive 448g pot which lasts for ages. I found it amazing during pregnancy as it gives both you and your baby essential vitamins and minerals and it provides a slow release energy that stops you craving sweet stuff (and therefore filling yourself with empty calories and extra weight that should be avoided during pregnancy). Its also a quick filler if you're busy and miss (or perhaps cannot face due to morning sickness) a meal. It is amazing as a new mum as suddenly you find that you are so absorbed in your new little wonder that you have managed to forget lunch. It is so important that you look after yourself so that you can look after your baby and I found this really helped me to stay nourished. I still use it as I am always zooming around and have it in addition to breakfast and it really gives me the energy I need as a busy mum. Please let me know if you are interested and I will place an order for you.

Christmas Gift

Don’t forget you can buy a loved one the wonderful gift of Yoga for Christmas. A 6 class pass for general Yoga is £36. Please contact Jessica if you are interested, if you mention it is for a gift, each pass will come in a festive gift card.

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas. Have a wonderful time of rest and hibernation shared with loved ones. I look forward to seeing you all soon xxx

Om Shanti

November Newsletter

2011-11-11T21:18:00.003Z

Dearest friends and Yogis

Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat.....

It’s that time of year again, the air is certainly becoming crisper and nearly all the leaves have fallen. Winter is very nearly upon us and I find that as the dark days draw in I need my Yoga practice more than ever to remind me that even though the days are dark I am shining brightly from within. At the darkest time of the year, it's important to take time to go quietly inward, to connect with our inner light, and then carry its spark into the world to share with others.

Patanjali writes

visoka va jyotismati
Or, the light within which is free from all suffering and sorrow. Yoga Sutra I.36

Jyoti is the light within, a great brightness or radiance in the heart, from which the true Self shines forth. No matter how far removed or disconnected you may feel from the light, and no matter what your circumstances, the spark of that light always lies within, free from grief, from pain, from sorrow. Even when you've forgotten about the light or doubt its existence, it's there—and remembering and reflecting on that can be can be a great source of support and comfort in difficult moments. It’s like the sun on cloudy days, although the day may seem grey and gloomy, the sun is shining brightly, high above the clouds.

Taking time to travel to that quiet place within you, you will find your own light and with it a sense of joy and clarity. When you connect with that light, you can cultivate it, bring it forth into your everyday life, and share it with the world around you.

Christmas gatherings

I was made aware that some of you would love to get together again this year for Christmas and was reminded earlier this week that if that was to be the case then I needed to get a wiggle on so that is exactly what I have done.

Old Catton Yogis

I have provisionally booked the Woodman again for our Christmas lunch. Christmas lunch will take place after the last class for the year on December 14 at 1pm. Last year we decided that we would order off the usual menu rather than the standard Christmas meal. Please check out http://www.woodmannorwich.co.uk and select the menus page to see both the Christmas menu and the normal menu. If you are interested in coming along please let me know and whether you would prefer to order from the Christmas menu or the normal one. Loved ones are welcome, including children as Aylah will be joining us.

Inner Space Yogis

As Inner Space classes are in the evening and finish reasonably late I thought it appropriate to have a Christmas Tea gathering at the Bicycle Shop on St Benedict after class on December 19. Please let me know if you are interested in coming along as I may need to reserve a room.

Pregnancy and Baby Yogis

Please let me know if you are interested in having a Christmas gathering this year.

Christmas Break:

Last Inner Space Class 19 December – returning 9 January 2012

Last Catton class 14 December – returning 11 January 2012

Pregnancy Yoga

Current course finishes 21 December – 2012 course commences 11 January

Baby Yoga

Classes 1,8,15 December & 11, 18, 25 January 2012

Stuff for Sale

I have an Annabel Karmel book – New and complete baby and toddler meal planner book for sale, nearly new. Only £4 A great resource of interesting and fun meals to feed your loved one. Also gives loads of advice and a great plan for introducing solids.

2 x New bamboo cloth washable Popolini nappies birth – potty and 2 x protective coverings. Worth nearly £40 selling for £20

Please let me know if you have any baby items for sale, I am always happy to share sale items in newsletters.

Continue to shine brightly

Much love

Jessica

October 2011

2011-10-22T11:56:00.009+01:00

As most of you know the last few months have certainly had their challenges. I could quite easily have wallowed in my sorrow but Yoga teaches us to live in the moment. If you limit your attention to how life lets you down, you blind yourself to the endless gifts you receive all the time. Yes you need to deal with the cards that life deals you but keeping yourself in the past only leads to more suffering. Dealing with the now surely is enough? Human beings seem hard-wired to notice how reality fails to meet some idea of how they think things should be. By shifting your attention you can put an end to your suffering and appreciate lifes joys that are all around you. Patanjali (who compiled the Yoga Sutras) wrote that santosha (contentment, or appreciation for what you have) leads to unexcelled joy.

Count your blessings and you'll find that even an uneventful or "bad" day is filled with precious gifts. My experience has really helped me see what I am truly grateful for. My practice has been invaluable in not only helping me to keep present but also helping balance my hormones, helping me recover and restore, nurturing both my physical body but also my mind and my spirit. I am truly grateful to family and friends for just being there and also for you, the community that I have surrounding me, so many kind words, words of encouragement and positive healing vibes. Again I thank you.

Through the mindfulness practice of gratitude, you are able to rejoice amidst all life's suffering. Cultivating gratitude is a very powerful form of mindfulness practice. Being relieved of the endless wants and worries of your life's drama, even temporarily, is liberating. The understanding you gain from practicing gratitude frees you from being lost or identified with either the negative or the positive aspects of life, letting you simply meet life in each moment as it rises.

Cultivating Gratitude
Start by finding a comfortable seat. Focus on your physical body and really notice how your body is feeling today. Simply focus on your breath. Breathing in and out of your nose, slowing your breathing and making it smoother and more regular. This relaxes the nervous system and when the nervous system is relaxed, the mind often follows.

Gratitude can be cultivated by taking a moment to think about what you are grateful for. You can maybe start with the people around you, all the people who have helped you in your life: those who cared for you, clothed you, educated you, cooked for you. The roof over your head, your job, the beauty that surrounds you. Find something that resonates with you.

Count your blessings every day.

Gratitude practiced in this manner brings delight, balances out your tendency to focus on the negative, and can even lift a dark mood. Responding to a difficult situation by acknowledging it as such, then saying, "Yes, this is terrible, and I am grateful for . . . ." allows you to meet life's difficulties with an open heart.

Yoga teaches that joy, or ananda, lies deep inside each of us, and its various tools are simply a means to get at what's already there

Baby Yoga
Next course commences 01 December. Baby Yoga is a great way to bond with your baby. Learning new songs and rhymes to gentle Yoga moves for baby helps sleep and digestion, coordination to name a few benefits. Start connecting with your breath and practice gentle Yoga moves for yourself, connect with your own body. Relax, restore, energise.

I am also offering a single drop-in class on November 17 that is open to all. Cost is £6 for this trial session. Babies need to be 6 weeks and after your postnatal check.
Please contact Jessica for more information and booking.

Testimonials Please
I am looking to update my websites and would very much appreciate some recent testimonials. If you have the time I would greatly appreciate any feedback that you are happy for me to share on my pages. I am looking for feedback on Baby Yoga, Pregnancy Yoga and my Catton and Inner Space classes.

