Karen Hamer

Bio:

I was hooked on Iyengar from my first class. Very quickly I noticed improvement in my strength, mobility and overall mood – I felt a joy from moving – I kept wanting to go back for more. That was ten years ago, since when I have built my practice, working with Nathalie Blondel (level 3 teacher). My background is in dancing and, latterly, Stott Pilates, which I taught for more than 20 years. As a former dancer Iyengar felt revolutionary - it is not about reflections in mirrors, but about what is happening inside, not thinking about the outward image but about the internal mechanics – how it feels, how it is strengthening from inside. Now that I have qualified as an Iyengar teacher, many of my previous students have joined me on my journey and I am astonished how, in a relatively short time practicing Iyengar, I can see immense improvement in their overall health, mental stability and focus, which is also recognised by them. Iyengar is suitable for all ages and stages, helping people through different phases of their lives. Three generations of my family are now practicing with me: my Mum, my sisters, my son and my daughter are all benefitting. Teaching focuses on where a person is in their life journey, allowing for underlying conditions, sports injuries, supporting inherent weaknesses, both mental and physical, taking account of women’s monthly cycles and menopause. Iyengar accommodates people’s needs, supporting them to become stronger. I teach in 4 or 8 week courses. It’s important I have the time to get to know my students, encouraging them to develop their practice, building trust and understanding.