ViraYoga

My primary focus in class is to create a safe, balanced, and enjoyable space for my students.

I encourage my students to practise with awareness and guide them in finding their own balance on the mat, whatever that means to them at that particular moment.

I value creativity and believe that progress involves much more than simple repetition. I don’t think I’ve ever taught the same class twice—because no two practices are ever the same.

'Elvira's classes are thoughtfully planned, with helpful insights, encouragement and guidance offered throughout.'

BALANCED ASANA PRACTICE

I combine elements from different yoga traditions, including Hatha, Ashtanga and Iyengar Yoga, encouraging students to explore what they may be missing in the present moment. Strength-building asanas generate heat and activate yang energy, while longer-held postures enhance flexibility and connect us to our yin side. Both aspects are equally important in finding balance and progressing in asana practice.

PRANAYAMA & MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR MENTAL HEALTH

HANDS ON ADJUSTMENTS

One of the key elements of my lessons is adjustments. For beginner practitioners, this means learning correct alignment from the start and practicing safely. For intermediate and advanced yogis, it’s an opportunity to deepen their practice and explore new variations. For me, it’s a way to understand each student’s unique needs and capabilities. Adjustments are always optional.

YOGA OUTSIDE THE MAT

In modern society, we often think of yoga as something practised solely on the mat. While attending classes undoubtedly helps build discipline, I eventually encourage my students to cultivate a yogic lifestyle — to integrate the knowledge they gain in class into their daily lives, and to observe how their everyday patterns are reflected in their relationship with their practice.

We all share common aspects of our lifestyles that lead to increased levels of anxiety. Practising with awareness is an important aspect of my classes. Pranayama and meditation help us greatly to be more mindful and have been scientifically proven to have positive impact on mental health. We will be exploring them as both preventative measures and tools to address stress and anxiety.