Yoga History and Philosophy
Joss at The Yoga tree is running 5 one hour Yoga History & Philosophy sessions. Starting Monday 10th Oct 12.15pm at the Complementary Health Care Clinic, Exchange St Norwich. Each session is £5, a mini workshop to get the juice out of the history and philosophy to recharge your yoga practice. Interested? Please call Joss direct on 0759 837665

ASQUITH CLOTHING
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Bliss Yoga Norwich is offering students an exclusive 20% off until November 30th 2011, simply visit www.asquithlondon.com and type BLISSYOGA20 into the promotional code box when placing your order to receive your 20% exclusive discount.

Much love to you all
Hari OM

Bliss Yoga Norwich September 2011

2011-09-04T15:16:00.011+01:00

September 2011

Hello fellow Yogi's

What a wonderful summer break I have shared with family and friends. I do hope you have had a wonderful break too.

Most of the summer I have been living outside, well spending many days in my lovely little camper van anyway. This has given me the opportunity to really live with nature and the elements. When there is no television, computers or mobile phones it really gives you the opportunity to enjoy the stillness. I have been watching the flow of nature. How blissful to watch the rhythm of the waves, the rise and fall of the tide, the rythm of each day. I have been observing what I enjoy most about my practice and the peace and stillness that comes with that.

The breath is fundamental to a Yoga practice. The breath is the flow of life. Breath is our life force, Prana rides on the breath, Prana is the energy that sustains us on a cellular level. This term we will be looking at how we can open ourselves to the flow of life. We will be focusing on Vinyassa, moving with the breath and how by using repetition we can quite the mind...

I am so excited to be sharing Yoga with you all again.

There are some exciting events coming up:

Thank you Mother India - Yoga Gives Back - Charity Class

10th September, Chapelfield Gardens 10am

Yoga Gives Back is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and funds in order to alleviate poverty in India. Through micro financing, Yoga Gives Back began supporting micro credit programs who lend small loans to women who are otherwise excluded from the conventional banking and financial systems. In 2010, exploring a way to get direct help to the poorest, YGB developed "Sister Aid" programs to fund education, vocational training on a personal basis, and micro credit programs. If this speaks out to you, you can support it by coming along to this class Fore more information about Yoga gives back check out this link: http://www.youtube.com/user/YogaGivesBack I will bring some spare mats but please feel free to bring your own. We will meet at the band stand. Yoga in the Park will last about an hour and a half. There will be a picnic in the park after so please bring a plate of veggie food to share.
Please feel free to bring along family and friends, my husband and 2 year old daughter will be coming along

Birth Preparation Workshop

8th October 1:30 - 4:30, St Mary Magdelane Church Hall, Silver Road

I am running a birth preparation workshop on Saturday 8th October at Mary Magdalene Church Hall. This is for you and your birthing partner to help your partner feel more involved and useful during the birth,or of course you can come on your own. We will go over things learnt in class. We will discuss and learn breathing techniques, birthing positions, visualisation and relaxation techniques to help you on your babies birthing day. Cost: £35 per couple Time:1:30pm-4:30pm Venue: St Mary Magdalene Church Hall, Silver Road Please let me know if you are interested as soon as possible so I can reserve you a place.

Workshop with Lisa Sanfillippo - November 19th
Yoga and music event for all the family. Anusara teacher Lisa Sanfillippo and musician Jason Kalidas are coming to Norwich so put the date in your diary. More details to follow soon.

Synerprotein Are feeling a little run down at the moment? I used an amazing drink during pregnancy and still use now so I thought I would share it with you all. The drink is called Synerprotein. It is a fabulous drink that is designed to give you a powerhouse of nutrition and energy providing a high quality non-genetically modified soya protein supplement which is dairy free, wheat free, yeast free, gluten free and virtually fat free. It is balanced protein supplement providing essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals, and a great vanilla flavor. It also provides 3g of fiber per serving. SynerProTein also contains the exclusive SynerPro Concentrate, which provides a rich and wholesome base of fruits and cruciferous vegetables with antioxidant benefits. This product is only available to healcare providers including Nutritionists, I can provide this for you for the cost of £15 for a massive 448g pot which lasts for ages. I found it amazing during pregnancy as it gives both you and your baby essential vitamins and minerals and it provides a slow release energy that stops you craving sweet stuff (and therefore filling yourself with empty calories and extra weight that should be avoided during pregnancy). Its also a quick filler if you're busy and miss (or perhaps cannot face due to morning sickness) a meal. It is amazing as a new mum as suddenly you find that you are so absorbed in your new little wonder that you have managed to forget lunch. It is so important that you look after yourself so that you can look after your baby and I found this really helped me to stay nourished. I still use it as I am always zooming around and have it in addition to breakfast and it really gives me the energy I need as a busy mum. Please let me know if you are interested and I will place an order for you.

Much love to you all and I look forward to seeing you all soon xxx

Hari Om

Summer Update

2011-07-29T09:44:00.003+01:00

Hello lovely people

What a lovely end to the summer term I have had. The Yoga for the Seasons workshop with Rachel Zinman was truely amazing. It was so lovely for me to practice an ISHTA class and spend some wonderful time with my teacher. Thank you to those that joined us for the workshop and Kirtan. Each one of you made it a very special event and what a wonderful shared lunch we had, thank you. I have invited Rachel to join us again next year and she has accepted so watch this space for further information.

Classes return at the end of August.

Catton - August 31
Pregnancy Yoga - August 24
Baby Yoga - August 25
Inner Space - September 5

This year I am running a charity event for Yoga Gives Back. Yoga Gives Back is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and funds in order to alleviate poverty in India. Through micro financing, Yoga Gives Back began supporting micro credit programs who lend small loans to women who are otherwise excluded from the conventional banking and financial systems.

In 2010, exploring a way to get direct help to the poorest, YGB developed "Sister Aid" programs to fund education, vocational training on a personal basis, and micro credit programs. Please check out the Youtube channel for further information. http://www.youtube.com/user/YogaGivesBack

If this speaks out to you, you can support it by coming along to this class that will be taught by Jessica at Chapel Field Gardens on 10 September. Class will be by donation and all monies will be going to this charity.

The next Baby Yoga course commences August 25. If your baby is 6 weeks to aproximately 10 months (crawling) then you can come along and learn rhymes and songs, gently yoga moves for both you and your baby. Helps with baby's digestion, sleep, co-ordination and development. Helps mother get back in touch with both breath and body. Have fun with your baby and get fit too!! Classes are held at the Baptist Church Hall on the corner of Mousehold Avenue and Silver Road 1:30pm to 2:45pm. Please email Jessica to book your space.

I am also hosting a workshop with Lisa Sanfillippo and Jason Kalidas in November. Lisa is an Anusara teacher from London, Jason is an amazing musician. Full details to follow shortly.

Have a lovely summer, may the sun shine brightly.

Much love

Jessica

Bliss Yoga Norwich Summer Newsletter

2011-06-05T19:36:00.008+01:00

Hello friends and Yogi’s

Summer is here! What fabulous weather we have been having. Glorious sunny days. My garden has certainly been noticing the sun and my water butts are nearing empty. The blooms seem to have come and gone so early this year. Aylah has certainly been enjoying the warm weather as we have been able to have ‘splashy fun’ in the paddling pool.

I am so excited to be sharing Rachels Zinmans teachings with you this summer. I trained with Rachel in Byron Bay Australia when I lived there in 2006. I have invited Rachel to join us in Norwich and share with us ‘Yoga for the Seasons’

Yoga for the Seasons Workshop 22-24 July 2011

In Yoga and according to Ayurveda each season is influenced by a specific element. Summer is the heat of fire. Winter is the cool of earth and the movement of air predominantly influences Autumn and Spring. It’s important to be able to adjust your practice to the changing seasons and remain balanced throughout the year. In this workshop we will explore specific sequences for each season incorporating the science of ayurveda and specific Hatha Yoga and Tantric practices such as asana, pranayama, mudra, mantra and meditation.

