When my fellow reporter Abigail and I embarked on a series of experiments for lifelong fitness and flexibility over this past month, I was given an armband that said “Make Your Body Your Machine”. I am relieved to say my body is becoming much more than just a machine thanks to a combination of both strenuous and peaceful solutions to becoming super bendy and much, much stronger.
After four weeks of encouragement by my ever-patient personal trainer Gav at Rye Bay Fitness I am assessing the cost and value of various experiments in well-being. The play list in the gym is very loud. Songs are insistent, pumping pulsating energy into me as I gingerly approach my least favourite of all body building machines, the Stairmaster. Gav’s music lures me to climb and to climb again and again. The rhythm of the rowing machine music is a treat after this. I am in a zone in tune with the ghetto blaster. As cardio exercises on the treadmill get faster and the incline gets steeper, I gain confidence as the music eggs me on. You can contact Gavin at Gavin@RyeBayFitness.co.uk or 07525460356
I also crave the peaceful healing atmosphere of my Tuesday morning Yoga Class for Seniors with Sally Bayly at The Elysian Centre (see last week’s post by Abigail on her class at The Elysian Centre). Having taught yoga in Rye for many years, Sally is often asked to do private sessions and after multiple requests she started up a small seniors’ yoga class with four eager participants last year. Ongoing interest made her realise the need for this type of class in Rye. As advancing years bring challenges in mobility for all of us, yoga is an amazing way to address this: slowing the decline, changing things around both in body and improving one’s mental outlook about keeping active and supple.
Sally writes:
“I started a Senior Yoga Class at the lovely Elysian Centre last November and am so happy to see it gaining such momentum. I‘ve noticed amazing improvements and have watched in awe the focus and determination of all who attend (an equal balance of men and women). Yoga improves balance, flexibility and mobility (or restores that which is lost!); it increases strength and enhances focus and concentration. This I can guarantee! Breath practices also improve circulation and heart health. No experience whatsoever is needed and it doesn’t matter what level of fitness you have.
“I am a professional singer and was first introduced to yoga by my husband Michel Duvoisin whilst recording an album in Vermont in 1989 – we had lots of time to spare – and I have practiced and taught ever since. It has helped me through some enormous personal challenges; the tragic loss of Michel and the challenges of lockdowns. Yoga (and my lovely Lola, who does an impressive Downward Dog) have got me through so much, and I am passionate about sharing the joy and uplift of this amazing practice with others. ”
You can contact Sally on 07956 280 257 or at baylysally@gmail.com
Image Credits: Sally Bayly .
Thank you for this lovely article featuring my Rye yoga classes. I love teaching this incredible life-practice and it uplifts me when I hear how much it helps others. Please do get in touch if you’d like to join a class Sally x