How does this pregnancy yoga class differ from a general prenatal yoga class?  Diane King our specialist teacher explains. Yoga for birth preparation classes Diane’s  Yoga for birth preparation classes are tailored for the final stages of pregnancy (From 32 weeks), where what we need most is to quieten the mind, let go of time pressures and constant doing and be in a consciously relaxed state, where we can connect with ourselves, our babies and our inner birthing wisdom. The course runs over four weeks and each week a different topic is discussed at the start of class: Week 1: The natural physiology of birth – What to expect at different stages of the labour process Week 2: Managing fear – Trusting your body and nurturing a sense of empowerment Week 3: Creating a positive intention and guided relaxation – Letting go of the intellect and connecting with intuition and instincts Week 4: Using breath as your anchor in labour – Detailed breath techniques for th...

Ive had a wonderful week with Nancy- she came and taught three days of workshops in my studio here in Putney. We had a great time together and I was honoured to have been her assistant during the three days of practice. We talked about all sorts of things: from the teachings of the Dali lama, discussing ( and practising) pranayama, and even watched a fair amount of the Wimbledon tennis together. I heard lots of stories about guruji and his family, and the early days in Mysore. I feel I have learnt a lot from her on this trip and none of this was about asana. I have a real sense at the moment that the more I know, the less I know.....this yoga is a lifetime journey and I have only scratched the surface. Here are some photos.....

I have been doing the warm-ups at Wimbledon tennis qualifiers for many years. Indeed some of the young things I worked with back in the day are now 40+. I have introduced hundreds of people to yoga this way and hopefully a few will have picked it up from "Yoga Mama" Here is the lovely group from this year's event busting their yoga moves. Many tops sports people now use yoga as part of their training programme and, indeed, many top tennis players use yoga to increase flexibility, strength and mental focus. Who? My lips are sealed.

Down dog variation in my beautiful yoga space :-)