This approach to yoga was pioneered by the late Vanda Scaravelli, and her teachings have been handed down by her former long term students.

Hers is not a method in the traditional sense of the word; the emphasis here is less about how to do the postures (the placing of limbs, feet, head etc here or there, turning or stretching or holding), and more about undoing areas of tightness, finding ways to release patterns of holding (our body/postural habits), by making small adjustments, beginning to explore the yoga postures from a place of inner listening, and responding to this. Her wonderful book ‘Awakening the Spine’ is less a yogic text, and more an invitation to live life with yoga placed very firmly at the centre.

Working in this way means learning to trust our own sense of what feels right, more than simply what may look right. Gradually through patience and practice, the two perspectives (inner and outer), can become more closely aligned.

My role as a teacher is to guide, support, suggest and gently steer students towards an understanding. The yoga ‘shapes’ arise, rather than are performed, which helps foster a sense of ease and clarity. The breath quietens and deepens, and the whole body is encouraged through care and gentleness, to soften, explore, and expand. In this way strength, flexibility and calm is cultivated, alongside sensitivity and a deepening awareness.