The Present of Presence: Four ways I'm gifting this Christmas

The Present of Presence: Four ways I’m gifting this Christmas.

Dear Yoga Friends,

This is my Christmas letter to you. I touch on concepts you all know well from our classes, tell you a little bit about what’s coming up, and share my musings, hopes and dreams with you.

“The quality of our presence may speak more than anything else.”

We often practice silence together on our retreats and immersions and when I read this quote it can be quite meaningful for people. We consider how often we all speak, for whatever reason, and how interesting it is to be in silence together to explore that pattern. Another common theme in retreats is a snippet of yoga philosophy around the concept of Vivika or keen discernment, otherwise known as choosing wisely.

We can all get caught up in the whirlwind that is preparing for Christmas. It’s so compelling, it’s fun, we can express our love to loved ones, we can get caught up in worrying if we have done enough, given enough, bought enough. When really, the most important thing of is the quality of our presence, not the quality of our presents!

Your loved ones want you as your most relaxed, happy self. You want you to show up as your relaxed, happy, self… just as you should be. You, above all, deserve peace, contentment and a happy Christmas full of love and joy. What could you do to approach the weeks ahead to feel calm, rested and happy?

The present of nature.

The power of nature to heal us, to soothe us, to invigorate us; I am eternally grateful for our beautiful part of the world. In getting intentional for where effort, energy, time and money go for me this year I have chosen to contribute to two local charities, one for nature and one for the community. Save the Hellfire is a community organization committed to preserving the nature of the Hellfire amid a proposed construction project that has been approved, but is temporarily stalled. Beautiful calendars featuring photographs from local photographers that love the area are on sale for €10 directly from me at yoga classes or online at www.savethehellfire.com plus postage. In January we will organize a mindful Hellfire Hike for the community so please stay tuned for that.

The present of community.

In our evening venue we share our space with team at Ballycullen Food Bank who do an incredible job of distributing food and items to those who need them in the area. They are a donation-based, volunteer organization at the grass roots of our wonderful community here. Here we are, in leafy south Dublin, one of the safest places to be in the world, and there are people in need right on our doorsteps. This year on behalf of Sylvia’s Yoga I will be making a donation to Donovan’s Butcher’s in Firhouse who will in turn supply fresh meat to the Ballycullen Food Bank. This contribution is a gesture from all of us and I thank you all for your ongoing support of my business.

The present of loved ones.

“When I am in the place in me where I am truly me, and you are in the place in you where you are truly you, there is one of us.”

This Christmas I am fortunate to have loved ones present in a safe, loving, secure home. It has not always been this way, so I am doubly-grateful and counting my blessings daily as I prepare, probably over-prepare, see paragraph four!

December is full of community classes, and events in my favourite mountain venue, cups of tea with friends and yogis, fun plans with loved ones, the odd night out or two that might end up with a bit of dancing. You can keep your Chanel bag wrapped up in a bow under the tree, thank you, I have more-than everything I could possibly need. My wish for you this Christmas is many moments of connection with other humans full of love and joy.

The present of you.

You, above all, deserve your love and attention. Where could you find space and time for constructive rest, meaningful rest, rest that sparks joy? Sometimes that rest in simply a nap, or an afternoon on the couch. Sometimes it’s a trip out to a treatment or yoga or fun with friends. It could be your book, your bath, your bestie. The qualities you look for is number one restful (a break from endless doing), number two helpful. A glass of wine might be restful, the whole bottle might not be helpful; the after-effects of one single glass might not be helpful. How can you be your own best friend this Christmas? How can you make wise decisions as a Christmas present to you, from you with love.

Yoga classes will continue into the community, morning and evening, all the way up until Thursday 12th December. We have three final events in Mutton Lane Studio, two have spaces left. All of these events are on my website. Please just come along to classes, Mutton Lane events need to be booked in advance on Eventbrite. Gift vouchers and calendars will be available in classes. Vouchers can be made up for any value you wish, I can also email a gift voucher to you or directly to a loved one. Events for Spring 2025 are live on the website and Eventbrite, these were really popular gifts last year. Newcomers to yoga are always welcome at all Mutton Lane events.

I have loads of exciting plans underway in 2025. A retreat in Ireland, a retreat in Sicily is in the pipelines (ssshh, tell only your best friends ;-)) a book launch with my colleague and dear friend Dr. Eva Orsmond, author of three bestsellers and publishing her best book yet. Eva and I intend continuing our conversations on the airwaves so stay tuned for all of that. My own book is starting next year and I’ll be leaning into all of my experiences with all of you as our collecting learning journey unfolds. I am so grateful to all of you who share your beautiful presence with me, your collective calm, loving joy is what we share together.

I am here for any questions at all. Sending you love and joy and connection for the festive season ahead, and so much gratitude.

Biggest love and hugs,

Sylvia.

Sylvia Ferguson27 November 2024Comment

Conscious rest: plan your yoga time for the coming weeks!

Dear Yoga Friends,

They say people who are attuned to the weather are naturally more mindful as they are more “awake” to the inevitable ups and downs of living with unpredictable, changeable weather. Lucky us, eh!

