I teach personalised individual lessons, short courses and small groups in my beautiful home studio, as well as a range of classes in clubs in Cambridge.
Everything from dynamic flow to restorative yoga. I help you learn whilst you have fun. I work with complete beginners; experienced students and companies.
I also offer retreats in beautiful locations in Italy for the perfect get away to life's stresses.
about
I learned to teach yoga when she was already a granny proving it's never too late to start. I started yoga after a broken knee left me in chronic pain and unable to walk easily. That's why I so enjoy helping clients with injury rehab. With regular practice and good teaching, yoga can transform your life as it has mine.I am registered with Yoga Alliance as an Experienced, Senior Yoga Teacher (EYRT500) - this is the highest professional registration available.
i'm qualified to teach Ashtanga (200 hr), the Rocket (300 hr), Yin and Vinyasa flow. Certified by Jason Crandell (500 hr) in anatomy, injury management and alignment based sequencing.My favourite way to teach is working with clients 1:1 in bespoke lessons, using a yoga therapy approach to help with aches and pains.As I teach a wide range of styles: there is something suitable for everyone. Everything from more gymnastic practices to restorative yoga focused on deep relaxation and releasing stress held in the body.
Services
All services are taught in a beautiful converted barn with 5 metre high ceilings in Duxford, Cambridge.
Bespoke
private
lessons
Scheduled to suit you
Designed specifically for you to meet your needs, level of practice and lifestyle. Practice in private.
Vinyasa
group
classes
Fridays 12:30
Preparatory poses, followed by flow - moving to the rhythm of your breath. For people with some yoga experience.
Yoga
fundamentals
Mondays 1pm
Ideal for those who may have practised for a while but want time to understand how poses should feel.
Stress
relief
& back care
Tuesdays 12:30
Gentle yoga and mindfulness techniques to reduce strain, relieve stress and back pain. Improves mobility.
Corporate Wellness Programme
As a former chief executive with 29,000 staff, I understand how critical wellness at work is for optimal performance.
yoga
for
men
By appointment
Think yoga isn't for men? Think again.
Private sessions aimed for men looking to start yoga but haven't found the right fit.
bespoke private lessons
The ultimate in yoga instruction: a class designed especially for you to meet your needs, level of practice and lifestyle. Lessons are arranged to fit your schedule - ideal for busy people.
• Practice in private.
• Work at your pace – no worries about following a class.
• No distraction from others
• Personalise your practice - learn to modify poses to fit your body.
Vinyasa group classes
Fridays 12:30A 60 minute class of preparatory poses, followed by flow - moving to the rhythm of your breath. A themed choreography every month designed to tone and strengthen different muscle groups.
The class closes with relaxation and breath techniques to leave you feeling wonderful.
Sign up for a whole month or drop in on a weekly basis.
Yoga fundamentals course
Designed especially for those who want to understand the poses better.
This course focuses on alignment and correct muscle engagement: it tells you how to do a pose.
Learn the breath that makes yoga so calming. Learn how to perform poses with more ease.
Ideal for those who may have practised for a while but want time to understand how poses should feel.
If you've taken a group class and can keep up or feel confused, this is the course for you.
Also suitable for active people who want to try yoga for the first time and have no idea where to start.
A great way to get back into practising if you've fallen out of the habit.
Corporate Wellness Programme
FOR EMPLOYEES
Modern desk work is creating muscular skeletal injuries and stress held in the body as tension. Yoga can help increase organisational performance as part of your corporate wellness offering.
I work with organisations to provide group sessions via Zoom, Microsoft Teams or in person. Targeted to meet your workforce's needs. Gentle movement to relieve lower back pain, tense shoulders and tech neck; mindfulness exercises to help focus; breathing exercises to relieve stress.FOR EXECUTIVES
A personalised programme for senior executives delivered with the understanding of what it is like to have lived that life.
Thoroughly practical and totally confidential.
Giving busy people help with: improving breathing; mental clarity; reducing stress; reducing blood pressure; improving sleep; helping good digestion; releasing muscular strain; restoring resilience and bringing your nervous system back into balance.
Feel grounded in a turbulent world.
