Anxiety can feel like unease or even fear. It can be a physical feeling in your stomach. It can feel like a sense of dread.
It is a natural response to a stressful situation and it is real.
It is not a sign of weakness, in fact it arises from the way our nervous system is designed. Our nervous system is designed to protect us from harm.
There are times when this response of the nervous system is warrented but sometimes there is nothing to escape from and yet we are still left feeling anxious as an ongoing state.
Anxiety can show up in a variety of ways. There can be changes in your body in being constantly worried, or changes in your behaviours. Maybe you become really careful or avoid place and people in case they trigger anxiety.
According to The World Health Organization global anxiety & depression has increased 25% since the pandemic and anxiety is experienced across age groups and backgrounds.
There has been a significant amount of research exploring how best to manage anxiety and support people in their lives and from that it is clear that mindful movement such as yoga and breath practices can be felt as supportive in managing anxiety.
Over the course of this 6 week course we will move through an accessible, inclusive yoga practice. We will take time to explore different breathing patterns that can support a regulation of the nervous system. We will look at other ways that can help manage anxiety.
This course is open to anyone 18+ and there is no need to have any prior experience of yoga. Numbers are limited to 10 people.
Yoga for Anxiety will be led by 2 experienced yoga facilitators.
Shannon Cunningham will be leading the course. She assisted Susan last year and will take the lead in 2025. Shannon has been practicing yoga for 9 years and began teaching last year. She is a primary school teacher and has a Diploma in Peer Support in Mental Health. Shannon is also a mum to 2 small children. For Shannon, yoga is her time to reconnect with herself and manage the challenges and anxiety that her busy life brings.
Diana Fyffe will be assisting Shannon. She is one of our regular teachers and has years and years of experience and practicing yoga. She also has a busy family life and knows what challenges can arise when living a busy life!
Yoga Quarter is a local studio located in Ballyhackamore. Our vision is to be a warm, welcoming, inclusive, vibrant local yoga studio. A space where people regardless of class, race, colour, gender identity, sexual orientation, biological sex, religion, age, ability, and body type/size feel comfortable to come and practice yoga and other expressions of wellbeing.
The entrance to the studio is on the Earlswood Road and it is up one flight of stairs. At the studio there is a selection of mats and any other props that might be needed. There is no need to bring anything with you. You don't need to wear anything special just comfy clothes that you are able to move in.
If you have any questions please feel free to email the YQ Team at info@yogaquarter.com.
Prior to the the course you will receive an intake form and further practical details.
You are very welcome.