Upcoming Workshops & Events
Rope & General Workshop
Returning to Maria's lovely studio in Midgham, near Reading/Basingstoke for a general level workshop featuring rope work and backbends.
Yoga Karunta (or Yogāṇga Karuṇṭaka) is a lesser-known but fascinating aspect of Iyengar Yoga that uses ropes and wall props to assist in performing asanas. The name itself has roots in Sanskrit, where "Karunta" means puppet or marionette, symbolizing the way a practitioner might feel supported by the ropes, moving as if guided by invisible strings.
In Yoga Karunta, practitioners use ropes anchored to the wall to:
- Enhance alignment: The ropes offer support in poses, allowing for better precision and ease, especially in challenging postures like inversions or backbends.
- Increase traction: The ropes help elongate the spine, making it beneficial for students dealing with stiffness or discomfort in their back.
- Aid in deeper stretches: They allow students to experience deeper, safer stretches without straining, especially in standing poses or forward bends.
- Relieve body weight: In poses like Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog), the ropes take on some body weight, easing the muscles and joints and promoting a feeling of lightness.
Yoga Karunta is also helpful in therapeutic classes, assisting people with limited mobility, injury recovery, or those who seek to explore poses with a greater range of motion. It's a common component in Iyengar Yoga studios equipped with rope walls.
If you haven't tried it, why not join Rachel on Saturday 26th October and discover the benefits for yourself? Places are available - click on the link below to book. Open to all levels of practice from 1 year or more Iyengar yoga. Trainee teachers also welcome. Book via this link here.
Extended Learning Workshop - Special Session on High Blood Pressure
This special session focuses on a restorative approach to assisting with the symptoms of High Blood Pressure. We will look at the therapeutic application of Iyengar Yoga in dealing with the management of this condition. You don’t have to have high BP to attend! It will be an interesting and informative, as well as deeply relaxing session to enjoy.
These are in-depth sessions for Level 2/3 Iyengar Yoga students, Iyengar teacher trainees or teachers wishing to further their studies. They take place regularly on Saturdays throughout the year.
Sessions are mainly asana based but we may look at other aspects such as philosophy, therapy yoga (so bring your ailments with you!), anatomy and pranayama.
If you can't attend in person, recordings will be sent out after the session and you can join us online live.
Peer Group Session - for Trainees - Guinea Pigs Needed!
These are for Iyengar Yoga teacher trainees to practice their teaching skills. This weekend we are looking for regular yoga students who would be happy to be taught by trainee teachers (supervised by Rachel). Mentors are also welcome to join. The afternoon will feature short 30 minute sequences taught by each of the trainees (no more than 3). Students can attend one, two or all of the sessions. Price per person is £5 to cover the hall hire.
Winter Solstice Day Retreat
Winter Solstice Yoga Retreat at Damson Hill Cottage
Join Rachel Lovegrove for a day of yoga, relaxation, and nature at Damson Hill Cottage to celebrate the Winter Solstice. We look forward to welcoming you!
Location: Damson Hill Cottage, Damson Hill, Upper Swanmore, Hampshire
Date: 21st December 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Overview: immerse yourself in a special day of Iyengar yoga at Damson Hill Cottage. Nestled in the serene countryside of Upper Swanmore, Hampshire, this retreat offers a perfect blend of relaxation, rejuvenation, and holistic wellness. The inside studio is a peaceful haven for practice, and weather permitting, we may even be able to enjoy the outside yoga deck under the crisp winter sky.
What to Expect:
Morning Yoga Session: A 2.5-hour mixed-level yoga workshop taught by Rachel Lovegrove in the Iyengar yoga tradition. The session focuses on proper body alignment in the poses to bring about the most effective results, concentration on details to help focus the mind, and carefully crafted sequencing to balance your whole practice. Wholesome Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by Julia's Kitchen. The meal will feature hearty, homemade, vegetarian/vegan-friendly dishes to suit all palates—perfect for warming up in the winter season. Nature Walk: Explore the beautiful surroundings of Damson Hill with a guided nature walk. Take in the fresh winter air, admire the crisp, picturesque landscapes, and connect with the natural world in its quiet, serene form during the solstice. Afternoon Restorative Yoga: End your retreat with a restorative yoga session designed to relax and rejuvenate your body, bringing mindfulness to the breath. The final guided relaxation will leave you feeling refreshed, balanced, and at peace. Tea and Reflection: Conclude the day with a hot drink (and maybe some cake!) and a reflection circle to share insights and experiences from the day.
