Description

This workshop is aimed at yoga practitioners and teachers keen to: 

• Explore the physiological and psychological effects of deep and brief relaxation techniques
• Learn general considerations for how to practically apply relaxation to yoga practice and daily life 
• Practice progressive, differential and applied relaxation techniques appropriate to their own needs (and to introduce these in a yoga class if teachers)
• Explore psychological and behavioural approaches to relaxation in relation to Western and Eastern philosophies of both 
• Consider Patanjali's definition of yoga
• Discuss how moral observances and guidance outlined in Eastern philosophy (Yama, Niyama, Svadhyaya, Sankalpa) might be helpful in (or hinder) relaxation 
• Consider how svadhyaya and sankalpa might be helpful in relaxation particularly in relation to cognitive strategies 
• Discuss the Gunas and Koshas in relation to human behaviour and relaxation
• Consider the use of multi-sensory imagery and metaphor as tools for relaxation
• Understand and apply cautions and contraindications for practical use of relaxation techniques including some ‘mental health first aid’ and demonstrate an understanding of how to apply short relaxations to everyday situations for themselves and their students 

Sally Kennedy is a registered and practicing Chartered Physiotherapist and Acupuncturist, and has been working for the NHS in various clinical roles since 2000. She has been practicing yoga for over 25 years and completed her BWY teacher training in 2008. Having lived in Dorset, Cornwall, London and returning to the East Midlands where she was born and brought up, Sally has always found a yoga class wherever she has travelled from Nepal to Australia, and brings this wealth of experience and teaching styles to her eclectic and informal sessions. She has taught yoga in gyms, church halls, mental health institutions and hospitals and is passionate about making yoga and its benefits accessible to all. In conjunction with her professional physiotherapy and acupuncture skills, she is continuing to develop special interests in teaching those with chronic pain, mental health conditions and neurological problems. 

Additional Information

Joining link:

This is an online only event. The Joining link will be emailed one week prior to the event.

Tickets:
Tickets for this event are priced at £45 for BWY Members (early bird until 10th October 2026, £55 thereafter) and £65 for non members/full price. BWY Student Teacher early bird tickets are available at a discounted price of £40.

Did you know that annual membership is just £48, why not join us and take advantage of discounts on lots of great events taking place?

If you would like to purchase a non Member ticket please register here first : https://portal.bwy.org.uk/register  then the non-member ticket will appear at the bottom of the event screen. 

Cancellation Policy:
The BWY Refund and Cancellation policy is listed on the BWY website: https://www.bwy.org.uk/about-bwy/key-policies/refund-and-cancellation-policy/ 

What to Bring

Any yoga tools you would normally use for relaxation and meditation practices eg stool, mat, blanket, blocks.