"I’ve been going to Sally’s yoga class at Shanti Bee for about a year. I’ve got spondylosis and other chronic musculoskeletal problems and hoped that chair yoga would help me to increase muscle strength and relieve pain. 

I’ve been amazed at the progress I’ve made in this time. Sally addresses individual challenges within the small group setting in a warm and caring way, encouraging a mindful approach in everything we do. 

I began to realise particularly how rhythmic exercise, using different parts of the body, was having a positive effect.  This really works on calming both my mind and body, which is great as I also have an anxiety problem and get panic attacks. Using this approach, whether by stroking the length of my legs or using my arms in a “gathering” motion really calms me down and stops anxiety from escalating into full blown panic. 

I’ve also been amazed to find how exercises involving rhythmic shifting from one foot to centre then the other foot and back has not only strengthened my leg muscles but also helped me to maintain my balance when standing still and upright. Standing has been problematic for me for years and the only advice I have previously received is to work on my core muscle strength. Such a simple exercise and yet so powerful!'