October 2025 Newsletter

Fall, Leaves, Fall

Emily Brontë

Fall, leaves, fall; die, flowers, away;

Lengthen night and shorten day;

Every leaf speaks bliss to me

Fluttering from the autumn tree.

I shall smile when wreaths of snow

Blossom where the rose should grow;

I shall sing when night’s decay

Ushers in a drearier day.

Viniyoga

Ten students completed their 500-hour Viniyoga Therapy UK training in September under the guidance of trainer Dr. Kausthubha Desikachar. Four of them are teachers at the Dorchester Yoga and Therapy Centre. It was an honour to have Sir come to Dorchester as he travels around the world teaching yoga in the tradition of his father, T.K.V. Desikachar, and grandfather, T. Krishnamacharya, and so it felt very special for him to visit our town.

A rigorous, transformational 3-year course, the ending corresponding with a new moon solar eclipse and the Autumn eclipse. The energies of balance, shadow, and renewal converging all together. A reset point for us all. The eclipse asks us to release old stories and patterns of behaviour, the equinox restores harmony and balance, and the new moon plants the seed of what comes next. The Therapy course has been a reset point for all of us training; this cosmic event can be a reset point for us all.

Moon

In previous newsletters, we started looking at eight of the most uncomfortable but essential truths we all need to accept in life, written by Dr Kausthubha Desikachar.

  1. The only one who can change you is You!
  2. Only you can give yourself closure!
  3. A no-risk policy is the biggest risk of all!

This month, we look at number 4

4. Quitting is for winners… sometimes! 


Life is a game of finding the perfect balance between putting yourself out there and knowing how and when to quit while still ahead. Because, despite what you have been told all your life, quitting can be a good thing too. Knowing when to stop, changing direction, and leaving behind a negative situation will save you a lot of heartache as you grow in your path. So think long and hard about which battles are worth fighting and give up anything else that no longer serves you. Don’t quit because it is hard. Quit because it makes you unhappy, because it is no longer working, and because you deserve better.

New Class – Rocket Yoga

Helen

We’re excited to welcome Helen Hayek back to Dorchester Yoga Centre this Autumn. Some of you will remember Helen as she taught a Men’s Yoga class a couple of years ago. Helen is a Yoga Teacher, artist, and pottery teacher who brings her creativity and love of movement into every session.

Helen will be teaching Rocket Yoga on Mondays at 5 pm (45 minutes). Rocket is a fun and fast-paced style of yoga set to pop music, making it light-hearted, energising, and easy to follow. It’s a brilliant way to start your week — and yes, it’s beginner-friendly!  You can find out more here.

Pushing Hands Workshop

Pushing with the Principles of Classical Yang Family Tai Chi Chuan.

This is a great opportunity for those with some previous knowledge of pushing hands to look at the principles behind pushing hands rather than focusing on the techniques. Although understanding techniques is important, few students develop a clear understanding of how to use the principles of the Yang family system to develop internal power (Peng Jing). With this, you can neutralise techniques with minimal effort and reach a state where any movement with intention is an effective counter. You can find out more here.

Restorative Yoga

Finally, a reminder that my Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra workshops start back this month. Pilates workshops start back, and Arianna is back with her Gong and singing bowls.

Enjoy the colours of Autumn, get cozy, and enjoy all we have to offer.

Sharon

October Workshops & Events

Friday 3rd 6.30-7.30 pm
Breathing and Yoga Nidra with Sharon Cox-Button

Friday 10th 7.00-8.30 pm
Tuning Fork Sound Bath with Angelic Healing with Nicki Greenham

Saturday 11th 10-11.15 am
Pilates Workshop – Upper Body Focus with Sharon Morgan

Sunday 12th 10.00-1.00 pm
Iyengar Yoga Workshop with Cheree Low

Friday 17th 6.30-8.00 pm
Sound healing with Crystal Bowls with Ellen Wells

Saturday 18th 10.00-12.30 pm
Yin Yoga Workshop with Chrissie Haskett

Saturday 18th 10.30-11.45 am
Yoga Sutras Of Patanjali with Sarah Ryan

Saturday 18th 12,00-1.00 pm
Vedic Chanting with Sarah Ryan

Saturday 18th 2.00-3.30 pm
Venus Gong Sound Bath With Arianna Puran Udini

Sunday 19th 10.00-1.00 pm
Vedanta Group with Marj Snape

Sunday 19th 1.30-3.30 pm
Pushing Hands Workshop with Duncan Price

Saturday 25th 10.30-12.30 pm
Ashtanga Workshop – an Easy Approach with Ness Sherry

Saturday 25th 10.30-1.00 pm
Introduction To Viniyoga Teacher Training Course

Saturday 25th 2.00-3.30 pm
Singing Bowls Soundbath with Arianna Puran Udini

Saturday 25th 2.00-3.30 pm
Reiki Share with Peter Griffiths

Sunday 26th 1.30-4.00 pm
Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra with Sharon Cox-Button

Friday 31st  6.00-7.30 pm
Yin Yoga with Toni Franklin

“Letting go takes a lot of courage sometimes. But once you let go, happiness comes very quickly.”

~ Thich Nhat Hanh ~

September 2025 Newsletter

This has been a Summer to be truly immersed in nature, with so much wonderful weather. I hope you have been able to enjoy the outside. I have enjoyed sitting in my garden and in Borough Gardens, swimming in the sea, camping, walking, and gardening; hopefully, it has been nourishing for you.

The energy of Summer is high, and there may be a relief for some that the days are becoming shorter, that the rain has finally come, we can begin to slow down, and maybe start tackling a few indoor chores!

We often think earth and nature is outside us, yet earth is as much within us as it is outside. Our yoga practice helps us access the earth within us whenever we choose, through sound and meditation. So if you haven’t been able to get out much, or when the winter months come, we can still access the earth. Through slow stretching and forward bending, and relaxation. Our planet Earth has a frequency, a series of octaves that has been measured by modern science as ranging between 7.83Hz and up to 150Hz when earth is particularly active. We can tap into that frequency through sound and meditation, through being present in our bodies, through chanting or listening to certain music. This grounds us, calms, stabilizes, and soothes us.

“This is not our home, this hectic hurry of life,
This fast-lane pace, switching, speeding, spinning.

We were made to dwell in the slow unfurling of a rose,
Or at a point where the seed breaks open
To send forth the first wakening root tip.
We are breath and the slow tide of earth’s
Reaching for the bright moon”

Catherine Pawson

 

500 hour Viniyoga Teacher Training Course 2026-2028

Kim Burnham and Sharon Cox-Button

Kim Burnham and I are offering a free Open Day, to come and find out more about our 500 hour Viniyoga Teacher Training Course, which we are starting in April 2026. The training will take place over 3 Years, a complete and authentic Viniyoga® training, which originated from the teachings of Professor T Krishnamacharya and ‘Sir’ TKV Desikachar, and further developed by Dr. Kaustubha Desikachar, who is the son of ‘Sir’ Desikachar.

