Yamas Yoga is on a mission to share the joy of yoga!

Yoga is an ancient practice that is believed to have originated in India many thousands of years ago.

The word yoga, comes from the Sanskrit yuj, which means ‘to yoke’ or unite, so yoga is often translated to mean ‘unity’ but there is no one single definition of yoga. I like the definition that it is a process of self-discovery and self-awareness, a path that leads to growth and evolution.

It’s much more than the asanas – the postures and physical poses that in the West are often the thing we call ‘yoga’ – this is just one part of it, though often the first introduction for many people. Whatever first attracts you to yoga in the first place isn’t important, you may find there are unexpected benefits as you see and explore how much more there is to it.

You shape your own journey –there are guides, teachers, practices, philosophies and principles; what you take from those and how you work with them is up to you.

Everyone can practice and benefit from yoga. I particularly enjoy working with beginners, people who don’t think they are a ‘yoga’ person, aren’t fit enough, say they are too old to learn, or aren’t flexible enough. I was in my 30s when I first started practicing yoga, and had the kind of concerns some of my yogis tell me about... I get you!

My philosophy is that your yoga journey is unique, it is only about you, getting to know and being more connected to yourself, and to life. It’s safe, non-judgemental, non-competitive, it is certainly never about the perfect pose. It can also be lots of fun!

I can share with you what I’ve learned but what you take from it is up to you, I’d say just come with an open mind and let yoga do the rest!

What I offer

🇬🇷 While based on Kefalonia, I offer regular drop in classes for residents and visitors.

☀️ During the summer season I can of course make your holiday even more relaxing with a personal or group yoga session. I have given sessions on the beach, at villas and apartments, in swimming pools, at sunrise and sunset, with one to one sessions, friends or family group sessions, sessions for hen parties.

💜 If you would like something extra special like a half or full day long retreat day incorporating other treats like massage, I can also arrange a personalised experience for you.

Why ‘Yamas’ Yoga?

Yoga is made up of several different aspects, the ‘eight limbs’ of yoga.

The Yamas are the first limb, and are an ethical code or guidelines, primarily concerned with our interaction with the world around us.

The five Yamas are:

• Ahisma – non-violence

As well as non-violence and non-harm to all living things, ahisma is also about practicing kindness, compassion and non-judgement towards all creatures, including ourselves.

• Satya – truthfulness

Satya is being honest and truthful in words and actions towards others, which has to be balanced with ahisma, and also being completely honest with ourselves.

• Asteya – non-stealing

Asteya is about not taking anything that doesn’t belong to us, or which has not been freely and willingly given. It is more than just about possessions – it could be taking away someone else’s peace, betraying a confidence, or demands on someone’s attention or time.

• Brahmacharya – moderation

Taken literally as celibacy, Brahmacharya can be more relevant to be seen as moderating our impulses, using our energy responsibly and in the right way, and making sure we don’t harm others.

• Aparigraha – non-possessiveness

Aparigraha is non-greed and non-coveting, taking only what is necessary, keeping only what we need, and also letting go of our attachments to things – finding joy in a simple life.

(And as a nod to my love of Greece – Yamas is also, of course, a Greek word.. cheers!)