We know only too well that a sunny winter day is to be treasured and an awful winter day could be well used with a deep dive under the duvet. We know only too well that each will pass in their own time and clinging on, or resisting, is futile, we might as well just roll with it. How could we cultivate that attutitude of acceptance to the rest of lie’s ups and downs? We can practice coming back to a neutral nervous system by planning in time in our lives for conscious rest.

What is conscious rest? It’s anything at all to do with the process of finding, planning and making time for activities that relax your nervous system while your mind stays present and awake as best you can. So it is not sleep, not scrolling endlessly on your phone, and not getting lost in Netflix. Conscious rest incorporates practices like Yoga Nidra, massage, yoga, journalling, mindful walking, sauna and/or cold water immersion, slowly sipping a morning cup of coffee, gentle walks in nature, guided body scans, compression therapy, exploring aromatherapy, art, guided breathing practice, lymphatic drainage, body brushing, gua-sha, shakti mat, a long bath, reflexology, reading a book, guided meditation, acupuncture, getting a pedicure. The thing that makes yoga unique to other forms of exercise is that the practice is designed to be done with a calm nervous system but of course, other forms of exercise can be deeply relaxing for people so these suggestions are all very individual. What’s on your list? What practice could come in to your life for 20 minutes in your day here and there in your week? What could come into your life for an extra hour or two in the week? Can you plan something longer/more meaningful for yourself?

Think of conscious rest as one of the pillars of heath. A calm nervous system benefits every single system in your body. Think of the other pillars: sleep, food, exercise, relationships, community, work/purpose, fun, and see can you start to build time in to support this pillar. For many of us there’s an element of catching to to do too, I often remind myself I am recovering from years of chronic stress (we all are!)

Classes, workshops and mini-meditations are all designed to support you in supporting this pillar of your health. We’re back with week one in Ballyroan, spaces in each class, all the details are here. Evening classes in The Park are on week 4, yoga nidra week, spaces in each class, more info is here. All upcoming events are here, please consider taking a Wednesday morning out soon to join us for Mutton Lane mini-retreats, we have one next Wednesday! We have one final 5-night retreat in Solar Alvura Hotel with a very special offer for last-minute bookings, please enquire, we’ll be beginning Saturday 16th.

I’m here for any questions at all. I’m heading off in the drizzle to Mutton Lane Yoga Studio to light the wood-burning stove and count my blessings! So happy to be joining many of you there, we still have spaces for next Saturday’s one. I’m here for any questions at all as we all continue to find our way,

Kindest regards,

Sylvia.

Sylvia Ferguson2 November 2024Comment

Once a week, change your body; twice a week, change your mind; daily, change your life!

Dear Yoga Friends,

After 25 years of teaching yoga it's really interesting to see the same patterns emerge amongst those of us who love to practice yoga regularly. With time, and a sense of curiosity, it seems almost inevitable people are drawn more and more to the yoga mat.

Typically we first come to yoga and notice subtle changes in the body, a bit stronger and steadier overall. Maybe a bit softer in areas as we realise on the yoga mat we might have a tendency to clench our jaw at times, or the shoulders hunch up slightly, maybe we carry the remnants of a frown as we puzzle our way through life! Usually participants report sleeping really well on yoga night, or feeling more relaxed in general overall in the body. Typically after a few weeks of this we realise we would extend these benefits for longer during the week if we could attend a second class. After 6 months of regular practice 80% of yogis are practicing twice a week. With the second class comes new revelations.

With time and patience we begin to notice the patterns of the thinking mind. Our tendency to worry, or plan. Our tendency to ruminate or catastrophize. We notice those thinking patterns and learn to choose a different thought for the mind - usually our yoga training helps us connect with the grounded feeling of being in a strong, calm, body or we learn to tune into the smooth rhythm of the breath. Invariably this leads us to be curious about discovering more!

In our longer, quieter workshops in the tranquil space of Mutton Lane Yoga Studio, or on our 5-night retreats in Portugal, we take the time out for ourselves to discover a deeper stillness, a deeper wisdom. We notice sooner when the mind inevitably wanders, the 'coming back' happens with greater ease as sensations in the body and the breath are now more familiar to us. We learn more about who we are, we make peace with who we are.

Do yoga once a week, change your body. Do yoga twice a week, change your mind. Do yoga daily, change your life!

We have just a few last deep dives into mini-retreats in Mutton Lane before the end of the year; Wednesdays 6th November and 4th December. Mini-retreats involve a little academic learning as I introduce you to some interesting snippets of psychology or neuroscience or buddhism to help deepen our understanding of the human condition. On Saturday morning workshops we move at a slow pace through yoga, meditation and relaxation practices. All workshops emphasize a quietening of the nervous system and a curious open mind for a refreshing approach with lasting benefits. Bookings are on Eventbrite for Mutton Lane events please, I'm here for any questions at all.

We have one last retreat in Solar Aluvra Health Hotel in the Algarve, sunrise meditations, twice daily yoga, ocean swims and island excursions all combine with incredible, healthy delicious food. More information here or enquire directly with the hotel.

Yoga classes in the community have a handful of spaces in each class, please enquire. We have a one-week break coming up for mid-term and we're back early November for a six week run to take us to Christmas.

