AROUND BIRTH & BEYOND

BUILDING COMMUNITY

Around Birth

women's health worldwide

'Ingrid, your classes were the best yoga classes in the world, they were informative, fun, helpful, interesting, warm and engaging. Through them I gained confidence in myself, my body and my baby and for this I cannot thank you enough.' Carrie & little Robyn - - - 'I highly recommend Ingrid's pregnancy yoga & birth preparation classes to both my NHS and private expectant mothers. Ingrid's classes are an excellent way to stay healthy in mind and body throughout pregnancy and to be well-prepared for birth.' Dr. Claire Mellon, GP & Obstetrician - - - 'I wanted to thank you for the breathing techniques you taught me which proved invaluable and for giving me the confidence I could do it without an epidural, by trusting myself and my body. Six days later, I feel great, I was lucky I did not have any tearing whatsoever and that labour was quick and super effective. Recovery has been second to none. I want to thank you again for all your support and your great yoga classes!' Liana - - - 'Thank YOU Ingrid, you're one in a million. The breathing techniques you gave us in the last relaxation got me right to 10cm easily! Remarkable. So delighted to have birthed a breech baby avoiding a c section.' Natalie

 

Building Community

Introduction

After 28 years of working in health and as a public health consultant I am delighted to present the beautiful effraspace. Together with an experienced team of hand-chosen teachers I will be offering my own classes and courses as part of an exciting new programme of classes designed to support our local community.

Effraspace is dedicated to pregnancy, birth, good parenting and the wider community. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as 'a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being'. We provide classes to help you and your family be healthy and stay well.

With yoga, pilates, acrobatics and dance classes for improving mind and body to self-defense for men, women, mothers-fathers-daughters-sons, parent & baby Kung Fu and Qi Gong, we help build a healthy local community. Whatever your age, level of health or fitness, there is something for everyone. Come to be inspired.

 

 

Classes

Dance

Dancing can impact on the plasticity of the brain by triggering brain chemicals to create new neurons, increase neuro-transmitters and re-organise neural pathways, boosting problem-solving, decision-making, focus and recall skills. Research confirms that dance is the best intervention to lower the risk of developing Alzheimers Disease (by 76%). It also counters osteoporosis and lower the risk of brain deterioration. Dance is helpful against depression and stress related syndromes. Angela Rippon in an interview about her April 2016 TV programme 'How to Stay Young' asserts that "dance is the complete Mind & Body Workout". Find out for yourself how much fun it can be to keep your body fit, mood up and brain sharp by trying some of the many dance classes on offer:


Find out for yourself how much fun it can be to keep your body fit, mood up and brain sharp by trying some of the many dance classes on offer:

 

Parent & Baby Dance
(Age 3-12m)

A time to enjoy a deeper connection with your baby in a relaxed, playful way while increasing your own strength, flexibility and tone. This class will combine the three planes of movement – from floor to upright – to give variety and help you to bring natural ease and joy to the many everyday activities of parenting.

 

Life Dance for Kids
(Age 3–6 & 7–10)

Drawing on her knowledge of dance styles and her experience of teaching children of various age ranges, Nefra has designed a class to help children be confident and balance the skills of leadership and responsiveness with co-operation, communication and mindfulness as a fun way to bring life skills into the enjoyable and educative pursuit of dance.

 

Nia
(Adults & Teens)

Dancing can impact on the plasticity of the brain by triggering brain chemicals to create new neurons, increase neuro-transmitters and re-organise neural pathways, boosting problem-solving, decision-making, focus and recall skills. Research confirms that dance is the best intervention to lower the risk of developing Alzheimers Disease (by 76%). It also counters osteoporosis and lower the risk of brain deterioration. Dance is helpful against depression and stress related syndromes. Angela Rippon in an interview about her April 2016 TV programme 'How to Stay Young' asserts that "dance is the complete Mind & Body Workout".Find out for yourself how much fun it can be to keep your body fit, mood up and brain sharp by trying some of the many dance classes on offer: Physiologists and doctors praise Nia.