It would be lovely to see you there please click here for further details

Asquith’s Organic and Bamboo clothing...an exclusive 20% off – perfect for Summer

I recently purchased some clothing from Asquith’s clothing range and I absolutely love it and I am really happy to be able to share them with you.

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Bamboo fabrics are not only kinder to the environment, they are also beautifully light and 'wick' moisture away from your skin so you can say goodbye to feeling clammy, and enjoy that Summer glow! And the organic cotton is super soft and breathable, and feels great next to your skin.

For your exclusive 20% off the Asquith range simply visit http://www.asquith-yoga-clothing.co.uk/ and type JESSICAM20 into the promotional code box when ordering. Offer available until July 31st
(Please note that the promotional code doesn’t work on sale items)

Home Hairdressing

My dear friend and Yogi has just started her home hairdressing business. Carrie has 15 years salon experience and the coveted Wella Master Colour Award. Carrie brings salon quality hairdressing to your home.

I have had the pleasure of a haircut, in my back garden no less, under the warm sun while our little girls played together in the garden. Whether you’re a busy mum or would just like the luxury of having a haircut at home please contact Carrie 0774 009 1749

Baby Yoga

The next Baby Yoga course commences 30 June 2011. This is a 5 week course due to summer holidays cost is £35. Learn songs and rhymes, gentle yoga moves for you and your baby. Rest, relax, restore, get fit and have fun with your baby. Please contact Jessica to reserve your space. jessica@blissyoganorwich.co.uk

Summer Holidays

This year I am taking holiday 1-18^th August. There will be no General Yoga or Baby Yoga classes during this time. However Kate my friend and fellow Pregnancy Yoga teacher is covering pregnancy classes on 3^rd and 10^th August.

Inner Space class resumes 22 August

Old Catton class resumes 24 August

Pregnancy Yoga course commences 24 August

Baby Yoga course commences 25 August

I look forward to seeing you soon.

Much love

Jess

Yoga for the Seasons Workshop

2011-05-03T14:30:00.006+01:00

Yoga for the Seasons

WORKSHOP WITH RACHEL ZINMAN

July 22-24 2011

This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen your Yoga practice learning about one of the aspects of ISHTA – Ayurveda (the science of life) and how it influences your practice.

In Yoga and according to Ayurveda each season is influenced by a specific element. Summer is the heat of fire. Winter is the cool of earth and the movement of air predominantly influences Autumn and Spring. It’s important to be able to adjust your practice to the changing seasons and remain balanced throughout the year. In this workshop we will explore specific sequences for each season incorporating the science of ayurveda and specific Hatha yoga and Tantric practices such as asana, pranayama, mudra, mantra and meditation.

Session 1 - Friday 6:30pm-9pm £25
• Ayurveda overview focusing on the 5 elements with an emphasis on air and space and grounding postures
• Vinyasa sequence for spring and autumn
Pranayama, mudras, and meditation for spring and autumn
Session 2 - Saturday 9am-12pm £25
• Understanding your Ayurvedic constitution and finding the balance through yoga practice - emphasis on summer and cooling postures
• Vinyasa sequence for summer Pranayama, mantra and meditation for summer
*Kirtan 1pm-2:30pm £10 *there will be a shared lunch from 12pm until 1pm please bring a vegetarian plate of food to share. All welcome.
Session 3 - Sunday 2pm-5pm £25
• Lifestyle approaches for all the seasons according to Ayurveda - emphasis on winter and invigorating postures
• Vinyasa sequence for winter Pranayama, mantra, mudra and meditation for winter
*All sessions include handout of sequences for each season

Each day can be visited separately but why not take this unusual opportunity to experience the full 3 day workshop. Each session is £25 or £65 for the full 3 days. Kirtan £10.

St Andrews Church Hall, Thunder Lane, Thorpe St Andrews

Contact Jessica for more information:

Tel: 07501 303 546

Jessica@blissyoganorwich.co.uk

Kirtan evening with Rachel Zinman and friends

Rachel is also an amazing Bhakti and is offering an opportunity to join her in an afternoon of music and chanting Saturday 1pm-2:30pm

Join Rachel and friends for an evening of Devotional Chanting.
Kirtan- call and response chanting and Bhajan -singing in unison are two of the main ways in Bhakti yoga to express devotion and love. Repeating the names of deities like Ram or Shiva serves as a reminder that the lover and the beloved are one.

For Rachel, mantras and a devotional practice means surrendering and accepting everything as it is and that singing in community supports everyone to feel uplifted and connected to their own beauty and strength.

Rachel has produced three CD’s as part of her band The Subway Bhaktis. You can listen to samples at http://www.subwaybhaktis.com. To find out more about Rachel and her Bhakti yoga practice visit http://www.rachelzinmanyoga.com

Event Details:
Kirtan 1pm-2:30pm £10

*there will be a shared lunch from 12pm until 1pm please bring a vegetarian plate of food to share. All welcome.
Each day can be visited separately but why not take this unusual opportunity to experience the full 3 day workshop. Each session is £25 or £65 for the full 3 days. Kirtan £10.

St Andrews Church Hall, Thunder Lane, Thorpe St Andrews

Contact Jessica for more information:

Tel: 07501 303 546

Jessica@blissyoganorwich.co.uk

Rachels Bio:

Rachel has been practicing yoga for 26 years and has taught for 19. Prior to her initial yoga education Rachel trained as a professional dancer and choreographer in the USA and in Australia. Discovering yoga she originally trained in the Iyengar and Ashtanga methods and first began teaching in her role as Head of Dance at the Northern Rivers Conservatorium where she introduced yoga to the curriculum.

Her teaching style continues to reflect her deep engagement with the arts – dynamic and precise with an emphasis on mindfulness. While again living in New York from 2000–2004 Rachel met Yoga Works and ISHTA yoga founder Alan Finger teaching in his BeYoga studios for four years. There she co-created and coordinated the Be Yoga Teacher Training Program, becoming a senior facilitator and mentor.

Rachel returned to Australia to teach in the Yoga Arts Teacher Training, and since 2005 has created and facilitated her own teacher trainings and workshops in the ISHTA System in Australia, India, Bali, Japan, New York and in many major cities in Europe.

In 2006 she began practicing Bhakti Yoga and has incorporated Yantra, Mantra, Mudra and Tantric rituals into her workshops and trainings. Rachel’s deep personal experience and investigation of meditation allows her to be both intuitive and creative in her work and she feels grateful to be able to share her passion with others.

Rachel also co-created and produced a popular Australian Yoga Video series and a Kid's Yoga Video. She is an award-winning musician for her album of chanting and devotional song, Sita Ram, and is a published poet.

March 2011

2011-03-14T21:40:00.003Z

Happy March!

Wow, new life is starting to appear in the garden. Snowdrops, crocus’ are out and even some of my daffodils are starting to bloom.

Sometimes I find that I am just unable to do my practice at home. My teacher always said that a walk in the outdoors can be your yoga practice for the day. Being in the moment is what it is all about. Observing the shimmering vibrancy of life around you.

When walking in the outdoors focus on the nature around you. Notice what is happening around you. Experience your walk in every sense, smell, sound, touch... Breathe. Check your posture when walking. Start in Tadassana, mountain pose. Working from your base; feet and knees hip distance apart. Keep your knees soft, neutral pelvis. Feel your spine long, relax your shoulders. Feel every step you make... Breathe. As you walk around and you observe things around you maybe take a moment to sit and really truly look at something like a flower. Being absorbed in a single object is called Dharana.

