The psychology of doing yoga with a group, pea soup!

First classes back in the new year this week and I know I’m not the only one who cannot wait to get back! Back to our tranquil space to reconnect with the silence, peace and solitude of our yoga mats in a room full of other people. Our mats are like a little island in the big sea of life and we have taught ourselves to find refuge there. 

The psychology of this is really interesting, and it applies whether in-person or doing yoga in a group online. One of our biggest fears as humans (sub-conscious or not) is the fear of being isolated from the tribe. In our ancestory this would no doubt lead to our death (another subconscious fear we all have); in our modern world we could survive alone but the gripping fear is still there. Fear causes constriction - tight muscles and fixed negative thoughts. We thrive in community, we relax when we are supported. In our yoga classes we instinctively know we are accepted, we belong. After all, all you need to do is show up to be a part of the group. We are less inclined to be self-absorbed and more inclined to feel a part of the human race, I love to call it a feeling of 'being a pea in large pot of pea soup!' Think of the vibe when you are at a gig or a match, or on a dance floor, part of a big, happy, energised group of humans. Who doesn't love that? That's what's happening to your brain, your nervous system and to every cell in your body every time you make it to class. A feeling of belonging, of coming home. No pressure to be special or to be the best, nobody cares if your warrior pose is amazing or if it's wobbly, just an acceptance of who you are, as you are, simply showing up. 

With that in mind, a few reminders: releasing what keeps us stuck is the goal; you are amazing just as you are; we all struggle, you are not alone.

The Goal of Yoga

The yoga pose is not the goal.
Becoming flexible is not the goal. Standing on your hands is not the goal.

The goal is to create space where you were once stuck. To unveil the layers of protection you’ve built around your heart. To appreciate your body and become aware of the mind and the noise it creates. To make peace with who you are.

The goal is to love, well… You.

Come to your yoga mat to feel; not to accomplish.

Shift your focus and your heart will grow.

Rachel Brathen. 

I'm so grateful to be returning to another year of time on the yoga mat with you all with so much exploring and discovery awaiting us! This year I’m focusing on more regular on-line time together, one workshop a month, you are welcome. Thank you all so much for your commitment to your practice (and to yourselves). 

Kindest regards, 

Sylvia.

All upcoming classes and events are listed on the events page of the website.

Online workshops weave in a bit of optional journalling to assist with brain-dumping and finding clarity! Dress code pyjamas or yoga pants or a bit of both. Tickets for our next event on January 20th are €20, please book by selecting a quantity of two here or you can book via Eventbrite. 

For those of you who like your yoga under sunny blue skies I have been working with Solar Alvura in Portugal, Dr. Eva's stunning health hotel, to create a full calender of retreats for you to choose from. One a month. It's a short hop on a Ryanair or Aer Lingus flight to Faro Airport and the hotel is only 30 mins away from there, we collect you. While I am on retreat I have a substitute teacher taking classes in Dublin so everything runs all year round and you can be consistent in your yoga practice.

In Portugal we combine yoga with relaxation, incredibly healthy food (think big colorful plates bursting with flavour and vitality; dessert, wine and treats if you wish) and excursions around the area. Swimming in the  Atlantic Ocean (our local beach is on a little inlet), we boat to magical islands, we visit olive farms and cobbled Portuguese Villages, we relax beside the orange grove in the evenings. We get a lot of repeat bookings so please enquire early for your favourite month. Often people come alone, it's very safe and welcoming. All upcoming retreats are listed on the events page of the website, we would love to see you there!