Tag: yoga

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My favourite Yoga studios in London…

Namaste my beautiful adventurers..

This week I’ve been recovering from the triathlon and enjoying a few yoga classes in the city.

These are my favourite choices in London whether you’re in need of a work de-stress (usually me!), fancy trying something different (also me) or spending some time here as a tourist. Enjoy!

Blue Cow Yoga – Moorgate

Tucked away underneath an office block you could easily wander past without knowing it’s there but when you venture downstairs it’s quick to notice that this is a well equipped yoga studio (also offering Barre classes). In the city it’s my ultimate favourite. The yoga teachers are on another level when it comes to class structure. I prefer the dynamic class which is both challenging and relaxing. And if I’ve had a long day at the office I feel incredible and zen.

Yotopia – Covent Garden

I am often in meetings in the west end so usually when I am I like to take advantage of being able to drop by the Yotopia studio. Some of the classes are 90 minutes long which makes them great value for money. Every teacher creates a different class, and offers beautiful words of mindfulness. They are often on ClassPass which makes them even cheaper.

Fat Buddha Yoga – Ministry of Sound

On a monthly basis I try to get to the Fat Buddha Yoga class at Ministry of Sound. It is truly unique and Jessica is my ultimate fave! She is also a DJ and offers such a fun, enjoyable class. Being in this epic nightlucb with it’s lighting and atmosphere just makes it  a real bucket list yoga experience. She has lots of other yoga classes popping up around some of the coolest parts of town so check her website for more details.

Yoga in the walkways – Tower Bridge

One of my favourite yoga experiences has to be an early morning session on the glass floor of Tower bridge’s upper level performing yoga poses with a suspended view of road and pedestrian life, all moving at pace 42 metres beneath me. The sun was rising, and everyone was rushing by on their way to work, whilst I pondered in downward dog above. The yoga was fantastic aswell so not just a gimmick. I’ve tried the yoga at the Shard too – great to try once too but this one I’d go back to again definitely. If you’re in London for a short period of time this is a great and unusual place to try.

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Four things I’ve learned from my first triathlon

A triathlon is such a great way to get fit. It is also so easy to train on holiday. I love swimming in the ocean, running across the mountains and exploring a city by bike. I’m so proud and happy to have completed my first tri taking part in the sprint challenge in London. Here are some tips if you’re thinking of signing up..

The swim is a different kind of beast

 

As runner and a cyclist the swim was always going to be my toughest challenge. It differs to the other disciplines because to me it felt like a real test of mental strength, me against the elements, the beast of the open water. And technique is absolutely crucial for efficiency! I realise now that I should’ve got to the lake more for training as there really is no other way to get to grips with the murky waters, the claustrophobic rubbery wetsuit, the crowded free for all and the lack of any ledges to catch your breath.

 

It’s really difficult to hydrate 

 

After the swim, I struggled out of my wetsuit feeling lightheaded and flustered. There’s a lot to think about and it’s hard to adjust your mindset. I find it difficult to grab my water bottle on the bike and it’s difficult to hydrate sufficiently during those manic transitions. I already want to sign up to another one so I intend to spend a day on my bike with the sole purpose to practice a cycle – grab water bottle – drink – put water bottle back routine

 

The run feels kind of strange..

 

It’s something every expert warns you about but it’s really easy to underestimate how different your run is compared to a normal training run. The cycle can lead you into a false sense of security. You’ve got your rhythm and just the run left to tackle. After dropping off your bike you notice a feeling of slow motion, it’s takes a while for your legs to respond, like running through treacle, slow and sluggish. I noticed that my muscles eventually got back into the swing of things and I could’ve tested the waters a little earlier! I intend to try a spin class next week and run home afterwards to get used to the sensation and to know my limits.

 

And one last tip for us ladies.. 

 

After spending the day amongst a range of ladies of different ages, shapes and levels of fitness I noticed a pattern when it came to hair style. There were a lot of plaits! Let’s be honest it’s really not an attractive look, the rubbery wetsuit that you can never quite get on properly, the butt padding, the goggle marks (say goodbye to waterproof mascara in these conditions!) and the compulsory helmet! How are we supposed to feel feminine and confident. It was great to see so many ladies with different styles of plaited hair. It’s very versatile for a post swim and it doesn’t interfere with head gear. I now feel like I’ve ‘got the note’ regarding triathlon uniform and will be embracing this feminine touch. After all, we should all be very proud to be female triathletes

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Namaste

I remember using this greeting for the first time in Thailand and thinking this is a beautiful expression that truly represents this friendly and welcoming country – the land of smiles.

If we fast forward a few years, it is now a very recognisable word in western society, predominantly from its use in yoga classes. I was intrigued to learn more about its meaning and if it deserves the instagram ‘glory’ that it experiences today.

Namaste is usually spoken with a slight bow and hands pressed together. In Hinduism it means ‘I bow to the divine in you’

During a yoga class, Namaste is often exchanged both at the beginning and at the end of class. Usually, it is done at the end of class because the mind is less active and the energy in the room is more peaceful. The teacher initiates Namaste as a symbol of gratitude and respect toward her students and her own teachers and in return invites the students to connect with their lineage, thereby allowing the truth to flow—the truth that we are all one when we live from the heart.

In the urban dictionary it is described as ‘an ancient Sanskrit greeting still in everyday use in India and especially on the trail in the Nepal Himilaya’

I’ve always loved the energy it derives during a yoga class but along the Nepalese trail towards the mighty Everest, through the remote towns and villages it warmed my heart to say this word. It’s more than just a hello, a respectable and spiritual exchange between two people from completely different worlds.

Whatever it means to you, as a fellow yogi or traveller I hope it warms your heart like it had mine.

I was so incredibly inspired by the himilaya region, I can’t wait to share more stories with you. A dream come true.We had such a great time at Kathmandu Durbar Square, and UNESCO world heritage site that unfortunately had many buildings destroyed in the 2015 earthquake. With temple after temple to explore though you will not be disappointed.

Namaste, Citygirl Xx