Strange Movement

At 4:30 pm today we will be gently releasing and stretching the muscles of the chest as we focus on the area around the cardiac plexus. We will release the tight muscles of the neck, reverse some of the postural patterns associated with modern life and open our hearts to love and compassion. Join me wearing green if you can 💚.

Manipura - the lustrous jewel - related to our personal power, sense of self and purpose. Join me in a practice at 4:30 today as we explore the solar plexus chakra.

Sound and music moves us deeply. We are all bodies of vibrating molecules (much of it fluid) and resonate with sound on a cellular level. I am very fortunate to be the custodian of some beautiful crystal sound bowls - a new addition to my lovely riverside studio.

Join me at 4:30 pm today as we begin to explore the energy centres of the spine. Starting at the base (Muladhara in Sanskrit) with a grounding practice to establish a stromg safe foundation. For the next 7 weeks we will make our way up the spine kinesthetically learning about these energetic centres as we experience them through our yoga practice.

This feels very fitting today. A mantra for peace. Join me for a gentle hatha flow at 4:30 tomorrow afternoon if you feel you need some space to switch off.

My favourite class of the week. Setting up for the wonderful women at Phoebe House. ❤️🧘 Today’s theme is self-compassion as the way to self-acceptance.

And breathe…… fresh air at last in my beautiful yoga rooms ❤️🧘. Massive thank you to all those who have supported the studio by registering or attending classes in our first full month. Next week I will start a new, more permanent timetable. If you fancy trying yoga, come along at 5 pm this evening for an over 50’s gentle class that focuses on building strength, flexibility and balance - essential for health and wellbeing, followed by a relaxing guided meditation.

Has your GP suggested that you make lifestyle changes to improve your health? If so then this post might be for you.

Hello, I am Susy and as well as being a yoga therapist and teacher, I am a qualified Lifestyle Medicine Practitioner. After 25 plus years of working in the healthcare industry (mainly in the cardiovascular space) I undertook a post graduate degree in Lifestyle Medicine and am passionate about looking after my health (particularly in the second half-century of life!) and helping others do the same.

So…What is Lifestyle Medicine?

Lifestyle medicine is an evidence-based approach that uses the power of healthy lifestyle changes to prevent, treat, and manage chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and more. It focuses on addressing the root causes of chronic disease —such as inappropriate diet, lack of exercise, stress and sleep problems—and helps you adopt healthier habits that promote long-term wellness.

Key Components of Lifestyle Medicine:

Nutrition: Learn how to make informed choices about food to improve your health, boost energy, and lower your risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and more.

Physical Activity: Discover personalised, manageable exercises that support strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health.

Stress Management: Implement effective techniques for reducing stress, anxiety and depression and promoting emotional well-being.

Sleep Optimisation: Improve your sleep quality for better rest, recovery, and overall health.

To***co and Alcohol Cessation: Receive support and strategies for eliminating unhealthy habits.

Healthy Relationships & Social Well-being: Enhance your mental and emotional health through positive relationships and community engagement.

How Does It Work?

I will work with you to understand your current health and develop a personalised plan that helps you move towards your goals. Through one-on-one consultations, you'll receive expert guidance and support as you make lasting changes to nutrition, exercise, and stress management. You can also join groups of like minded people in a supportive community environment.

Who Can Benefit?

Lifestyle medicine is for anyone looking to improve their health, prevent disease, or manage chronic conditions. Whether you want to lose excess weight, improve your energy levels, or reduce your risk for chronic disease, lifestyle medicine offers a comprehensive approach to help you achieve your health goals.

Why Choose a Qualified Lifestyle Medicine Practitioner?

As a qualified practitioner, I have specialised training in both medical science and behavioural change techniques, allowing me to provide you with evidence-based strategies that are safe, effective, and sustainable. With my support, you'll be empowered to take control of your health and live a longer, healthier life.

If you want to learn more, please email me [email protected]

After this day of sun and rain on the river, I thought we might do a practice that focusses on the 5 elements of earth, water, fire, air and ether tomorrow morning. See you at 7am for a sunrise flow 🌞🧘☔️

Just a reminder about the free information/yoga session tonight at 7pm. We will learn about how trauma affects the body amd how we can use the body to calm and settle the nervous system, ease tense muscles and begin to heal. See you there. 🤗

FREE Trauma Informed Yoga and information session next Thursday 27th March at 7pm.

Book online at www.strangemovement.com.au or text me on 0400 885 848 to reserve a spot. If booking on line just choose the cash option and it won’t charge you for the space. The class size is small - 8 spaces only.

If you would like to come along and have a look at the space first, please let me know either by text, give me a call or email [email protected]

What is trauma informed yoga?

Trauma-informed yoga is a practice designed to be sensitive to the needs of individuals who have experienced trauma, emphasising safety, empowerment, and control. The goal is to create a supportive environment where participants can reconnect with their bodies in a gentle and non-threatening way, promoting healing and well-being. Key principles of trauma-informed yoga include:

1. Safety and Empowerment: The practice prioritizes physical and emotional safety. Trauma informed yoga teachers create a space where students feel empowered to choose their level of participation and are encouraged to listen to their own bodies.�

2. Choice and Autonomy: Participants are encouraged to make decisions about their practice, such as whether to engage in specific postures or take breaks as needed. This supports a sense of control and self-regulation.�

3. Mindfulness and Awareness: The practice encourages mindfulness, helping individuals stay present in their bodies and thoughts. This can support emotional regulation and reduce stress.�

4. Non-judgment and Compassion: Trauma-informed yoga fosters a non-judgmental environment where participants are supported for where they are in their healing journey.

Evidence for the use of trauma-informed yoga for stress, anxiety and PTSD:
Research has shown that trauma-informed yoga can help reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Studies indicate that it can improve emotional regulation, increase mindfulness, and reduce overall stress.

A study published in Frontiers in Psychology (2017) found that yoga, particularly trauma-informed practices, can help improve emotional regulation and reduce anxiety in individuals with PTSD.

Research in the Journal of Traumatic Stress (2014) suggests that yoga can help improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and enhance emotional resilience for trauma survivors.

These findings support the use of trauma-informed yoga as a therapeutic tool for individuals affected by trauma.

And…. Relax ☺️ what a beautiful Woronora Friday evening. If you feel like consciously slowing down for the weekend join me for a slow flow class in the morning at 10 am or Angela for yin yoga on Sunday morning at 7 am.