Join a deeply immersive and transformative journey into the heart of classical yoga.

  • Connect with the deep roots of yoga philosophy and practice
  • Gain skills to teach 1:1 and group classes
  • Experience a personal journey of self-awareness, empowerment & healing
  • Learn how yoga supports physical, mental, and spiritual transformation

Want to know more? Book a space to come and meet us at our open day, Saturday, October 25th, 10.30-1.00 pm.

New Classes

We have lots of exciting new classes starting this September, as we settle back into our routines. If you are already established in a class, please recommend them to friends, family members or your clients if you think they would be suitable.

Maxine Craig - Yoga Teacher

We are glad to have back a Sunday evening class at 5.00-6.00 pm called Body Flex and Flow with Maxine Craig, “A special fusion of Yoga, Tai-Chi inspired movement, & Pilates set to uplifting & motivating music”.

Kim jones - Pilates

Our chair classes are very popular, for those who have difficulty or prefer not to work floor-based, and so we are pleased to offer another chair class. Chair Pilates with yoga and pilates teacher Kim Jones, Mondays at 9.30 am.
More about our pilates classes

Fred Burnham

Fred Burnham is starting a class called Natural Tuesdays. Fred is inviting you to embrace the transition into a new season with a series of 9 progressive sessions designed to help you wind down from the busy summer months.  Tuesday evening at 7.45-8-45pm
More about Natural Tuesdays

Ness Sherry

Ness Sherry is taking over my 12.30pm Friday Mixed Ability class. It will still be a class suitable for beginners and those with some experience, renamed Yoga Energetics. A spacious, considered practice designed to help you release tension, reconnect with your body, and calm the nervous system.
More about Yoga Energetics

Ness is also offering an Ashtanga Immersion Weekend on the 13th and 14th of September.
Find out more here

And finally, a new early morning Pilates class with Sharon Morgan: Wake Up Wednesday 8-9 am.
View Sharon’s timetable

New Therapist

Jon crossley

A big welcome to massage therapist Jon Crossley, who is joining our therapy team. Jon caught my eye as he trained at the same excellent school as I (BCMB) when I was a massage therapist.
Find out more about Jon and what he will be offering


A no-risk policy is the biggest risk of all

In previous newsletters, we started looking at eight of the most uncomfortable but essential truths we all need to accept in life, written by Dr Kausthubha Desikachar.

  1. The only one who can change you is You!
  2. Only you can give yourself closure!

This month we look at number 3

  1. A no-risk policy is the biggest risk of all!

Are you convinced that playing it safe and staying in your comfort zone is the smartest thing to do? The truth is, it is not because living in constant fear of failure, hurt, and disappointment also means missing out on some of the best and most beautiful things life has to offer. As the saying goes, you have to risk failure to succeed and risk heartbreak to find love. Taking risks is essential if you ever want to experience worthwhile things like love, friendship, passion, and adventure. These things all come at a cost, but the price is considered much better paid than living a life full of regrets.

“We remember how to break open to beauty,
To stand weeping in our own magnificence
Even through the grief of it all,
To breathe and to cry and to split
our whole being in one smile”

Catherine Pawson

From Thursday 18th to Sunday 28th September, we have the final 10 days of The 3 Year Viniyoga Therapy Training, with Dr Kausthuubha Desikachar, which some of our teachers are doing. There will be some disruptions to the weekly timetable, but as always, the centre will be full of the energy of Vedic chanting and yoga philosophy. We look forward to welcoming you to the Autumn term

From Sharon and all

September Events

Friday 5th 6.30-7.30 pm
Breathing and Yoga Nidra with Sharon Cox-Button

Sunday 7th 2.00-4.00 pm
Meditation and Energy Workshop – Illumination With Lucy Bowtell

Friday 12th 7.00-8.30 pm
Tuning Forks For Stress Relief with Nicki Greenham

Saturday 13th 10.00-11.15 am
Slipslidin’ Away Pilates Workshop with Sharon Morgan

Saturday 13th 10.30-3.30 pm
Ashtanga Immersion Weekend with Ness Sherry

Saturday 13th 10.30-11.45 am
Yoga Sutras with Sarah Ryan

Saturday 13th 12.00-1.00 pm
Vedic Chanting with Sarah Ryan

Saturday 13th 1.00-4.00 pm
Iyengar Yoga with Cheree Low

Sunday 14th 10.00-12.00 pm
Ashtanga Immersion Weekend with Ness Sherry

Friday 19th 6.30-8.00 pm
Sound Healing With Crystal Bowls with Ellen Wells

Saturday 20th 2.30-5.00 pm
Yin Yoga Workshop with Chrissie Haskett

Sunday 21st 10.00-4.00 pm
Sacred Heart Meditation and Energy Retreat with Rachel Tapping and Lucy Bowtell

Friday 26th 6.00-7.30 pm
Yin Yoga With Toni Franklin

Saturday 27th 2.00-3.30 pm
Reiki Share with Peter Griffiths

Looking ahead to October

Arianna Franklin is back with two Sound baths, one with her Venus gong, which has just been restored to its final glory, and one with her Crystal Bowls. We are glad to have her back.

As we head into the darker half of the year, my Sunday Restorative and Yoga Nidra workshops start back at the end of October. Sharon Morgan’s monthly Short Pilates workshops also resume.

“Somehow, in the process of trying to deny that things are always changing, we lose our sense of the sacredness of life. We tend to forget that we are part of the natural scheme of things.”

~ Pema Chodron ~

July 2025 Newsletter

Viniyoga Teacher Trainer Graduation

Kim Mackie and I have arrived back from Chiang Mai in Thailand, proudly bearing our teacher trainer certificates in Viniyoga. Over the last two years, Kim and I have been part of a group of 16 experienced Viniyoga Teachers and Viniyoga Therapists, undergoing intensive hybrid training (both online and offline modules), and have just graduated as Viniyoga Teacher Trainers. With this certification, we are now authorised to conduct official Viniyoga Teacher Training programs in our respective countries, following the high standards of the tradition.

It was an honour to train with teachers from Japan, Korea, China, New Zealand, India, Italy, Belgium and Spain. We all graduated on the auspicious day of June 21st, International Yoga Day and the birthday of Sri TKV Desikachar, who, as the son of Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, “The Father of modern yoga”, brought Viniyoga to the West.