What to Bring:
Comfortable yoga attire and warm layers for the restorative session Yoga mat and equipment (can be provided if you don’t have any or have limited transport) Warm walking shoes, and layers for the walk (optional) A notebook if you enjoy taking notes!
Booking Information: This is a popular event and spaces are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment.
Price: £135, including lunch & hot drinks
Refund Policy: Cancellations are accepted only if a replacement for your booking can be found and incur a £25 admin fee, or you can transfer your payment (less £25) to another event happening within 6 months of the retreat date.
Peer Group Session (for Iyengar Trainees & Mentors Only)
These are for Iyengar Yoga teacher trainees only. Mentors are also welcome to join. We will be focusing on various aspect of the mentorship syllabus including teaching practice, Q&A, anatomy, philosophy and homework assignments. To book, please contact Rachel here.
General Yoga Workshop
An afternoon workshop at All About Yoga, Guernsey, on the principles of Iyengar yoga. Suitable for all levels including beginners and those who want to explore the application of Iyengar yoga on their daily practice.
Tickets now available to book here.
Peer Group Session (for Iyengar Trainees & Mentors Only)
These are for Iyengar Yoga teacher trainees only. Mentors are also welcome to join. We will be focusing on various aspect of the mentorship syllabus including teaching practice, Q&A, anatomy, philosophy and homework assignments. To book, please contact Rachel here.
Extended Learning Sessions
These are in-depth sessions for Level 2/3 Iyengar Yoga students, Iyengar teacher trainees or teachers wishing to further their studies. They take place regularly on Saturdays throughout the year.
Sessions are mainly asana based but we may look at other aspects such as philosophy, therapy yoga (so bring your ailments with you!), anatomy and pranayama.
If you can't attend in person, recordings will be sent out after the session and you can join us online live.
Light on Yoga Intensive (Online)
This is an online event for those with a regular practice of Iyengar Yoga (or equivalent) focusing on courses as laid out in BKS Iyengar's Light on Yoga or Geeta Iyengar's book, A Gem for Women. The price for the whole course is £48 and any days you cannot attend, you can practice with the recording which will be available to you for up to a month afterwards. Or you can book individual sessions for £15.
Peer Group Session (for Iyengar Trainees & Mentors Only)
These are for Iyengar Yoga teacher trainees only. Mentors are also welcome to join. We will be focusing on various aspect of the mentorship syllabus including teaching practice, Q&A, anatomy, philosophy and homework assignments. To book, visit this link here.
Day Retreat at Damson Hill Cottage
Summer Day Yoga Retreat at Damson Hill Cottage
Join Rachel Lovegrove for a day of yoga, relaxation, and nature at Damson Hill Cottage. We look forward to welcoming you!
Location: Damson Hill Cottage, Damson Hill, Upper Swanmore, Hampshire
Date: 3rd August 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Overview: Escape the hustle and bustle of summer and immerse yourself in tranquility at this day Iyengar yoga retreat at Damson Hill Cottage. Nestled in the serene countryside of Upper Swanmore, Hampshire, this retreat offers a perfect blend of relaxation, rejuvenation, and holistic wellness. The inside studio is a peaceful haven for practice and weather permitting, we may even be able to use the outside yoga deck.
What to Expect:
Morning Yoga Session: A 2.5 hour mixed levels yoga workshop taught by Rachel Lovegrove, in the tradition of Iyengar yoga. The session focuses on proper alignment of the body in the poses to bring about the most effective results, concentration on details to help focus the mind, and crafted sequencing to balance your whole practice.
Wholesome Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by chef Alison. The meal will feature salads, homemade fare with a vegetarian/vegan vibe to suit all palates.
Nature Walk: Explore the beautiful surroundings of the land around Damson Hill with a guided nature walk. Breathe in the fresh country air, admire the picturesque landscapes, and connect with the natural world around you.
Afternoon Restorative Yoga: End your retreat with a restorative yoga session designed to relax and rejuvenate your body, and bring you into touch with the mindfulness of the breath. The final guided relaxation will leave you feeling refreshed and at peace.
Tea and Reflection: Conclude the day with a hot drink (and maybe some cake) and a reflection circle.
What to Bring:
Comfortable yoga attire Yoga mat and equipment (can be provided if you don't have any or have limited transport) Water bottle, sunscreen, walking shoes (for the walk) A notebook if note-taking is your thing!
Booking Information: This is a popular event and spaces are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment.
Price: £135 including your lunch & hot drinks
(Deposits are non-refundable. Cancellations are only accepted if a replacement for your booking can be found and incur a £50 admin fee or you can transfer your payment (less deposit) over to another even happening in the same year.)