Every experience that comes your way is your Yoga, whether it is doing the most mundane of tasks, if you just take time to observe every moment, notice how you feel doing the task, what it really involves. So the next time you are doing the washing up, see and feel the bubbles on your hands... Breathe..... Try turning off the radio when you are driving and notice how much more you can experience the journey... Breathe.....

We have recently started Dharana practice in class. Candle Gazing. You can try this at home. The candle needs to be at the same height as your gaze when seated and about one metre from you. Take a few moments to get comfortable then look at the middle of the flame for about one minute without blinking. It is normal for your eyes to water and this can be really cleansing for your eyes. After a minute or when you sure this image has ‘burned’ into your minds eye then close your eyes and focus on the image in your mind until it fades. You can repeat this 3 or 4 times. You should find that as you practice your mind quietens. If thoughts occur, just acknowledge them and return back to your breath and the image of the flame. If you have time you can lie in Savasana (relaxation) for a few moments. Obviously candles can be dangerous to please practice with care. :0)

If you are relatively new to my classes...Welcome. If you have not been for a while why not set an intention to get back on the mat? Breath, Relax, Be.

NEWS

Classes:

General Yoga

Monday 7:30pm Innerspace, Maude Grey Court

Wednesday 9:30am, Old Catton Church Hall, Blacksmiths Way

Baby Yoga

Monday 10am, Thorpe End Village Hall, Plumstead Road

Pregnancy Yoga

Wednesday 7pm, St Mary Magdalene Church Hall, Silver Road

Easter Classes

There will be no classes from 18 April. Classes resume 04 May 2011.

Just a reminder that as of 04 May prices for General Yoga passes will be £36. This means that classes are only £6 each – bargain!! Your pass is valid for 8 weeks.

For class enquiries please contact Jessica on Jessica@blissyoganorwich.co.uk

PRANAYAMA – BREATH AWARENESS

Prana – vital life; life force

Yama – control

Many of you have been asking for directions on Pranayama. The most fundamental breathing technique to master is the full and complete breath. The best way to practice this is lying on your back in Savasana with one hand on your belly, one hand on your chest.

After spending a few moments observing your natural breath start to manipulate or control your breath by breathing into your belly, filling your belly and then drawing your breath into your chest. As you exhale relax your shoulders, chest and belly. As you inhale feel your belly and your chest push into the palms of your hands. As you exhale soften and relax your belly. Inhale, fill your belly then your chest watching the wave like motion of your belly and your chest. Exhale, relax your shoulders, chest, belly and even start drawing your belly button back towards your spine.

Practice for about 5 minutes to start with. Try and practice every day. You can bring this fundamental and most fulfilling breath into your daily life and whenever you remember, whenever you catch yourself practice the full and complete breath.

Hari Om Tat Sat

Jessica

blissyoganorwich

December 2010

2010-11-30T21:53:00.005Z

Brrr! Hope you are all keeping warm and enjoying the flurry of snow that we are experiencing at the moment. My little girl Aylah is enjoying her first real experience of snow and is having the time of her life building snowmen and shrieking with delight at the white cold stuff that she finds it difficult to walk in...

Just a reminder that the Inner Space Christmas catch up is on December 06 after class at the Bicycle shop. The last class before the Christmas break will be on Monday 20 December. We will return Monday 10 January. Although I will be seeing some of you at the San Kalpha workshop on Sunday 9 January.

The Old Catton Christmas catch up is on 15 December at 12pm at the Woodman. The last class before the Christmas break will be on Wednesday 15 December. Classes resume on Wednesday 05 January.

I have a couple of spaces left for the San Kalpha workshop which will be a wonderful way to start the new year.

Bliss Yoga Norwich

is hosting

New Year's San Kalpha Workshop

09 January 2011

Setting the intention for lasting change

The New Year is traditionally a time for us to make resolutions for positive change. More often than not, however, those resolutions are set aside before long and we resume our old ways. Why is it so hard to change? Because we are governed by our unconscious mind. Only by overcoming the unconscious patterns that exert a dominant influence on our behaviour can lasting change occur.

In this special New Year’s workshop, Yoga Master Katrina Repka will teach you how to incorporate your best intentions through the yogic practice of San Kalpha. The workshop will begin with an overview of the chakra system and then, through the practice of asana, will explore the first and second chakras (where our deepest unconscious impressions are stored). The physical practice will be followed by seated pranayama and a powerful San Kalpha meditation to nourish and activate our best intentions in order to bring them to consciousness and make them real in our lives.

St Andrews Church Hall, Thunder Lane, Thorpe St Andrews

£35

Contact Jessica for more information:

Tel: 07501 303 546

Jessica@blissyoganorwich.co.uk

**SPECIAL OFFER**

Know a friend with a baby aged 6 weeks-crawling? Bliss Yoga Norwich is offering for a limited time only a special reduced price of £30 for a 6 week Baby Yoga course. Just mention 'happy baby' when booking the course.

Keep warm and remember to add warming spices to your meals to help balance the winter chill. Garlic and ginger are especially beneficial at this time of year.

Love and Light

Jess x

November Newsletter

2010-11-01T08:26:00.008Z

Hello Everyone

What a beautiful October it has been. Warm, fresh, sunny days. We are currently surrounded by the beautiful colours of Autumn, and crisp curnchy leaves, perfect for a good stomp in the woods.

I am very excited to be hosting a workshop in January. As most of you know I lived and completed by yoga training in Australia. Moving back to England recently has left me with some distance between myself and my teacher Rachel Zinman and as I would love to share some deeper ISHTA knowledge with you she has put me in touch with Katrina Repka who works and lives in London. I would love for you to come and join me and welcome Katrina to Norwich.

New Year's San Kalpha Workshop

Setting the intention for lasting change

When: Sunday 9 January 2011

What Time: 1pm-5pm

Where: St Andrews Church Hall, Thunder Lane, Thorpe St Andrews

Cost: £35

Contact: jessica@blissyoganorwich.co.uk or 07501 303586

Katrina Bio:

Yogiraj Katrina Repka has been studying and teaching yoga since 1992. Her early training was in Ashtanga yoga, but she has been primarily influenced by ISHTA Yoga, the creation of Yogiraj Alan Finger, the renowned US-based guru, with whom she has worked closely since 2001.

Katrina has co-authored two books with Alan: Chakra Yoga: Balancing Energy for Physical, Spiritual, and Mental Well-being (Shambhala, 2005), and Breathing Space: Twelve Lessons for the Modern Woman (Voice, 2009). She also writes for Yoga Magazine.

Katrina now lives in London and has been featured in numerous magazines and newspapers such as Elle, Vogue, Tatler, the Guardian, and the Telegraph, and has appeared as a yoga expert on BBC radio and television. She also teaches group and private classes and leads workshops and retreats internationally.

Her yoga style emphasizes the harmony of body, mind, and spirit, and she teaches with care, commitment, and energy.

More Bliss Yoga News...
The next baby yoga course commences on 29 November. Bring a friend and recieve £10 off your Baby Yoga Course. Come and learn fun songs and yoga moves for babies that really helps with sleep and digestion. Also some gentle yoga moves for mums so you can start to get back in touch with your own body. Classes are suitable from 8 weeks to crawling. Contact jessica@blissyoganorwich.co.uk for further information.

Christmas Gatherings
Those of you that join me at Inner Space there will be Tea at the Bicycle Shop on St Benedicts after class on Monday 6 December.