“Viniyoga is the appropriate adaptation of Yoga’s holistic tools such as Āsana, Prāṇāyāma, chanting, Mantra, and meditation to meet the needs of the individuals respecting differences in age, culture, religion, philosophy, occupation, physical, emotional and other health parameters that define each practitioner.”

– ‘Sir’ TKV Desikachar

Viniyoga Teacher Trainer Graduation

Viniyoga International Conference

We were in Thailand for 2 weeks, the first week finishing our teacher trainer course, and the second week we were joined by Fred Burnham, Sarah Ryan and Arianna Puran Udini for a Viniyoga International Conference.

Viniyoga International Conference

With around 100 participants from across the world, we shared in a week of learning, connecting and celebrating Viniyoga. We were deeply honoured by the presence of Madam Menaka Desikachar, TKV Desikachar’s wife who led us each day with Vedic Chanting.

Teacher Training Course 2026

Kim and I will start a teacher training course next year for anyone interested in becoming a yoga teacher in this tradition. We will hold an introductory day in the Autumn with more information for those who might be interested. Contact Kim or me if you would like to register your interest or find out more.

Kim Mackie

Kim Mackie has changed the focus of her classes, and from July, she is offering: Mondays – Yoga To Reduce Stress and Anxiety; and Saturdays – Yoga To Improve Energy and Circulation. You can find more about these classes here.

She is also offering 3 workshops throughout the next few months, along with her husband Fred. The first one is this month, Saturday 20th July, 2.00-3.30 pm – Yoga For Spine Health

Maxine Craig

Maxine Craig - Yoga Teacher

Maxine Craig is offering a workshop in July called ‘Yoga Zen and Hara – The Vital Centre‘. She is often asked, “What is Zen Yoga?“. She says, “I could summarise and say that it is physical movement for mobility and strength, and mindfulness for calming and steadying a busy mind, but it is so much more… and yet fundamentally simple.”

And what exactly is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is the secret to bringing all our experiences to life, without which we find ourselves either rushing towards or away from things, or drifting without direction or sense of participation. When your mind stays in one place, it is like beginning an adventure, and right there unravels the adventure of you. This one place is the present ‘now’ moment. By learning to follow your own map, your body, you awaken the mind, which by design reciprocates in guiding you, in telling you just what your body, your whole being, needs for wellness.

With an emphasis on physical alignment, mindful breath and movement, Zen Yoga supports core stability, joint health, and builds overall strength, balance and mobility. Qi gong and meditation elements help practitioners connect with the body, experience mental clarity, bring emotional resilience, and feel a reduction in stress.

As well as Maxine’s Monday morning class, she is starting a Sunday evening class in September from 5.00-6.00 pm called Body Flex & Flow. A special fusion of yoga, Tai-Chi inspired movement, and Pilates set to uplifting and motivating music.

Following a gentle Tai-Chi inspired warm-up, we’ll flow together through a selection of standing and sitting yoga sequences, Pilates-based core work, and finish with a restful guided relaxation. With a variety of music as the backdrop, this class will round off your weekend & set you up for the week ahead. Beginner or not, this class has something for everyone and is suitable for all.

You can contact Maxine on zenwaichi@outlook.com for more information on any of the above.

Only you can give yourself closure!

Last month, we looked at: The only one who can change you is YOU! The first of 8 uncomfortable truths based on the yoga philosophy of Patanjali. This month, we discuss the second uncomfortable truth: Only you can give yourself closure!

Maybe you were in an unhealthy relationship with someone, or you went through a traumatising experience. It could also be that you are still trying to move on from someone who abandoned you. Whatever it may have been, you must understand that while your trauma is not your fault, your healing is your responsibility. Closure is not something you get from someone else. It is something only you can give yourself, as it is a choice you make to move forward. Keep going, and do not let your pain define you anymore. Closure is the peace of mind that only you can give yourself.

There will be no newsletter in August, so July and August’s events are both listed below. Enjoy the rest of the Summer and the beauty of nature all around us.

Namaste,
Sharon

July Workshops & Events

Wednesday 2nd 5.00-6.00pm
Conversation With Chris – Christopher Matthews

Friday 4th 6.30-7.30pm
Breathing and Yoga Nidra – Sharon Cox-Button

Saturday 5th 10.30-11.45am
Yoga Sutras of Patanjali – Sarah Ryan

Saturday 5th 12.00-1.00pm
Vedic Chanting – Sarah Ryan

Friday 11th 7.00-8.30pm
Angelic Cakra Rebalance – Tuning Fork Workshop Nicki Greenham

Saturday 12th 11.00-3.00pm
Iyengar Yoga Workshop – Rachel Lovegrove

Sunday 13th July 2.00-4.00pm
Nervous System Meditation Session – Lucy Bowtell

Wednesday 16th 8.00-9.00am
Pilates Taster – Sharon Morgan

Friday 18th 6.30-8.00pm
Sound Healing With Crystal Bowls – Ellen Wells

Saturday 19th 10.00-1.00pm
Satsang – The Wonder of Consciousness – Derek Thorne

Sunday 20th 10.00-12.30pm
Yin Yoga Workshop – Chrissie Haskett

Saturday 20th 2.00-3.30pm
Yoga For Spine Health – Kim Burnham and Fred Burnham

Friday 25th 6.00-7.30pm
Yin Yoga with Toni Franklin

Friday 25th 6.30-8.30pm
Reiki Share – Saira Francis

Sunday 27th 10.00-3.00pm
Yoga Zen and Hara – The Vital Centre – Maxine Craig

August Events

Sunday 24th 10.00-12.30pm 
Yin Yoga Workshop  – Chrissie Haskett

Sunday 24th 12.00-1.30pm
Yoga To Improve Energy and Circulation – Kim Burnham and Fred Burnham

Friday 29th 6.00-7.30pm
Yin Yoga with Toni Franklin

“The ultimate goal of yoga is to always observe things accurately and therefore never act in a way that will make us regret our actions later.”

~ T.K.V. Desikachar ~

June 2025 Newsletter

The gardens are blooming, and the meadows are peaking; they are as colourful and teeming with life as they are going to be!

The summer solstice on the 21st marks the height of the sun’s radiance in the northern hemisphere. The days are long, the nights short, and life is for living to the full. Now is the time to embrace dreams that were seeded in Winter.

Midsummer can sometimes feel overwhelming, as there is so much to enjoy. Of course, we can’t capture midsummer just as we can’t hold winter back – it is as fleeting as all the other moments of the year, but we can make sure we soak it in. Sit in it, savour it, don’t rush around trying to do too many things, hold the feelings within you and enjoy them.

