about

“Improve strength and flexibility of the body and mind through live classes, one-to-one and online sessions”

Hi I’m David AKA Yoga Dave, a yoga teacher in Stockport, Greater Manchester, UK. I’ve been practicing yoga and meditation for over 20 years and teaching for the past decade. When I first started doing yoga I had tight hamstrings, lower back issues and I was stressed, looking for a way to relax. Yoga and meditation really helped me in all these areas.

Thinking about trying yoga and meditation for the first time?

The first thing that people tell me when they come to their first class or one-to-one session is that they are the least flexible person ever and / or they are stressed out.  After the first session they tell me how relaxed and energised they feel and how well they slept that night.  Over time, flexibility and strength improves and they feel more relaxed generally.

People also say that the sessions are fun because although I do serious yoga, we don’t have to be precious about it.

Here’s my epiphany after reading loads of yoga philosophy, religious text and self-help books looking for answers: the main thing is to live a relaxed life and be at ease.

Yoga offers a tool bag full of ways to help keep the mind and body relaxed.  Stresses will come – that’s life – but you’ll find that you will be able to cope with them much more effectively.

Get in touch to find out more about live classes, one-to-one and online sessions, I’d love to hear from you and see if there is any way I can help.

classes

Friday 12:30pm - Yoga, Breathwork and Mindfulness - New Class starting 5th January 2024

Venue

Bramhall United Reformed Church, Robins Lane, Bramhall, SK7 2PE

Time

12:30pm - 1:30pm

New class in Bramhall starting Friday 5th January 2024!

One hour of Yoga, Breathwork and Mindfulness suitable for complete beginners.  If you are looking to increase flexibility and strength and also relax and de-stress, then come along.

Get in touch to find out more.

Book now

Friday 6pm - Hatha Yoga and Meditation

Venue

Bramhall Methodist Church, 23 Bramhall Lane South, Bramhall, Stockport SK7 1AL

Time

6pm - 7:30pm

Mixed ability Hatha yoga class every Friday from 6pm until 7:30pm

Hatha yoga combines yoga postures with breathwork and meditation.  The class is designed to improve strength and flexibility, and the meditation followed by a final relaxation helps to relax the mind. People say it is a challenging class, but they keep coming back for more.

Doors open at 5:30pm for a quiet sit and stretch, or simply relax and unwind.

Book now to reserve your place.

 

Book now

Thursday 6:30pm - Yoga, Breathwork and Meditation at Stockport Quakers

Venue

Stockport Quaker Meeting House, 2 Cooper Street, SK1 3DW

Time

6:30pm - 7:30pm

One hour of Hatha Yoga, Breathwork and Mindfulness suitable for complete beginners.  If you are looking to increase flexibility and strength and also relax and de-stress, then come along.

Book now to reserve your place.

Book now

Workplace Yoga and Mindfulness

Venue

At your premises

Time

Please enquire for availability

One of the key advantages of workplace yoga and mindfulness is stress reduction.

Regular workplace yoga sessions incorporating physical postures, breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices offer a range of benefits to employees. The sessions are tailored to the specific needs of the individual for all fitness, flexibility and stress levels. Remember that improved flexibility and reduced stress comes with practice.

The sessions take place at your premises and are suitable for complete beginners.

Get in touch to find out more.

Book now

Private 1-2-1 and small groups

Venue

In person or Zoom - please enquire

Time

Please enquire for availability

Get in touch to find out about private yoga, breathwork and meditation sessions to individuals or small groups. I am also a qualified Shamanic practitioner and Synergistic energy healing practitioner.

If you are looking to increase flexibility, sort out a bad back, deal with stress or a deeper emotional issue, contact me for a free 20 minute consultation.

 

 

Book now

yoga at work

Workplace yoga and mindfulness programs have gained significant popularity in recent years, and for good reason. As workplaces become more aware of the importance of employee well-being, yoga is emerging as a versatile and effective tool for promoting health and productivity among the workforce.

Regular office yoga sessions, incorporating physical postures, breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices, offer a range of benefits to employees. The sessions can be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the employees, making them suitable for individuals at all fitness and flexibility levels. This inclusivity fosters a sense of community and team-building among employees, contributing to improved communication and trust within teams.

One of the key advantages of workplace yoga is stress reduction. According to the American Institute for Stress, stress is a significant driver of visits to the doctor. By offering employees tools to manage stress, yoga and mindfulness can have a direct impact on reducing absenteeism, enhancing mental clarity, and improving overall mental well-being.

Physical well-being is also a major focus of workplace yoga. In an era when sedentary job environments and repetitive tasks contribute to musculoskeletal disorders and discomfort,

regular yoga practice can alleviate issues such as neck and back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and insomnia. These benefits are crucial for preventing work-related injuries and ensuring the long-term health of the workforce.

Furthermore, employers are recognizing the positive impact of yoga on employee morale and productivity. A happier and healthier workforce is generally more productive and engaged, leading to increased job satisfaction and a positive workplace atmosphere.

In addition to the individual benefits, office yoga can also help companies achieve cost savings by reducing healthcare expenses and the number of sick days taken by employees. By providing employees with tools to manage stress, improve their physical health, and enhance their overall well-being, companies can demonstrate their commitment to employee welfare and gain a competitive edge in attracting and retaining top talent.

