MEL_5931

Guest Teachers

This page is where we invite some of our friends to contribute. There are practices here that will be different to what you would normally have done and some excellent teachers. Please try, experiment, see how you can learn something new from someone new. 

Episode 1: 60 Mins Yin Yoga with Pia from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

Yin yoga complements the dynamic energy of everyday life. Using a couple of cushions we will gently open the body maintaining postures for longer, with less effort, to release tension and create deep relaxation.
This class is open to all levels and those who are pregnant. It can be taken in silence or with the following playlist:
Playlist
I hope you enjoy the class!
P x

Episode 2: 50 Mins Yin Yoga with Pia from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

In this 50-minute yin yoga class, we will go through a sequence starting with the hips and legs. We will then move through the body all the way to the head and face before closing the class with a grounding relaxation.
This class is suitable for all levels with options for those during pregnancy.
Playlist below:
Playlist
Hope you enjoy the class!

P x

Episode 1: A New Day is Born with Natalie from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

This is wonderful session for the morning to help embrace a new day and to rid of stiffness accumulated during a night’s sleep.
A slow build toward a peak of energy, gradually working all the way back down toward calm.
A personal favourite of Natalie to encourage better alignment and to ease the body into movement.

Episode 2: Love your joints with Natalie from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

This session gives lots of love and attention to all of the joints in and around the body.
Think of it as a mini servicing or “MOT check” of the body, from head to toe, gently mobilising and lubricating all of the joints for greater ease.
Slow and suitable for just about everyone, at any time of the day, especially in the evenings to destress and release after a long day.

Episode 3: Fitness Yoga - Power Up Your Poses with Natalie from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

Fitness Yoga – Power Up Your Poses – 1

Strong bodywork that offers more of a cardio workout, as well as an aura of calm.
A session that pays homage to eastern influences, yet with western fitness added to the mix.
Expect fun challenging repetitions, that make you sweat and strengthen major muscles, including the legs, glutes and core but still leave feeling more zen!

Episode 4: Flow & Restore - Full Body Release with Natalie from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

Flow & Restore – Full Body Release

An all-round practice that works the body on every level to restore energy, as well as provide a deep sense of rest through the body, mind and spirit connection.

Expect a decent warm up, a slow, yet strong flow to breath, with the remainder half of the class used entirely for more therapeutic poses, held for longer periods of time. Everyone leaves feeling refreshed and relaxed!

Episode 1: The Elements Part 1 of 5: Varuna/Jala Mudra with Nicola Peters from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

Duration: 30 minutes

Each week we explore a different mudra (hand seals/positions) accompanied by a corresponding meditation. Mudras engage certain areas of the brain and energetic field, using them in conjunction with meditation can help us to connect to a deeper state of consciousness.

In this class we cover Varuna/Jala Mudra. Varuna translates as the God of Rain (Jala means water).

To practice place the tips of the thumb and the little finger together. The other fingers remain extended.

We are starting the Elements series with the little finger, which is connected to the Water element. Over a 5 part series we will work through an elemental mudra related to each finger.

This mudra is also connected to the Sacral Chakra, our place of water, creativity and intuition. You can use this mudra to bring balance the Water element in the body as it helps with fluid circulation and is said to improve the glow of the skin. It is often called the “seal of mental clarity“ as it encourages emotional balance, reducing anger and fear.

Meditation Playlist: This can be played from the start of the recording; it is more for background music if you prefer instead of silence.


Playlist:
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7dxhv1QhKnNla2S0bs1PQB?si=O1ymc6YfSky7D64foCbfsA

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/gb/playlist/30-minute-meditation/pl.u-W3GfdNPVeZ

www.nicolapeters.com
www.instagram.com/NicolaAPeters

Episode 2: The Elements Part 2 of 5: Prithvi Mudra with Nicola Peters from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

Duration: 30 minutes

Each week we explore a different mudra (hand seals/positions) accompanied by a corresponding meditation. Mudras engage certain areas of the brain and energetic field, using them in conjunction with meditation can help us to connect to a deeper state of consciousness.

In this class we cover Prithvi Mudra. Prithvi is the Sanskrit word for Earth, and this is known as Mudra of the Earth.

To practice place the tips of the thumb and the ring finger together. The other fingers remain extended.

This is the second part in the Elements series, working with the ring finger, which is connected to the Earth element. Over a 5 part series we will work through an elemental mudra related to each finger.

This mudra increases the Earth element and decreases Fire element in the body. Prithvi/Earth element is represented by the body, so it is great mudra for healing and physical pains. The Earth element is connected to our Root Chakra and helps us to create a sense of security, grounding and connection to ourselves.

Use to relieve anxiety, cultivate a sense of safety, trust and strength from within.

Meditation Playlist: This can be played from the start of the recording; it is more for background music if you prefer instead of silence.


