Yoga

Yoga is a practice that links movement, breathing and focus. It began in ancient India, and today it's practised all over the world, from busy city studios to quiet forest clearings. You move through postures called asanas, pair them with steady breathing and finish by lying completely still. Many people find it calming, and it's a lovely way to stretch out after a night on the dancefloor.

Hatha is the broad, traditional style that many others grow from. Postures are held for a few breaths, which makes it a gentle place to start.

Vinyasa, often called flow yoga, links one posture to the next in time with your breath. It's smooth and energising, a bit like a slow dance you do on your own mat.

Ashtanga follows a set sequence of postures in the same order every time. It's strong, sweaty and suits people who like a routine.

Yin yoga sits at the other end of the scale. Postures are held for several minutes while you relax into them, so it's quiet and slow, and harder than it looks.

Restorative yoga uses cushions, blocks and blankets to support you in restful shapes. Basically a nap with good posture.

Your Activity Leader guides you through each posture and offers easier or harder options, so you can work at your own level. A flow session often starts with gentle warm-ups and breathwork, known as pranayama, then builds through sun salutations and standing postures such as warrior and downward-facing dog. Along the way you'll hear cues to lengthen your spine, soften your shoulders and keep breathing. It ends with savasana, where you lie flat on your back and do absolutely nothing. It's the only time lying down counts as winning.

Then you're in exactly the right place. Yoga isn't about touching your toes or folding yourself into a pretzel. It's about noticing how your body feels and moving in a way that suits it. Blocks and straps bring the floor a little closer when it feels a long way off, and child's pose is always there if you need a breather. Nobody's watching you. Everyone is far too busy working out which leg is their left.

Loose, comfortable clothes you can stretch in. Yoga is usually done barefoot, so there's no need for special shoes. Bring water and a warm layer for savasana, as you cool down quickly once you're lying still.

You might also like Acro Yoga, Aerial Yoga and Sound Bath.

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