Those of you that join me at Old Catton there will be a light Christmas luch at the Woodman Pub, North Walsham Road after class on Wednesday 15 December 12:00pm. Bookings required so please contact jessica@blissyoganorwich.co.uk

Experience your Birthright download
For those of you that join me for Pregnancy Yoga you may be interested in an amazing cd that helps mothers experience a postive and calm birthing experience. I played it at every opportunity and found it a great way to relax during pregnancy and during the birth of my little girl. Click here for more information and add Bliss1 into the promotion code and recieve a discounted price.

Synerprotein
Stop cravings and give your body a slow release energy with Synerprotein. It is a fabulous drink that is designed to give you a powerhouse of nutrition and energy providing a high quality non-genetically modified soya protein supplement which is dairy free, wheat free, yeast free, gluten free and virtually fat free.

It is balanced protein supplement providing essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals, and a great vanilla flavor. It also provides 3 g of fiber per serving.

SynerProTein also contains the exclusive SynerPro Concentrate, which provides a rich and wholesome base of fruits and cruciferous vegetables with antioxidant benefits.

This product is only available to healcare providers including Nutritionists, I can provide this for you for the cost of £15 for a massive 448g pot which lasts for ages.

I found it amazing during pregnancy as it gives both you and your baby essential vitamins and minerals and it provides a slow release energy that stops you craving sweet stuff (and therefore filling yourself with empty calories and extra weight that should be avoided during pregnancy). Its also a quick filler if your'e busy and miss (or perhaps in your case cannot face) a meal. I still use it as I am always zooming around and have it in addition to breakfast and it
really gives me the energy I need as a busy mum. If you are interested contact jessica@blissyoganorwich.co.uk

Beat the winter chill
ISHTA stands for the Integrated science of Hatha, Tantra and Ayurveda. Ayurveda is the ancient indian science of health and healing. Ayurveda teaches daily and seasonal compensatory mechanisms to help you maintain health at all times. When you maintain regular habits throughout the seasons, you are less prone to change-of-season illness. When you fail to compensate for chages in the seasons or stages of life, imbalances arise. The junction between seasons or stages of life, imbalances arise. The juntions between the seasons are common times to fall ill. Winter is the time in nature when there is inactivity. A time of rest and refelection, enabling the mind and body to quietly recharge in preparation for the new year. However it is a balance and as the damp dark days of winter set it in can be easy to hibernate like a bear. Without a balance it can aggravate tendancies towards oversleeping, lethargy, heaviness, greediness and avoidance of change. So, how to balance your body and mind suring the winter season? Take plenty of exercise, dont sleep in. Dont overeat - avoid sweet, sour and salty foods. Eat plenty of vegetables and lots of spices. Drink plenty of fresh ginger tea. Try this beautiful balancing meal...

Kichadi
Ingredients 1 tbs ghee (clarified butter) or olive oil
2 bay leaves
1 tsp cumin seeds, fennel seeds,grated ginger root, corriander,tumeric
1 cup basmati rice (presoaked for 3 hours or overnight)
1 cup split mung dal (presoaked for 3 hours or overnight)
4-6 cups water
2oz root veg. (I always add loads of carrots, sweet potato, squash = yummy)
squeeze lemon juice

Melt ghee or oil in large pan. Add all spices, bay leaves and ginger saute for 1-2 mins Add rice and dahl and 4 cups water, bring to the boil. Cover and cook 25-30 mins adding more water if necessary. Add vegetables and cook for another 15 minutes or until vegetables soft. To serve add lemon juice. (I like to add a splash of soy and a dollop of sour cream to serve)

Enjoy the sunshine and look forward to seeing you on the mat.

Much love
Jessica

Autumn 2010

2010-08-26T15:50:00.004+01:00

Hello All

I hope you have had a wonderful summer. I have had a wonderful break, as most of you know camping, so we have been exposed to the full range of summer weather that Norfolk has had to offer. It has had it challenges especially with a very inquisative little girl who has been into everything, including all that she shouldn't, so it has been very, lets say, hmmm, lets say it has been a growing experience :0)

It has been very interesting to observe my Yoga practice and how to continue my Yoga practice when everything around me is topsy turvy. How has your Yoga practice been over the summer break. Do you have a home practice? Would you like a Home practice but you are not sure where to start? I have several tips for starting a home practice.....

Firstly make the commitment. Say to yourself I will do 5 minutes of practice at least 3 times this week.

Choose a time that is good for you. Most people find the best time to practice is first thing in the morning or last thing at night but choose a time that will work for you and try to stick to it.

Choose a place to practice. Maybe find a place in your home that is clutter free, light and airy.

Keep it simple. Start by focusing on your breath. Spend a few moments focusing on your full and complete breath. Add a few simple stretches into your routine (a good place to start is the - hand, shoulder, feet rotations (Pawanmuktasana series) )and finish with a few moments of relaxation. Before you know it half an hour will have passed and you will be feel wonderful.

I look forward to talking to you about that in class.

Classes return to normal from 06 September:

Monday 06 September
Baby Yoga* 10am - Thorpe End Village Hall
General Yoga 7:30pm - Inner Space

Wednesday 08 September
General Yoga 9:30am - Old Catton
Pregnancy Yoga* 7pm - Silver Road

* spaces are limited so please book

There are a couple of Yoga Events that I would like to let you know about:

YOGA GROOVE FESTIVAL
17-19 September East Sussex Seaside
The UK's first weekend festival of juicy yoga, funky music, disco flashmobs, drumbeats, magical story-worlds, yummy food and body-mind-spirit tune-ups by the sea, to get your Self connected. Benefitting a new foundation that brings yoga and meditation to young people and other under-served groups across the UK.

YOGA AID
Sunday 12^th September, 10.00-12.00 at St Thomas’ Church Hall on Earlham Road, Norwich.

For the first time, the charity ‘Yoga Aid’ is being represented in the UK in London and Norwich.

9 yoga teachers from Norwich will talk participants through different styles of sun salutations (108 sun salutations altogether), to raise money for charity.

Take part!

If you would like to join in on the event, please let the event organiser, Lu, know asap – there are only 38 places - lou@yogahappy.co.uk. You will then need to register online with Yoga Aid: go to the UK event, then Norwich, then sign up as a challenger. www.yogaaid.com/uk

As a ‘challenger’ you will be talked through the sun salutations, with people demonstrating at the same time, offering modified versions of the salutation. You don’t have to do all 108 salutations – you are free to sit out rounds if you like. To take part, you have to raise some money – it doesn’t matter how much. Get friends and family to donate online to support you.

Donate!

If you can not join in, please go to the website to donate money through Lu's page – go to the Norwich event, find Lu, and donate.

You can also follow this link: http://www.yogaaid.com/uk/Leader.aspx?lid=6fe8413a-f542-4a7d-b525-bf83e2fba211

ALL of the money you donate goes directly towards the 3 main charities that you can also read about on the website.

Thanks for your support!

Last but not least..... a friend of mine is organising an Anusara Yoga workshop with Lisa Sanfillipo on Saturday 13 November. The workshop is 10-4 with a break for a shared lunch. Please contact info@babyfit.me.uk if you are interested. Cost is £30 for the day. I recently attended a workshop with Lisa and can wholeheartedly recommend it, I will be attending in November so it would be lovely to see you there. There are quite a few parallels with ISHTA and Anusara Yoga too which is an added bonus.

Hope you have all had a wonderful summer and I look forward to seeing you all again soon.