Playlist:
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7dxhv1QhKnNla2S0bs1PQB?si=O1ymc6YfSky7D64foCbfsA

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/gb/playlist/30-minute-meditation/pl.u-W3GfdNPVeZ

www.nicolapeters.com
www.instagram.com/NicolaAPeters

Episode 3: The Elements Part 3 of 5: Aakash Mudra with Nicola Peters from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

Duration: 30 minutes

Each week we explore a different mudra (hand seals/positions) accompanied by a corresponding meditation.

Mudras engage certain areas of the brain and energetic field, using them in conjunction with meditation can help us to connect to a deeper state of consciousness.

In this class we cover Aakash Mudra. Aakash translates as ‘to recognise’ or ‘to view’

To practice place the tip of the thumb and the middle finger together. The other fingers remain extended.

This is the third part in the Elements series, working with the middle finger, which is connected to the Ether element. Over a 5 part series we will work through an elemental mudra related to each finger.

This mudra increases the Ether/Space element in the body and connects us to the space surrounding all creation. It helps to bring awareness to the 'space between’ and boosting intuition. It is said that the space within the body is a part of the outer space/cosmos, therefore this mudra enables the individual’s higher self to reunite with the collective consciousness of the whole/universe.

Use to connect to your Throat Chakra for self-expression and communication.


Meditation Playlist: This can be played from the start of the recording; it is more for background music if you prefer instead of silence.


Playlist:
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7dxhv1QhKnNla2S0bs1PQB?si=O1ymc6YfSky7D64foCbfsA

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/gb/playlist/30-minute-meditation/pl.u-W3GfdNPVeZ

www.nicolapeters.com
www.instagram.com/NicolaAPeters

Episode 4: The Elements Part 4 of 5: Chin/Gyan/Jnana Mudra with Nicola Peters from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

Duration: 30 minutes

Each week we explore a different mudra (hand seals/positions) accompanied by a corresponding meditation.

Mudras engage certain areas of the brain and energetic field, using them in conjunction with meditation can help us to connect to a deeper state of consciousness.

In this class we cover Chin/Gyan/Jnana Mudra. Chin translates as ‘consciousness’. Jnana/Gyan translates as “wisdom” or "knowledge". This Mudra is often called the The Seal of Knowledge.

To practice place the tip of the thumb and the index finger together. The other fingers remain extended.

This is the fourth part in the Elements series, working with the index finger, which is connected to the Air element. Over a 5 part series we will work through an elemental mudra related to each finger.

This is one of the most commonly used and recognised mudras. The thumb corresponds with universal consciousness and the index finger with individual consciousness. By connecting these two symbolic and energetic fingers, the Air element is stimulated and spiritual awareness is increased.

Use to connect to bring deeper clarity of mind and balance of the nervous system.


Meditation Playlist: This can be played from the start of the recording; it is more for background music if you prefer instead of silence.

Playlist:
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7dxhv1QhKnNla2S0bs1PQB?si=O1ymc6YfSky7D64foCbfsA

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/gb/playlist/30-minute-meditation/pl.u-W3GfdNPVeZ

www.nicolapeters.com
www.instagram.com/NicolaAPeters

Episode 5: The Elements Part 5 of 5: Merudanda Mudra by Nicola Peters from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

Duration: 30 minutes

Each week we explore a different mudra (hand seals/positions) accompanied by a corresponding meditation.

Mudras engage certain areas of the brain and energetic field, using them in conjunction with meditation can help us to connect to a deeper state of consciousness.

In this class we cover Merudanda Mudra. ‘Meru’ is the name of the mythological mountain at the centre of the universe; ‘danda’ is a stick or staff. ‘Merudanda’ is another term for the spine. Often associated with aligning energy between the Earth and the sky.

To practice allow the thumb to be upright and the remaining fingers curl into the palm. Yes, it looks like a thumbs up, there are a few orientations this mudra can be used in to slightly alter the indented energy flow.

This is the five and final part in the Elements series, working with the thumb, which is connected to the Fire element. Over a 5-part series we have worked through an elemental mudra related to each finger.

Connected to our Solar Plexus and the Fire element this mudra controls digestion within the body as well as heat. Energetically, it governs your will power, self-esteem, self-confidence, self-image, ambition and courage.

Use to balance the Fire within.


Playlist:
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7dxhv1QhKnNla2S0bs1PQB?si=O1ymc6YfSky7D64foCbfsA

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/gb/playlist/30-minute-meditation/pl.u-W3GfdNPVeZ

www.nicolapeters.com
www.instagram.com/NicolaAPeters

Episode 6: Prana Mudra by Nicola Peters from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

Duration: 30 minutes

The first class in the Mudras and Meditation series.

Each week we explore a different mudra (hand seals/positions) accompanied by a corresponding meditation.

