24/01/2026
THANK YOU to the people of RUGBY, WARWICKSHIRE!
The end of an era….it is with mixed emotions I have decided it’s time to wind down my self employment as a yoga teacher. I first qualified in 1998 after 10 years of practice in New York City, mainly with Sri Dharma Mittra (who is still teaching in his 80’s!) and the senior teachers at the Himalayan Institute, operating out of the then East West bookstore.
I did some student teaching in New York City, then taught in adult education in Edinburgh. I had a few years off dedicated to motherhood and then resumed teaching, first at the Ken Marriott Leisure centre, where I’m proud to have introduced yoga onto the timetable. I taught there for a few years before deciding to hire venues and go forward independently so that I could teach traditional 90 minute Hatha classes, which I have done since 2010. I find it sad that this style and format of class have largely died out in the UK due to studios and gyms prioritising shorter, more cost effective classes. The effect of a 90 minute class is quite different to a 45 or 60 minute class. I’m glad I didn’t compromise on this despite the market pressures to do so.
I later studied with Francoise Freedman, the founder of Birthlight and went on to teach pregnancy yoga and yoga for labour and birth workshops for couples. Later still I studied with Yoga for Backs and became the only YHLB qualified teacher in Warwickshire, delivering specialist Yoga for Healthy Lower Backs courses for people with chronic or recurring back pain. I taught three month YHLB courses for three years and incorporated the knowledge gained into all my teaching. I also studied Yoga nidra with Tribe yoga. This is such a restorative practice, I have always ended my classes with this.
https://www.dharmayogacenter.com/sri-dharma-mittra
https://himalayaninstitute.org/
https://tribe-yoga.com/yoga-at-tribe/
https://birthlight.com
https://www.yogaforbacks.co.uk/
Market conditions and life circumstances now compel me to make a change and so it just remains for me to say grateful thanks to the people of Rugby who have supported me as a yoga teacher for all these years. Whether you attended my beginner, mixed level, improvers, gentle chair, strong chair, yoga for healthy lower backs or antenatal classes or workshops, I extend my heartfelt and eternal thanks to each of you!
I’d also like to thank the following local venues, all of which I can recommend: St. George’s Church Hall, Overslade Community Centre, Cawston Community Hall, Quaker Meeting House and Kilsby Village
I will continue practising yoga as long as I’m breathing. It has given me the mental and physical strength and resilience to cope with all of life’s challenges. Showing others it can do the same for them has kept me teaching for over 25 years.
|A few more shout outs of thanks and endorsement:
https://www.yoganidranetwork.org/ - a website full of free yoga nidra audio downloads developed by Uma Dinsmore-Tuli & Nirlipta Tuli.
reservie.net - a booking platform designed by Darren, a fellow yoga teacher and clever coder who always gave me excellent customer service and technical support when needed.
https://encode.host/contact.php - websites & hosting - Neil Batchelor, a font of knowledge about WordPress websites and so much more. Stratford based.
I will revel in your 5 star reviews one last time, as I’ll be closing down my website soon. Thank you to all those who took the time to leave such touching reviews. They mean a lot to me! - Leigh
Sep 16, 2022
by Shirley Foster
many thanks Leigh
Following a nasty dose of Covid and 2 years of lock down I was at a very low ebb, but once joining Leigh's yoga sessions, under her brilliant guidance I now feel almost back to my old self. I was thrilled when my son in Australia said, "mum you are looking so much better". Many thanks Leigh you did it slow but sure.
Sep 13, 2022
by Penny Hanby
Excellent teacher
I’ve been going to Leigh’s yoga classes for over 10 years now. Leigh is a fantastic teacher, not only is she extremely knowledgeable she also cares about the members of her class. I’ve had 2 hip replacements and I have to say her teaching has helped me recover quickly and I’ve found the physio easier as a lot of it was similar to my yoga practice.�Her classes are sociable and fun and I always look forward to them.�I’d recommend her strongly as a yoga teacher and would urge anyone considering yoga to try one of her classes.
Sep 6, 2022
by Deb Thurman
Mixed Level Hatha Yoga
I've been attending Leigh's yoga classes for some years now and can't imagine life without these weekly classes, it helps so much with useful tips that can be used throughout the week. The class is mixed level and everyone is encouraged to try each pose at the level right for them and their body.��During lockdown Leigh swiftly took her classes online and also set up a yoga video library. These classes were a lifeline for me during these hard times. It has been such a delight to be back in person, with Leigh checking in with us all every step of the way, as to what we were all comfortable with.��I strongly recommend Leigh's yoga class.
