Yoga
Yoga
My approach to teaching is heavily influenced by self-inquiry, somatic movement, restorative practices, grounding vinyasa sequences, the self-practice model of asana and most importantly - my students.
After I began teaching in 2012 I could see that my students were benefiting so profoundly from the more nourishing approach of restorative practices. Not only is it more physically accessible and supportive of stressful, busy and active lifestyles it was also proving to be challenging students on more subtle levels, encouraging of self-acceptance and compassion.
In 2017 I made the decision to move away from the Vinyasa Krama school, within which I had dedicated much of my yoga studies, to further explore a more independently expressive and nourishing practice. I have since been drawn to, and inspired by, the empowering teachings of Donna Farhi, Angela Farmer amogst others, all of whom have offered wisdom and clarity to facilitate the discovery of the teacher within.
Every student will have their own journey, their own discoveries along the way. I encourage contact with, and confidence in, the inner voice. The vehicles through which this has felt most accessible are:
1) The Moon Sequence (Chandra Karma); and
2) Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep)
“From my first class with Laura,years ago, I was aware that I was lucky to have found an unusual and extremely wise teacher: totally inclusive and so kindly allowing; lucid and compelling to listen to. The Moon Sequence has been a delight to explore under her careful guidance and it has been a joy to follow her as she has thoughtfully developed and enhanced our practice-always in loving awareness and most importantly, straight from the heart.”
— Nicky, East Oxford
Moon Sequence
Chandra Krama, or the Moon Sequence, is a set sequence developed by Matthew Sweeney, who I studied with for eight years. The grounding, nurturing nature of the sequence allows for a more intuitive and meditative approach to the postures and movements.
The basic structure of the set sequence is taught with enough repetition and guidance for students to become familiar with the movements and create a stronger relationship with their bodies and to begin moving as a meditation. Once this confidence is established, a more spacious approach is offered, allowing students to really listen and respond to their own unique needs and innate wisdom.
For much of the yoga class sessions, students are invited to move at their own pace and discover for themselves a vibrant practice that may be subtle and gentle one moment, and expressive and dynamic in another.
Workshops are ordinarily 3 hours long - giving studens plenty of time and space to drop more deeply into their practice and enjoy much-needed respite from the pressures of everyday life. Please see below for an up-to-date schedule of upcoming dates.
Moon Sequence Schedule
Saturdays @ Everybody Studio, Magdalen Road, East Oxford
Jan 22nd - 2-5 pm; Feb 26th - 1-4 pm; Mar 12th & 26th - 2-5 pm; Apr 9th, 23rd - 2-5 pm
Yoga Nidra
What is Yoga Nidra?
Yoga Nidra is a restorative guided practice that invites students into a state of deep rest. Much of the yoga that’s currently offered is physically demanding and predominantly focused on movement and postures, whereas Yoga Nidra places the emphasis on stillness and complete relaxation.
What happens in a Yoga Nidra session?
The sessions begin with some very gentle movements that help to relax the mind and body. Some time is then taken to set up and settle into a comfortable resting position – this may be lying down on your back, on your side, or even in a seated position. Sufficient time will be taken to ensure that everyone feels supported, comfortable and safe. Then the teacher/facilitator will guide the students into deeper levels of relaxation using the awareness of the breath and sensations in the body. Often students will drift in and out of sleep and are eventually guided back into a more alert state, again connecting with the breath and gentle movements. Students often report feeling energised, well-rested, nourished and significantly more relaxed.
Nidra Schedule to follow shortly.
"I started practising yoga with Laura 3 years ago, at a time when I was adapting to the demands of motherhood and struggling to find balance in my life. From the first class I realised I had stumbled upon something special and quickly noticed significant improvements in my wellbeing.
Self-compassion and acceptance are central to Laura’s approach, and this influences every aspect of her teaching. The physical yoga is incredibly nurturing. It embodies both gentleness and strength, with Laura encouraging students to move intuitively according to their bodies’ needs. There is a significant focus on meditation and breathwork too, which I have found transformative. Her workshops are revitalising and her yoga nidra sessions are deeply restful.
Despite having practised other yoga styles for over 15 years, I can honestly say that through Laura’s nurturing and wise guidance I now have a much greater understanding of what yoga is really about. Laura is a gift of a teacher - warm, open, brave and inspiring. I would encourage anyone to study with her."
- Susie, East Oxford