Yoga Workshops & Classes

🧘‍♀️ A Nourishing Yoga Afternoon

I have been thinking back to May, when I had the joy of hosting a restorative yoga afternoon designed to gently reconnect body, breath, and intention. We moved through a thoughtful blend of Yinyasa and Hatha practices, supported by bolsters, blankets, straps, and blocks to encourage ease and alignment in every posture.

We began by exploring how to set personal intentions — a quiet moment to tune inward before movement. Breathwork and pranayama guided us deeper into presence, followed by gentle flows and grounding stretches. Healthy snacks were shared mid-session, adding a touch of nourishment and community.

To close, students were invited into an extended savasana, where I offered hands-on massage using essential oils from Oman — a calming ritual to seal the practice with care and stillness.

It was a beautiful afternoon of movement, mindfulness, and connection. Thank you to everyone who joined and brought such openness to the space.

This coming autumn, we’ll be adding another afternoon to the mix — and in 2026, I’m thrilled to be planning our very first retreat in beautiful Devon. Watch this space, or sign up to be the first to hear all the details as they unfold

The Road to Pilates

🧘‍♀️ The Road to Pilates

I have a confession to make — I’m obsessed, and ever so slightly in love… with Pilates.

For years, I resisted. I thought it would be too easy, too slow, too boring — frankly, pointless. Then life threw me two curveballs: a mild injury from falling off a bike, and a more serious one from tumbling down a snowy mountain. Both times, it was physio and Pilates that nursed me back to strength.

I began practicing regularly, exploring different teachers and styles — each one offering something unique. Eventually, I took the plunge and got qualified. It was a long, challenging, and in-depth process that perfectly complements my 30 years of experience in dance and fitness.

At first, I was too busy to teach. But then came lockdown. Already running a fusion class online — Supple Strength — I found myself weaving more and more Pilates into the sessions. Now, I offer two regular classes a week and cover for other teachers at well-known health clubs. I’m always excited to show how beneficial Pilates can be. Yes, it’s kind to backs — but it’s also challenging. You’ll build strength, lengthen muscles, and increase flexibility.

Pilates truly is for everyone — men, women, any age. Over time, you’ll feel and see the difference.

Joseph Pilates famously said he was 50 years ahead of his time. He predicted the sedentary, desk-bound lives many of us now lead, and understood how posture would suffer. His precise, slow, and controlled movements were designed to restore balance and alignment in the body.

So why my class?

Here’s the thing: through Pilates, I’ll teach you how to balance your body — and like I did, you’ll discover a discipline that complements any other exercise you do. I’m a normal body shape: fit, healthy, lean enough — strong, not skinny. I know you want achievable, realistic goals. I know when to adapt and adjust, and when to challenge and guide you to explore.

You’ll need an exercise mat. Optional extras include a thin Pilates or yoga block (or small cushion), an exercise band, and small hand weights. We’re mostly on the mat, moving slowly and with control — and yes, it can feel wonderfully relaxing.

If you’re working with a specific injury or just want a little extra confidence, I’d recommend booking a 1:1 session first.

I’d love you to join me — and maybe fall in love with Pilates too.

See you on the mat.

Jane xx

Lets Stretch!!

Let’s Stretch!

Stretching, particularly "static stretching," is a cornerstone of exercise-to-music classes. This form of stretching has been scientifically proven to enhance flexibility and improve joint range of motion.

Over the course of my 30+ years of teaching, the "when" and "how" of stretching have been continuously researched and debated. While some studies suggest that stretching before or after exercise may not significantly reduce injury risk or muscle soreness, current research indicates that post-exercise stretching remains beneficial for most people—especially for older adults. Deciding when and how to stretch ultimately depends on the instructor’s expertise, the participants' age, and the class activity.

Here’s the general guidance for stretching:

·       Warm-Up Stretches: Incorporate light stretches 10–15 minutes into your activity (or even longer in cold conditions). Hold these stretches for 8–10 seconds to prepare your body without overextending.

·       Post-Workout Stretches: After your workout, stretch each muscle group for 20–30 seconds. Focus on correct alignment and posture for maximum benefit. These stretches can be done standing, seated, or lying down.

For everyday life, integrating a simple stretching routine is a wonderful habit. Did you know a warm bath can act as a quick warm-up for your muscles? If you’re feeling confident and agile, you can even attempt stretches in the bath—just tread carefully!

If you’re unsure about technique or need a bit of encouragement, attending a class can help you learn these stretches safely and effectively. Below are some key stretches for major muscle groups to incorporate into your routine (no, not in the bath!).

Beginnings

🌱 Beginnings

In my world of dance and fitness, the year doesn’t begin just once — it begins twice.

For adults, January often marks a reset. A fresh start. A chance to try something new or return to a long-held passion — whether that’s dance, joining a choir, or simply moving with more intention.

For parents, September brings its own kind of renewal. As children return to school, many adults find themselves following suit — reassessing routines, priorities, and how they care for themselves.

But truthfully, we can begin again at any time. Life events — joyful or painful — often stir a desire to evolve. To pause, reflect, and reimagine how we move through the world.

As someone who stands at the front of the room, leading others, it may seem like confidence comes easily. But don’t be fooled. After a long-needed break, I too feel the nerves of restarting. That quiet uncertainty. That flicker of doubt.

And yet, it’s in those moments — notebook in hand, ideas swirling — that the year ahead begins to take shape.

In a world of doomscrolling and curated perfection, it’s easy to lose sight of what health and fitness truly mean. It’s not about the latest workout gear, the leanest physique, or flawless hair and makeup. Certainly not about posing poolside in a bikini.

It’s about showing up. Doing your best. And carving out time for yourself — consistently, compassionately.

For women, each life stage brings its own challenges: adolescence, young adulthood, parenting, menopause — all underpinned by hormonal shifts. Add to that the conditions and illnesses we may face, and it’s clear that our bodies ask different things of us at different times.

Our choice of movement — our anchor — will naturally shift.

Yet through it all, dance, Pilates, and yoga can remain a constant.

Alongside running, spinning, rowing, and HIIT workouts, weight-bearing exercise — including lifting weights — is increasingly recognised as vital, especially for those over 50. The research is clear: strength supports longevity, resilience, and quality of life.

So wherever you find yourself this season — starting fresh, returning after a pause, or simply continuing the journey — know that your path is valid. Movement doesn’t need to be flashy or extreme to be transformative. It just needs to be consistent, kind, and rooted in what your body truly needs. Whether it’s dance, Pilates, yoga, or something entirely your own, I’ll be here to guide, support, and celebrate with you — every step of the way.