Stress reflief course
We all face the stress and strain of busy modern lifestyles: rising expectations; juggling conflicting priorities. This course is for everybody. Learn how to unwind and deeply relax, promoting inner calm. Take away skills that you can practice at work and at home.
Slow paced yoga: mainly floor based, not requiring strength or flexibility.
• Learn how to release strain in common problem areas: jaw, scalp, shoulders.
• Understand techniques to self-regulate when you feel stressed or anxious.
• Discover how to breathe optimally for good physical and mental health.
• Bring your nervous system into balance improving emotional wellbeing.
Yoga for men
These days yoga is part of complementary training for top class athletes – think Lionel Messi, Andy Murray, The NZ All Blacks rugby team, Jenson Button F1 racing driver and David Beckham. Many male celebrities also attribute their physical and mental wellbeing to yoga: Sting; Russell Brand; Robert Downey Jr; Orlando Bloom; Justin Timberlake; Matthew McConaughey and Jon Bon Jovi. Yoga is definitely for men.My classes are enjoyable, functional and teach you to feel better. In a group class you’ll meet people like you. It won’t be too hard and I’ll be on hand to encourage and help you. I design classes that men find more accessible and less frustrating. Get in contact to find out more!
CURRENT RETREATS
To retreat is to get perspective on your life and what really makes you happy. Experience the joy of rediscovering yourself.There is nothing quite as nourishing for your mind, body and soul than a week of yoga, healthy food, being immersed in nature, fresh air, sunshine, time to breathe and deep sleep.
Be a beautiful person, in a beautiful place, doing a beautiful thing.
Why Retreat?
Many of us work towards our next holiday when we might finally rest only to find our holidays are not truly fulfilling. Maybe we cram in too much. We over-eat, drink too much, move too little and end up lethargic. Retreating is different.
When was the last time you felt truly refreshed. When did you give yourself time to breathe, to experience peace and re-balance. Placing ourselves in a quiet, nurturing environment, without the constant over stimulation of modern life, we can recalibrate.What are the benefits?
This is my personal experience of retreating to Ithaca in 2023…
Day 1 My frown has dropped and I’m smiling.
Day 2 I am sleeping through the night – no longer waking at 4am and beginning to ponder.
Day 3 My normal daily headache has gone and I’ve reclaimed my mornings.
Day 4 My gut has calmed right down. I woke without my usual back pain.
Day 6 My body is more supple and my mind curious and open to new ideas.
Day 7 I have shifted into being relaxed in silence and deeply content.
Day 8 I feel lighter, more spacious and completely restored. I’d fogotten I can feel this good.Not sure which retreat to pick? Here’s what they offer:Ithaca is the most luxurious. If you love gazing at the ocean but wilt in the heat of summer, this autumn offering is for you. Also ideal for those who are seeking opportunities for solitude as each room has a private outside space.Sicily is the liveliest with the most social vibe. A boat trip and wine tasting are included in the price. The yoga is the most demanding, better suited to those with a regular practice. It will be hot. A retreat for active sun lovers.Tuscany is the quirkiest and the most educational appealing to foodies, history buffs and nature lovers. Fall into natural rhythm of castle life and learn all about food and wine production the natural way. The September retreat celebrates the harvest with a chance to make your own wine too.
SICILY, ITALY29th June – 6th July 2024
What’s included
• 7 nights accommodation
• 3 meals a day: light breakfast; brunch, and dinner
• Water, infusions, tea, coffee available throughout the day.
• All yoga instruction
• Beach towels and water bottles
• Yoga mats, blocks, bricks, belts, bolsters, and blanketsAvailable at extra cost
Wine (or bring in your own, no corkage charged);
Massage treatments.Not included
Flights;
Transfer from airport;
travel insurance.Getting there
EasyJet and British Airways fly from Gatwick to Catania (the nearest airport in Sicily). Ryanair and Jet 2 fy from Stansted. I recommend hiring a car to see the island. Transfer time 75 minutes by car. Sharing a hire car is ideal. Airport transfers can be arranged if you prefer. Please arrange to arrive between 3pm and 5pm on Saturday. Departure on the last Saturday at 10am.