Morning classes in Ballyroan Community Centre:
Each class has just a few spaces: Monday noon, Tuesday 10.45am and Thursday 9.30am. Classes are ongoing in Ballyroan Community Centre and will continue busy now for a while. We will break for the October Bank Holiday / Halloween week, 28th-31st. More information here.

Evening classes in The Park Community Centre:
Monday's class is full, Thursday has spaces.
Mondays 7.45-8.45pm. Thursdays 6.45-7.45pm. We will break for the October Bank Holiday / Halloween week, 28th-31st. More information here.

Our Mini-retreats in Mutton Lane are two and a half hour immersions in a purpose built outdoor / indoor yoga studio surrounded by trees. Sessions include yoga, mindfulness, an education piece with discussion, tea/coffee and a deep guided relaxation. Each session is different. Tickets on Eventbrite. Price €45 per session. It's also fine to book directly with me, €40 via Revolut or cash; please just let me know so I can keep a space for you. Wednesdays 6th November and December 4th are currently on sale, thanks so much to everyone booking.

Yoga workshops and full moon workshops run in Mutton Lane all year round, please book early. Last few spaces on Saturday November 2nd and Wednesdays 6th (10am) and 13th (7pm).

Winter is the most gorgeous time of the year to experience the Algarve. Some of you have already booked for November, thank you, treasured repeat guests. Yoga retreats in Portugal are in Solar Alvura Health Hotel in the Algarve and run almost all year round.

Sylvia Ferguson21 October 2024Comment

Mini-retreats this Autumn and Winter ~ simple ways to find nourishment and connection.

Dear Yoga Friends,

They say times of change and transition are the best times to explore our practice. After a period of emotional turmoil I am immersed my own practice more than ever and am really enjoying sharing this "advanced" practice with all of you. As a Masters of Science in Mindfulness Based Interventions I would be doing you a dis-service to simply bring you to the mat to stretch and relax. I am very grateful when you cultivate the patience, curiosity and self-compassion to explore with me the shadow side of getting to know ourselves better and be at peace with that. See below for Jason Crandall's take on this shadow side; I always love sharing other teacher's wisdom with you all.

I am more excited than ever to have Autumn and Winter to look forward to in our beautiful venue in Mutton Lane Yoga Studio in the Dublin Mountains. We have our outdoor deck, surrounded by trees, our cosy inside studio with the wood burning stove and our heated terrace for teas, coffee, chats and reflections. Many of you have attended 8-week MBSR courses with me there and in our mini retreats I dip into this course curriculum to explore psychology, neuroscience and the nuances of the human condition as we live our best lives! Next Wednesday we take a deep dive into values: this is one we explore with a massive dose of compassion, for ourselves and others. As always, yoga, mindfulness, relaxation leave you feeling brand new!

Morning classes in Ballyroan Community Centre:
Each class has just a few spaces: Monday noon, Tuesday 10.45am and Thursday 9.30am. Classes are ongoing in Ballyroan Community Centre and will continue busy now for a while. We will break for the October Bank Holiday / Halloween week, 28th-31st. More information here.

Evening classes in The Park Community Centre:
Monday's class is full, Thursday has spaces.
Mondays 7.45-8.45pm. Thursdays 6.45-7.45pm. We will break for the October Bank Holiday / Halloween week, 28th-31st. More information here.

Our Mini-retreats in Mutton Lane are two and a half hour immersions in a purpose built outdoor / indoor yoga studio surrounded by trees. Sessions include yoga, mindfulness, an education piece with discussion, tea/coffee and a deep guided relaxation. Each session is different. Tickets on Eventbrite. Price €45 per session. It's also fine to book directly with me, €40 via Revolut or cash; please just let me know so I can keep a space for you. Wednesdays 9th October and 6th November and December 4th are currently on sale, thanks so much to everyone booking.

Yoga workshops and full moon workshops run in Mutton Lane all year round, please book early. Our upcoming one in October on Saturday 5th is full, last few spaces on Saturday October 12th.

We have Autumn retreats coming up in Portugal in October and November, the most gorgeous time of the year to experience the Algarve. Some of you have already booked for these, thank you, treasured repeat guests. Yoga retreats in Portugal are in Solar Alvura Health Hotel in the Algarve and run almost all year round.

You can see all of this at a glance on my website, sylviayoga.com. Most classes are booked directly with me and most events are booked through Eventbrite - just drop me a quick text or Whatsapp (0876822362) if you need any help in booking, I can hold a space for you.

I'll be back in touch with a link for you to tune into the recording of the radio show I had the pleasure of co-hosting with Dr. Eva Orsmond on Scarrif Bay Community Radio at the weekend, it will go up on Spotify in the coming days. We chatted to the inspiring Michelle and to Professor Sherif Sultan from Galway University Hospital who spoke passionately about the over-prescribing of Statins and how we can all take more control of our good health to avoid the harmful side effects of medication. Hint, yoga is recommended!

"The most beneficial aspect of "advancing" your practice isn't the acquisition of new postures or tricks. Rather, it is the process of putting yourself into a difficult, confusing scenario where you confront your habits and limitations." Jason Crandell.

I'm here for any questions at all. Looking forward to seeing you all on the mat this week,

Kindest regards,

Sylvia.

Sylvia Ferguson3 October 2024Comment

Your weekly yoga class: what to expect.