May 21, 2019
by Richard Wheeler
Yoga for Healthy Lower Backs
I joined Leigh for her YHLB course in September '18 and found it so good I did it it again in the Spring term.��Leigh is lovely. She's very friendly and she always takes care that you only do what you're able to do. I particularly liked the way that she told us not to beat ourselves up about practice we didn't do, but to celebrate what we had done!��The YHLB course has its roots in university research, so it's well validated. I found that although it hasn't completely cured my back problem, it has significantly reduced its severity and has given me the tools to keep it under control.��I strongly recommend the YHLB course and Leigh as a yoga guru!
Sep 10, 2017
by Daisy Skidmore
Leigh is UNIQUE, EFFECTIVE and INSPIRATIONAL. I have been attending the Monday morning, gentle hatha yoga classes now for several years. Leigh demonstrates excellent organisational skills as the hall is previously set up for the session to begin promptly and to also finish on time. I like the way she hands out information sheets to accompany the lesson - explaining the physical and the philosophical attributes of yoga. Leigh has a broad and comprehensive knowledge of yoga and the atmosphere is calm with relaxing music. She advocates using props, such as yoga blocks, rolled up blankets, belts and chairs to aid effectiveness to ensure absolute comfort. Leigh very cleverly individualises certain poses for the individual. Her approach is holistic. Personally, I love the deep breathing and yoga nidra sessions which allow me to enter a meditative state which align my chakras and energy meridians. I always leave the room feeling energized, yet at peace , in both MIND, BODY and SPIRIT.
I started Leighs class a year ago as a complete novice to yoga. Leigh has been an amazing teacher, her breadth of knowledge about all things yoga means you learn not only about the poses but the history of the poses too. The combination of the class on the poses, breathing, relaxation is just what you need to restore your balance! I would throughly recommend anyone new coming to Leigh's class.
Aug 22, 2017
by Paul Cook
At the time of joining Leigh's yoga class a number of years ago I was seeing a Chiropractor every four weeks for between 20 and 30 minutes. After a while the time between appointments would increase from 4 to 6 to 8 weeks and the treatments would drop down to 10 minutes which I would put down to my yoga practice.
Aug 8, 2017
by Teresa
Hatha yoga
I’ve been attending Leigh’s hatha yoga classes for a number of years. She is quite simply the best yoga teacher I have ever had. Leigh is very knowledgeable and not only takes us through yoga poses but also talks to us about other associated practices – breathing, ayurveda, mindfulness and has recently taught us how to use foam rollers to help our stretching exercises. In class Leigh is able to talk us through poses from the basic to advanced positions so that every pose is accessible to every person – no matter their ability. I recently had a shoulder injury and Leigh was very helpful in advising which poses could help and those to avoid. I have a fear of flying, particularly taking off and landing, and I use one of the breathing exercises Leigh taught us to help to keep me calm – it works so well my husband now tells me to ‘do your yoga breathing’ when I get on a plane! Classes are a joy to attend and the guided relaxation at the end is blissful! I would recommend Leigh’s classes to anyone and everyone.
Aug 3, 2017
by Sneha Kappala
Must try !! Pregnancy Yoga
I have visited Leigh's Birth Light Yoga classes with my first pregnancy and now back in my second. I just could not think of not being here this time too.�Leigh is great with her art, a very warm and welcoming person who enjoys what she does. Leigh made me realise what a women’s body can do during pregnancy and gave the confidence that we can have the birth we like to have. Giving birth is unpredictable and doesn’t always go to plan, but believing in having a positive experience can help you have one.�Coming to Leigh's classes is the best thing I have done to myself during my pregnancies. I always assumed that I would need all the medical intervention available to cope with the ordeal of giving birth. I joined Leigh's classes as I thought they are structured and safe for me and the baby. However, I found to my surprise that it was much more. I have learned many things that have helped to empower me about birth, including movement, focused breathing and relaxation. Leigh is an amazing teacher who demonstrates a mixture of physical exercises and breathing techniques so you come away feeling your muscles have become really flexible and relaxed. Learnt great tips and techniques on comfortable positions for labour, lots of stuff about active birth etc.., Knowing what to expect, and what I can do to help the process, helped me calm any anxieties that I had. Leigh’s classes are adapted to each one so we can get what we need to focus on.�I could not recommend Leigh and her classes enough! Must try!!! Thanks Leigh.