Extended Learning Sessions
These are in-depth sessions for Level 2/3 Iyengar Yoga students, Iyengar teacher trainees or teachers wishing to further their studies. They take place regularly on Saturdays throughout the year.
Sessions are mainly asana based but we may look at other aspects such as philosophy, therapy yoga (so bring your ailments with you!), anatomy and pranayama.
If you can't attend in person, recordings will be sent out after the session and you can join us online live.
Peer Group Session (for Iyengar Trainees & Mentors Only)
These are for Iyengar Yoga teacher trainees only. Mentors are also welcome to join. We will be focusing on various aspect of the mentorship syllabus including teaching practice, Q&A, anatomy, philosophy and homework assignments. To book, visit this link here.
General Yoga Workshop for SYA
**General Level Workshop **
A workshop for all levels of practice (minimum 3 months) hosted by the Southampton Yoga Association (SYA). Book via the main website at https://bookwhen.com/sya/e/ev-sxyb-20240707100000
Extended Learning Session
These are in-depth sessions for Level 2/3 Iyengar Yoga students, Iyengar teacher trainees or teachers wishing to further their studies. They take place regularly on Saturdays throughout the year.
Sessions are mainly asana based but we may look at other aspects such as philosophy, therapy yoga (so bring your ailments with you!), anatomy and pranayama.
If you can't attend in person, recordings will be sent out after the session and you can join us online live.
Restorative Yoga Weekend Hampshire
A residential weekend of restorative yoga, pranayama and quiet reflection for students and teachers of yoga alike. Accommodation, all meals, snacks and refreshments included. Massage treatments and soundbath available (extra cost). To book, please click here.
Weekend Workshop Congleton Iyengar Yoga Centre
A weekend workshop at Congleton Iyengar Yoga Centre. Those with 1 year or more Iyengar yoga experience are welcome. Approximate timings below. Boookings can be made through Louise or Mark HERE.
- Friday 6.15pm to 8.15pm
- Saturday 10pm to 3pm (with a lunch break)
- Sunday 10am to 2pm (with a break and Q&A)
Weekend Yoga Retreat, Ireland
A weekend yoga and walking retreat at this popular and unique retreat centre in County Louth, Ireland.
This retreat is aimed at yoga practitioners who have been taking regular classes for at least 4 months or more. We will focus on a balance of yoga & pranamaya with plenty of time for walking and resting (and eating!) in this beautiful part of Ireland. Just 45 minutes from Belfast or Dublin, Carlingford Yoga provide free transfers from Dundalk. The fabled Tain Trail passes the retreat centre, a path that takes you between the medieval town of Carlingford, through mountain passes and lush valleys to Ravensdale oak forest.
Once here, unpack your bags and everything is to hand, no need to have a car or worry about getting anywhere. It’s all here, giving participants a joyous weekend of rest and renewal. Our hosts, Martina and Stuart will be on hand to take care of our every need. The price is €425 inclusive of share ensuite accommodation, all your food and yoga, guided walks and free transfer from Dundalk.
Book directly with Stuart and Martina at Carlingford Yoga.
Weekend Workshop at Wye Valley Yoga, Hay-on-Wye
A weekend workshop at the FABULOUS Wye Valley Yoga studio in Hereford. Those with 1 year or more Iyengar yoga experience are welcome. Local accommodation can be recommended by Wye Valley Yoga (wyevalleyyoga@gmail.com). Timings are below. Saturday morning is free for exploring the beautiful area:
- Friday 6.30pm to 8.15pm
- Saturday 12pm to 4pm
- Sunday 10am to 1pm
Price £95 for the full weekend. Book HERE
General Workshop Corsham
A Day Workshop for all levels at the lovely Yoga Tree Iyengar Yoga studio in Corsham, near Bath. For students with at least 1 year's experience of Iyengar yoga. For more information, contact Edgar and Lydia at the address below.
Exchange of Learning Day
Run by the Dorset and Hampshire Iyengar yoga Group - Exchange of Learning Days replace the previous Profession Development days and are more focused on sharing experiences and working together in groups.
The theme of this event will be the art of adjustment and will include a section on equality, diversity & inclusion. This event is for Certified Iyengar Yoga Teachers & Trainees only and will count towards your specialist training hours.
