Claire’s Yoga story
I have been practicing Power Yoga since 2004 and qualified as a Yoga teacher in 2017. I’m currently studying for my 300hr teacher training.
- Power Yoga (YA200hr and YMCA L3) – Sun Power Yoga, Anne-Marie Newland
- SPY Kidz Yoga (Active iQ) – Sun Power Yoga, Anne-Marie Newland
- Yin Yoga (YACEP) – Bernie Clark
- Meditation (CMT100hr) – Yogamu, Nikolai Manek
In my own practice I balance the dynamic energy of Power Yoga with the stillness of Yin Yoga – both bring balance to my life. I spent my childhood doing gymnastics and horse-riding, followed by many years of gym workouts and karate training. This gave me some muscular strength – although this is changing as I age! However, I’ve also spent many years working in offices, spending much of my time hunched over a desk using a computer, so I’ve not been able to always move as much as I would like. The flexibility of my hips and shoulders has been affected by prolonged periods of sitting on chairs and I know this is the case for many of the students I teach. This can affect how poses look and feel, so I take a functional approach to Yoga – helping every student explore their practice in their own individual way.
My own experiences have shaped the classes I teach – many of my students have similar issues caused by modern lifestyles and I am always mindful of this when teaching these students, as well as those with other injuries or conditions. I never stop learning about what my body is capable (and not capable) of doing and I believe that recognition of limitations and acceptance of them not only keeps us safe, but also allows us to explore more creative ways of fulfilling the same goals.
Find out more about my classes
Why Jasmine Yoga? I am fortunate enough to be blessed with a wonderful son, but if I’d had a daughter she would have been named Jasmine. The Jasmine flower is associated with love, beauty and purity, with a relaxing scent which is thought to aid sleep – all of which inspired me to choose the name for something I love.
As well as Yoga, my other passions in life include my family, gardening, cooking, art and exploring our beautiful planet. I grow organic vegetables on my allotment and love making wonderful, tasty meals from my own seasonal produce. I always value any time I can spend with my family outdoors – whether digging up potatoes or walking in the woods!
I am grateful to all the wonderful teachers and students I have encountered during my adventures in yoga and hope to meet many more inspirational individuals as I continue to learn and teach.
Power Yoga and Yin Yoga | Yoga in Hertford Hertfordshire | Jasmine Yoga UK 