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Yoga has become one of the most popular activities for unwinding before or after a long, demanding day.
For those looking to explore a new side of themselves, or simply discover the benefits of a millennia-old discipline, Waipu offers an option for everyone.
Yoga instructor Rachel Lee, who has been involved in the practice for most of her life, shared her experience and the journey she has built around yoga.
“I started at least 40 years ago. I was still at school when I discovered it, and since then it has been part of my life,” she said.
Rachel also recalled attending a yoga studio in Wellington in the 1990s, where one of the teachers encouraged her to take the step into teaching.
“Practising yoga has so many benefits,” she explained. “On a physical level, it improves strength, flexibility, balance and many of the qualities we tend to lose as we age. But what is talked about less – yet is equally important – is the mental aspect. Many people are looking for ways to learn about mindfulness, and I would say yoga is the ultimate mindfulness practice.” Rachel also highlighted how mental health has become increasingly important since the pandemic, emphasising that yoga addresses both physical and mental wellbeing as a whole.
She offers several types of classes, one of the most distinctive is Sunday Relax and Renew, which is held once a month.
“That particular time of the week works really well,” she said. “It doesn’t interrupt family time and gives people the opportunity to reconnect with themselves and be mentally prepared for what’s coming up in the week ahead.”
She also noted that these sessions were ideal for people who struggle to find two spare hours during busy weekdays.
“Yoga can have different focuses depending on what you want to achieve.
“What I always recommend is simply to start and see what happens, keeping a very open mind. Many people hesitate because they think they’re too stiff or not flexible enough, but that’s exactly why you should begin.”
