A functional flow style class suitable for all levels, ages and abilities. The class draws on elements of vinyasa, Iyengar and hatha yoga infused with somatics, fascia release, breathwork, meditation and much more to bring you the ultimate combination of mindful movement, strength, flexibility, balance, resilience and relaxation.
Yoga Classes Hamilton
Feel balanced in body and mind.
Join my next Wednesday evening Yoga Class
Yoga Classes Hamilton
Feel balanced in body and mind.
Join my next Wednesday evening Community Class
Wednesday: Stretch and Flow
Wednesday evenings 6-7pm
Class venue: The Link Community Centre, 4 Te Aroha Street, Hamilton East.
This is not your typical yoga class. Yes, we breathe, stretch and flow BUT, each week I share a new class that takes you on a journey to and through different aspects of your mind and body.
You will find a powerful and carefully handcrafted recipe of ingredients woven into each class. With curiosity and compassion, we focus on specific parts of your physical, emotional and energetic bodies using a potent combination of functional movement, neuropsychology and ancient Eastern wisdom.
All this serious-sounding stuff does not mean we don’t have fun! I am one of the goofiest people you will meet, and there are plenty of challenges, giggles and wobbles to enjoy as we work our way through new balancing poses, tricky transitions, and connect through partner stretches. You will never be judged for your ability to headstand or afford the most expensive brand of yoga tights. Your physical appearance does not matter here!
Class Pricing
Casual Class $19 (Incl. GST)
8 Class Concession $130 (4-month expiry – Incl. GST)
What to expect?
This is an all-levels class where your individual strengths, weaknesses and imbalances (we all have ‘em) will determine how challenging each experience will be for you. In essence, you are the agent of your body. Simply work through each class at your own pace, taking what you need, and leaving the rest.
If you are new, the first class can feel a little intimidating – most people will experience this! We human beings don’t like the unknown; it’s perfectly natural to experience some apprehension. With lots of new instructions and cues to breathe and move in different ways, your first class can feel somewhat confusing or overwhelming at times, BUT please know that in a short amount of time you will settle into it and quickly become familiar with things. Allow yourself to be a beginner!
You will develop the skill of tuning inward and listening to the subtle signals and messages from your body, strengthening that connection between the mind and body and in turn, the relationship with yourself.
As you embark on this exciting journey of getting to know yourself beneath all your wonderful layers, you will develop the discernment to know with confidence when it’s time to dig deep and breathe through it, and when it’s time to honour your limitations, take rest and modify certain poses to support your needs.
This is not a fitness test or a battle of the egos. I am not concerned with who is the bendiest or how far you can push your physical body into shapes and places that might look cool and impressive – but ultimately don’t serve any purpose. I am here to offer you guidance and permission to explore your internal world in a way that is science based, trauma informed and functionally beneficial so that you can find a space where you feel your best.
We welcome everyone to join us at The Link Community Centre, an inviting, warm space where all ages, genders, cultures and backgrounds can meet and connect.
What to bring?
Come exactly as you are; all parts of you are welcome here.
We usually use a yoga mat, block and strap, however, I recommend investing your own equipment once your practice becomes regular. Until then, I have everything you need!
Please wear comfortable clothing that you can move freely in with warm layers for the beginning and end of class. In Winter, I recommend bringing socks, beanie, jumper and even a blankie for the end of class to maximise your relaxation.
Bring an open mind and a willing heart (and a drink bottle!)
Why my students love this class...
“It is the way I feel after I’ve finished, and the anticipation I have the next week when I know yoga is coming up”…
What my students are saying...
Hear from others who have attended a community class
Paul ( 32 )
“Thank you Emily for the respect you gave me when teaching me yoga. Your patience and guidance were appreciated when I was just beginning and your encouragement to push that little bit further each time. My body certainly loves you for it as well. I now have more movement and no pain in my lower back or hip area. You are amazing!!!”
Cherie (55)
“Emily is a great yoga teacher, she has always made me feel comfortable. I have always felt welcome in her class and she connects well with her students. She gives adjustments where needed and always strives to help people progress and further their practice. The classes are interesting and never boring. Emily’s yoga class is perfect for anyone whether you are a beginner or expert participant.”
Helen ( 28 )
“Em is such a beautiful, caring, inclusive and knowledgable yoga teacher. I feel her practice is well versed and every part has its own reason for being in the class. She is very encouraging to challenge you but also very conscious and accepting of all levels. I always leave feeling accomplished, relaxed and with a mind rest to gratitude and self-love. Thanks Em.”
Mary
“Attending your yoga classes has changed my life and my mental health significantly”.
Candra Pullon
“Absolutely cannot state enough how wonderful Em’s yoga classes are. The way content is delivered and the safety of the space we meet in is so beautiful and you know that when you’re there, you will not be judged and you can participate to whatever comfort level you have on the day. A thousand times recommend! ”
Helen
“Em is such a beautiful, caring, inclusive and knowledgable yoga teacher. I feel her practice is well versed and every part has its own reason for being in the class. She is very encouraging to challenge you but also very conscious and accepting of all levels. I always leave feeling accomplished, relaxed and with a mind rest to gratitude and self-love. Thanks Em.”