Places to visit on the way or stay for extra days – Ortigia (peninsular off Syracusa); Noto (Baroque heritage site); Taormina (chic clifftop resort) ; climb mount EtnaPrices
Twin or double room £1,795pp SOLD OUT
Twin or double for sole use £2,255pp SOLD OUT
Queen size, shared bath sole use £2,200pp TWO AVAILABLE
King size ensuite room, sole use £2,350pp SOLD OUT
Superior room £1,855pp (1 can be twin or double, 1 is Kingsize only so for a couple) SOLD OUT
Deluxe room 2 people £2,195pp SOLD OUT
Deluxe room 3 people £1,615pp SOLD OUTCancellation policy
Your booking deposit is non-refundable.
Full payment is due 2 months prior to departure. Payments can only be accepted in pounds sterling.If something unavoidable happens I will try to help you, but if you cancel after final payment, no refund is possible. Much of my work happens before we go, so I still incur the costs and do the work entailed. To give you the best possible experience, I put a lot of work into organising the programme and designing the yoga to suit participants.You must take out your own travel insurance when you book (not just before you travel) so that if anything does happen, you will be able to reclaim your losses. Please ensure you have covid cancellation cover.
Sicily, Italy
29th June – 6th July 2024
The Location.After the success of 2023, I’m returning to South Eastern Sicily. Home to world heritage sites, Baroque architecture, and some of the most beautiful beaches: white sand, rocky coves and an unspoilt crystal clear sea. The Italian island of your dreams.
The Venue.Welcome to Danena, a 19th century farmhouse converted into an idyllic retreat centre. Located amongst 80 acres of farmland, in an oasis of green with views across olive groves and almond trees. Set around a central courtyard with relaxing music and a gentle breeze.
The Rooms.14 twin beds or double bedrooms, most with en-suite bathrooms. Each room is decorated individually in Italian style. Apartments have outdoor patios and indoor living areas - ideal for friends. Some rooms can be booked for single occupancy for a supplement.
The Food.Nourishing vegetarian food using fresh local produce. Expect farm-made burrata, the sweetest tomatoes, breads, eggs and olive oil, some local fish. Meals are taken outdoors together. Fruit, teas and water always available. Bring your own wine.
The Yoga.Do as much or as little as you like. You decide. Sessions will typically be divided into 3 classes so you can choose to omit the more dynamic ones.
We’ll practice in an inside dedicated space with open windows and ceiling fans. Morning breathwork outside on the yoga platform when it’s not too hot.
The Socialising.Afternoons relaxing: read a book or swim in the infinity pool. Drive to San Lorenzo for a white sand beach or go flamingo spotting at Vendicari Nature reserve. Mid-week boat trip from Marzamemi to Capo Passero with stops for snorkelling (kit provided) and swimming. Final evening wine tasting and dinner at a local vineyard.
Testimonials
Don't just take my word for it, see what my clients have to say!
Louise Mitchell : Stress Relief Course
"Andrea creates a safe and secure Yoga practice learning space as she expertly guides us through new movements with an eye to each individual and their own needs, throughout."
Claire Curran : Stress Relief Course
"I struggled with sciatica for over two months, so I joined the stress relief course. I needed to find some way to relax. This was perfect: it provides a very quiet, relaxing and peaceful environment. I felt safe doing the poses as the props Andrea gave, really supported my back. It allowed me to stretch and relax at the same time and alleviated the pressure on my lower back.As a newcomer to yoga, the small class worked well for me: Andrea paid individual attention to everyone. She ensure dI was comfortable and in the correct positions. It was like escaping into another world for an hour. "
SUSANNAH CLEMENTS : vinyasa group classes
"I have wanted to learn yoga for years – but always got put off by the stretchy Lycra clad crew who always seem to know what they are doing whilst I struggled to even work out where my toes were. Going to Andrea’s classes has been the perfect antidote to that. She’s clear and has this brilliant way of describing what to do and how it should feel. She also offers a great balance between the inner benefits of yoga and the physical movements involved."
jonathan Hinde : vinyasa group classes
"What matters most is the person who teaches the class. Andrea is an exceptional teacher for so many reasons but these are the two that stand out for me: First of all she really understands the mechanics of the body. The second thing is that she really commits in a personal way to the development of everyone who comes to her classes. We all feel cherished, and our achievements become her achievements."
james clissold : Yoga Fundamentals
"I'm really pleased that I found Andrea and her lovely studio to help me get started. I am only a beginner (I've been going for around one month) but Andrea helped me to feel at ease straight away whilst providing clear instructions to ensure I follow proper technique."