Much love

Jess

Newsletter July 2010

2010-07-06T21:20:00.003+01:00

Hello All

I hope you are enjoying the wonderful warm weather, long sunny days and light evenings. Summer is here :0)

Bliss Yoga will be taking a break this summer. Due to the halls having other commitments the last class varies. Please see below for the details of the last classes.

The last baby yoga class is Monday 19 July
The last Inner Space Class is Monday 19 July
The last Old Catton class is Wednesday 21 July
The last pregnancy yoga class is Wednesday 04 August

All classes will resume the week commencing Monday September 06.

If you are interested in the baby yoga course starting Monday September 6, 10am please email me your details and I will reserve you a space. Baby yoga includes yoga moves for babies that can help relieve colic and help improve digestion and sleep. Yoga moves for mums to help you reconnect back with your body and your breath. It is also a great way to meet new mums, share experiences and bond with your baby.

Pregnancy yoga starts Wednesday September 08. If you have not reserved your space yet please let me know as soon as you can as the course is filling up quickly.

Old Catton and Inner Space are drop-in classes so no need to book.

Remember world healing day is Sunday July 11th.

Join studios and teachers from around the world in the "Global Yoga Peace and Healing Prayer" July 11, 2010 for the new moon eclipse.

Help spread the word to all yogis and yoginis, healers and bhaktis and anyone else whose passionate about global change

"What if..... all the yogis all over the world sent their healing prayers to mother earth for just one day...." Whether you are teaching a class, workshop or retreat or doing your own practice, on July 11th please take a few moments to visualize our beautiful earth healing. Let this prayer come from your heart... bring your focus to the things in your life that you know you can change and then use that faith to direct your intention to one of mother earth's biggest challenges, the gulf oil spill...

Science has proven that prayer works! So lets make this prayer POWERFUL and contribute to a global shift towards HEALING our Planet and our world HEART!

"Healing," Papa would tell me, "is not a science, but the intuitive art of wooing nature."-- W.H. Auden

ALSO don’t forget you can be kept up to date of all events by becoming a friend of Bliss Yoga Norwich on Facebook.

I do hope to see you before the summer break. If not have a super wonderful fun filled summer and see you in September.
NAMASTE

NOTE: Apologies if you have received this Newsletter more than once. I am currently updating my mailing list so if you have not been to class for a while and would still like to receive the Newsletter please let me know and I will add you to the new mailing list compiled throughout July.

NOVEMBER 2009 NEWSLETTER

2009-11-07T14:20:00.005Z

We have entered the darker half of the year now, summers end, or Samhain. Traditionally celebrating the last harvest of the year. As the days grow shorter people can become light deprived, experience Seasonal Affect Disorder (SAD) and may feel depressed and lethargic. Asana the physical aspect of yoga can help by increasing your endorphins, balancing your brain chemistry (your endocrine system) in particular fish pose (Matsyasana ) shoulder stand (Salamba Sarvangasana) and spinal twists are beneficial. Increasing your inner fire (tejas) by practising heating postures such as chair (Utkatasana ) or heating breathing techniques such as kapalabhati are also helpful.

It is also very important to tap into our inner light or glow (Jyoti). As plants tap into their inner resources during the dark hours we too can do the same.

Jyoti occurs when the brain is in a relaxation similar to that of sleep, yet the person remains awake. Holding the attention to the midbrain (Ajna Chakra) stimulates this inner light. Science acknowledges that there is an optical radiance that takes place in the mid brain during a state of deep relaxation.

Practicing five minutes of Jyoti where you experience the light internally, has a far longer reaching effect than the external stimulation of sun lamps.

This exercise only takes a few moments each day and helps recharge your batteries by using your inner light.

Practice:
Sit in easy pose cross legged (Sukhasana) with your spine long, eyes gently closed. Count backwards from ten to zero, tapping the center of the forehead(ajna). Between each tap, pause for 2 seconds , feeling your consciousness move to that point in the center. When you reach zero rest your hands on your thighs or knees. Keeping your eyes closed use the mantra "Aim" (ah-eem) to relax and clear thought, allowing the light to remain in the mid brain region (pineal gland that controls your endocrine system) for five minutes. When finished, rub your palms together to create heat and move the energy down chakra by chakra to reground. Practice this every day in the late afternoon. Jyoti exercise provided by Alan Finger.

On a personal level I would like to thank all those that sent their good wishes to both Aylah and myself. I am enjoying being a mum (Eeek!! Mum, that does sound strange) Aylah and I are learning about one another and each day brings joy and new wonder. I have attached a photo of Aylah dressed in her little pumpkin Halloween costume and a photo of us both with my Old Catton Yoga group (hello guys!).

I am starting to organise which classes I will be teaching in the new year so please bear with me. However, I know that I will be returning to Inner Space Monday 11 January 7:30pm and look forward to seeing you there. I will send further information on classes shortly.

Much love to you all.

Om Shanti

May 2009 Newsletter

2009-05-14T09:16:00.004+01:00

Is Yoga your weekly treat or a way of life?

When I first started to practice yoga I could not wait for my weekly sessions. It was a refreshing change to the office environment that I worked in at the time. It helped break up my day and made me feel that there was more to my life than work, eat, sleep. It made me feel wonderful and I soon started more than one class a week.

Hatha Yoga is the physical form of classical yoga. This yoga emphasises methods of doing yoga poses (asana) and breathing exercises (pranayama) for physical health and well-being. It is a practical science that unites body, mind, breath and spirit to create balance and well-being. Hatha Yoga consists of held and moving postures, combined with tuning in to the breath. The alignment of the muscular and skeletal structures is an important focus of the asanas.

I soon started to feel both the physical and mental benefits of yoga. Some of the benefits of a regular practise are:

Builds strength, stamina and endurance
Improves balance, coordination and posture
Improves muscle tone and flexibility
Strengthens the immune system
Improves memory and concentration
Calms the mind, reduces tension and releases stress

Regular practice will help you control your emotions and thus lead a more fulfilling and satisfying life.

There are many different types of Yoga including

Karma yoga - in its simplest form, the action as well as the result of the action. Doing a task and not expecting any reward. Selfless service or the Yoga of Action.

Bhakti Yoga - the Yoga of Devotion. Usually shown by decorating an image with flowers, candles; Singing and prayer or mantra. It is said that Bhakti softens the heart and removes jealousy, hatred, lust, anger, egoism, pride and arrogance. It infuses joy, divine ecstasy, bliss, peace and knowledge. All cares, worries and anxieties, fears, mental torments and tribulations entirely vanish.

Raja Yoga - of which Asana is a part of. Yoga of the Eight Limbs. Which I will talk more about next newsletter.

Jnana yoga - Jnana is sanskrit for knowledge. Properly understanding the body and the soul.

It doesn't matter whether yoga is your weekly treat, perhaps an escape from the kids. Time for yourself. Perhaps a way to de-stress; a break from work at lunchtime or maybe for you just a physical work out. Maybe all of the above :0) It really doesn't matter, the point is that you practice yoga in whatever form you choose. What I do know is that the benefits are many an obviously the more you practice the greater the effect. Happy practicing.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

As of June 1 the class price will be £7 drop in. £35 for a 6 class pass - thats buy 5 classes and get one for FREE!!

Tuesday 26 May is the last Tuesday lunchtime class at The Complimentary Health Care Clinic. If you fancy a lunch time yoga class you can still come on Wednesday 12:30-1:30.