Hi, I’m Sylvia, your yoga teacher. I have been teaching yoga for over 20 years and I am also a Mindfulness Teacher teaching MBSR (Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction) courses.

Weekly yoga classes are designed to suit most bodies. Expect a gentle start in class, combining breath and movement. The physical yoga practice is balanced and healthy; we explore strength, balance, posture, muscle tone, flexibility and range of motion. We delve into breath-work, mindfulness, meditation and guided relaxation practices. All poses are adaptable for beginners. If you have any injuries or medical concerns please check with your doctor before practicing yoga. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat and a small folded blanket if you have one (for padding or for a throw at the end).

Yoga courses run in 4-week blocks with the last week of each course focused on an aspect of restorative yoga… Yoga Nidra, Yin or Guided Body Scans. I will ask you to please confirm and pre-pay your next course on the final week of each course. At busy periods our courses tend to be fully booked.

I will always work with you if you are travelling and need to do part-of a course. I do appreciate you letting me know if you can’t make a class but I know life is busy and last minute things crop up.

Monthly workshops, two hours long, will run to allow you to go a little deeper into your practice. At the moment these are happening in Mutton Lane Yoga Studio. Upcoming events are always listed on the Events and Workshops page of my website. Please book Eventbrite events early as they tend to book out quickly. Evening full moon meditations are a softer practice.

Information on morning classes in Ballyroan including a link to pre-pay and a link to sign up for email.

Information on evening classes in Ballycullen including a link to pre-pay and a link to sign up for email.

In each class we have a wide range of participants, from yoga novices to those who've been practicing for a while, each on their unique journey. Classes embrace all ages, genders, abilities, and backgrounds. Yoga isn't a competition and we all do our own thing on the mat.

If you're new to yoga, there are various avenues to explore. Some yoga studios run a "Yoga for Beginners" course or a beginner's workshop. Most newcomers just join a class to give yoga a try. If you're injury-free and have no limitations (like high blood pressure, recent injuries, or pregnancy), you're good to go. Developing ease in your yoga practice takes time; approach the experience with an open mind. If you do have limitations, consult your doctor and then discuss your situation with your teacher. Often, with a touch of common sense, accommodations can be made. If you'd rather start your yoga journey at home you could try pre-recorded beginner-friendly classes.

Yoga is union. Union of breath and moment, union of mind and body, union of effort and surrender. Your first class might be different to what you expect. It will possibly be harder (I teach people to be strong) and more relaxing (we meditate from the moment you take your first breath) than you had expected. Learning more about ourselves and what makes us tick is one of the many benefits of a yoga practice. It's a gradual, subtle transformation with profound results.

Opt for loose, comfortable clothing; yoga is typically practiced barefoot. Don't worry about having "perfect" feet; nobody minds. Feel free to wear socks if you prefer. Prepare for class by wearing fresh clothing that makes you feel at ease. Approach yoga as a date with yourself—attend in clean, comfortable clothes you enjoy.

Try to arrive ten minutes early to class so you are settled in a space you are comfortable in within the room. Bring a yoga mat (let me know if you need to borrow one) and a small blanket for sitting, padding, or relaxation. Mats are available in sports shops, while luxury options like Manduka can be purchased online. Cheaper mats can be a bit slippery. As for blankets, you'll find great options at affordable stores. Include warm layers for relaxation, like a sweatshirt or cozy socks. An eye pillow can also help block out light during relaxations.

During practice, listen to your body. Think of the teacher as a waiter presenting a buffet of choices. You're the discerning diner, choosing what suits you best. Pay attention to your body's signals and your breath. If something feels off or too challenging, don't force it. If you're short of breath, slow down. Staying attuned to your breath is integral to yoga. If breath awareness doesn't come immediately, that's alright—focus on moving and following the class, and the breath will align naturally. With practice and consistent effort your entire yoga practice might become a moving meditation.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with any queries, I’m available by email and can schedule a chat on the phone at a time that suits. We can also plan a quick chat before or after class any time you need to check anything with me.

We are incredibly lucky to have this beautiful, clean, warm spacious room to practice in, I’m so grateful you are considering joining us!

Should you have questions or feedback, feel free to chat after class or reach out via email. I welcome your thoughts, requests, and inquiries.

My weekend, evening workshops and retreats follow the same inclusive philosophy—beginners are always welcome.

Drop me an email if you need assistance. Some courses have waiting lists, so please check ahead. Find details about classes, workshops, and yoga retreats in beautiful settings on my website and Facebook or Instagram page, "Sylvia's Yoga."

Thank you for considering my yoga classes, it is a huge honour for me to teach what I love.

Kindest regards,

Sylvia.

“When I am in the place in me where I am truly me, and you are in the place in you where you are truly you, there is only one of us.”

Morning classes are in Ballyroan Community Centre, Mondays (12 noon), Tuesdays (10.45am) and Thursdays (9.30am).

Evening classes are in The Park Community Centre, Mondays (7.45-8.45pm) and Thursdays (6.45-7.45pm).

Monthly evening and weekend workshops are in Mutton Lane Yoga Studio, Tibbradden.

Corporate classes are in RTE weekly and elsewhere on appointment, please enquire.