Julia Cooper : yoga fundamentals
“I’m new to practising yoga because I thought my mid-fifties body was too stiff, I’m a little overweight and my balance was shocking. Then I completed an online beginner course and was hooked! Andrea is an expert teacher, very knowledgeable, calm and her directions are clear and precise so you’re not looking up to check you’re doing the right thing, which I had to do completing my online course with a different instructor."
Nigel Standing : Yoga for men
"Andrea is just a wonderful Yoga teacher, such great detail, great insight and makes the practices so enjoyable. She stresses to everyone there is no competition, no judgement which really makes everyone relax whilst they practice on their mat. She guides us all along the Yoga journey in such a caring way."
Luca Dusi : Yoga for men
"I really wanted to get into yoga as I train a lot and play football and found myself getting little injuries and tightness in my legs. A few people said how beneficial Yoga is and I should give it a go. I’d been meaning to do yoga for a while but never got round to it. Then I met Andrea. I asked her for private lessons as I hadn’t previously ever done yoga and wanted to gain confidence before joining a group class. I just wanted to strengthen certain muscles and loosen up and stretch out others, but I was surprised how much there is in yoga - the breathing techniques and stretches. If I’m honest, I was surprised with it all - in a good way.Andrea is a great teacher, she tailors it to your ability. Her knowledge is second to none and she makes the session enjoyable."
Neil Bailey : yoga for men
"I started studying with Andrea around 5 years ago. I wanted to improve my flexibility as I was getting older and was starting to struggle with injuries when playing sports but also wanted something to try relieve stress in my job. I have taken various classes over the years including some yoga classes and Andrea is different to the others teachers I have had. She will challenge you to perform the poses with the correct form rather than just demonstrating and leaving you to your own devices."
Christoper Bow : bespoke private lessons
"When I decided to try yoga for the first time, I was a little concerned about how I, as a man in his mid-sixties, only moderately fit and certainly not very flexible, would manage. Would I be embarrassed and intimidated by the far more capable people I was likely to encounter? Would I actually be able to achieve anything worthwhile?Well, I needn’t have worried. Andrea has proved to be an excellent teacher, not just because of her technical skills, but in the way she treats everyone with great empathy. She clearly understands what I find difficult and why, and she always has something constructive and encouraging to say."
Carl lygo : bespoke private lessons
"I was advised by my Doctor to give yoga a try. I'm the classic mid 50s man who walks a lot with my dog but, sit sat a desk most of the day. I have been carrying aches and pains in my back and legs. I have been doing 1:1 classes with Andrea on Zoom. My sleep has increased by over 1 hour per night. By the third month I'd totally lost the back and leg pains. I cannot remember the time when I jumped out of bed without feeling some ache or pain but now I have no pains at all.At first I was a bit concerned because I am not very flexible or supple. Andrea quickly put my mind at ease, she is very kind, encouraging and supportive. It feels to me that the classes are adapted for my ability so I get the benefit without being treated like an elite athlete or contortionist. I really enjoy our weekly class and often end up laughing at some of the poses I end up in. It really is worth giving it a go and see where it leads you. I could not have hoped for a better teacher to introduce me to yoga."
Phil Gormley : bespoke private lessons
"Andrea is a superb instructor, as a late middle aged novice to yoga I found her thoughtful, empathetic and encouraging. She recognised what I wanted to achieve and my self-defined limitations helping me develop a better understanding of how to improve physically and mentally. I would recommend her approach to anyone particularly those put off by the thought of large impersonal classes!!"
Vicky Sloane, Head of wellness, anglian water. Corporate wellness
"Andrea has supported Anglian Water with 3 different programmes including our biggest ever set of online wellbeing events during the pandemic (January and February 2021). Over 3000 staff joined the events across the four weeks and feedback from Andrea’s yoga sessions was phenomenal.In 2022 our workforce reported increased issues with musculoskeletal health and stress. We asked Andrea to help. Her mindfulness and relaxation sessions offered a great solution. Andrea was so easy to work with. She was keen to understand the challenges we were facing and adapt a programme to the needs of our people.I took part in one of Andrea’s sessions and really benefited from it both mentally and physically. By recording the session our staff who are scheduled or shift based were able to watch it at a time in their day that suited them – many people have watched it since."
