Yoga & Walking with the Alexander Technique

This time we're in the quieter side of the Lakes in Sedbergh, near Kendal, overlooking the stunning views of the Howgill Fells.

Located on the Eastern fringes of the Lake District, the area may not be as well-known as other tourist places in the Lakes, but this makes it all the more special.

Yet another collaboration with my friend and colleague Jacqui Wallace at 'Yoga Sapien', St Mark's Stays offers a relaxing venue with ample studio space to set up in. The location of the Howgill Fells means quiet spaces indoor and outdoor for meditation and contemplation. There's also a large garden for outdoor activities and walking from the doorstep into this gorgeous location of rare natural beauty.

St Marks Stays, Cumbria

The Yoga

The yoga sessions are to suit all levels and will either energise, strengthen and warm up the body, or relax, restore and stretch out tired muscles after hours spent walking. The pace is gentle, slow and mindful, inviting you to embrace your individuality and curiosity to develop body awareness.

Embodied yoga is based on sensory experience – you're neither in competition with others, nor there to challenge yourself to the point of exhaustion! Our aim is to empower and guide your practice to help you find freedom within your body and to explore your practice both on and off the mat.

The Practice Space

Our space for practicing is this cosy yoga studio within the main building with views of the surrounding hills at the side of the house. The room is ideal for yoga with a wooden floor with a bright and airy feel.

Please bring your own yoga mat if you have one (though we can provide one if you're intending to travel light!). Other yoga equipment is provided (brick, block, strap, scented eye pillow, and a few blankets), but you may prefer to bring your own if you have any.

Yoga with Jacqui

Walking with The Alexander Technique

Mindful walking through woods, up craggy footpaths and managing descents that we might find a challenge…Enjoy the benefits of walking without undue wear and tear and the stress and strain on joints and muscles.

Widely recognised as one of the most effective self-help techniques for posture and awareness, the “thinking in action” helps us to let go of habitual tension, so that more energy is available for the sheer enjoyment of simply putting one foot in front of the other and appreciating the wonderful mountain environment.

If you have walking poles, bring them along and we can spend some time exploring how we might use them more effectively to further reduce wear and tear on the knees. Or, if you are considering using them in the future, we’ll have a few spare pairs if you’d like to try them out.

Walking level

The walking level is perfect for those who are used to walking in the hills, or if you’re new to walking, but already do some form of exercise fairly regularly.

There are several stunning walks we can choose from e.g. Cautley Spout, many of which will be mainly on footpaths, but there could also be a little more rugged terrain at times too. The views at the summits are definitely worth the effort! And fingers crossed that June rises to the challenge of being sunny!

Monday will be a shorter walk, allowing you more time to relax after lunch.

Though the walks are moderate, the Lake District terrain can sometimes be challenging, so a reasonable level of fitness and sturdy walking boots are advised.

Learn the Alexander Technique with Anita

Typical weekend schedule

FRIDAY

• 16:30 Arrivals. Welcome drinks and home-made cake. Tour of the house, studio and garden. Time to settle in and unpack.
• 17:30 Gentle evening yoga practice
• 19:00 Dinner
• 20:30 Short Alexander relaxation practice

SATURDAY

• 08:00 Morning vinyasa yoga flow
• 09:30 Breakfast
• 10:30 Walking with The Alexander Technique (take packed lunch)
• 15:30 Free time, including drinks and home-made cake
• 17:30 Evening nurturing yoga practice
• 19:00 Dinner
• 20:30 Yoga nidra/meditation

SUNDAY

(we have a later finish for the last day - so no morning rushing!)

• 08:00 Morning vinyasa yoga flow
• 09:30 Breakfast
• 10:30 Walking with The Alexander Technique
• 13:00 Lunch
• 14:00 Free time, and/or applying Alexander Technique into daily life
• 16:00 Departures and good-byes

(All activities are optional and subject to change)

“Excellent teaching, thought the yoga and Alexander technique were a excellent blend.”

The fire pit at St Marks Stays

Yoga room at St Marks Stays

Meals

You are in for a real treat this weekend as fantastic chef, Pam Taylor, will be providing the vegetarian delights for us. Originally from Chile, Pam later lived and worked in Australia, where she trained as a chef for many years. She has creative flair, as well as expertise and will ensure we are well nourished on the inside!

The Accommodation

The house is set in the quiet little village of Cautley, with fantastic panoramic views over the valley to the Howgill fells beyond.

All rooms are in the main house and there are 7 bedrooms for you to chose from - 5 twin rooms (all en-suite) and 2 rooms each with a double bed for single occupancy if preferred, (one en-suite, and one with a shared bathroom.)

All rooms are individually furnished - Jo, the co-owner of the house, is also a photographer and has a real flair for design and creativity. You'll love the rooms!