Date: Saturday 20th January 2024 Venue: Boorley Park Community Centre, 121 Wallace Avenue, Botley. SO32 2RQ (Please note that this is not our usual venue in Botley!) Time: 11:30am - 5pm including a 30 minute break for lunch. Cost £25 You will need to bring a mat, 2 bricks, 4/5 blocks, 1/2 blankets, a belt & a bolster if you have one. As we have a limited time for lunch please bring something light to eat with you. Complimentary tea, coffee & biscuits will be provided.
Intermediate Workshop
These are in-depth sessions for Level 2/3 Iyengar Yoga students, Iyengar teacher trainees or teachers wishing to further their studies. They take place regularly on Saturdays throughout the year.
Sessions are mainly asana based but we may look at other aspects such as philosophy, therapy yoga (so bring your ailments with you!), anatomy and pranayama.
If you can't attend in person, recordings will be sent out after the session and you can join us online live.
We have a WhatsApp group for exchanging information about venue/date changes or asking questions. https://chat.whatsapp.com/KPnGboP72pRDlN7Rbl8ZGV
Intermediate Workshop
These are in-depth sessions for Level 2/3 Iyengar Yoga students, Iyengar teacher trainees or teachers wishing to further their studies. They take place regularly on Saturdays throughout the year.
Sessions are mainly asana based but we may look at other aspects such as philosophy, therapy yoga (so bring your ailments with you!), anatomy and pranayama.
If you can't attend in person, recordings will be sent out after the session and you can join us online live.
We have a WhatsApp group for exchanging information about venue/date changes or asking questions. https://chat.whatsapp.com/KPnGboP72pRDlN7Rbl8ZGV
Weekend Workshop Dorchester
Sat 11th & Sun 12th November - A weekend workshop for all levels at the Dorchester Therapy Centre.
Book for the whole weekend: Saturday from 11.30am - 4.00pm and Sunday 10.00am - 2.00pm. Suitable for everybody with at least 1 year's yoga experience.
Bookings via Hannah Lovegrove here.
Winchester Yoga Workshop
Aligning the Spine
In this workshop, you will be working on postural alignment through asana (poses).
Freedom from bad habits and postural imbalances, will bring about a healthier functioning body, an alignment of body, mind and breath.
Suitable for mixed abilities, with a minimum of 3 months yoga practice.
The studio is fully equipped but you might like to bring a yoga chair if you have one. Price £35.
To book, visit New Energy Website here.
Level 2/3 Workshop
These are exchange of learning sessions for Level 2/3 Iyengar Yoga students, trainees or Iyengar Yoga teachers wishing to progress to Level 2 or 3. They take place regularly on Saturdays throughout the year.
Sessions are mainly asana based but we may look at other aspects such as philosophy, therapy yoga (so bring your ailments with you!), anatomy and pranayama.
Session price is donation based (suggested minimum £15).
We also have a WhatsApp group for exchanging information about venue/date changes or asking questions. https://chat.whatsapp.com/KPnGboP72pRDlN7Rbl8ZGV
Rachel Lovegrove's Yoga Camp
A retreat with a difference - four days and three nights of Iyengar Yoga, gorgeous food (included) and wonderful entertainment in beautiful surroundings. The focus of this annual yoga retreat is to give people an opportunity to deeply connect with the practice of yoga, come together as a community of yoga practitioners, sharing their knowledge and learning from teachers immersed in yoga.
Classes will be conducted by Rachel Lovegrove, Hannah Lovegrove and special guest teachers for 2023, Edgar Stringer and Lydia Holmes. There will be options for beginners and workshop style sessions targeted especially for the more experienced student.
You will also be treated to three evenings of entertainment including, live music, Sound Bath Meditation and an evening of Story Telling around the camp fire.
This is our third year running this unique event and we can't wait to welcome you! Be prepared to be immersed into yoga, make friends, have fun and be inspired.
Light on Yoga Intensive (Online)
Our popular " Light on Yoga " series is back! This is a Level 1 & 2 event focusing on courses as laid out in Light on Yoga or Geeta Iyengar's book, A Gem for Women. The price for the whole course is £48 and any days you cannot attend, you can practice with the recording which will be available to you for up to a month afterwards. Or you can book individual sessions for £15. Prices include VAT at 20%.
If you are also participating in the Summer School, you will receive a 50% discount on any sessions booked between 21st and 26th August. See details for that here: https://goteamup.com/p/4982550-rachel-lovegrove-yoga/e/60640565-summer-yoga-school/
Iyengar Yoga Summer School (Online)
A special summer timetable for August 2023 - 5 mornings per week from 7.15am to 8.15am from 31st July to 26th August.
