I am excited to be sharing my first blog post with you! I have always enjoyed writing and I'm hoping to share some thoughts with you every few weeks about embodied, gentle and restorative yoga and the Ellen Blackman Yoga community. I hope that what I can offer is not just a yoga practice, but a heartfelt invitation to explore the depths of your being with gentleness and grace. In a culture that often glorifies intensity, I believe in the power of slow, mindful movement—the kind that allows us to truly listen to our bodies and cultivate a sense of inner peace.
I started the Ellen Blackman Yoga community over 3 years ago now as an antidote to a world that often urges us to push harder, faster, and stronger. I wanted to offer a different invitation—a gentle embrace, a welcoming space where you can nourish your mind, body, and spirit with kindness and compassion.
You'll often hear me say at the start of class to "give yourself permission to slow down and listen deeply to your body". I feel this is a skill we have lost, or maybe we never had it in the first place as we prioritise productivity over rest. That we have become "busy proud". My hope is to honour the journey of every individual, especially those who are navigating pain, stress, or simply seeking solace amidst life's whirlwind.
At Ellen Blackman Yoga, my aim is for accessibility to not just be a buzzword—it's the cornerstone of what I am offering. I want everyone to feel welcome when they come to my classes. The fear that "I'm not flexible enough or I'm not strong enough for yoga or I might injure myself" no longer rings true. This is yoga everyone can do safely! Whether you're a seasoned yogi or stepping onto the mat for the first time, know that you are welcome here with open arms. My approach to yoga is deeply rooted in somatic awareness and embodiment, inviting you to reclaim your body as a safe place for healing and self-discovery. I truly believe that if we slow down and listen to the messages of our body that we can undo our own habits of tension and find the calm, deep centre that is the essence of our true being.
This unwavering commitment to accessibility is what I hope sets Ellen Blackman Yoga apart. No matter what stage of life you're in, the classes are designed to meet you where you are so that you can work with the body you are in today. Each day will be different! With modifications and gentle guidance, I ensure that everyone can experience the benefits of slow, gentle yoga, regardless of age, ability, or injury.
Thank you so much for reading about what I will continue offering you- the power of gentle, slow but also profound yoga!
If you haven't experienced an embodied gentle practice and would like to or you know a friend or loved one who would benefit please go to the booking pages below or join us for the next Cello and Sound Healing afternoon retreat.