Paul
“Thank you Emily for the respect you gave me when teaching me yoga. Your patience and guidance were appreciated when I was just beginning and your encouragement to push that little bit further each time. My body certainly loves you for it as well. I now have more movement and no pain in my lower back or hip area. You are amazing!!!”
Cherie
“Emily is a great yoga teacher, she has always made me feel comfortable. I have always felt welcome in her class and she connects well with her students. She gives adjustments where needed and always strives to help people progress and further their practice. The classes are interesting and never boring. Emily’s yoga class is perfect for anyone whether you are a beginner or expert participant.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Functional' Yoga?
Functional yoga classes are designed with specific purpose and true intention. In other words, they are crafted in a meaningful way as opposed to being taught a bunch of poses because they look cool. Functional yoga offers tools, education and insights that support the balance and regulation of your physical, mental and emotional health.
Can I do Yoga if I’m pregnant?
The short answer is YES! The general rule I follow is don’t start anything brand new once you become pregnant. Undertaking a new type of movement or activity puts extra strain on your body as it is required to adjust, adapt and familiarise at a time it is already working so hard to create, grow and support your little person. Our Wednesday class is not pregnancy specific but it is pregnancy friendly for those who are not new to movement. Modifications are available for each class. Em K Yoga Online has many pregnancy friendly classes available for you to practice from home!
What do I need to bring?
Just your wonderful self and a water bottle! Make sure you wear comfortable clothes that you can move freely in.
Do I need my own mat?
If you have a yoga mat, I recommend bringing it as it’s always nicer to use your own! If you are new and just dabbling in your first few classes – I always bring spare mats for borrowing.
Do I need to be flexible?
Absolutely not – this is one of the biggest myths of yoga! Flexibility is not a requirement and although it is a natural biproduct of practicing regularly, it’s not the main focus! Yoga poses are all adaptable to work for you.
Is Yoga spiritual?
Yoga Philosophy is rooted in Hinduism and Buddhism BUT you do not have to follow these religions to practice yoga or to benefit from it. If you have different or no religious beliefs – no worries!
How do I know if Yoga is for me?
Honestly? Yoga is for everybody. If you have a body – you can do yoga. Every single human being can benefit from what yoga has to offer, most of the time you find yoga when you are seeking certain changes or remedies in your body, mind and life – more of than not, you will take away far more than you ever bargained for.
Is Yoga easy?
Is learning something new ever easy? Is climbing a mountain easy? Are the views at the top spectacular? It can be as easy or as difficult as you decide – you are in charge of your body.
Will I be able to keep up?
Short answer – who cares. It’s not a competition, it’s not a performance and it’s really not about what anyone else is doing. You are not learning choreography that must be expressed in a certain way to a certain timing. When you come to your mat, you pop into your little personal yoga bubble and just do you. You are learning to listen to your body, to move with the flow of your breath, to challenge yourself when it feels safe to do so, and to pull back and slow down when you reach your limit.
What should I expect at my first class?
My best advice would be to drop expectations of the class, of yourself and come with a completely open mind. Every yoga class, style and teacher is different! Rarely will you have the same experience twice.
Why do you ‘Om’ at the end of class?
The sound of ‘Om’ or ‘Aum’ is said to be the sound of the universe, of the earth, of God or source, whatever sits right with you. For me, I close each class with 3 sounds of AUM to seal the practice in unity and resonance. The vibrational quality of chanting has enormous health benefits relating to the vagus nerve which plays a large part in the regulation of our nervous system.
How long are your classes?
Community classes are 60 minutes long. Classes inside the Online Platform vary from 10 minutes to 75 minutes so you can decide how much time you want to practice for!
How much does the Online Studio Membership cost?
The annual membership is the best value at $199 for unlimited access for 12 months. Otherwise, the options are $7.99 per week (including a 7-day free trial!) or $24 monthly. Basically, it’s a cup of coffee per week or less!
Do you offer Private classes?
Yes! I have just opened up my books for 1:1 offerings. Working with me in person allows us to take a deep dive inward, tune into your needs and goals and create a personalised program. Whether it’s arm balances, anxiety, body confidence, core strength, an injury or chronic pain you are wanting to work on, I can help you.
What if I need to cancel my booking?
You can withdraw from a Community Class booking via your confirmation email before the class, and you will automatically be refunded your money or class credits.
Book a class
Join me in a class today. Choose a time that suits you below!
The Class is also live-streamed, to get access join Em K Yoga Online
Can’t make it to a class? I got you
I film all of my classes from my home so that you can access them from yours, join Em K Yoga Online and practice with me online, it’s just like having me right there with you, and you can enjoy the benefits of a daily routine on your own schedule, maybe even in your PJs!
This is the perfect place to start if you are new to Yoga or looking to deepen your current mind and movement understanding.
Click below to learn more about my online membership, Em K Yoga Online.