The comprehensive offerings by bendyoga in Cheshire, which can take place in your premises include different class durations, flexibility in scheduling, and discounts for regular participants, make it a valuable partner for organizations seeking to invest in their employees’ health and happiness.

Get in touch or read our blog on on Yoga and Mindfulness in the Workplace to find out more.

new to yoga?

All classes are suitable for complete beginners and those looking to improve flexibility and strength

Can’t touch your toes?

Well, that’s a great place to start. By practicing yoga you will soon start to feel the benefits, including:

  • Stress relief
  • Builds core strength and flexibility
  • Improves posture
  • Helps back pain and stiff joints
  • Tones the body
  • Sleep better
  • Increases stamina
  • Improves health and wellbeing
  • Controls weight
  • Helps to recover from injury
  • With practice, you might even be able to touch your toes….(hint, bend your knees….)

What do I need for my first class?

  • Aim to arrive at least 10 minutes before the class to settle in
  • Drink a couple of glasses of water before each class
  • Practice on an empty stomach – no food for at least
    2 hours before a class
  • Wear loose fitting clothing
  • Yoga mats are available to borrow
  • Most importantly, come with an open mind!

blog

“Thoughts, musings and ruminations.”

Yoga and Mindfulness in the Workplace

Yoga offers a wide range of benefits for both employees and the employers that organize yoga sessions in the workplace.
Read More

What I've been pondering this week..

I can't help but ponder, and this is where you'll find my thoughts. Each week you'll find my latest insights
Read More

What is Shamanism?

Shamanism is a direct connection with the spirit and is used for healing.  There is evidence of shamanic practices in
Read More

Get Rid Of Back Pain

Around 80% of people suffer from lower back pain.  If you are one of these people you'll know it is
Read More

What is yoga about, really?

Most people think of yoga in terms of the physical practice – very flexible people getting into weird positions –
Read More

Feeling dull, over active or just right?

I have recently been contemplating the forces described in Sankhya philosophy as the Guna’s.  The three Guna’s are tamas, rajas
Read More

Coronavirus and COVID-19

Due to the 2019-2020 outbreak of the novel Coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 which causes COVID-19, we are taking extra precautions with the
Read More

Online Classes

I will be hosting online yoga and meditation sessions during the lock down period. If you would like to join
Read More

Facing your inner demons - listening to the teachers from inner space

It occurred to me this morning, as I was running through the woods by the river, that it's impossible to
Read More

What style of yoga do you teach?

I often get asked ‘What style of yoga do you teach?’, and my stock response is ‘Hatha yoga’. I have
Read More

Storytelling

What differentiates humans from all the other creatures on this planet is our capacity to tell and believe in stories.
Read More

The Practice of Mindfulness

Finding space is very tricky in a world which is so demanding of our attention. There is a constant pressure
Read More

Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness is really hip right now. Or at least owning a book on mindfulness, maybe skim reading it, maybe trying
Read More

Should I stop reading the fake-in news?

A year or so ago, on the advice of a book I was reading at the time, I stopped reading
Read More

An Antidote to Blue Monday

Thank you Millie Sarin from Sister Talk ALL Fm 96.9 for inviting me onto your drive time show on 10th
Read More

Should we teach our children Yoga?

Should we teach our children yoga? I was asked this question last week and it got me thinking….aren’t children natural
Read More

So, what is the point of Yoga, anyway?

I am sat here on my 49th birthday, reflecting on life, the universe and everything and as always happens at
Read More

Best New Year's Resolution...try Yoga..

IF YOU are looking for a New Year’s resolution, then why not try yoga? Come to think of it, just
Read More

Mindfulness Meditation in the Supermarket

MANY THANKS to friends at the Cenacle Treatment Centre for dinner last night and some interesting, thought provoking conversation. As
Read More

A brief history of yoga

Yoga has been practiced for around 6,000 years and originated in the Indus Valley region situated in Northern India spanning
Read More

testimonials

Sean:

“I booked the initial evening being rather unsure what to expect, but so glad I took the leap of faith and booked my first session. Dave has a most welcoming demeanor and a very relaxing approach but don't kid yourself that it's easy. I'm a firm believer you only get out what you put in and I can honestly say that I will be back for more”

Ian:

“Been coming to Dave's Bendy Yoga for about 5 years after initially joining to free up tight hamstrings and other tight joints causing lower back pain due to too much sitting in the car and at my desk! Worked a treat for me and never looked back. A great way to end the working week. Dave keeps it light hearted and mixes it up each week so never the same. Give it a go!”

Karen:

“I love this class! I refuse to go out on a Friday night as I can't miss it. I initially went to try and relieve a stiff upper back, but have found the benefits go much further - great conditioning to counter other high-intensity exercise and also hugely relaxing. There is a great mix of fun and challenge and every week is different”

Gill:

“I really enjoyed the session on Friday, David, and just what I needed. I like the focus on the breathe and also being clear about where the stretch is being felt in each posture as well as taking enough of a pause to notice the impact of each stretch. I enjoyed the structure of the session with time given to sitting. Thank you”