Monthly retreats are in Dr. Eva’s Solar Alvura Health Hotel in Portugal. When I teach in Portugal we have a substitute teacher in The Park Community Centre so yoga is always on unless there is an unavoidable emergency.

Details of all events including booking links are here.

Sylvia Ferguson28 August 2024Comment

Something brand new.

Dear Yoga Friends,

I am writing to you from Solar Alvura Health Hotel in Portugal where I have the terrace to myself and an Atlantic Breeze soothing me. I've just read through messages from many of you and had a lovely cry, I haven't cried much since my beloved Dad died. He was my favourite person in the world, my bestie, and my rock. Your kind words have given me solace and food for thought; it's humbling to be the teacher and know I have so much to learn from all of you.

I'm no longer a daughter, no longer a carer. I am something brand new. I am in the space of the unknown. I don't know how much grieving is left, I don't know what to expect, | don't know what to do. I am taking the advice of all of you and minding myself and taking it easy. Teaching yoga is a nourishing support for me so you will all see me on the mat in the coming weeks. Being in nature with all of you is my refuge, we have lots of Marlay Park and Mutton Lane classes and workshops coming up. I've booked a trip to see family towards the end of summer and Trish will be looking after classes in my absence. Please know your kind words have meaningful impact and you are my precious, supportive community. I am very grateful.

Below is a quick summary of what's going on in the coming weeks. Morning classes run as usual, everyone welcome! Evening classes are just on Mondays for now, everyone welcome. Marlay Park Friday mornings for the rest of the summer (it never rains on Fridays ;-)) Trish will be there this week. Mutton Lane events coming up are busy except for our Wednesday mornings - we have spaces next Wednesday and the following, join us. I'm hoping to keep these Wednesday sessions up into the Autumn as they are so well received and we all love them!

We have Autumn retreats coming up in Portugal September, October and November, the most gorgeous time of the year to experience the Algarve, some of you are already booked for these, thank you, treasured repeat guests (miss you all here!)

You can see all of this at a glance on the events and workshops page. Most classes are booked directly with me and most events are booked through Eventbrite - just drop me a quick text or Whatsapp (0876822362) if you need any help in booking, I can hold a space for you.

Signing off in appreciation of all of you, and for the space to discover something brand new.

Kindest regards,

Sylvia.

Sylvia Ferguson24 July 2024Comment

The Art of Reflection (or the Art of Skillful Thinking).

Does anyone else sometimes find themselves either thinking obsessively or not thinking enough, zoning out as such. How do we best reflect, what is skillful thinking?

In our Mindfulness Practices we take a curious, compassionate approach to investigating the thinking mind while keeping our perspective open and adaptable by connecting with the body. You might hear this called expanded awareness or vipasanna meditation (which translates to insight meditation). The idea is to take the awareness into the body to wake up the more expansive areas of the brain, it can also be called meta awareness or dual awareness. A participant in a recent practice described it as being aware of the whole package, aware of the body as well as also being aware of all other processes going on, the emotions, sensations, changing thinking patterns. She said it felt very calm and comforting and complete, as if all the pieces of her had come together.

Like any art, reflection can be explored, practiced and developed. We sometimes do this in small groups in Mutton Lane yoga studio with a blank page and a pen to help us clarify thoughts and sometimes categorize them. We take an open, light-hearted approach to putting language on our experience in chosen moments, breaking them down into thinking (thoughts or narrative), emotional tone, and body senses and sensations. Learning like this, in a welcoming, safe group, keeps things interesting for us, it keeps our learning rich and alive. We discover how much we all have in common as humans, our shared human condition. We also discover how unique we all are, each one of us having a brand new discovery and awakening each time we practice. Each one of us changing, moment by moment as we simply rest in the moment and thrive.

Reflection leads us to a deeper understanding of life and to the fullness of wisdom. All too often we are pulled by the whim of the thinking mind, it’s unfounded fear and unnecessary repetitive patterns. With contemplation and insight we notice what we are thinking and we broaden the frame of how we think about it. In opening our awareness like this, including in our field of awareness the sensations of the body, we are opening up with our highest executive functions in the brain, the pre-frontal cortex.

Collectively called ‘Contemplative practices’, derived from the word ‘to contemplate’, practices like yoga, meditation, mindfulness and tai chi invite us to hold a spacious container in the physical body while we take ourselves to places of quiet reflection. In Mutton Lane Yoga Studio mini-retreats, in our beautiful supportive environment, I guide you through reflective practices to lead you to deeper insight.

Join us for our last one in the current series of four:

Wednesday July 10th: Half-day Retreat for learning, immersion and practice.

Similar to a yoga workshop, we will start with movement, hopefully on the sunny deck. The intention for the movement is to move mindfully to bring the attention to the body - we will flow through a full range of motion yoga practice so everyone gets a good stretch throughout the whole body and a feeling of vitality and connection. We will sit outside sipping our tea and coffee for a short education piece supported by handouts, discussion, and journaling. Please bring a pen and a notebook (I’ll have spares!) The latter part of the class includes mindfulness practices designed to be quieter and more relaxing so you leave feeling completely rejuvenated.

Tickets via Eventbrite: https://sylviafergusonevents.eventbrite.ie *Please note the Eircode and the gate code in your booking confirmation.

