Non-residential

This is an excellent way to create time and space for yourself and your Yoga practice. The initial consultation will help you to clarify exactly what you want from these personalised sessions. We will together plan a programme to help you develop strength, focus and stamina in whatever ways are most appropriate. Depending on your preference, your current state of health and well-being, the teaching will cover different aspects: including the various physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual dimensions. After the consultation it is recommended to start with 6 weeks of weekly or twice-weekly sessions before reviewing your progress; perhaps re-directing the focus or continuing on the same path. Typically, students experience quite remarkable and enduring improvements in their general health, well being and peace of mind, even those with chronic, long-term ailments.

Some students come with quite severe back, neck, shoulder and/or knee problems (of one sort or another) and all have found significant or complete freedom from pain, improved sleep, and a returning of strength and vitality within a surprisingly short length of time. It may be that Jane will recommend osteopathic/chiropractic treatment or remedial massage to complement the ongoing Yoga instruction. Yet others come in excellent health, seeking to develop or build upon an existing practice and move into more advanced Yoga, through asanas, meditation, chanting or philosophy - usually these aspects are taught in an integrated way. Students' recommendations available upon request.

Residential

View from Yoga studio at Jane's home in Somerset, SW England

Minimum 2 night stay. Following written or telephone completion of a health and personal questionnaire we will discuss your aims and needs for this residential stay. You could use your time to relax, refresh, de-tox & energise, or you might prefer to work intensively on your asana practice, alternating with periods of silence, discussion and reflection. You can be met at Castle Cary or Gillingham BR station or drive to Jane's house in North Brewham, near Bruton, Somerset.

Included: Accommodation is simple and comfortable, 1/2 board. Food is vegetarian, as organic as possible; and caffeine, alcohol, dairy and wheat-free unless otherwise agreed. Two daily Yoga sessions tailored to your individual requirements (asana, meditation, chanting, philosophy), and choice of one or two massages as appropriate (Thai Yoga, relaxing aromatherapy, remedial sports injury). The setting is very tranquil, on a quiet country lane, close to both woodland and open country walks, and various National Trust estates.

Prices and details on application: Please note, Somerset residentials continue to mid-December 2006; then from February 2007 onwards Jane will be offering these residentials in Bristol (Redland).

"In my view, it is not useful to think of different kinds of Yoga; all Yogas stem from the same ancient roots; Yoga is designed to help each individual, whatever their age, background, or experience."

Workshop day at the abbey

Workshops: Focusing more deeply on specific aspects of Yoga over the course of one or two days, usually 10-4pm, sometimes 3-4 hours. Each day is different, but generally with more physically challenging Yoga in the morning, break for light lunch, afternoon session ending with a calming guided relaxation (Yoga Nidra). Workshops include: Astanga Vinyasa Yoga days or British Wheel of Yoga days focusing on for example: Asana (variously): standings/seated/twists/forward/backbends/inversions. The Chakras and the elements, meditation, The eight limbs, Yamas and Niyamas in relation to dynamic practice. Workshops take place Somerset, Exeter, London and around the UK. See schedule for upcoming dates.

"In this way the mind-body connection is made, and Yoga blossoms."

Residential retreats: These take place at carefully selected venues around the UK, Egypt and India. A warm and welcoming environment is provided, in which you can completely relax and let go of everyday cares, duties and responsibilities. The deliciously energising food is planned and cooked according to traditional Yogic principles and will help you to get maximum benefit. The schedule is structured to leave time for walks, relaxation and local outings; you choose whether to spend free time alone or with others in the group. Being on retreat helps one to step back from life, reassess life direction and sense of purpose, as well as providing the opportunity to become strong, fit and relaxed through daily Yoga practice. Click here for current dates.

© Jane Sleven 2003 - www.yogatree.uk.com