HEALTH + WELLNESS
NIKI PERRY
YOGA
Niki Perry has had a lifelong relationship with yoga and , 10 years ago , discovered a particular method known as Power Yoga , which has transformed her life in countless positive ways and which she now teaches in a calendar of motivating and energising workshops and classes across Chichester . We had a chat with Niki about all things yogi , and about her new DVD , Transform Now . BY POLLY HUMPHRIS
Hi Niki . Can anyone start practicing yoga ?
Yes ! Any age , any body type , any gender - literally everyone can do yoga . The Power Vinyasa Flow that I teach builds up your heart rate while at the same time toning and strengthening all of your body , so it ’ s a really effective practice for overall fitness and toning .
How has yoga had a positive effect on your life personally ?
When I practice regularly my whole body works better . My digestive system , my menstrual cycle , my sleep patterns , my immune system ; I could go on and on , everything just flows naturally and works efficiently as nature intended . Mentally , it has given me an inner strength to really listen to my heart and be courageous in continually moving forward in my life and growing . I am a much better mum when I practice yoga ; I ’ m calmer , and more centred and energised
What makes your classes stand out from others ?
I just teach what I love to do and it seems to be what a lot of other people enjoy too ! It makes me feel very happy when I see students now flying in crow pose after never thinking that they could ever possibly lift their toes off the earth . Some poses require a lot of strength , which comes quicker than you would think with regular practice .
What inspired you to put together a DVD ?
This time last year I was teaching Kate Winslet and Tamara Hill- Norton ( founder of women ’ s fitness clothing retailer , Sweaty Betty ); having a post-Christmas blitz ! The results for all three of us physically and mentally were incredible in just six days . They both said to me , “ Nik , you should do a DVD !” So , I did .
What is very important to me is that Transform Now inspires people who have never tried yoga before to give it a go , which is why I have four different flows on the DVD and a breathing technique . I am teaching a beginner , intermediate and an advanced practitioner so you as the viewer can follow the person you relate to the most and at the same time be inspired to keep at it and see your practice progress .
How many times a week would you recommend that people do the DVD to see results ?
A minimum of three times a week – if you can do six days with one day of rest for the first 40 days , you will completely transform . Allocate yourself yoga time and write it in your diary ; you are much more likely to do it if you have it in ink ! If you miss one day it doesn ’ t matter , just keep doing your best and coming back to your mat as often as you can . It will change your life . It has mine .
Transform Now is available to buy on Amazon and at www . nikiperryyoga . com , where you ’ ll also find details of Niki ’ s Chichester class times and locations .
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