Yoga
What is Zen Yoga?
Each pose or move in a Zen yoga class is designed to bring new parts of the body into focus so that we can become aware of any tightnesses or restrictions. As we bring our awareness to these areas of tension, like shining the warmth of sunlight, they immediately start to unfreeze, shift and release. Zen yoga practice melts away the tightnesses and resistances that prevent us from enjoying the flow of life.
Zen Yoga with Catherine is a welcoming and holistic experience for all levels. A blend of Hatha Yoga, and mindfulness techniques from the Zen tradition to help you tune in to your body.
Philosophy:
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Body Awareness: The class emphasizes befriending your body, acknowledging its presence and importance throughout your life.
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Mind-Body Connection: Zen Yoga combines traditional yoga postures with the mindfulness practice of Zen Buddhism. This means focusing your attention on your breath and bodily sensations in the present moment. The techniques do not require any particular belief system
Benefits:
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Physical: You'll work on stretching and strengthening your muscles, improving your overall stability and flexibility.
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Mental: The focus on breath and body awareness will promote relaxation and a sense of inner peace.
Class Structure:
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Balance of Movement and Mindfulness: The class isn't about achieving “perfect” poses; it's about connecting with your body and breath throughout the movements.
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Suitable for All Levels: This class is designed to be inclusive, regardless of your prior yoga experience and physical abilities.
About Catherine
Have you ever thought that yoga isn't for you? That it’s all about being young and bendy, or contorting yourself into picture-perfect poses? I’m here to gently say, that’s not my yoga.
My name is Catherine, and my approach, Zen Yoga, is built on the belief that the peace and self-awareness yoga offers are for everybody, and every body. If you’ve felt disconnected from yourself, or even a little alienated from your own body, you are in the right place. My goal is to help you make friends with your body and soul, creating a renewed sense of trust and faith in yourself, exactly as you are right now.
My own yoga journey began over a decade ago, but it truly became my anchor when I lost my fiancé to cancer in 2022. During that period of profound grief and anxiety, my practice was a lifeline. It wasn't about pushing my body to its limits; it was about finding a quiet space to breathe, feel, and reconnect. This personal experience is the foundation of my teaching—it’s infused with genuine empathy and an understanding of how life’s challenges can affect our relationship with ourselves.
This led me to deepen my practice and complete my YTT200 qualification with Daizen Skinner at Zenways, so I could share the incredible tools of Zen Yoga with others.
What can you expect from my classes?
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A Relaxed & Playful Space: Forget the pressure to perform. Our focus is on how a pose feels, not how it looks. We take a playful, relaxed approach to our practice.
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Mindful Movement for All: Whether you’ve never stepped on a mat before or are returning after a long break, you are so welcome. This isn’t about sweating or intense exercise; it's about a respectful conversation between your mind and your body.
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A Focus on Connection: Using mindfulness practices inspired by Zen Buddhism, but suitable for any religious or philosophical outlook, we work to gently connect the mind with the body, helping you get to know yourself better.
Originally from Yorkshire, I've lived in Surrey for over 20 years. I’m a mum to a grown-up son and a devoted servant to a very spoiled white cat.
If you’re looking for a space free of judgement and competition, and you’re ready to build a kinder relationship with yourself, I invite you to join me.
I currently teach at the Surrey Holistic Centre, a beautiful multi-disciplinary space in the heart of Godalming, and at Shalford Village Hall.