The Dance of the Sun and the Moon

The sun and the moon will enjoy a beautiful dance this month, something that happens every 18.6 years. Just as the sun reaches its highest point, the full moon will be at its lowest, looking extremely large, as it does when it is close to the horizon. When the sun is so high dusk stretches deep into the evening, and it is worth staying up with the moths and the bats, and as the sun finally sets, look to the opposite part of the sky to catch the beautiful low moon, a phenomenon that will have been enjoyed by many for thousands of years as they have gathered at stone circles.

Viniyoga Travels

Quite a few of our teachers will be training in Thailand in June, so the timetable will be slightly reduced. Kim Burnham and I are doing an advanced teacher trainer course with Dr Kausthubha Desikachar in the Viniyoga tradition, and then Fred Burnham, Sarah Ryan, Arianna Puran Udini and I will take part in a worldwide celebration of Viniyoga. We hope to come back and share it all with you!

Dr Kausthubha’s teachings are deeply rooted in the philosophy of the Yoga Sutras, to reduce human suffering and to help us become the best of ourselves. He talks about 8 uncomfortable truths that we need to accept about ourselves, the first one being:

The only one who can change you is YOU!


Just as you are responsible for your happiness, you too are responsible for your own personal growth and development. The moment you stop living in denial and open your eyes to your flaws and toxic traits, the sooner you stop making the same mistakes over and over again. Everyone in your life may be aware of it already, but until you call yourself out, it will not make much of a difference because the only person who can make any real, lasting change in your life is you.

Kausthub Desikachar reading at his workshop

Self-growth, Healing and Activation

Two of our newer workshop leaders, Rachel Tapping and Lucy Bowtell, have joined together to bring a workshop called ‘Self-growth, Healing and Activation’, the first one being at the end of the month – find out more here.

We have many of our usual workshops, although as we head to Summer, some will take a break until the Autumn.

Looking ahead to July

Sharon Morgan is running a taster session for an early morning pilates class 8-9 am on Wednesday 16th July, please contact Sharon (sharon@westdorsetpilates.com) if you are interested.

Cheree Low’s Iyengar workshops are finished now until September, but we welcome Rachel Lovegrove again, who is offering an Iyengar workshop on the 12th July.

We are delighted that leading Advaita teacher, Derek Thorne, is visiting the Yoga Centre again on the 19th July. Derek leads the Vedantarama Community (vedantarama.com) and has over 30 years of experience guiding and directing people in living and applying the profound teachings of Vedanta and navigating the human experience.

Deeply established in the teachings of Advaita Vedanta (the oneness at the heart of all things), Derek is able to bring clear, insightful and inspiring vision to these timeless teachings and to articulate them with clarity and flair. This public session is open to all genuine seekers curious about their true identity and the reality of this experience. Derek will be talking about the “Wonder of Consciousness: Knowing Your True Self” – Dorchester Satsang – Vedantarama. Suitable for all levels of experience. For more information and to book, please contact Marj – marjsnape@gmail.com, mobile 07747429559, or Nancy Chantrell – nancychantrell@outlook.com, phone 01305 750174.  

And finally, on the 20th July, Kim and Fred Burnham are doing a workshop “Yoga for Spine Health”.

All the above details are on the website.

Enjoy the fruits of your winter dreaming and spend as much time as you can outside in nature, soaking up the sunlight.

Namaste
Sharon

June Workshops & Events

Wednesday 5th June, 5.00-6.00 pm
Conversation with Chris

Friday 6th June, 6.30 – 7.30 pm
Breathing and Yoga Nidra with Sharon Cox-Button

Saturday 7th June, 10.30 – 11.45 am
Yoga Sutras of Patanjali with Sarah Ryan

Saturday 7th June, 12.00 – 1.00 pm
Vedic Chanting with Sarah Ryan

Friday 13th June
Tuning Forks For Stress Relief with Nicki Greenham

Saturday 14th June, 10.30 am – 12.30 pm
Back to the Heart: Counted Practice – Half Primary, Half Second with Ness Sherry

Friday 20th June, 6.30 – 8.00 pm
Crystal Bowls with Ellen Wells

Saturday 21st June, 10.00 am -12.30 pm
Yin Yoga with Chrissie Haskett

Friday 27th June, 6.00 – 7.30 pm
Yin Yoga Workshop with Toni Franklin

Saturday 28th June, 7.00 – 8.30 pm
Saturday Soundbath with Bex Leonard

Sunday 29th June, 10.00 am – 1.00 pm
Vedanta Group with Marj Snape

Sunday 29th June, 1.00 – 4.00 pm
Self-growth, Healing and Activation with Lucy Bowtell and Rachel Tapping

“Yoga is a light, which once lit, will never dim. The better your practice, the brighter the flame.”

~ B.K.S. Iyengar ~

May 2025 Newsletter

Welcome to MAY.

“May the sun bring you new energy by day,
May the moon softly restore you by night,
May the rain wash away your worries,
May the breeze blow new strength into your being,
May you walk gently through the world and know its beauty all the days of your life.”

– Apache Blessing

I took a holiday with my daughter to the South of France, and whilst wandering amongst a hilltop garden, we came across a few small gatherings of yoga students with their teachers. It reminded me of how yoga was traditionally taught in India, outside and sitting at the feet of the teacher.

There is a classical text of Indian spirituality: The Upanishads. A translation of the word Upanishad means “sitting down near” or “at the feet of a teacher.” The Upanishads are a collection of texts of ancient wisdom, flashes of insight which are revealed through a dialogue with a teacher; question and answer sessions to reveal spiritual teachings, an intimate session of spiritual instruction.

These ‘conversations’ are the results of an investigation into consciousness itself by ancient sages, and have thankfully been recorded so that we have these amazing understandings of consciousness today. Our present-day yoga practice, although seemingly very removed from these ancient practices, can lead us to the wonder and discovery of who we really are, what the universe is, and what is the significance of the brief drama of life and death. The wonder and enjoyment of why we feel so good at the end of our class or practice, or why it has left us emotional or even tearful, helps us to understand that yoga is more than just a physical exercise. As we bring ourselves out of relaxation or meditation there is a taste of ‘santi’ – peace, what the Taittiriya Upanishad calls the “body of joy” a freedom from all conditioning and limitations of time and space.

The Isha Upanishad is generally presented as the first Upanishad, and the invocation to it will be very familiar to some of you:

oṃ | pūrṇamadaḥ pūrṇamidaṃ pūrṇātpūrṇamudacyate |
pūrṇasya pūrṇamādāya pūrṇamevāvaśiṣyate ||

Om santi santi santi

A translation could be:

All this is full. All that is full.
From fullness, fullness comes.
When fullness is taken from fullness,
Fullness still remains

Om peace, peace, peace

Materialism reinforces the idea of scarcity, that there is not enough to go around, and so we are doomed to fight for ever diminishing resources. Spiritual economics are, in fact, the opposite and could simply be summarised by Gandhi as “there is enough in the world for everyone’s need; there is not enough for everyone’s greed.”