March 2009 Newsletter

2009-03-12T10:00:00.005Z

The snowdrops are in full bloom and so are the crocus'. The cheeky daffodils are peeking through so it won't be long before they are in full bloom too. Do you feel that Spring is here? Well, it is certainly on its way and we have had some lovely sunny days. I even ate my lunch on my patio yesterday and soaked up the warm rays of the sun. Spring is definitely a time for optimism. We are leaving behind the grey days (mostly) and looking forward to picnics in the park and barbeque's.

The end of the month brings the Spring equinox (equal night) so we can look forward to longer days to come. Now is the time of newness and growth and as nature starts to sprout the seeds that have been gestating over the winter months perhaps it is time to think about what you want to sprout in your life and start to take action towards that now.

As the seasons change, so does life. Things do not stand still for long. I have been gently reminded of this recently after being extremely settled although not being in Norwich for long I have been asked to move house (nothing sinister, the house owners are returning from overseas). My initial reaction was shock then anger at the inconvenience and extra cost that I am about to incur. But what can I do? This is only upsetting myself and does not resolve the situation. So, the solution. Embrace change, something that a lot of us find difficult to do as we like to wrap ourselves in cotton wool and be protected by our bubble. This change of attitude has been wonderful. Now I see the change as exciting adventure that I am about to embark on and something positive. So I pose you the question, should you have a little moan that things sometimes don't happen the way you want them to or embrace the change? Whatever the situation, be it big or small, try and change your perspective and see see how that changes your life.

EXCITING NEW CLASSES
From March 26 I am starting a pregnancy yoga class
Where: St Mary Magdalen Church Hall, Silver Street
When: 7:00-8:15pm
Cost £42 for 6 classes
You may not be pregnant yourself, but please forward to anyone that you know is pregnant. Pregnancy yoga is hugely beneficial for both the mother and baby during pregnancy and birth.
** Numbers are limited so please call to book

I am also running a trial of 4 baby yoga classes. These classes are for babies from 6 weeks up until crawling age (approx 9 months). Classes include Yoga moves for babies and can assist in colic and help sleep; songs and postnatal yoga moves for mum. They are also a great way to meet other mums (or dads) and share experiences.
Where: St Mary Magdalen Church Hall, Silver Street
When: 11:00-12:30 (Including tea break)
Cost INTRODUCTORY OFFER :£25 for 4 classes
**Numbers are limited so please call to book

Contact Jessica
jessica@blissyoganorwich.co.uk
Mob: 07502 303 546

Current Class Schedule

February 2009 Newsletter

2009-01-30T14:25:00.003Z

Hello Everyone

February, how exciting! The bulbs in my garden have started to peak through the soil just to tantilise me and let me know that spring is just around the corner. However snow is forecast and siberian winds are on their way, I am sure we are in for a bit of chilly weather before that happens though. Snow brings its own beauty though, appreciate that.

Last month I briefly spoke about Yoga being the art of being in the present. This month I would like to expand on that and talk about how we might achieve that.

How many times do you drive to work and wonder how you got there, not totally remembering your journey or have uttered the words "Sorry I was miles away"?. We spend so much time mulling about things that have happened in the past or worrying about the future that time literally slips by. We are so busy multi tasking that we are never actually fully aware of what we are doing. It makes sense that we just take time to do one thing at a time and be fully aware of the task in hand. So if you are driving to work, try turning off the radio. Listen to the sounds, notice your journey, try a different route and notice things along the way, feel the steering wheel in your hands.

Why negatively impact your wellbeing by physically doing one thing while your mind is doing another? No wonder we can feel exhausted all the time if you are constantly absent minded and ahead of yourself.

Next time you cook a meal focus of what you are doing, concentrate on peeling then slicing the carrot, notice the texture, colour and smell. You will be surprised at how much tastier your meal will be, and how much joy you can achieve from even the smallest of tasks. As you walk around your office notice how the sun shines in the window at different times of the day. I guess it boils down to the difference between living and existing.

So, in short take time to appreciate the little things.
Focus on one thing at a time and really notice what it is that you are doing.
Instead of one activity merging into the other take just a couple of seconds between each one to breathe and collect yourself.

Above all there is no point in worrying about things that have past and it is crazy to worry about things that may happen in the future. There is no point in worrying about things that you can do nothing about. Just take each moment as it happens.

I look forward to seeing you in class soon.

Monday 7:30-8:45 Inner Space
Tuesday 12:30-1:30 The Complementary Health Care Clinic
Wednesday 9:30-11:00 Old Catton Church Hall
Wednesday 12:30-1:30 The Complementary Health Care Clinic
Thursday 5:00-6:00 The Complementary Health Care Clinic

**IMPORTANT**
There are no classes 16th-19th February Inclusive (this includes UEA classes).

January 2009 Newsletter

2009-01-02T20:04:00.007Z

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

I hope you all feel refreshed and rested after the Christmas break. Rejoicing with friends and family, sharing laughter and love.

The start of a new year, a time for setting your intentions for the year to come. Your new years resolutions…. Coming to yoga class at least once a week – right? :0) Well, coming to a regular class can be a start to healthier, happier and more balanced you. Don’t worry if you have not been for a while, 2009 is a new year, a new start. If you introduce a friend during the month of January, you can get your class for FREE!!!

The art of yoga is to ‘BE HERE NOW’. To be in the moment, take time to pause and literally smell the roses. Well not this time of year perhaps but take the time to breathe, look at the sky, notice the changes in nature around you….smile. Showing love and affection to friends and family and taking time to appreciate what you have and who you are. I believe the first step is to be happy with what you are right now. To be honest 2009 can bring whatever you want it to bring, set your intentions and keep the momentum going. I keep hearing on the radio 2009 is going to be a bleak year, well it will be if you have that state of mind!! I believe 2009 will be a year of change and of new hope for the world.

Schedule

Classes for 2009 start on Wednesday 7^th January, the first being at Old Catton Church Hall 9:30am then our exciting new venue at 34 Exchange Street at 12:30pm. University classes do not commence until 20th January, I hope Santa brought you all that you wished for especially to all you students that had yoga mats on you Christmas list :0). For my full schedule click here.

Saturday 10 January

10:30am-12:00pm 113-119 Ber Street (Rapid Defense) Come to my first Saturday class of 2009.

Drop in class cost remains the same at £6.50. If you buy 5 classes you now get one class FREE, the 6 class pass is £32 and is valid for all locations.

I would like to pass on a mantra from one of my teachers. A mantra is a sound vibration. This mantra is using Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language. The different words are sounds that resonate with our being. This mantra helps root our goals into the unconscious part of our being where they can then manifest into realities. Sit in a meditative position and mentally picture your intentions. You than then mentally repeat this mantra “Om Trum Atma” (“Ohm Troom Aht-mah”)

May 2009 bring you much joy and peace.

I look forward to seeing you soon.

Jessica

December 2008 Newsletter

2008-12-04T11:22:00.009Z

Christmas is nearly upon us, the streets are full of shoppers doing last minute shopping - I must confess I haven't even started my gift shopping!! Only two weeks of yoga classes left for 2008. Last class is on Wednesday December 17th (UEA students Wednesday 1oth). Escape the mayhem and revitalise with a yoga class!!

