My first yoga experience with Danya

I had been looking for a yoga class in north Leeds for a while, but never found one that suited the times that I had free. Many are daytime classes which are not feasible if you work full-time, but Danya offers early evening yoga classes in Roundhay, twice a week. I had never tried it before, and I was looking for a local beginners yoga class, so when I saw Danya’s profile pop up on a Facebook post, I took it as a sign!

I contacted her to book a taster session, and a few days later had my first class. As soon as I walked in, I felt instantly calm, and any nerves I had about walking in to a new class on my own, faded away. Danya’s yoga classes are friendly and inclusive, no one cares about what you wear or what you look like, and everyone is there for a positive and relaxing experience. The room is warm and cosy and the class sizes are not too big, with a maximum of 12 people.

We used a range of equipment including blocks, belts and bolsters, but I was helped and guided throughout the whole process so I never felt out of my depth. I was encouraged to go at my own pace.

The gentle restorative yoga class on Thursday is my favourite, with lots of stretching and holding beneficial poses, that help your body recover from hectic daily life. It is a perfect opportunity to relax, breathe, and be mindful - a weekly re-set that I wish everyone could experience.

For anyone thinking of trying one of Danya's yoga classes for the first time, I would 100% recommend having a go. You will leave each session relaxed, calm and centred.

Steff