Please bring: The code for the gate (in your Eventbrite booking confirmation). A warm coat you can move in for outdoor standing poses. Layers for inside the studio (a hoodie or sweatshirt, cosy socks, an eye pillow or scarf for over the eyes if you like darkness for relaxation).

Sylvia is teaching regular weekly yoga classes in Community Centres in Rathfarnham and Firhouse. Monthly Saturday morning workshops are usually 10am-12noon, Full Moon Meditations are are 7-8pm. All events are listed on the events and workshops page of the website and booked via Eventbrite. Outdoor yoga in Marlay Park in summertime.

Bookings are via Eventbrite please.

For updates please sign up for the newsletter on the homepage of sylviayoga.com.

Sylvia has a range of online classes if you'd like to explore her style of teaching from home.

Sylvia Ferguson3 July 2024Comment

What makes a yoga retreat special; why should I go on one?

“Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space lies our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” Viktor Frankl.

We all know the value of a little break, an adventure, a holiday. Stepping away from our usual lives and all it’s stressors is so good for us. What makes a retreat even more special is the intention you bring to this time away for yourself, the intention to really nourish yourself in a way that feels wholesome and nourishing so you can emerge refreshed and revitalized. A yoga retreat can potentially be life-changing.

On retreat we are invited to move more slowly than we normally might, rushing madly from A to B in our daily lives. Over and over again we make that subtle but powerful switch in how we are in our bodies, noticing we are rushing, planning, moving quickly and then softening slightly, pausing, coming back. This subtle switch moves us from a state of ‘doing’ to a state of ‘being’. Of course, ‘doing’ is a very helpful state to be in as humans; it’s not a mistake we all feel compelled to move with purpose for much of our waking lives. Having the insight to notice how we are, and to choose appropriate ways of being, is one of the skills we develop in practice on retreat. Learning that we have the ability to make this choice ultimately becomes our freedom.

On retreat we are invited to explore more silence than we normally might; we begin our mornings in silence. It can be unusual and maybe even difficult at times to get used to ‘not talking’ when you feel the urge. If we are lucky our silent period includes background sounds we like, birdsong or the rustle of leaves in a gentle breeze. However some sounds can trigger an unpleasant reaction so sound gives us a platform from which we can explore our normal human reactions. As we get used to being in silence emotions can come up for us. How does it feel not to talk, how does it feel when you have an urge to say something and you can’t. How does it feel to be alone with yourself in those moments, noticing what is coming up in a curious, non-judgmental way? The intention behind the silence is to give yourself a gift, the gift of not having to expend energy talking when there’s no need to. How does that sound to you; you gifting yourself with a means of minding your precious energy and using it wisely.

On retreat we leave behind our labels and our stories and we are invited to be exactly who we are. We’ll all show up to an event with a certain amount of trepidation, no matter how harmless the event seems. It’s very hard-wired for us as humans to want to be accepted by our peers, after all, not so long ago in our human evolution this would have been what kept us alive! And even if you feel you are not necessarily a people-pleaser (and maybe you don’t really give a toss what anyone makes of you!), there can still be a strong desire to be recognized as the amazing human being you are. Some like to wear their badge of recognition loud and proud; maybe you love to tell people your son is a doctor, or you rescue dogs, or you drive a Tesla, or you grow your own organic veg. On retreat none of this matters, everyone has their own unique story. Nobody is going around with baited breath dying to hear your child’s accomplishments. Nobody is wondering who’s the most animal-friendly or who drives the fanciest car. You don’t have to impress anyone, you don’t have to mind anyone, you don’t have to be in any particular way. During our discussion time you may feel like disclosing some aspect of your human-ness to others (and we would all welcome that) but you don’t have to, and you don’t have to worry about making others accept you, you are accepted for simply showing up. That’s not to say you can’t show up in your Tesla or tell us about your dog or your child; all of you, exactly how you, are is welcomed!

On our Solar Alvura yoga retreats we have six days for relaxation, exploration and discovery. Often on these retreats the silent morning meditations and the mindful walking are the most supportive and revealing practices for guests. From the awkwardness of day one to the serene acceptance of the last day, retreat guests blossom. Of course we have lots of ‘beginning again and starting over’ as many guests struggle to maintain the silent mornings (Irish female guests of a certain age, I’m looking at you ;-))

In our Mutton Lane events the biggest support for participants is learning how our environment can become a mindfulness ‘bell’ - a moment to notice how are are (the pause) and a moment to choose (the choice and the freedom). Over our time in the mini-retreat the mind settles - this gradual process unfolds as the body and the nervous system settle. We become more aware and it becomes more effortless to make that switch into ‘being mode’. Sustaining that way of being become more effortless.

Whether it’s a big investment in time and money in the retreat of your dreams in a luxury hotel in the Algarve, or a sunny morning out to pop up the mountains for a little reset, you will learn something new at every retreat. I will always drop little moments of learning, new ways of observing ourselves, language or images, to link what we are discovering with what we already know. After all, a lot of what we are going through is a process of un-doing, shifting away from those stressful patterns body and mind has repeated over and over to date. In a way we’re coming back to the way we were before the stressors, before there was a need to accomplish so much, before there was a need to be a certain way to impress. You come on retreat to rediscover YOU.