Get in contact
If you have any queries about or want to discuss whether yoga is right for you, please email me using the form below and I will respond as soon as I can.Have a look at my services page to give you a sense of see what I already offer but do let me know if you have any bespoke needs as there is lots of help I can offer.I look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you
Thank you for getting in touch. I am usually teaching throughout the day however I will respond as soon as I can.
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TUSCANY, ITALY 2024
1st – 6th September 2024 - Yoga and Wine Harvest
The Location.Tuscany is well known for its fabulous cities, Florence, Pisa and Sienna and the iconic cypress tree landscapes of the Val d’Orcia. Just beyond lies Monte Amiata, the highest peak in Tuscany and an ancient volcano. This part of the Tuscan Maremma is full of lush valleys, vineyards and olive groves.
The Venue.Welcome to Castello di Potentino, a privately owned castle located in a beautiful valley. Dating back to 1042, it’s been lovingly restored by an English family into a 21st century castle. Feel yourself stepping back into history living like nobility but with the luxury of modern amenities. History buffs will love walking in the footsteps of many famous Renaissance families.
The Rooms.Pick from 8 grand bedrooms in the main castle - all have luxurious bathrooms and are furnished individually (many with four poster beds). Or take a room in one of the attached cottages if you prefer simpler décor. Beds have crisp cotton sheets fragranced with lavender harvested from the estate, fluffy bath towels, luxury ‘Ortigia’ toiletries and fans.
The Food.The Potentino experience is all about rediscovering your stomach through natural food production. All processed foods are banned. Everything is grown locally in ways that are sustainable for the valley. Drink the softest natural water from mount Amiata, eat vegetables and fruits from the Castle grounds and sample Potentino’s incredible red wines made using natural methods that won’t give you a headache!
The Yoga.Enjoy connecting in with nature whilst we breathe, move and restore together.
Yoga will be taught twice daily in the chapel or outside by the pool. The June retreat offers those who are new to yoga or would like more support, to experience the joy of yoga. Numbers will be kept small (8-10 people) to ensure more individual attention.
The Socialising.Learn about agriculture, wine making and traditional Italian food making. Eating and drinkng well from natural products, locally grown lies at the heart of Potentino philosophy. Watch cheese making; try making pasta and learn about Charlotte’s wines with a tasting. Hike to the river and swim in the waterfalls. Visit the natural hot sulphurous springs at Bagno San Fillipo.
TUSCANY, ITALY1st – 6th September 2024 - Yoga and Wine Harvest
What’s included
• 5 or 6 nights’ accommodation
• 2 meals a day: brunch, and dinner
Wine at dinner
• Water, tea, coffee available throughout the day.
• All yoga instruction
• social programme: cheese making demonstration; pasta making; wine tasting.Available at extra cost
• Additional Wine and grappa
• Guided foraging trek in the valleyNot included
• Flights;
• Car hire
• Transfer from airport (can be arranged for those who do not wish to drive);
• Travel insurance.Getting there
Ryanair flies from Stansted to both Pisa and Perugia (the nearest airports) I recommend flying to Pisa as there is more choice of flights. It is a 2.5 hours drive from either airport, but the road from Pisa is easier (you can also detour off the main road to drive through Val D’Orcia from Siena) Sharing a hire car is ideal. Airport transfers can be arranged if you prefer.Please arrange to arrive between 4pm and 5pm on Sunday. Departure on the last day at 10:30am.
Places to visit on the way or stay for extra days, Florence, Siena, Pisa. Places to explore from the castle Pienza, Montepulciano, Montalcino.Prices for Sept 5 nights
Delux Castle Double or twin ensuite room (2 people sharing) £1,375pp
Castle Triple room ensuite for (3 people sharing) £1,290pp
Delux Castle Double ensuite room sole use £1,550
Delux Castle twin separate private bathroom (2 people sharing) £1,335pp
Delux castle double separate private bathroom (sole use) £1,470
Granary cottage room, Queen size, shared bath (sole use) £1,270Cancellation policy
Your booking deposit is non-refundable.
