A Yoga Expert Shares Her Movement & Mindfulness Routine
I start my mornings slowly. Before checking my phone or emails, I take a few deep breaths and move gently – spinal rolls, neck releases and light twists. It’s my way of easing into the day without the instant rush of stimulation. If I have time, I’ll do a short grounding flow from The Yoga Class app – focusing on simple hip openers and the four-four-six breath (inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for six) to wake up my system. It’s an easy ritual for anyone to try – it instantly shifts your nervous system into calm and focus without caffeine.
Breakfast is simple and seasonal. In the winter, I like warm oats with almond butter and banana; in summer, it’s Greek yoghurt with chia and berries. I’m always drawn to food that’s comforting but nourishing, something that gives me steady energy rather than a spike. Right now, I’m loving Eve Kalinik’s pumpkin pie porridge recipe from our new Nourish section on the app. It’s spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, topped with toasted nuts, almond butter and a little yoghurt – like a wholesome treat that still feels indulgent. I always finish with a coffee made in my Bialetti with soy milk – it’s my one non-negotiable.
Short workouts count. When time is tight, I move intuitively. Even ten minutes of movement can make a huge difference – cat-cow stretches, gentle twists or a short sun salutation to open the spine and shoulders. I’ll sometimes do a ten-minute sculpt from the app when I want something more dynamic. It’s a mix of yoga-inspired strength moves for the core and upper body. People often think you need an hour to make it count but short sessions, done consistently, keep energy, circulation and mood in balance. My go-to playlist is my Expand The Heart mix on Spotify – music helps me shift gears instantly.
I’ve never believed movement should fit neatly into one box. When I created The Yoga Class, I wanted it to reflect how we really move – not one discipline but a blend. Some days I need the grounding of slow yoga and breathwork; others, I crave the precision and strength of Pilates or barre. Combining these styles supports both systems – strength and calm – which is where real balance comes from.
Right now, I’m drawn to movement that supports how I want to feel in 20 years. I want to stay strong, mobile and energised. Reformer Pilates helps build deep, functional strength; long walks in nature are my go-to for clearing my head; and sauna sessions have become part of my weekly reset. I’ve learnt that wellness isn’t about extremes – it’s about rhythm. Our new partnership at The Mandarin Oriental Mayfair reflects that philosophy – studio-grade classes paired with spa rituals designed to support recovery and calm the nervous system. It’s luxury wellness with real purpose behind it.
Rest is part of the overall work. I used to see rest as optional – something to earn after working hard. Now I know it’s the foundation of everything. I alternate stronger days with slower flows or full rest days, and I recognise signs that I need to stop – be it heaviness in the body, brain fog and irritability. My recovery rituals are simple but non-negotiable: Epsom salt baths with Amniens essential oil, self-massage with Wild Source Golden Hour body oil, legs up the wall (a restorative yoga inversion that boosts circulation), or ten minutes in savasana.
A good yoga mat changes everything. I use Yogi Bare – it’s grippy, supportive and eco-conscious. I also like to have a couple of blocks, a bolster and light ankle weights on hand for sculpting sessions. Right now, I’m testing Yogi Bare’s new Pilates ball and bracelet weights, which add subtle resistance and make small movements more effective. After practice, I often use a gua sha along my neck and jaw to release tension – it’s a small ritual that makes a big difference if you spend a lot of time sitting at a desk.
What you wear affects how you move. Comfort is key but so is design. I live in lululemon for staples that fit and last, and Varley for layering pieces that transition effortlessly from class to school run. I’ve also been loving Ernest Leoty for bodysuits that feel structured but feminine – perfect when I’m teaching or running between meetings. When you spend your day in these clothes, you notice what’s cut well.
Evenings are my time to switch off. I dim the lights, put my phone away and do a short, breath-led stretch to unwind. It signals to my body that the day is done. I make a cup of tea – a blend of chamomile, valerian and lavender – and read before bed. Recently, I’ve been using 001 London’s acupressure patches, which help release tension and lower cortisol – they’re perfect if you’re wired from work.
Weekends are slower and more playful. I’ll go to a class with friends, take my mat outside or spend extra time meditating. During the week I’m structured, whereas weekends are about freedom. Movement doesn’t have to be prescriptive – sometimes it’s just a long walk in nature or stretching on the floor while the kettle boils.
Don’t underestimate the power of yoga for strength. For anyone who thinks yoga won’t challenge them, I always recommend a dynamic, breath-led power flow or a sculpt class. You’re not just working muscles, you’re stabilising, balancing and building endurance. Try our bodyweight flow or core sculpt flow on The Yoga Class app – they’ll change how you think about yoga. If you only have time for one move, make it a plank-to-spinal-roll. It decompresses the spine, reactivates your core and reconnects you to your breath – the fastest way to feel aligned again.
Movement, nature and connection keep me grounded. As long as I have those three things, I feel balanced – they reset my energy and remind me what matters. Sundays are my chance to pause and prepare: a walk outdoors, a quiet hour to plan the week ahead and time to just slow down. It’s not about perfection but about starting the week feeling centred and clear.
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