Jul 30, 2017
by Michelle Stuchbury
I've been attending Leigh's gentle yoga class on a Monday for 18 months now. I was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME) two years ago and Leigh helped me to focus on what I could do rather than what I couldn't, and has helped to to build my confidence physically and mentally over this time. I love Leigh's positive nature and how she teaches all aspects of yoga - breathing, mantras, asanas, yoga nidras and the philosophy behind it - in a fun and enlightening way. Her words of wisdom have stayed with me, even in the difficult days when I can't attend class. Leigh's classes have helped me to have a more positive outlook on my life and is helping on my road to recovery. Couldn't recommend them enough!
Jul 26, 2017
by nik
tuesday hatha class
I've been going to Leigh's yoga class for a few years now, and can't imagine it not being part of my week. It helps in so many ways, for flexibility, certainly, but also for deep relaxation, de-stressing and feeling part of a small, friendly yoga community. It's always a mix - familiar postures alongside something new. There's never any pressure, and you feel relaxed and secure because Leigh really knows her stuff!
Jul 24, 2017
by Dominika Pasternak
Pregnancy yoga
I have attended pregnancy yoga for most of my second pregnancy and I can highly recommend it! Every single class gave me information that I needed!�Leigh is very easy to talk to and you can definitely tell that she puts all her heart in giving the guidance and information to future mothers, making sure that when the time comes you will get the birth that you wanted!�Thank you Leigh for everything and can't wait to see you when my little lady arrives!
Jul 24, 2017
by Kerry Horsman-Gray
Leigh is the best Yoga teacher ever
I have know Leigh personally as a friend first for over 14 years and a yoga teacher for many, many years now. I look forward to my weekly yoga session and couldn't live my life without it. Not only has it helped me with my flexibility the deep breathing has helped with my singing as I am in a choir and the yoga has definitely helped with my running, and more recently taking part in an ultra challenge, walking 62 miles of the Cotswold Way non stop. I truly believe that without Leigh's yoga sessions I wouldn't have recovered as quickly as I had. I was back doing yoga the day straight after my challenge. Leigh is a true inspiration and a wonderful person who truly cares about each and every one of us. Here's to many more years of yoga with Leigh.
Jul 24, 2017
by Sandie Seakins
Gentle Hathaway Yoga, Monday mornings
Leigh's class is not just for the young, slim and fit. I am nearly 70, heavier than I should be, have a poorly ankle , shoulder and hip, but can still manage most of the poses and sequences! This is because Leigh offers so many alternatives and adaptions. Her classes are good fun and good for my health, with plenty of challenges for a thirty year old as well. Eight years along the path and hopefully many more to go!
Jul 24, 2017
by Hania Hurley
Pregnancy Yoga
I have attended several of Leigh's pregnancy yoga classes and have found each one very informative, relaxing and enjoyable.�In just a small space of time I have learnt so much that will help with the journey to labour and labour itself including stretching & breathing techniques, biological facts and how to get comfy and relax when your bump gets really big.�I am looking forward to the classes starting again after summer.
Jul 3, 2017
by Edwina
Couldn't be without it!
I've been attending Leigh's mixed level Hatha Yoga for over two years. I'd tried three other yoga teachers before this but Leigh's passion for yoga really shines through - really inspirational. The level of relaxation you get from the meditation part of the class is amazing. It really was a sanity saver for me. I also like the fact that she teaches in the round so everyone is equally included. Can't recommend her classes enough!
Thank you so much for the wonderful feedback Edwina!
Apr 16, 2017
by Michele
Yoga for Healthy Lower Backs
You can spend a lot of time (as I did) thinking how bad your back is or you could spend a little time a few times a week using the toolkit for healthy backs that this course teaches under the expert guidance of Leigh. But this is not just a twelve week module but a 'pick 'n mix' yoga based exercise programme which you use for a life time and will gradually improve the overall quality of your life and health. It will take time and personal effort but as you would expect of yoga the benefits go beyond 'the lower back.' If, like me, you have not done yoga before this course is an excellent start, combining basic yoga principles and gentle back strengthening exercise sequences both of which can be developed and advanced if desired. The group was small and friendly. The venue clean, bright, airy and warm with plenty of on or off site parking. Leigh runs the course with professionalism and quiet efficiency, she has a wealth of yoga experience and has a passion and enthusiasm which shines through week after week. Commit to your back, commit to your general wellbeing. Don't delay, sign up today!