Mutton Lane yoga retreats are two and a half hour immersions in a purpose built outdoor / indoor yoga studio in the mountains. Sessions include yoga, mindfulness, an education piece with discussion, tea/coffee and a deep guided relaxation. Each session is different. June 5th, 12th, July 5th, 12th, tickets on Eventbrite. Price €45 per session (please enquire about a discount for attending all 4 sessions).

Solar Alvura yoga retreats are 5 night stays in a luxury Health Hotel in The Algarve, Portugal. Days include meditation, twice daily yoga, daily ocean swims, three delicious meals and optional daily excursions with the group to explore the area. The Hotel has all the immunities you would expect, luxurious spacious rooms, infinity pool, steam room, mini-gym, full spa. Retreats are once a month in June, September, October and November and prices start at €1775 per person sharing.

All upcoming events are listed on my website and my blog contains more info on these events and what to pack or bring. I’m here for any questions at all and look forward to welcoming you! xS

Sylvia Ferguson9 May 2024Comment

Mini-retreats in Mutton Lane in Summer, refresh yourself!

Brand new this summer is a series of mini-retreats in Mutton Lane Yoga Studio. Numbers for this will be very limited so please plan early and book early; if you can I would highly recommend doing the series of 4 as we will explore a new topic each session.

4 sessions, Wednesdays, 10am-12.30pm. 5th and 12th June, 3rd and 10th July.

We’ll start with yoga on the deck to connect with the body and find a sense of presence and space. After exploring a mindfulness practice with a particular emphasis, we’ll enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in quiet in nature as I deliver a short education piece. We may use a whiteboard or handouts to support this and I’ll be offering you a chance to do some journaling around key learnings or nuggets of wisdom. We’ll have time for discussion and then a deep guided relaxation to allow it all to soak in.

Cost per session €45. Tickets via Eventbrite please.

Early bird offer until 1st May: €40 per session ~ 4 sessions €150 (please select a quantity of 10 at the link)

At the end of our workshops in Mutton Lane I often ask participants to say something about their experience, particularly what was supportive or curious or new. This is always interesting - we have so much in common as humans and yet our individual experiences are so unique. And of course, as many of you know, each time we can discover something new.

The birdsong, the fresh air, the trees, that tree/that flower/that branch, the slow walking, the clouds, the sun, the rain, the way we moved our arms, your voice, the peace inside the studio, the freedom and the space, the quiet… the list goes on!

The effects of practice are magnified by being in nature and studies have shown that the greater the immersion in nature the greater the benefits. Not just your typical yoga class or workshop, in these deeper immersions we can gain insight, we befriend our noisy mind, we soften and allow, and we take this back out to world with us afterwards.

The intention is to have as much of the practice outdoors as makes sense but we always respond to the unique circumstances each event presents so every time we are there it’s different!

What to bring:
Please note the eircode and the gate code you will get in your Eventbrite confirmation upon booking. Please note the gate code in your phone so you have it handy on the day.

Your yoga mat if it’s your favourite (we have some.)
Warm, cosy, layers, it will be colder than you expect, is it ALWAYS colder in the mountains.
Your hat and spf, flip flops or sliders or shoes you can kick off easily.
A notebook and pen, maybe something a little new or special or meaningful to write in to add to the value of reflection and self-care (I’ll have spare pen and paper).
Your curious, open mind.
A snack if you feel you will need one, a travel mug if you wish, I will be offering teas and coffees.

Yoga workshops and full moon workshops run during the summer.

Join us and emerge brand new!

I’m here for any questions at all. x Sylvia.

Sylvia Ferguson2 April 2024Comment

New Monday Morning Class in Ballyroan: 12 noon to 1pm, space for you to join us!

I’m delighted to announce a new Monday Class! 12 noon to 1pm. €12 drop in. All welcome!

We still have limited space in Tuesday and Thursday classes, current Tuesday and Thursday yogis are welcome to come on Mondays instead of your current class or as well as your current class. Monday’s class is simply drop-in basis unless it’s a class in lieu for you.

Mondays 12 noon-1pm. Tuesdays 10.45-11.45am, Thursdays 9.30-10.30am.

Please bring your yoga mat, a small blanket for your comfort and warm comfortable layers you can move in.

Currently spaces for existing students to sign up for one of both classes; please prepay to book.

Morning yoga classes are ongoing in Ballyroan Community Centre, Marian Road, Rathfarnham. The centre is a spotlessly clean, warm, bright, spacious place brilliantly run by South Dublin County Council; we are very lucky to have very supportive staff, the beautiful hall and a coffee area for your post-yoga cuppa. I suggest adding yourself to the mailing list for the centre to keep updated on courses and classes here. Please note the area has PAID PARKING. The ticket machine takes card or coins or use the app, your first half an hour is free, €1 per hour thereafter. Please bring a yoga mat (I have some to borrow) and a small folded blanket which you could use as a cushion to sit on or to throw over you for final relaxation.

Monday 12 noon, Tuesday 10.45-11.45am, Thursday 9.30-10.30am.

Monday is a drop in class: €12 pre class please.

A four week course is €40. Drop-ins, when available, are €12. Courses run on an ongoing basis, you can join in any time. Sign up for both courses (two classes for four weeks, eight classes) for €70.

Please enter through the main doors of the centre. The coffee shop is open for a cuppa after class.