 

Tango for Mindfulness
(Adults)

ArgentineTango is an improvised dance - a bit like life ? and it too requires us to learn to listen, communicate, co-operate and respond. Dance has been shown inscientific studies to benefit us physically, emotionally and mentally, and Tango specifically to aid balance and functional mobility and to help prevent or slow the progression of diseases such as Parkinson’s. In this class we study the physical techniques of balance and walking in the tango manner, both forwards and backwards and we explore this sensual partner-dance to help us understand the correlation between this technique and the mental/emotional practices of presence, connection, communication, clarity, receptivity and the meditative mind.?

 

Belly Dance
(Adults & Teens)

From movements rooted in the Middle East, North Africa and the Balkans, belly dance is now an all-encompassing genre that includes different styles of dance from all over the world. The common thread linking these styles is the muscular isolation involved, mainly in the hips and rib cage. All of these styles, when performed with strong technique and feeling, are captivating. Anna strives to work and train in as many different styles as possible but her dance foundation and her classes are based in the Salimpour Format. Her dancing is characterized by its flexibility and creativity of sequences and, by necessity, is rooted in strong technique.

 

 

Pilates

Developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 1920’s the Pilates method follows six core principles: concentration, control, center, flow, precision and breathing. These principles allow elegant flowing movements from a strong core. Pilates seems to provide greater benefit in the alleviation of back pain and training of abdominal muscles than most other exercises. By understanding how the body should feel and move, you gain awareness of your alignment and posture. Exercises are geared to improving posture and alignment, which, in turn, bring about freedom and ease of movement. The exercises are beneficial for everyone – from the very fit to people recovering from injuries, and for all age groups. The benefits of the exercises are remarkable and can be felt, both physically and mentally, even after one session. We offer:

 

Pilates
(Adults)

By understanding how the body should feel and move, one gains awareness of one’s own alignment and posture. Exercises are geared to improving posture and alignment, which, in turn, bring about freedom and ease of movement. The exercises are beneficial for everyone – from the very fit to people recovering from injuries, and for all age groups. The benefits of the exercises are remarkable and can be felt, both physically and mentally, even after one session.

 

Postnatal Pilates
(Mums)

Post natal Pilates helps to recover strength and tone of core postural muscles after pregnancy. Particularly abdominal, back and pelvic floor muscles. It helps with correct joint movement and flexibility. Correct alignment for all mothers and in particular for breast feeding-mothers who will be picking up and carrying babies. Pilates helps focus the mind and with breath controlled movement can relax and calm the body. We recommend 6-12 weeks of postnatal Pilates before engaging with a normal exercise regime.

 

 

 

Yoga

Yoga is great for children and adults and according to The Guardian could save the NHS a fortune. Scientific research suggests that yoga is a safe and effective form of exercise to increase strength, flexibility and balance. Furthermore it is beneficial for people suffering high blood pressure, aches and pains, depression and stress. Different styles suit different people. Pregnancy yoga is widely recommended by doctors and midwives as one of the safest forms of exercise throughout pregnancy with classes being offered in several UK hospitals. We offer:

 

Hatha Yoga
(Adults)

The basis of Hatha Yoga is to become aware of the breath and to integrate breath with movement.  Conscious awareness of breath naturally enables a deeper connection to your body and mind creating a feeling of aliveness and well-being. All students are welcome whatever their level of experience.

 

Vinyasa Flow Yoga
(Adults)

Vinyasa Flow Yoga is an evolutionary practice based on synchronising the breath with movement. The movements help to create grace, strength and fluidity in the body whilst inducing a feeling of peace and well-being. The smooth way in which one posture flows into another is often likened to dance. The classes are dynamic, but are open to all levels of practitioners.

 

Yin Yoga
(Adults)

Some regard YinYoga as the oldest form of yoga. This beautiful practice acts on the connective tissue (tendons, fascia, ligaments) releasing deep-seated tensions with the aim to improve range of movement. Being a slower-paced style of yoga YinYoga cultivates patience and inner silence, the more meditative aspect of the discipline.