Schedule
Monday 7:30-8:45pm Inner Space
Tuesday 12:30-1:30pm The Complementary Health Care Clinic
Wednesday 9:30-11:00am Old Catton Church Hall, 12:30-1:30 The Yoga Room
Thursday 5:00-6:00pm The Complementary Health Care Clinic

2009 Classes commence Wednesday January 7th

Over the last few weeks we have been practicing breath awareness and some simple pranayama techniques. However when we apply these techniques with sensitivity and awareness the effects on the mind, body and spirit are amplified. Having an understanding of the respiration process helps us to increase our sensitivity to breathing, not only on a physical level but on a more subtle level. Once we understand the subtleties of the respiration process we can start to understand the effects of pranayama:

Lie in savasana and take a few moments to become comfortable ensuring your spine is straight and your body relaxed.
Become aware of the area from your abdomen to your nose and feel this area as one unit.
Bring the awareness to your nose and feel the breath in your nostrils.
Feel the air and prana as it passes the tiny hairs in your nostils.
Feel the air in the sinus cavity behind the nose, take a moment to smell the air as you inhale.
Follow the path of air as it travels down the nasal passages to the larynx where the vocal chords are.
Follow the tube like structure down the chest behind the breastbone where this then branches into two, one pipe on the left one on the right - the bronchi.
The bronchi then split into smaller branches called bronchioles and clustered at the end are tiny air sacks called alveoli, intertwined with tiny blood vessels, this spongy tissue makes up the lungs.
Visualise the air and prana passing from the nose to the lungs where it is then absorbed by the body. Feel the air and prana filling every cell of your body. Oxgen enriched blood is taken to the heart which is then pumped around the body. Carbon dioxide, the waste product of our breath is passed to the lungs and is exhaled. Take a moment to visualise this exchange.
Become completely familiar with the flow of your breath and the respiration process.
Feel the oxygen and prana reaching from the deepest of body organs to the extremeties of your body, right into the tips of your fingers and toes. There is no part of the body that does not recieve this vitalising flow.
After a few moments bring your awareness back to your body, take a deep breath in and stretch your arms above your head, point your toes away from you stretching the whole of your body. Then take your time and slowly come up to a seated position.

You can do this technique at anytime whenever you have a few minutes to spare. You can even use this technique as a relaxation process before you go to bed.

The daily breathing process is automated and mecanical. Practicing the above technique helps us to become more aware of our breathing process in our every day life and helps us to breath more consciously and with better understanding. Happy breathing!!

I wish you all a very happy and peaceful time during the festive season!! I look forward to seeing you in the New Year

Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti.

November 2008 Newsletter

2008-11-17T15:15:00.004Z

During the past week I have been talking about prana, and how we can activate, circulate and control prana using Asana and Pranayama (breathing techniques). Here are a few details on how prana travels around the body and a technique for you to practice Ujjaii breath:

Beyond the physical breath (oxygen & carbon dioxide) is prana. Prana is the universal vital energy that rides on the breath – our subtle life force.

Prana travels in channels called Nadis, a network of energy channels in the subtle body that takes prana to every cell in the body.

One of the challenges of yoga is to harness this energy to fuel our physical, mental and spiritual development. Hatha (the physical from of yoga) was created to cultivate, circulate and control prana; Asana helps cultivate and circulate prana and strengthen the nadis and Pranayama controls and cultivates and purifies the nadis.

Of the 72,000 nadis there are 3 main nadis; ida, pingala and sushumna. All originate at the base of the spine and run to the crown of the head. Sushumna nadi is the main energy channel that runs in a straight line from the base of the spine to the crown of the head. Ida and pingala spiral up from the base of the spine to the crown at the head crossing seven times throughout Sushumna. Where these 3 main nadis cross is where the chakras (wheels of energy) reside.

PRANAYAMA

Prana = energy, life force

Ayama = lengthen, extend

Ujjaii Pranayama = Victorious breath

Ujjaii is a full and complete breath and uses a gentle constriction of the back of the throat (glottis) to create a gentle echoing sound of the breath. The sound of the breath is used to focus and soothe the mind. Ujjaii breath is also used to give you strength in strenuous poses.

Method

Start by inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth making a “Haaaaa” sound as if you were misting up a mirror. Feel the gentle constriction of the throat. “Haaaaa” the length of the breath is also extended.

Now try and keep the “Haaaaa” sound as you gently bring your lips together. You should notice the sound of the breath, Ujjaii is sometimes referred to as ‘Ocean Breath’ as it relates to the gentle rolling of the waves. Repeat the exhale through the nostrils with the gentle constriction of the back of the throat until you are comfortable.

Using the same gentle constriction at the back of the throat inhale. Notice the sound and length of the breath.

The breath should not be forced or rasping, keep the breath slow and gentle. Keep practicing and if you can continue with Ujjaii throughout your Asana practice, but don’t worry if you forget or find it a little strange at first, it will come more naturally with time.

CLASS SCHEDULE:

Monday 7:30-8:45pm Inner Space

Tuesday 12:30-1:30 The Complementary Health Care Clinic

Wednesday 9:30-11:00 Old Catton Church Hall 12:30-1:30 The Yoga Room

Thurday 5:00-6:00pm The Complementary Health Care Clinic

http://www.blissyoganorwich.co.uk

October 2008 Newsletter

2008-10-23T19:06:00.001+01:00

Hello Everyone

The Seasons are changing
Autumn has reached its peak now, the harvest is all gathered in. The days are getting shorter and Winter is almost upon us. We return once again to the reflective spiritual realms inside ourselves, for regeneration of the Spirit, rest, and contact with our inner wisdom....Review and assimilate what you have learned in the active phase of the year’s cycle. Prepare yourself for the new year ahead. Nurture your visions, dreams, ideas and direction, so that they may incubate in the dark winter months ready for when thhe active phase begins again. Glenny Kindred

I attended a wonderful workshop with Dina Cohen about the clocks turning back and the changing of seasons. I wanted to share the notion with you that Winter is not a bad thing. Animals hibernate, the leaves fall off the trees and the energy is drawn in to the core. It is time for us to slow down, after the activity of Summer, look within, and plant the seeds ready for regeneration in Spring.

New classes to Bliss Yoga Norwich
Exciting News!!! I am teaching in a new location in Norwich

The Complementary Health Care Clinic. It is located at 34 Exchange Street, Norwich on the upper floor. If you hold a multi class pass, you can also use it at one of my classes here.

Tuesday 12:30 - 1:30pm

Thursday 5:00 - 6:00pm

Saturday classes
My next Saturday class is 15 November 2008 10:30-12:00pm at the Yoga Room, 41a All Saints Green, Norwich. It would be wonderful to see you there.

A date for the diary
Only 7 weeks of Yoga left this year! Scary, I know! My last Yoga class of 2008 will be on 17 December. Yoga classes for 2009 start on 7 January. It seems a long way off at the moment so dont worry I will remind you again nearer the time.

The end of an era
The Yoga Room will not be opening in 2009. However, no need to panic! Wednesday lunchtime classes will continue in a new Location. We will be moving to and sharing the space at Rapid Defence 113 Ber Street (just around the corner from The Yoga Room) . Unfortunately the Friday evening class will not continue in 2009, so why not take the opportunity while you can to soak up Friday evening yoga - what a fabulous way to start the weekend!

Watch this space for further developments.

Newsletter 15 October 2008

2008-10-15T21:20:00.000+01:00

Hello Everyone

Welcome to the Bliss Yoga Norwich Newsletter!

Firstly I would like to thank you all for your support or enquiries. As a small gesture please follow this link to download a FREE Relaxation CD http://www.blissyoganorwich.co.uk/newsandevents.html

Beat the winter blues with TWISTS Saturday 18 October at The Yoga Room. 10:30 – 12:00 Squeeze, stretch and revitalise.

Why not start the weekend with Friday at The Yoga Room 6-7:15 .

Also why not try one of my new Classes?

Monday 7:30-8:45 & Thursday 12:30 – 1:30at Inner Space

For more information on me and my class schedule visit http://www.blissyoganorwich.co.uk

Love and Shanti

Jessica