Mudras engage certain areas of the brain and energetic field, using them in conjunction with meditation can help us to connect to a deeper state of consciousness.

In this class we cover Prana Mudra. Prana means life force energy, pra - bring forth, na - eternal cosmic vibration.

To practice place the tips of the thumb, ring finger and little finger together. The other fingers remain extended.

This mudra connects to the Root Chakra, our place of grounding. You can use this mudra to recharge your energy, if you ever feel down, low, nervous or in need of rest you can use this mudras to connect you back to your life force and increase the energy and vibration within the body.

Meditation Playlist: This can be played from the start of the recording; it is more for background music if you prefer instead of silence.


Playlist:
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7dxhv1QhKnNla2S0bs1PQB?si=O1ymc6YfSky7D64foCbfsA

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/gb/playlist/30-minute-meditation/pl.u-W3GfdNPVeZ

www.nicolapeters.com
www.instagram.com/NicolaAPeters

Episode 7: Shakti Mudra by Nicola Peters from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

Duration: 30 minutes

Each week we explore a different mudra (hand seals/positions) accompanied by a corresponding meditation.

Mudras engage certain areas of the brain and energetic field, using them in conjunction with meditation can help us to connect to a deeper state of consciousness.

In this class we cover Shakti Mudra. This mudra is to honour the goddess of life energy, Shakti.

To practice place your ring fingers and little fingers together. The other fingers are loosely folded over the thumbs which are placed in your palm

This mudra is connected to empowerment, strength and inner power. It activates the immune system and has a calming effect on body and mind, bringing peace and harmony. Because of this it is often used to help with insomnia.

Meditation Playlist: This can be played from the start of the recording; it is more for background music if you prefer instead of silence.


Playlist:
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7dxhv1QhKnNla2S0bs1PQB?si=O1ymc6YfSky7D64foCbfsA

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/gb/playlist/30-minute-meditation/pl.u-W3GfdNPVeZ

www.nicolapeters.com
www.instagram.com/NicolaAPeters

Episode 1: Yang to Yin - August - by Nicola Peters from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

A 60 minute class designed to get the body moving with 30 minutes of Yang style (dynamic, flowing) vinyasa, then drifting into 30 minutes of Yin (soft, long supported holds) to balance the energy and set up for a restful evening.

Accompanied by a specially designed playlist, mirroring the Yang and Yin tempos.

August's Class Playlist:

Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3HHz4GKUmT65fIEy0UZvWf?si=Lz1tHyk8QfuiB0fUv81xOQ

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/gb/playlist/yang-to-yin-yoga-august/pl.u-Npq4Cmy9X4b

www.nicolapeters.com
www.instagram.com/NicolaAPeters

Episode 2: Yang to Yin - July - by Nicola Peters from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

A 60 minute class designed to get the body moving with 30 minutes of Yang style (dynamic, flowing) vinyasa, then drifting into 30 minutes of Yin (soft, long supported holds) to balance the energy and set up for a restful evening.

Accompanied by a specially designed playlist, mirroring the Yang and Yin tempos.

July’s Class Playlist:

Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1TVtNGEcDDOJg8WaQaaQ2h?si=wruyj2jkSPudNl-Um3pJFw

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/gb/playlist/yang-to-yin-yoga-july/pl.u-W4ZCdNPVeZ

www.nicolapeters.com
www.instagram.com/NicolaAPeters

Episode 1: Everything Changes with Sammy Furnival from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

This fun vinyasa practice works on the flexibility of the mind just as much as the body. Expect balancing, heart-opening and fluidity in the physical and contemplative practice for the mind as we delve into our mental habits and patterns.

Episode 2: A Shift in Perspective with Sammy Furnival from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

This fun vinyasa practice works on the flexibility of the mind just as much as the body. Expect balancing, heart-opening and fluidity in the physical and contemplative practice for the mind as we delve into our mental habits and patterns.

Episode 3: An Attitude of Gratitude with Sammy Furnival from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

This practice is centered around cultivating an Attitude of Gratitude, something that has the ability to drastically reshape our lives for the better. We'll flow mindfully whilst working to get deep into the hips.

Episode 4: Let's Get Grounded with Sammy Furnival from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

This all levels vinyasa practice looks to get you out of your head and firmly rooted in your body, encouraging a sense of being present rather than time travelling here and there, physically we're focusing on twists and balancing.

Episode 5: Mindfulness Through Yin from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

This yin practice has a strong physical focus on the hips, whilst the main theme of the practice is working through the different planes of mindfulness in an attempt to find a serene sense of awakeness.

Episode 6: Chair Yoga from Mel Bennardo on Vimeo.

A gentle 50 minute chair yoga practice for those with health or mobility barriers. This class focuses on stretching, strengthening and mobilising the body, whilst working with a steady breath.

  
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