We dance to remember how to pray

New Event with Melanie Philip

It is normal practice within African Tribes that when the Joy of the people becomes low, then it is time for a Grief Ritual to be held so that the vibration of the community can come back into balance. Find out more about this wonderful movement and dance workshop, to bring back the essential balance between joy & sadness.

Movement dance

May May be all that you wish for, and hopefully those wishes will include some of our events below, 

Sharon 

May Workshops & Events

Friday 2nd May 6.00-7.00pm
Breathing and Yoga Nidra Sharon Cox-Button N.B change of time

Saturday 3rd May 10.30-11.45am
Yoga Sutras with Sarah Ryan

Saturday 3rd May 12.00-1.00pm
Vedic Chanting with Sarah Ryan

Wednesday 7th May 5.00-6.00pm
Conversations With Chris

Friday 9th May 7.00-8.30pm
Tuning Forks For Stress Relief with Nicki Greenham

Saturday 10th May 10-12.30pm
Yin Yoga with Chrissie Haskett

Saturday 10th May 2.00-4.30pm
Life Transitions – A Movement Medicine Event with Melanie Philip

Friday 16th May 6.30-8.00pm
Sound Healing with Crystal Bowls with Ellen

Saturday 17th May 10.30-12.30pm
Ashtanga Workshop – Counted Primary – Tristana in Focus with Ness Sherry

Sunday 18th 10.00-11.00am
Pilates Workshop with Sharon Morgan

Sunday 18th 1.00-3.00pm
Kundalini Activation with Rachel Tapping

Saturday 24th May 1.00-4.00pm
Iyengar Yoga with Cheree Low

Saturday 24th May 2.00-3.30pm
Reiki Share with Peter Griffiths

Friday 30th May 6.00-7.30pm
Yin Yoga with Toni Franklin

“We have never arrived. We are in a constant state of becoming.”

~ Bob Dylan ~

April 2025 Newsletter

A new moon – a moment of renewal, reflection, and quiet beginnings. The sky, though dark, is brimming with unseen potential, just like our lives in this very moment. The new moon reminds us that every fresh start begins in stillness, in the space where we choose to release what no longer serves us.

Hyacynths

April reminds us that growth often comes through moments of challenge and renewal. We have had a wonderful period of sunny weather so far, but for farmers, finding the right balance of rain and sunshine to kickstart the year’s crops is always a challenge. I am sure they would like some warm, damp weather and a little more rain to boost growth. 

As we step into this season of renewal, we can be reminded that our yoga practice isn’t an exercise regime but a philosophy to help us transform our lives. Use time in nature to feel and reflect as it teaches us how we need to be constantly flexible and open to change, and of course, we invite you to our many classes, workshops and events to help this constant journey of transformation and nurture new beginnings. 

Ongoing 3-year Yoga therapy diploma with Dr Kausthubha Desikachar

Dr Kausthubha Desikachar photo

Kim Mackie, Fred Burnham, Arianna Franklin, Sarah Ryan, and myself are currently participating in the 5th module of our 3-year Yoga therapy diploma with Dr Kausthubha Desikachar.

It has been a transformational course, an experience that goes beyond surface-level learning and into the heart of Yoga Therapy, based on Patanjlis yoga sutras.

But every session goes beyond theory, we are engaged in deep self-inquiry and personal healing. The course is in the Viniyoga tradition, as Yoga was initially intended – as a personalised, adaptive practice that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. It’s a deep dive into the classical roots of Yoga, designed to empower the student with profound wisdom, authentic techniques, and a life-changing personal journey.

We hope the yoga centre is full of the energy of growth and renewal.

New Events

We would like to welcome Lucy Bowtell (some of you will know her as Lucy Coffin) to the yoga centre. She is offering a workshop called Nervous System & Heart Energy Workshop to Soothe, Realign and Shift on the 27th April. This workshop will be repeated on the 25th May.

Returning Workshops

Ness‘s ashtanga workshop this month is called Redefining Ashtanga – Ashtanga Energetics.

Ashtanga is often misunderstood. It’s not just a physically demanding sequence – it’s a moving meditation, a play of breath, bandha, and drishti. When we focus solely on the external postures, we lose touch with the deeper energetics that transform this practice into something truly integrated. You can find out more about Ness’s workshop here.

We welcome back Rachel Tapping with another Kundalini Activation workshop.
Nicki’s Tuning Fork workshop this month is a chakra tuning and rebalance. See all our regular workshops below.

Our new Reiki Therapist, Carol Thwaite, is doing an “Introductory offer for April – £30 for a 1hr session”you can book with Carol here.

Spring Blossom

Enjoy Spring as it springs into life, get into nature as much as you can, get the life-giving sunlight onto your face and in all the cells of your body.

Best wishes from us all,
Sharon

April Courses & Workshops

Friday 4th April 6.30-7.30 pm
Breathing and Yoga Nidra with Sharon Cox-Button

Sunday 6th April 1.00-3.00 pm
Kundalini Activation with Rachel Tapping

Friday 11th April 10.00-11.30 am
Pregnancy Circle with Bec Oakaiah

Friday 11th April 7.00-8.30 pm
Chakra Clear Cleanse and Rebalance Tuning Fork Sound Bath with Nicki Greenham

Saturday 12th April 10.00-12.30 pm
Yin Yoga with Chrissie Haskett

Saturday 12th April 2.30-4.00 pm
Saturday Soundbath with Bex Leonard

Sunday 13th April 10-00-1.00 pm
Vedanta Group with Marj Snape

Friday 18th April 6.30-8.00 pm
Sound Healing with Crystal Bowls with Ellen Wells

Friday 25th April 10.00-11.30 am
Pregnancy Circle with Bec Oakaiah

Friday 25th April 6.00-7.30 pm
Yin Yoga Workshop with Toni Franklin

Saturday 26th April 1.00-4.00 pm
Iyengar Yoga with Cheree Low

Saturday 26th April 2.00-3.30 pm
Reiki Share with Peter Griffiths

Sunday 27th April 2.00-5.00 pm
Nervous System & Heart Energy Workshop to Soothe, Realign and Shift with Lucy Bowtell


Coming in May

Life Transitions: A movement medicine workshop with Melanie Philip

“The success of Yoga does not lie in the ability to perform postures but in how it positively changes the way we live our life and our relationships.”

