I first started practising yoga in 1996 partly because I was experiencing a number of health problems and also out of interest. I found that yoga helped my health improve and have been practising ever since. I have also practised many other forms of exercise, but have found yoga to be the best by far, as it works on the mind as well as the body.
Karl Marsden Yoga Teacher & Counsellor
I have ten years experience of counselling on a voluntary basis at two GPs surgeries and 2 local charities. Over this period I have worked with a wide range of issues, problems and concerns, such as drug, alcohol, relationships, bereavement, loneliness, confusion, employment issues, illness, disability, sexual orientation and discrimination. Before this period I worked in mental health and a hospice.
I have an advanced diploma in counselling and other related courses and the above experience but rather than taking a position of “expert” I take a position of humility trusting in the potential of each person to find their own unique way forwards. In short the answers come from you, self understanding comes from you, healing and moving forwards comes from you!
What I Offer
Counselling
I offer you a safe place where you can be yourself without feeling judged or criticized and also without someone suggesting or giving you advice. It is a place where you can explore some of your thoughts and feeling and move in a process towards healing.
Approach
Person centred / experiential
Memberships
I am a member of The British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP) and work within their ethical framework for good practice. I am also a member of the British Association for the person Centred Approach (BAPCA). I have regular professional counselling supervision and offer a confidential service.
Fees
Fees: £35 per hour (some concessions).
First initial session £15 for 30 minutes.
Yoga
I first started practising yoga in 1996 partly because I was experiencing a number of health problems and also out of interest. I found that yoga helped my health improve and have been practising ever since. I have also practised many other forms of exercise, but have found yoga to be the best by far, as it works on the mind as well as the body.
Although I started with the physical exercises and relaxation I have always been interested in all the other aspects of yoga, such as the diet, internal cleansing techniques, philosophy and meditation. Over the years I have spent time developing and learning yoga as a holistic system incorporating all the above aspects, spending time in various yoga ashrams (yoga retreats).
Over the years I have practised a number of different styles of yoga. However, for the last 8 years I have been practising Sivananda Yoga, which is what I’m trained in and what I now teach. Sivananda Yoga is a holistic classical style of yoga, which incorporates all the many different aspects of yoga and not just the physical exercises. The ultimate aim of Sivananda Yoga is spiritual, which the ultimate aim of all yoga! In regards to spirituality, yoga is different than some forms of religion, as it is experiential and one uses and takes what aspects are of help to them personally, though at the same time being open to experience!
The classes that teach are taught to the standard framework as Sivananda Yoga and are taught in the same order in a systemic uninterrupted flowing sequence. The classes consist of two breathing exercises, warm up exercises and 12 core yoga postures and relaxation at the beginning and end. This is a standard class and beginners and advanced classes vary from the above, but still work to the same framework. The classes are not over complicated with a lot of detail so there remains a peaceful atmosphere and a continuous energy flow, from one move to the next. This way the student can become more relaxed while doing the yoga postures and experience peace within!
I give most of the instructions verbally in a clear and concise way and assist each person individually if they are struggling and need help - correcting and adjust if necessary. I have an experiential approach to teaching, facilitating each person to learn through direct experience. I trust in the learning potential within each person and help them to develop their own practise.
There is no competition encouraged in the class - each person works at their own pace and can stop and relax at any time they wish. Please don’t be put off by this if you are a person who needs motivation, as the standard classes are not easy. It’s up to you – listen to your body is what I’m saying!
Other aspects of yoga are not covered in the exercise classes, such as yogic diet /nutrition / cooking, juicing, internal cleansing exercises (kriyas), naturopathic healing, yoga philosophy and meditation. These will be covered in separate workshop or at the request of students.
I sincerely want to share the benefits I have gained from yoga with others in my local community and I don’t see teaching yoga as a business. I ask for a donation of £6 which pays for the room and further training.
Qualifications
Advanced Diploma in Counselling
Certificate in Counselling Skills
Introduction to Counselling
Sociology OCB
Psychology OCB
Yoga Teacher Training Course (which included yoga psychology/ yoga philosophy)
Service Categories
Breathwork, Corporate Yoga, Counselling, Meditation, Pregnancy Yoga, Yoga
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