 

Pregnancy Yoga
(Mums-to-be)

Suitable for beginners and experienced practitioners alike pregnancy yoga is widely recommended by doctors and midwives as one of the safest forms of exercise throughout pregnancy with classes being offered in several UK hospitals. There is evidence suggesting that prenatal yoga leads to the reduction of stress, better births and term babies

Read more here:

 

Postnatal & Baby Yoga
(Mums & Babies)

Postnatal Yoga is a unique combination of postnatal recovery for mums and playful practices aiding babies sensory and motoric development. The growing baby's increasing weight helps develop mum's stamina and strength through shared practices. The interaction between mothers and babies aids secure attachment building the foundation for positive social relationships. The classes are designed to help mums feel confident whilst providing the opportunity to share experiences, ask questions and grow together - as individuals, groups and society. Read more here.

 

 

 

Martial Arts

The Cambridge dictionary defines martial arts as: ‘a sport that is a traditional Japanese or Chinese form of fighting or defending yourself'. Martial Arts are practiced for a variety of reasons, from fitness and self-defense to mental and spiritual development.
We offer the following martial art forms:

 

Parent & Baby Kung Fu
(Parents & Babies 4-12months)

Kung Fu is roughly translated 'skill achieved through hard work'. Kung Fu can be in anything we do. Parenting is Kung Fu. These Parent & Baby classes are about taking time to train, to strengthen the body and mind. The classes are open to new as well as seasoned practitioners wanting to continue their practice or learn a new skill together with their babies/toddlers.

 

QiGong
(Adults &Teens)

Qigong translates literally as: Life Energy Cultivation. It is an ancient Chinese mindful movement practice integrating postures, breathing techniques and focused intention, strengthening connections between mind and body. The practice evolved in China from ancient Taoism, Tibetan Yoga and Western developmental movement studies. According to Taoism, QuiGong helps to develop human potential by allowing access to higher realms of awareness.

 

Self-defense
(Adults & Children 10+)

Being able to protect yourself in all situations is a confidence booster as much as it is a reassurance. Self-defense is for everyone regardless of age or gender. A mix of exercises help participants to learn how to protect themselves and feel safe and at the same time reach their fitness goals. The classes are fun, informative and will keep participants focused, motivated and safe.

 

 

 

The Team

 

Ingrid Lewis - yoga for pregnancy, post-natal & baby yoga, birth preparation courses.

ingrid lewis holding a young girlIngrid Lewis is a qualified public health professional, therapist and yoga teacher. She has worked in UK, Germany and Central Africa in both, allopathic and complementary medicine since 1988. Ingrid is a Trustee of the Birthlight Trust, UK’s first perinatal yoga training provider. She helped to set up what is now called Doula UK, writing and implementing its training & mentoring programme. Her yoga journey began in 1989 in Varanasi, India where she studied Kriya Yoga. Ingrid also trained as a Sivananda Yoga and Birthlight Yoga teacher & tutor and with Donna Farhi. She offers weekly yoga (pregnancy, postnatal, baby) classes, holds regular ‘straightforward birth preparation’ courses for couples and offers private therapy sessions for men, women & children. While living in Congo (Central Africa) she was initiated by BaYaka hunter-gatherer women into their secret knowledge and ancestral rites. Reintegrating ancient knowledge about female power, reproduction & birth can help to change the current trend towards over-medicalising pregnancy, labour and birth.

 

Ingrid: ‘My work in reproductive and women’s health is inspired by my research among BaYaka hunter-gatherer women in Congo. By combining scientific research with indigenous knowledge about reproduction & birth, a wide range of therapeutic approaches and yoga I aim to help women to be in charge of their bodies, to create the environment most conducive for conception & healthy pregnancy as well as to birth in dignity. I am passionate about helping women at all life stages to rejoice in their femininity.’

 

Testimonials:

“The senior registrar said that she had never seen such a thing in her 25 years of service at the hospital.  Thank you so much Ingrid - because of you this yoga move has now gone down in history at Kings as a way to turn the baby!” DL

 

‘It may be a cliche to say but meeting Ingrid has changed my life. Her perceptive powers are extraordinary and she has a calmness that stays with you long after you have left her room.  She gets to the heart of the matter. Five years ago it looked very unlikely that I was going to ever be a mother but here I am typing this while my three beautiful children sleep upstairs. I think her insightful help and kind support are the reasons why I was able to conceive naturally, have wonderful pregnancies full of a lot of joy and have natural births at home. She has guided me through each of my pregnancies but not only that, she has also imparted some wonderful wisdom to me on what it is to be a mother. She inspired me to train as a Baby and Toddler Yoga Teacher with Birthlight and this has led to me researching and finding out more about the emotional development of children. I feel indebted to her as I know that I am a better parent because of my conversations with her. Ingrid is a truly inspiring woman. I feel very lucky that I have had the great pleasure in entering into and journeying through motherhood with her. I thank you from my heart for all that you have given me.’ Hannah (Teacher/Researcher)