Thank you so much for this review Michele.
Dec 18, 2016
by Phil
I first met Leigh, when she covered a lesson for my then Yoga teacher, from that first class ,I knew that she was the teacher I wanted to learn from.�From the class structure, atmosphere and welcoming start ,Leighs knowledge and the way she taught had me loving every minute of the class. I then managed to join Leighs regular weekly class, over a year ago now.�For every posture, the modifications to accommodate any injuries or ongoing conditions make it easy to practise. I have had an ongoing heart condition, and Leighs obvious attention to detail, along with the discrete manner, as far as contraindications are concerned made me feel completely at ease .�From the Asanas to meditation, yoga Nidra and relaxation, the whole class is a great experience, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Leighs classes to anyone interested in, starting or continuing their yoga path .
Dec 18, 2016
by Nigel hunt
Thursday night hatha yoga
I have been attending Leigh's hatha yoga classes on a Thursday evening now for nearly 2 years - in that time I have found my flexibility greatly improved which is basically why I wanted to start in the first place but have also found other benefits in relaxation and breathing techniques - apart from being a woman of many talents and one of the sweetest people I know Leigh has a wealth of experience in teaching yoga and will make newcomers feel very welcome and always gives different level options when performing asanas - I can't imagine ever wanting to give up this class now - thanks Leigh x
Dec 18, 2016
by Elaine Allso
Thursday mixed ability class
Staying calm and focused is something we all struggle with to some extent in today’s world. Leigh's teaching has helped me to be more mindful and the yoga practice has improved my health and wellbeing. The classes are well structured with options always given to suit any ability, and Leigh has a lovely clear way of explaining each pose. I can't wait for Thursday class to come around each week !
Dec 6, 2016
by Tim Seakins
Yoga for healthy lower backs
I am just completing this course with Leigh and have found it exceptionally beneficial. I have learnt to try to maintain good posture in my daily life and I find that I have many days free from back pain altogether. It is necessary to do the exercises at home as well as at the classes but it is worth the time and effort.Before I started the course I found it difficult to bend down to pick things up but am much improved now. I shall continue with the yoga at home in future. By the way, it is just as good for men as for women!
Sep 26, 2016
by Wendy Kirkpatrick
Monday Hatha Yoga
I have attended Leigh's yoga classes for several years and have found them both mindful and calming. Her method of teaching is suitable for any age group as she offers several alternative positions. Leigh combines the fun side of yoga with the spiritual and now I feel a new woman!��Give it a go whatever your age!
Jul 20, 2016
by Ruth
Yoga class
If you are looking for a class that will improve your health and wellbeing on all levels then book a course with Leigh. You get so much more than a regular yoga class. Leigh shares her vast knowledge of yoga and ayurveda and gives plenty of useful tips and advice on how to best live your life. I find regular practice not only keeps me free from aches and pains but also healthier, happier and more contented generally. Not to be missed!
Jul 18, 2016
by Claire Jarvis
Monday Gentle Hatha Yoga
Yoga was always something I would like to do but I never found the time. An unfortunate experience and change in circumstances offered a window of opportunity, which I filled with this class. The best thing I ever did!! Leigh's class is everything I ever wanted and more, practicing with her and what is now my Yoga community has brought a sense of calm, control and confidence to my self, all of which had been lost. I have been able to bring 'Yoga Moments' into my everyday life along with Yoga Nidra and look forward to a life of practice.
Jul 15, 2016
by Claire Stringer
Birthlight Yoga
Leigh's Birthlight yoga class is amazing! Leigh gave me such confidence and knowledge which enabled me to make informed decisions about the birth I wanted. The breathing techniques and light stretches practiced within the class were also fantastic - and easily done at home too. Leigh creates a friendly, calm atmosphere and is a great place to meet other soon-to-be mums. I cannot recommend Leigh and her classes enough! :)