~ T.K.V. Desikachar ~

March 2025 Newsletter

Welcome to March at Dorchester Yoga and Therapy Centre.This month we reach the Spring Equinox when day and night are momentarily the same length. A brief moment of balance before the days become longer and the light encourages the energetic growth of Spring and the excitement of all that we have to look forward to. From our dreaming and planning in deep Winter, we can begin to act on the many seeds planted deep within the subconscious.

Just as there is brief balance at the equinoxes throughout the year the reality is that for most of us, although we search for and try to find balance in our lives, we know it is not really within our control. We are carried through life by patterns, thoughts, and memories and react to actions we have no control over. Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras are a philosophy that helps us cope with the ups and downs of life and the constant chatter of our minds. Chapter 2 is called Sadhana Pada, meaning practice. It was written for the majority of us who have a disturbed, distracted mind and for whom meditation is not easily accessible.

11.1 Tapas svadhyaya isvara pranidhana kriya yoga

Sutra 1 tells us that practice is called Kriya Yoga, the yoga of action consisting of tapas (self-discipline), svadhyaya (self-enquiry) and isvara pranidhana (surrender to a higher state).

These three aspects are the start of the yoga journey, the journey to discovering our inner selves, leading us to spiritual absorption or the state of Samadhi and beginning to weaken all causes of suffering.


11.2 Samadhi bhavana arthah klesha tanukarana arthah ca

The self-discipline, (tapas) of daily yoga practice, with self-enquiry, (svadhyaya) through reading ancient texts, self-help books or maybe seeing a therapist. The third part of Kriya Yoga is Ishvara Pranidhana. This is offering all actions to a higher force, and remaining humble to the realization that we are not in control of all that happens to us.

Gratitude

New Classes

We have two new classes starting this month with two familiar faces.

Healing and massage Therapist Melina James is offering a new breathwork class on Tuesdays 7.45-8.45pm. This is suitable for beginners, you can find more details here. Melina is also offering 10% off her treatments in the therapy room for any new clients.

Melina James

We are delighted to have back Katie Pitney who taught a few years ago. She will be offering a Beginner’s Yoga class on Thursday evenings at 7.45-9pm. Katie has a lovely gentle teaching manner and I know many of you will be pleased that she is back again.

Katie Pitney Massage Therapist

New therapist: Reiki 

Carol Thwaite, a familiar face at our Reiki Shares is joining the team and offering Reiki treatments in our therapy room, so a big welcome to Carol.

Carol Thwaite Photo

Susie the famous Dorchester cat has discovered the yoga centre as an evening hang out, although her favourite practice is definitely Savasana.

Cat

Enjoy the longer days and practice Kriya Yoga: self-discipline, self-study and surrender.

From Sharon and the team

Monthly Courses & Workshops

Wednesday 5th March 5.00-6.00pm
Conversations With Chris – Christopher Matthews

Friday 7th March 6.30-7.30pm
Breathing and Yoga Nidra with Sharon Cox-Button

Sunday 9th March 10.00-11.00am
Pilates Workshop – Strength Balance Restore with Sharon Morgan

Sunday 9th March 1.30-4.00pm
Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra with Sharon Cox-Button

Friday 14th March 10.00-11.30am
Pregnancy Circle with Bec Osadiah

Friday 14th March 7.00-8.30pm
Tuning Forks For Stress Relief with Nicki Greenham

Saturday 15th March 1.00-4.00pm
Iyengar Yoga Workshop with Cheree Low

Saturday 15th March 6.00-7.30pm
Saturday Soundbath with Bex Leonard

Sunday 16th March 10.00-12.30pm
Yin Yoga with Chrissie Haskett

Friday 21st March 6.30-8.00pm
Sound Healing With Crystal Bowls with Ellen Wells

Saturday 22nd March 10.30-12.30pm
Drishti – The Power of Intention with Ness Sherry

Saturday 22nd March 10.30-11.45am
Yoga Sutras of Patanjali with Sarah Ryan

Saturday 22nd March 12.00-1.00pm
Vedic Chanting with Sarah Ryan

Friday 28th March 10.00-11.30am
Pregnancy Circle with Bec Osadiah

Friday 22nd March 6.00-7.30pm
Yin Yoga with Toni Franklin

Friday 28th March 6.30-8.30pm
Reiki Share with Saira Francis

“True yoga is not about the shape of your body, but the shape of your life. Yoga is not to be performed; yoga is to be lived. Yoga doesn’t care about what you have been; yoga cares about the person you are becoming. Yoga is designed for a vast and profound purpose, and for it to be truly called yoga, its essence must be embodied. ”

~ Aadil Palkhivala ~

February 2025 Newsletter

February heralds the first signs of Spring and this return to life is celebrated traditionally with the pagan fire festival Imbolc on the 1st of February. What joy the first snowdrops bring as they push up through cold hard ground, the company of a robin as you venture back into the garden and enjoy the lengthening afternoons, the sound of the first bumblebees and the promise of new life at the sight of pregnant ewes.

The promise of creation and love will be celebrated on the 14th of February, Valentine’s Day with Nicki Greenham. She is offering you a date at her Love Date – Angel Sound Bath. Spend an evening with the harmonies of the tuning forks and a little Angelic Love in this special nurturing Valentine’s Sound Healing. With beautiful candlelight, all you need to do is lay back and listen to the specific harmonies of the forks. It’s a soothing experience to feel nurtured in mind and body.

The days are full of little joys if we take the time to look and see the subtle daily and seasonal changes. Such as the time of sunrise and sunset, how the light changes throughout the day, what grows when, the migration of animals, the phases of the moon etc. This relating to various aspects of your environment is crucial. Not only does it anchor and ground you in the physical world, but it also slows you down and brings a new level of intimacy into your life.

Morning Sun

Embrace the Morning Sun

Start the day by facing the sun and feeling the warmth of it on your face. This may sound like a simple tip, but its impact on our well-being is profound. Exposure to natural light in the morning stimulates the brain, awakening it without the jarring effects of an alarm clock. This natural stimulus helps regulate our internal body clock, and our circadian rhythms, promoting alertness throughout the day, and sets the foundation for restful sleep at night.

The influence of sunlight extends beyond waking up; it has the power to improve mood and reduce stress levels. It Increases serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter associated with happiness, and boosts vitamin D production to contribute to an overall sense of well-being.

Our ancestors lived in harmony with nature, and their sleep environments were characterized by natural darkness. In today’s digital age, the invasion of artificial light, especially the blue light emitted by screens, disrupts our circadian rhythms. Research indicates that exposure to electronic devices before bedtime can suppress melatonin production by more than 50%, affecting our ability to fall asleep and the quality of our sleep.