Full payment is due 2 months prior to departure. Payments can only be accepted in pounds sterling.If something unavoidable happens I will try to help you, but if you cancel after payment of the final amount, no refund is possible. Much of my work happens before we go, so I still incur the costs and do the work entailed. To give you the best possible experience, I put a lot of work into organising the programme and designing the yoga to suit participants.You must take out your own travel insurance when you book (not just before you travel) so that if anything does happen, you will be able to reclaim your losses. Please ensure you nhave covid cancellation cover.
ITHACA, GREECE 2024
19 - 26th October 2024
The Location.Ithaca is one of the smallest Greek islands. Mountainous, covered with cypress and olive trees, encircled by the Ionian Sea and fringed with hidden white pebble beaches. Quiet, peaceful, on a steep hillside cut into the rock, this spot is a natural sanctuary.
The Venue.Itha108 is a boutique retreat centre. Purpose built by its Swiss owner, this is a place where everything works effortlessly. Spend your week living in nature with stunning views over the sea even whilst you practice yoga. Elegant, soothing, think discreet luxury built into a natural environment.
The Rooms.Choose from 9 ensuites each with an individual identity. Superior rooms with balconies; a suite cut into the rock; luxury Mongolian Yurts between the trees or airy white rooms in the house. Beautifully furnished, designed for style and comfort. Each has a private outside area.
The Food.Organic, locally sourced vegetarian, blending traditional Greek cuisine with a contemporary style. Freshly caught fish is available 2 nights a week. Lots of fruits, nuts and seeds to promote a healthy gut.All meals are eaten al fresco with a view of the sea, with dinner being candlelit.
The Yoga.Greet the morning with gentle stretching to open the body, breathwork and meditation followed by vinyasa. Afternoon practices will be at a slower pace. We’ll practice on the yoga platform built into the rocks and shaded by oak trees. There is also a purpose built indoor studio for our exclusive use.
The Socialising.Enjoy one of the many quiet social areas with day beds and cushions. Chill by the infinity pool overlooking the sea with the hills of Kefalonia beyond. Take an outdoor massage therapy under muslin drapes wafting in the breeze. Walk to one of the 4 nearby beaches. One afternoon we’ll take a guided hike together (optional).
Ithaca, Greece19 - 26 October 2024
What’s included
• 7 nights luxury accommodation
• 3 meals a day: brunch, afternoon snack (cake and fresh fruit) and dinner
• All yoga instruction
• Group transfer from the airport to the resort
• Beach towels
• Yoga mats, blocks, bricks, belts, bolsters, and blankets
• Essential oils organic face balm and infused organic olive soap in all bathrooms
• Homemade biscuits (gluten free and vegan), seeded breadsticks, filtered water, tea bags and coffee available throughout the day.Available at extra cost
• Wine
• Massage treatments
• Optional boat excursionNot included
Flights;
Travel insuranceGetting there
The nearest airport is Kefalonia international airport.
EasyJet flight options from Gatwick.
Ryanair and Jet2 fly from Stansted if you are planning to go out earlier.
Flights need to be co-ordinated so we meet at Kefalonia airport at lunchtime on Saturday for the group transfer by minibus to Fiscardo, from where we will be taken by private boat to Ithaca and taxi to the resort. Transfer back with be early on Saturday 26th October to connect in with flights back to the UK. THERE IS ONLY ONE GROUP TRANSFER, if you wish to travel at other times it will be at your own cost.Prices
Shared standard ensuite room (twin or double) £1,850
Sole use standard ensuite room £2,250
Shared superior ensuite room (twin or kingsize) £2,050
Sole use superior ensuite room £2,450
Yurt ensuite (twin or double) £1,850pp
Yurt ensuite (sole use) £2,250ppCancellation policy
Your booking deposit is non-refundable.
Full payment is due 2 months prior to departure. Payments can only be accepted in pounds sterling.If something unavoidable happens I will try to help you, but if you cancel after payment of final balance, no refund is possible. Much of my work happens before we go, so I still incur the costs and do the work entailed. To give you the best possible experience, I put a lot of work into organising the programme and designing the yoga to suit participants.You must take out your own travel insurance when you book (not just before you travel) so that if anything does happen, you will be able to reclaim your losses. Please ensure you have covid cancellation cover.