Fitness, wellbeing and dance

Hatha Yoga

Hatha Yoga is the original form of yoga that all other styles have grown out of. This makes it a perfect introduction to the yoga journey and a great starting point for beginners. It is a gentle way to boost flexibility in the body and the mind. It will strengthen the muscular-skeletal system and aid in deeper relaxation. For learners aged 19+ of all levels of fitness.

Course location

Thomas Calton Centre, Alpha Street, SE15 4NX.

What you’ll learn

Foundational postures

Discover and master the essential Hatha Yoga poses, focusing on alignment and technique to build a strong practice.

Breath awareness

Learn the importance of pranayama (breath control) and how to integrate breath with movement to enhance your overall well-being and mindfulness.

Mind-body connection

Through mindful movement and meditation, you can develop a deeper awareness of the connection between your body and mind, fostering relaxation and reducing stress.

Flexibility and strength

Experience gradual improvements in your physical flexibility and strength as you progress through various asanas, helping you feel more at ease in your body, which will complement your overall physical functionality.

Personal practice

Gain the tools and confidence to create a personalised yoga practice that suits your individual needs and goals, empowering you to continue your yoga journey beyond the course.

How the course is taught

Learners can expect:

• exercise on a mat or on a chair
• each session will begin with relaxation, a breathing exercise, and a short warm up to prepare the body for activity
• this yoga journey will begin with foundational postures and gradually deepen your understanding and experience of each one, helping you build strength, flexibility, and confidence in your practice, one step at a time
• each week, you will attempt to relax more into the given sequence of postures and you will be encouraged to explore the deeper expression of each pose
• this is a verbally instructed course, however, your instructor will demonstrate the postures and if consent is given, your instructor may physically assist with your alignment (using gentle touch)
• the group practice will be monitored and assessed throughout the session, ensuring that exercises are carried out safely

Materials you’ll need

• you can bring your own yoga mat and/or block or you can use ours
• stretchy, comfortable clothing and a light blanket/shawl to keep warm during relaxation
• a cushion if you find it difficult to sit cross-legged
• a bottle of water

After the course

Learners will be encouraged to continue their practice for their physical and mental wellbeing and will be given a challenge to enable this. You may also choose to progress to a course with another provider. 

How to enrol 

Complete an enrolment form online

Find out how to enrol, locations and more about our services.

Course details

You can:

• email adult.learning@southwark.gov.uk
• phone 020 7358 2100 or 020 7358 2101

Page last updated: 22 November 2024