Of course, the yogis knew the importance the sun played in our wellbeing. Surya, in Hinduism, is the name for both the Sun and the Sun god and there are many temples throughout India, and many mantras and chants worshipping the sun as the giver of life. A simple mantra Om Suryaya Namaha – Oh sun! We offer you our salutations! can be used throughout your morning practice, with hands held at the heart or the belly.

Hands Held At The Heart or the Belly

The Gayatri mantra below is chanted daily by many Hindus at sunrise:

oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ
tat savitur vareṇyaṃ
bhargo devasya dhīmahi
dhiyo yo naḥ pracodayāt

– Rigveda 3.62.10

Waking at sunrise, and chanting this mantra is a wonderful way to connect to the energy of the sun, and serves as a ritual to connect you more deeply to nature too. 

By honouring the sun, we can cultivate gratitude and a deeper connection to nature. The repetitive, rhythmic nature of the practice induces a meditative state, promoting spiritual growth and self-awareness. Or cultivate a stronger physical practice of Sun Salutation or Surya Namaskar such as the one below.

Suryanamaskar

Homeopathy

Homeopath Zofia Dymitr is passionate about how useful homeopathy can be in the home setting to improve health because that was her way into homeopathy and what inspired her to start homeopathy education. There’s a new book coming out later this month:  “Homeopathy at Home” an essential guide for anyone looking to take control of their health naturally. In this comprehensive book, Marcus Fernandez shares expert insights and practical advice to help you confidently treat everyday acute health issues using safe and effective homeopathic remedies.

Zofia would be happy to run a Homeopathy at Home course in March or April  at the Dorchester Yoga and Therapy Centre if there’s enough interest. Please email her on zofiadymitr@protonmail.com

New Therapist: Lisa Jelly

Discover the path to inner balance and meaningful change with Lisa Jelly, who joins our therapeutic team. A compassionate psychotherapist and coach dedicated to helping you navigate life’s challenges. Whether you’re facing a personal crisis, seeking clarity, or striving for deeper self-connection, Lisa offers a safe and supportive space for exploration. Combining a holistic approach through psychosynthesis with over 20 years of leadership coaching experience, she empowers clients to uncover their inner wisdom, overcome obstacles, and embrace their true potential. Find out more.

Lisa Jelly

New classes

Sharon Morgan is hoping to start a new pilates class and is trialling a new Tuesday session from 10.30 – 11.30 am. If you would like to come along to the complimentary taster session, hopefully, followed by a four-week short course with a view to continuing for the summer term. Free Taster Session Date: Tuesday 11th March 2025.

We have a Pregnancy Circle starting fortnightly on a Friday morning with Rebecca Oakaiah 10.00-11.30 am starting 31st January. Click here for more information.

We welcome back Bex Leonard who took some time off due to personal reasons last year but is excited to get back to her Saturday Soundbaths. She is offering two workshops on February 22nd.

Soundbath

Check out all our wonderful workshops below, and make us a part of your new rhythm and return to life!

From Sharon et al

Monthly Courses & Workshops

Sunday 2nd 10.00-11.00 am
Pilates Workshop with Sharon Morgan

Sunday 2nd 1.00-3.00 pm
Kundalini Activation with Rachel Mapping

Friday 7th 6.30-7.30 pm
Breathing and Yoga Nidra with Sharon Cox-Button

Saturday 8th 1.00-4.00 pm
Iyengar Yoga with Cheree Low

Sunday 9th 1.30-4.00 pm
Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra with Sharon Cox-Button

Sunday 9th 4.00-6.00 pm
Energy Mapping Workshop with Nicola Moss

Friday 14th
Tuning Forks Love Date-Angel Sound with Nicki Greenham

Saturday 15th 10.30-11.45 am
Yoga Sutras with Sarah Ryan

Saturday 15th 10.30-12.30 pm
Year Of the Snake Ashtanga Vinyasa workshop with Ness Sherry

Saturday 15th 12-1.00 pm
Vedic Chanting with Sarah Ryan

Saturday 15th 2.30-5.00 pm
Yin Yoga Workshop with Chrissie Haskett

Saturday 21st 6.30-8.00 pm
Sound healing with Crystal Bowls

Saturday 22nd 2.30-3.45 pm
Saturday Soundbath with Bex Leonard

Saturday 22nd 5.30-6.45 pm
Saturday Soundbath with Bex Leonard

Friday 28th 6.00-7.30 pm
Yin Yoga with Toni Franklin

Friday 28th 6.30-8.00 pm
Reiki Share with Ellen Wells

“Flowers don’t worry about how they are going to bloom. They just open up & turn toward the light & that makes them beautiful.”

~ Jim Carrey ~

January 2025 Newsletter

The natural year can act as a guide to living, and if we let it, January is a great time to start. If you step outside and look for activity you will find very little. Even the moon this year is at a ‘major lunar standstill’ a phenomenon that happens only every 18.6 years and will probably have been tracked by our neolithic ancestors in stone circles thousands of years ago!

It seems like there is not a lot happening in nature, but the work is happening underground, plants and animals are laying the foundations for the year ahead, doing it from a place of slumber. The challenge for us busy-busy humans is to do the same, to continue this time of darkness, rest and recuperation. Sleep more, daydream, meditate, think about and lay the foundations for your coming year and beyond. The busyness of the festive season is behind us, enjoy the clarity and stillness of January, we can be more intuitive now because we have the time. Time to do the inner work. Contrary to popular belief it is not a time for new beginnings, it is a time for reflection and imagining and dreaming, believing in your wildest of dreams. Your dreams and intentions now will set the scene for the year, the journey ahead. Remember energy flows where attention goes, so …imagine your year of 2025.

Restorative Workshops

My last three Restorative Workshops, which follow the darker half of the year, are on Sunday 12th of January, the 9th of February and the 9th of March. These two and a half hour classes offer plenty of time for reflection, dreaming and svadyaya (self-study). Through passive and supported asana, using bolsters, blocks, chairs and blankets the body is given time to unwind, the breath to slow and the mind to become present. This is followed by the practice of yoga nidra, a systematic method of inducing mental, emotional and physical relaxation and a moment to set a positive intention, a sankalpa for the coming year. This is suitable for anyone and particularly if you are very tired, stressed or recovering from illness.

Restorative Yoga

New Children’s Yoga Class

We have a very exciting new class starting this January!!

Nikki Gardiner holding feeling cards - Children's Yoga

Nikki Gardiner is offering a children’s yoga class on Tuesdays from 4.00 to 5.00 pm. The class is for 5-7 years olds, (although Nikki can be flexible with age if appropriate). Nikki has combined her passion for both yoga and children’s development, being an Early Years Teacher, and then achieving her children’s yoga teacher foundation course for 3-12 years. She is currently training in yoga for children with SEN. She has such an amazing amount of equipment to share with the children such as this feeling fan for children who don’t want to be verbal.