What to expect in class:

The physical yoga practice is balanced and healthy… strength, balance, posture, muscle tone, flexibility and range of motion. We explore breath-work, mindfulness, meditation and guided relaxation practices. All poses are adaptable for beginners. If you have any injuries or medical concerns please check with your doctor before practicing yoga. More about my style of teaching here.

I will make some references to psychology, neuroscience and buddhism as I continue to share what I am exploring about the human mind and body as a Master of Science in MBI, Mindfulness Based Interventions. Please enquire about yoga retreats running in Dr. Eva’s Solar Alvura Health Hotel in Portugal. When I’m away teaching on retreat there will a substitute teacher there so class is always on unless there’s a last minute emergency.

Our yoga courses will run in 4-week blocks with the last week of each course focused on an aspect of restorative yoga… Yoga Nidra, Yin or Guided Body Scans. I will ask you to please confirm and pre-pay your next course on the final week of each course please.

We are incredibly lucky to have this beautiful, clean, warm spacious room to practice in, I’m so grateful you are considering joining us!

Sylvia Ferguson22 February 2024Comment

What should I pack / bring for my Yoga Retreat in Solar Alvura? (Spring version)

When packing for your retreat we suggest you keep in mind the intentions you might set for yourself for your time with us, comfort, joy and ease! Keep an eye on the temperature in the Algarve on the weeks and days coming up to your retreat, during cooler months think clever layering for freedom of movement and warmth when needed. We suggest bringing the clothing that sparks feelings of joy and relaxation time, cosy and snuggly. The below are just our suggestions, please feel free to add your own.

1. Yoga clothing for classes twice daily, evening yoga is gentle. No need to bring your mat, we have everything you need. Optional extras you could bring are warm socks for relaxation, a warm layer of clothing, and maybe an eye pillow.

2. Runners for fitness walks. Your normal runners should be fine, no special hiking gear needed. I tend to travel in my comfiest runners and pack flip flops and flat sandals. A light rain jacket or puffa. A good hat. Maybe a light cashmere/wool hat-scarf-and-gloves combo for morning meditation on the rooftop.

3. Something practical for pottering around cobbled Portuguese towns and our local olive farm. A puffa or leather jacket, think Ireland in Spring/Summer/Autumn.

4. Slippers and a warm cardi for around the hotel. We light the big stove in the winter and your room has underfloor heating in the bathroom as well as your own air-con / heater but common spaces in the hotel can be cooler in the Winter/Spring months. I also love to bring a travel mug for wandering around with my endless cups of tea!

5. Swimwear, flip flops or sliders. We will need swimwear for the pool, the beach and maybe even the boat. Winter can be surprisingly warm in the Algarve so prepare for it all! Something to cover up is essential for the boat, a hat and a top with long sleeves. Bring your best sun hat, SPF 50+, and your water bottle to refill regularly from our chilled, flavoured, filtered water.

6. Some cash can be handy, they don't always use card in Portugal. It can be helpful to have some cash but we do have an ATM in our local town just minutes from the hotel.

7. Prepare for mosquitos at night, just in case; our sea breeze tends to keep them at bay but you never know. We have been badly caught out when we least expected them so come prepared!

8. We might dine out on the orange grove terrace, a shawl or wrap or cardigan can be handy. Many guests like to change for dinner, a simple smart-casual dress or shirt. The ethos for the retreat is relaxation so please feel free to come as you feel comfortable.

9. Maybe bring a book (we have plenty to borrow), a notebook and pen. We will have opportunities for journaling and reflection. Although Solar Alvura has excellent wifi we encourage a digital detox. The opening circle will have discussion around group ground rules for photos, social media and phone use during our group time and in group spaces; your private space is always available to you.

10. Bring your intention to relax; plan your favourite things, maybe browse the spa menu and book some treatments in advance.

11. Bring your open mind! We’ll explore mindful consumption and mindful communication as we spend time getting quiet with ourselves. Let your retreat time be rich for discovery of new patterns of movement, behavior and thoughts. Bear in mind others are here to experience quiet time, we ask you to remain attentive to maintaining a peaceful atmosphere in our lovely chilled space.

I’m here for any questions at all! Happy packing. xS

Sylvia Ferguson17 January 2024Comment

Corporate Meditation Sessions: Education and Immersion.

Sylvia Ferguson is a yoga teacher and a Masters of Science in Mindfulness Based Interventions. Her education gives her a background in psychology, neuroscience, and an understanding of the scientific studies supporting contemplative practices. Her own curiosity infectious, Sylvia weaves in education about the thought processes we experience as she guides participants through immersive practices. This approach makes the sessions educational, interesting and alive.

Practices are engaging and interactive, together we explore the nuances of the mind. Everything is undertaken with a light touch to awaken a non-judgmental curiosity - this exact mindset is the one we take into an awakened, full, rich, vibrant life!

Come to her workshops to learn more about the human condition, the endless studies in the field and what they are telling us, come to learn more about you! Workshops include short, easily-learnt practices and techniques supported by follow-on material - recordings guided by Sylvia to repeat the learnings in your own time at home. You can find an example of Sylvia’s guided meditation here.

sylviayoga.com

Sylvia Ferguson17 January 2024Comment

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