In our final week, join us for the Light on Yoga Course and receive your final week's classes for 50% discount!
Details:
31st July to 26th August
Daily Classes from Monday to Thursday
7.15am to 8.15am and Saturday 8.15am to 9.15am
Week One - 31st July to 5th August - Standings
Week Two - 8th to 12th August - Forward Bends & Twists (Tuesday to Saturday this week only)
Week Three - 14th to 19th August - Backbends
Week Four - 21st to 26th August - Recuperative & Pranayama
Guided Practice subscribers can join on any day they choose live via Zoom - you can sign up using the free code emailed to you.
Use your class packs or for an extra discount, book all the classes using the "Summer School" pack and pay just £175 for all 20 classes. Drop in price £11. Recordings included valid until 1st September.
Those participating in the Light on Yoga Course get week three for 50% off! (Book and pay as usual and you will be credited after signing up for Light on Yoga Course)
**Light on Yoga Week
The summer school sessions this week will focus on Restorative/Pranayama followed by 2 hours asana from Light On Yoga Course.
Level 2/3 Workshop
These are exchange of learning sessions for Level 2/3 Iyengar Yoga students, trainees or Iyengar Yoga teachers wishing to progress to Level 2 or 3. They take place regularly on Saturdays throughout the year.
Sessions are mainly asana based but we may look at other aspects such as philosophy, therapy yoga (so bring your ailments with you!), anatomy and pranayama.
Session price is donation based (suggested minimum £15).
We also have a WhatsApp group for exchanging information about venue/date changes or asking questions. https://chat.whatsapp.com/KPnGboP72pRDlN7Rbl8ZGV
Advanced Studies Session (Copy)
These are exchange of learning sessions for Iyengar Yoga trainees or Iyengar Yoga teachers wishing to progress to Level 2 or 3. The sessions are also open to Level 2 students who would like to participate. They take place 2 or 3 Saturdays per month throughout the year.
Sessions are mainly asana based but we will look at other aspects such as philosophy, therapy yoga (so bring your ailments with you!), anatomy and pranayama.
Session price is donation based (suggested minimum £15).
We also have a WhatsApp group for exchanging information about venue/date changes or asking questions. https://chat.whatsapp.com/KPnGboP72pRDlN7Rbl8ZGV
Day Retreat, New Forest
SOLD OUT - Contact Rachel for the waiting list.
This day retreat is aimed at regular yoga practitioners who have been taking classes for at least 6 months or more. The theme is "restorative" where we will explore the art of letting go by using supported poses and pranayama as well as exploring philosophical themes to help us reflect, quieten and calm the mind, heal the body. The morning session will consist of more active poses, but from the view point of going deeper inwards and to prepare for pranayama.
A lovingly prepared vegan lunch will be offered and then the afternoon session will consist of restorative poses and pranayama.
The day is not suitable for beginners, but for those with a regular yoga practice (experience of Iyengar Yoga desired but not essential) and knowledge of using props.
For more information or to book visit: Yoga Day New Forest Info
Weekend Yoga Retreat, Ireland
A weekend yoga and walking retreat at this popular and unique retreat centre in County Louth, Ireland.
This retreat is aimed at yoga practitioners who have been taking regular classes for at least 4 months or more. We will focus on a balance of yoga & pranamaya with plenty of time for walking and resting (and eating!) in this beautiful part of Ireland. Just 45 minutes from Belfast or Dublin, Carlingford Yoga provide free transfers from Dundalk. The fabled Tain Trail passes the retreat centre, a path that takes you between the medieval town of Carlingford, through mountain passes and lush valleys to Ravensdale oak forest.
Once here, unpack your bags and everything is to hand, no need to have a car or worry about getting anywhere. It’s all here, giving participants a joyous weekend of rest and renewal. Our hosts, Martina and Stuart will be on hand to take care of our every need. The price is €425 inclusive of share ensuite accommodation, all your food and yoga, guided walks and free transfer from Dundalk.
Advanced Studies Session
These are exchange of learning sessions for Iyengar Yoga trainees or Iyengar Yoga teachers wishing to progress to Level 2 or 3. The sessions are also open to Level 2 students who would like to participate. They take place 2 or 3 Saturdays per month throughout the year.
Sessions are mainly asana based but we will look at other aspects such as philosophy, therapy yoga (so bring your ailments with you!), anatomy and pranayama.
Session price is donation based (suggested minimum £15).
We also have a WhatsApp group for exchanging information about venue/date changes or asking questions. https://chat.whatsapp.com/KPnGboP72pRDlN7Rbl8ZGV