Benefits of Slow Yoga Online
- Julia Shaw
- Aug 7
- 5 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
In today's fast-paced world, finding moments of peace can feel like a challenge. Stress and anxiety often creep into our daily lives, making it essential to carve out time for relaxation. One of the best ways to achieve this is through yoga. With the rise of online platforms, calming yoga sessions are now more accessible than ever. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced yogi, online yoga can help you become more grounded and promote overall well-being.
Yoga is not just about physical postures; it is a holistic practice that combines movement, breath, and mindfulness. Not all of us can engage in power yoga/fitness yoga. Our bodies age, become stiff and lose flexibility.
The Benefits of Slow Yoga Online
Online yoga offers numerous advantages that can enhance your practice. There are many excellent Teachers out there who can offer you slow, subtle, gentle yoga classes online. Many are pre-recorded so you can access them any tim
Here are some key benefits:
Flexibility: You can practice yoga anytime and anywhere. Whether you prefer early mornings or late evenings, online classes fit your schedule.
Variety: There are countless styles and instructors available online. You can explore different types of yoga, from gentle Hatha to restorative Yin.
Comfort: Practising at home allows you to feel more relaxed. You can create a peaceful environment that suits your needs.
Cost-Effective: Many online platforms offer free classes or concessions to their yoga class fees. This makes yoga accessible to everyone.
Community: Online yoga often includes live classes where you can connect with others. This sense of community can be motivating and uplifting. Committing to even one live class a week online, gives you; a focus for your yoga practice, connection with your Teacher [who you may never have met in person!], and that motivation to get your mat ready, even on those days when you 'don't feel like it'. Afterwards you are always glad you turned up.
These benefits make online yoga an appealing option for anyone looking to incorporate calming practices into their lives.
Getting Started with Online Yoga
Starting your online yoga journey is simple. Here are some steps to help you begin:
Choose a Platform: There are many websites and apps that offer yoga classes. Some popular options include YouTube, Yoga with Adriene, and Glo. Explore different platforms to find one that resonates with you.
Set Up Your Space: Create a dedicated area in your home for yoga. Make sure it is quiet and free from distractions. You can add candles, plants, or calming music to enhance the atmosphere.
Gather Your Equipment: While you can practice yoga without any equipment, having a yoga mat is beneficial. You may also want props like blocks, straps, or cushions for added support.
Start with Slow Gentle Classes : If you are new to yoga, look for slow, gentle yoga sessions. These classes will guide you through basic poses and breathing techniques.
Listen to Your Body: Yoga is about tuning into yourself. Pay attention to how your body feels during each pose. If something doesn’t feel right, modify the pose or take a break.
Practice Regularly: Consistency is key to reaping the benefits of yoga. Aim to practice a few times a week, even if it’s just for 15-20 minutes.
By following these steps, you can create a fulfilling online yoga practice that suits your lifestyle.
Types of Calming Yoga
There are various styles of yoga that focus on relaxation and mindfulness. Here are few calming yoga sessions you might consider:
Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga is a gentle introduction to the most basic yoga postures. It emphasises slow movements and deep breathing, making it perfect for beginners. Many online platforms offer Hatha classes that focus on relaxation and stress relief.
Restorative Yoga
Restorative yoga is all about relaxation. This style uses props to support the body in various poses, allowing you to hold them for longer periods. It is ideal for those looking to unwind and release tension. Look for online classes specifically labeled as restorative yoga.
Yin Yoga
Yin yoga involves holding poses for several minutes to stretch the connective tissues. This practice encourages deep relaxation and mindfulness that focus on calming the mind and body.
Gentle Yoga or Slow Yoga
Gentle yoga is a slower-paced class that combines elements of Hatha and restorative yoga. It is suitable for all levels and focuses on relaxation and breath awareness. You can find many gentle yoga classes online that cater to different skill levels.
Specific Gentle Online Yoga Classes to Try
Now that you know the types of calming yoga sessions available, here are some specific online classes to consider:
Yoga with Adriene
Catherine Annis Yoga
Kristine Weber Subtle Yoga
And Kristine Weber has a really uncomplicated Information Sheet on Slow Yoga. I really love her work and practice a lot of her classes and Online Teacher Development Modules:
Julia Shaw Slow Yoga
Tips for a Successful Online Yoga Practice
To make the most of your online yoga sessions, consider these helpful tips:
Stay Consistent: Try to practice at the same time each week. This helps create a routine and makes it easier to stick with your practice.
Limit Distractions: Turn off your phone notifications and find a quiet space to practice. This will help you focus on your yoga session.
Be Patient: Remember that yoga is a journey. It takes time to develop strength and flexibility. Be kind to yourself and enjoy the process.
By incorporating these tips into your practice, you can enhance your online yoga experience.
Embracing the Journey of Online Yoga with Julia Shaw Slow Yoga
As you embark on your online yoga journey, remember that it is about more than just the movements. It is an opportunity to connect with yourself, experience calm, and cultivate mindfulness.
Julia Shaw, originally from Derbyshire with 3 adult children, and 2 grandchildren, is now a Senior herself and has been teaching for over 25 years. Julia understands the process of ageing and how Yoga can adapt to your aches and pains, stiffness, sore wrists!, sore knees!, no motivation, demands on your time with different generations of family, even poor sleep etc.
Her online yoga sessions [face to face yoga classes in Uig, Outer Hebrides too] provide a gentle unhurried way to explore your practice and relaxation, in the comfort of your own home. And no driving afterwards!
Julia teaches what she loves best, slow uncomplicated natural bodily movements. Usually with a laugh or two!
Quite soon her classes are something you look forward to, as you know they will have the right amount of 'challenge', as well as relaxation, and you feel better for having turned up on your mat and connected, via Zoom, to her style, which she describes, as being a 'bit of a maverick'.
You can try her free trial class to start with, roll out your mat, take deep breaths, and embrace the journey of Slow Yoga online.
Book here, any Thursday for your free trial online yoga class:
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