Hoorah! Our Chakra Yoga 7-Week Course has just reached another major milestone – we have just completed the 10th instalment this past Thursday 16th of April! Thanks to everyone who has ever come to these classes. You are all appreciated.
I thought it would be most appropriate to mark the occasion by interviewing the lovely Sophie, who has been coming to these classes in Oldfield Park since their very beginning in Autumn 2024. I have to say, it’s always great to see Sophie in class who is 100% committed to her yoga practice, her big infectious smile, friendliness to everyone in class, and of course, her helpful nature particularly with packing up yoga props at the end of a class. None of that has gone unnoticed. Truly, one of a kind.
I asked Sophie if I could interview her for my next blog, and she was happy to oblige. So, with huge thanks to Sophie for her time and effort, I do hope you enjoy, and relate to this Q & A.
Thank you so much for coming to meet me to do this interview, Sophie. Tell me, when did you begin to practice yoga? Which styles of yoga have you practiced so far?
I have practiced yoga for around 40 years. So far, I’ve done Hatha, Iyengar, Vinyasa and Yin.
Why do you like yoga? In what way has it helped you?
Yoga has been an essential integral part of my life for some time. I started enjoying the challenge of increasing flexibility, then through its nature, my mind was opened to the many other positive aspects of the practice.
Yoga is still very much an essential part of my flexibility and mobility, but is so much more than that. It trains me to be in touch with myself, to appreciate what it feels like to be stressed or relaxed.
Every time I come to the end of a yoga practice, I feel greatly rebalanced. I feel more connected with the Universe and that helps me choose the correct path in life.
What prompted you to come to Chakra yoga classes back in August 2024? How did you find out about it?
I picked up a flyer from the local health food shop. It was an easy decision as Hillside Hall is local to me. Plus, having been to several classes before, I’m not threatened by new classes or new groups.
What was your first Chakra yoga class like? What went through your mind during and after the class?
It felt unique, in terms of the teaching and class structure. I thought, after 40 years of practice, it is surprising to find something unique. The classes are both challenging and swift.
Looking back at the past year or so that you’ve been coming to Chakra yoga classes, how has it benefited you?
I love going through the chakras. I find the weekly flow is like a crash course. Having the 7-week flow means that I make time for weekly guided energy work which encourages me to eventually and systematically be in touch with all parts of the body. It’s an important aid to make time for myself and my development.
What was your understanding of chakras before you came to these classes and how has that changed over time?
Over the 40 years of my yoga practice, I have done lots of chakra work. I was aware of the qualities of chakras. It’s good to revisit them in the present.
What changes have you noticed in your wellbeing (mind, body and spirit) over the past year?
I have maintained my flexibility and mobility. It is more important now as I approach 60. With flexibility, I feel it’s like “use it or lose it”.
I have the opportunity to continue to practice yoga, have self time, to be more in touch with the Universe, to be spiritually healthier, to have acceptance of self and my place in the environment I live in.
What advice would you give to someone feeling interested but is apprehensive about joining a new yoga group?
It doesn’t matter what ability you’re at. If you give it a try, you will feel positive effects, however small. Yoga is an embracing environment. Challenge your fear. I guarantee you will feel better for it.
What do you find challenging at the classes?
Sitting in lotus, physically, is challenging, perhaps due to feeling older, but accepting it. I am forgiving to myself if I can’t achieve a yoga pose. I can visualise the pose and get the benefits.
Recognising how stressed I’ve been until this moment can be challenging and helpful at the same time.
What do you like about the Chakra yoga classes?
A chakra yoga class is an hour of dedicated practice. Disciplined. You have structured expectations that you can rise to.
A themed 7-week programme allows you to systematically touch every base through postures, chakras and breathing.
This is in addition to benefits I mentioned earlier.
What’s your most favourite yoga asana? Your most favourite pranayama (yogic breathing)? Your most favourite chakra class (out of the 7)? And why?
My favourite pose is Savasana, because I know I will feel amazing. My favourite pranayama is the Humming Bee breath. And asking me which one is your favourite chakra is like ‘which one is your favourite child’.
With that humorous note, we came to the end of our interview and took a couple of snaps by the River Avon. I’d say that’s most appropriate for Bath! Thanks again Sophie, I really enjoyed chatting with you.
Below is a link to the next 7-week course starting 30 April. You can also get a 3 or 5 class pass, or try one class with pay-as-you-go option. We still have some spaces left but places are limited, so grab your spot today. Come and meet your friendly neighbours!
Click here to learn more about our chakra classes and book your spot!
Learn more about Savasana, Sophie’s favourite pose, in my earlier blog.
Blog: Why You Should Not Skip Savasana
Send me your comments and questions. Also, what yoga topics would you like me to explore for future blogs?
Email me through contact page.
Have a great weekend!
Sossi
