Wishing you all a very merry Christmas!

Christmas time is a fairly hectic time of year. On top of our regular routine, we have presents to buy, parties to go to, relatives to visit, food to prepare often finding ourselves in a big ball of stress. Today’s newsletter offers some helpful tips on finding some inner calm over this busy festive time.

In 2015, the View Studio will be adding more yoga classes to the timetable and our new yoga instructor, Naomi is our instructor of the month.

Thinking of some last minute gifts to purchase? The View Studio gift cards are now available. Read on to find out more.

Hi Naomi! What do you teach at The View Studio?
Vinyasa Flow and Ashtanga.

2. What made you choose to teach Yoga?
I have always attended yoga classes, even as a child. I find the energy, focus and stability that I gain from the physical practice very moreish! I have always been curious about the various aspects of yoga, not just the physical practice but the philosophy behind it too. During a period of travel through Asia I studied at the Yoga Institute in Mumbai, where I worked with some excellent teachers and inspiring people. After returning to the U.K, teaching felt like the natural way forward, and I continued my training further with the Classical Yoga School (certified under June Mitchell). My personal practice follows the Ashtanga system, which I feel is is an excellent foundation to teach others from. Ashtanga is a physically strong and dynamic practice that requires discipline and focus- very useful off the mat as well!

3. What is your favourite posture?
I have many – I guess it changes from day to day depending on how I feel – but overall, I would have to say any back bend (for example, Bridge, Wheel or Camel pose). They require strength and power and provide a lovely extension for the entire front body which I find incredibly energising. There are so many variations of back bends that everyone can enjoy the benefits, no matter what stage their practice has reached.

4. Describe yourself in 3 words.

Playful. Focused. Present.

5. Your top tip for our View Studio clients to add movement into their day?
Something so simple, but very effective, is to sit cross- legged (or perhaps half lotus) whenever possible. If you’re sitting at a computer, or relaxing on the sofa, crossing the legs is an easy way to increase the flexibility in the hips and at the same time provide a better base to support the spine from. You can take this a little further by reaching the arms up over head, and taking hold of opposite elbows. This creates space in the torso allowing for a deeper breath – plus a great way to relieve the aches and pains from hunching over a screen.

Naomi is taking the last two Vinyasa classes of the year on Saturdays at 09:00. Book on now to take a class with Naomi.

BOOK NOW

1. GO TO BED

If you can, try and hit the sack by 10.30pm. It is believed that in traditional Chinese Medicine that 10:30pm is the best time for a full cycle of sleep. Apparently at 11pm, the Qi (energy) in the liver regenerates itself and, the Chinese medical theory suggests that the liver controls a lot of our emotions. Between the hours of 10.30pm and 2.30am our bodies go into a state of repair, if we stay up too late, we can bring stress on ourselves as we start to release cortisol.”

2: TRY BREATHING

When we go into meltdown mode over a present we forgot to buy? We often resort to short breaths, huffing and puffing. To get a burst of nervous energy, in moments of stress, our brains produce what is called the ‘fight-or-flight’ response, our short stressed breaths do nothing to help. To get your body into a more restful, calmer mode breathe in for a count of three, then out for five. Lateral breathing! Breathe into the sides of your ribs and then as your exhale feel your ribs drawing across and down, visualise a corset lacing up round your middle.

3: SHOW SOME GRATITUDE

Christmas is a time when we can feel overwhelmed, stay grounded by noting down three things you feel grateful for. It can help you to feel happier and less stressed. Be specific, if you are grateful to your other half, write why. For example, when he brings you your morning cup of tea in bed on a daily basis.

4:MORE TEA VICAR?!

It’s very important to take time out from the gingerbread lattes and try green or chamomile tea. The chamomile herb helps to calm frayed nerves and is has be proven to be a mild sedative. Try drinking this before bed time. Drinking green tea on a daily basis helps to reduce the risk of colds and flu.

5: GET OUTSIDE

Sunlight and being outdoors does us the world of good. Walking helps your immune system and boosts endorphins, helping you sleep better and easing stress. Just 20 minutes everyday has been proven to lift the spirits, increase self esteem and improve a greater sense of well-being.

Lastly, remember that you are human and Christmas does not have to be perfect! Be good to yourself, cherish the time with your family and come January we will be ready for you to de-stress at the barre!