A new yoga class is starting from Thursday, 30th April at HRI. The class will run weekly between 17:30 - 18:30, and is open to all CHFT colleagues of all levels and abilities.
Consultant in Elderly Medicine and Frailty, Dr Zosia Beckett, will be teaching the classes, she said: "I first got into yoga about 10 years ago as a way to improve my balance, strength and to help relax.
"The style of yoga I teach is called Vinyasa yoga - this is a flowing type of yoga, where one posture flows into the next in a sequence. I love it as you have to listen and focus on your body and breath. My teaching style is very inclusive of all body types, genders and abilities. I am certainly not the best yogi, and would encourage people to have fun and before long you will be amazed at what your body is capable of doing.
"A typical session will be 60 minutes in length. A couple of minutes to settle into the session and a stretch to begin. A series of sun salutations, standing postures, seated postures, cooling stretch, before pranayama (breath work - very important in our stressful jobs!), and shivasana (rest!) I also offer optional hands on adjustments during the class to help with alignment and also use essential oils as part of the relaxation part of the session.
"After a few sessions you will see that you are moving through the postures with more confidence and have developed strength and flexibility. I hope you also see a benefit in your mood and come away from the sessions feeling that you have exercised well but also relaxed. Feedback from other classes I have taught has been really positive, especially for those who haven't done yoga before, I start slow and build things up over time.
"People should wear clothing that they can move in - a t-shirt and joggers / leggings are fine. Yoga tends to be done with bare feet, but if this isn't something you are comfortable with, you can wear socks with grips. If you have your own mat please bring one and a water bottle to keep hydrated.
"I think all of us that work in healthcare tend to prioritise others, rather than ourselves. So, by setting up a yoga session, which is convenient - straight after work and in the hospital, as well as being low cost, will hopefully encourage colleagues to come and try it out and prioritise their own health and wellbeing. My classes are flowing, inclusive to all and relaxing.
"I look forward to seeing you on the mat."
The sessions, which cost £7, will take place in Forum 1A and 1B in the Learning and Development Centre between 17:30 - 18:30. To register interest please scan the QR code on the attached leaflet or email your.yogaprescription@gmail.com