This class will help children gain resilience, emotional autonomy, and physical well-being, to help cope with society’s ever increasing demands and pressures.

Kim Jones is offering another 5-week post-natal yoga class, for mums and babies and this starts back on Tuesday January 7th 11.00-12.00pm. You can find more details here.


Two Free Events

Kim Jones is also offering a free Dancing For Birth trial workshop on Saturday 4th from 3.00 pm to 4.00 pm. Please contact her for more information.

Melina James, who offers massage and energy work in the therapy room is offering a free breathing class on Friday 10th of January from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm.

Here you can:

  • Reconnect with Your Breath – Discover the power of breath awareness as a foundation for mindfulness.
  • Explore the Breath-Mind-Body Connection – Learn how your breath can influence your well-being and help you feel more centred.
  • Take Home a Stress Relief Technique – Leave with a simple, effective breathing practice to use in your daily life.
  • This session is ideal for anyone curious about breathwork or looking to bring a little more calm and clarity into the new year.


New Therapist

Nicola Moss Square

A big welcome to Nicola Moss, who will be offering Systemic Coaching & Family Constellations in our therapy room.

Her offerings have been created to support the release of what feels blocked and to take meaningful steps towards balance and flow, so perfect for this time of year.  As a systemic practitioner, her work draws on family constellations, heart-led business and leadership, shamanic practices, energy work and sound medicine. She is offering a workshop on February 9th Energy Mapping – A Path to Clarity.

We have two more exciting workshops at the beginning of February so I will mention them now.

A big welcome to Rachel Tapping who is teaching for the first time at the centre. She is offering a Kundalini Activation workshop on the 2nd of February – Kundalini Activation with Glow With Rachel, you can find out more here.

In this Year of the Snake, Ashtanga Vinyasa teacher Ness Sherry is offering a workshop on the 15th of February called Freeing The Spine, you can find out more here.

We look forward to welcoming you back through the doors, to all our regular classes and workshops.

Dream Big

May you dream big this year
With best wishes form us all,

Sharon

Monthly Classes & Workshops

Friday 3rd 6.30 – 7.30 pm
Breathing and Yoga Nidra with Sharon Cox-Button

Saturday 4th 3.00 – 4.00 pm
Free Dancing For Birth Trial workshop with Kim Jones

Friday 10th 6.30 – 7.30 pm
Free Calm and Balance Breathwork with Melina James

Friday 10th 7.00 – 8.30 pm
Tuning Forks For Stress Relief with Nicki Greenham

Saturday 11th 1.00 – 4.00 pm
Iyengar Yoga with Cheree Low

Sunday 12th 1.30 – 4.00 pm
Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra with Sharon Cox-Button

Friday 17th 6.30-8.00 pm
Sound Healing With Crystal Bowls with Ellen Wells

Saturday 18th January 10.30 – 11.45 am
Yoga Sutras of Patanjali with Sarah Ryan

Saturday 18th January 12.00 – 1.00 pm
Vedic Chanting with Sarah Ryan

Saturday 18th January 2.00 – 3.30 pm
Reiki Share with Peter Griffiths

Sunday 19th January10.00 – 11.00 am
Pilates Workshop – strength | balance | playing with planks | functional mobility with Sharon Morgan

Sunday 19th 2.30 – 5.00 pm
Yin Yoga Workshop with Chrissie Haskett

Saturday 25th 10.00 – 12.30 pm
Qi Gong Workshop with Tim Button

Sunday 26th 10.00 – 1.00 pm
Vedanta group with Marj Snape

Friday 31st 6.00 – 7.30 pm
Yin Yoga Workshop with Toni Franklin

“Train your senses to be obedient. Regulate your activities to lead you to the goal. Hold the reins of your mind as you hold the reins of restive horses.”


The Upanishads ~

Doc12.4

December 2024 Newsletter

Stillness covers the land as we enter December. The earth’s energy draws down the life force of trees and plants, nourishing and supporting their roots for a well-earned rest. The long hours of darkness encourage us to do the same, so dim your lights, sit in candlelight or the light of the fire. Kim Jones is offering Candlelight Yoga on 13th December to get you in the mood.

Winter is our natural rest and restore season. Eat nourishing soups and stews. It is a time that reminds us of the impermanence of physical life, the cycle of birth and death, and the need to rest in order to rise again. As the outer world surrenders its light, our inner worlds can sparkle and shine, let your yoga practice be quiet and slow and meditative, bringing healing and health. It’s a time to reflect and let go of patterns and habits that don’t serve you and to make room for the new.

The Winter Solstice is the day with the shortest period of daylight and longest night of the year, and when the Sun is at its lowest daily maximum elevation in the sky. Sian Lalita Alcock is offering a wonderful celebration of the day – Honouring The Winter Solstice. We have many nourishing and restful workshops throughout December to help you find some stillness, we hope you enjoy them.

Breathing

A Winter Solstice Practice

Exhale and drop your mind energy down into your heart space. Exhale and drop your heart energy down into your lower belly space. Exhale and drop your lower belly energy down and out through your legs and into the earth. Inhale earth energy through the soles of your feet. Let it connect, heal & replenish your entire body.

Stretch2

From us all, thank you for sharing the year with us, seasons greetings, happiness and good health.

Sharon x

Workshops in December

Sunday 1st, 4.00-6.00pm
Restorative Yoga For Deep Rest with Tracey Boast

Wednesday 4th 5.00-6.00pm
Conversations With Chris

Friday 6th, 7.00-8.30pm
Tuning Forks for Stress Relief with Nicki Greenham

Thursday 12th 6.30-7.30pm
Meditation with Lilu Lelew

Friday 13th, 7.00-8.15pm
Candlelit Yoga Kim Jones

Saturday 14th, 10.30-11.45am
Yoga Sutras of Patanjali with Sarah Ryan

Saturday 14th, 12.00-1.0pm
Vedic Chanting with Sarah Ryan

Saturday 14th, 1.30-4.00pm
Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra with Sharon Cox-Button

Sunday 15th, 10.30-1.30pm
Iyengar Yoga with Cheree Low

Sunday 15th, 2.30-5.00pm
Yin Yoga Workshop with Chrissie Haskett

Friday 20th, 6.30-8.00pm
Sound healing with Crystal Bowls with Ellen Wells

Saturday 21st, 10.00-1.00pm
Winter Solstice with Sian Lalita Alcock

Friday 27th, 6.00-7.30pm
Yin Yoga with Toni Franklin

Friday 27th, 6.00-8.30pm
Reiki Share with Saira Francis

“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”
From movie Ferris Bueller’s Day Off ~