 

Anna Kemper - belly dancing.

anna kemperAnna Kemper began studying belly dance in 1993 in Seattle, USA, and earned a B.A. in Dance and Film Production from Bard College, New York in 2001. She began teaching belly dance in 1997 and over the years has instructed thousands of women from New York to Mumbai. She is dedicated to promoting the art of belly dance in its many guises and to supporting local students and professionals. Anna teaches introduction through advanced as well as open level lessons. Her classes are safe for pregnant students. They have a strong technical focus and are structured around stretching, drills and short combinations. Lessons include historical references and/or cultural anecdotes to help broaden students' education and appreciation of this diverse art form.

 

Anna: “My main influence and mentor is Suhaila Salimpour. I have also trained with many of the world's leading dancers, dance ethnographers and musicians. They include: Jamila Salimpour, Fat Chance Bellydance, Jill Parker, Zoe Jakes, Heather Stantz, Kami Liddle, Sharon Kihara (California, USA), Bozenka (Forida/Greece), Raqia Hasan, Serena Ramzy, Aida Noor, Mona el Said, Loubna, Hossam Ramzy, Abd el Fattah Naeem (Egypt), Nesrin Topkapi (Turkey), Yousrey Sharif, Nourhan Sharif, Anahid Sofian, Morocco and Tarik abd al Malik (New York), Anasma (France/USA), Soraya Zaid (Brazil), Tina Sargeant, Delilah of Visionary Dance, Yasmila, Habib (Washington, USA), Suzanna Del Veccio (Colorado, USA), Maleeha (Ibrahim Farrah dancer USA), Virginia (Florida, USA) and many more".

 

Visit Anna's website: smallworldbellydance.com

 

Testimonials:

I love having Anna as a dance teacher and highly recommend anyone who’s interested in belly dance to try her classes. Anna creates a lively and fun atmosphere to learn in. Guiding me from a complete beginner to certifying in Salimpour formats she has provided the tools in which to train safely and effectively. To the benefit of her students she is focused on her continuing development and happily shares her ever-increasing knowledge whilst encouraging students to learn as much as they can outside of the studio as well. Anna truly wants her students to become the best dancers they can be and offers the skills, knowledge and inspiration to follow that path.” Anjanie

 

“I have been taking Belly dancing classes with Anna for more than 5 years.  Her classes are dynamic, educational and fun.  I would recommend her classes to anyone wanting to learn the proper foundations of Bellydancing through the Suhaila technique building muscle memory, strength flexibility and musicality.  Anna is an amazing teacher and dancer who is continually working on improving herself and also her students.” Alison

 

Deepa Moodgal - hatha yoga, vinyasa flow yoga.

deepa moogal in padmasana in the desertDeepa Moodgal has been working in the therapeutic field since 1999. Her passion for well-being began when she trained as a Reflexologist in 1999. Deepa is a qualified yoga teacher, reflexologist, massage therapist and doula. Deepa grew up with yoga, being a family tradition practiced by her parents. Her own yoga training took her back to her roots in South India where she studied under the guidance of some of the most influential yoga teachers. Deepa has worked with an extensive range of students, from the public health sector to the private corporate sector. She also has a background in Criminology and used to offer classes to prisoners. Her passion is to share the benefits of yoga and well being to all whom she comes into contact with. The gift of Yoga has taught her that through subtle awareness of the breath, we can shift patterns in our consciousness so our minds and bodies can truly be free.

Visit Deepa’s website: deepaspirit.com

 

Deepa: “As I started to attend yoga classes regularly, I noticed how I became slightly stronger physically but more importantly became connected to myself. My attitude towards life started to shift and I became less stressed and concerned about things that initially seemed so important. That inner glow that radiates through the joy of practicing yoga began to flow and it was almost as if someone had placed a switch in my head that was now on. The study of yoga continues to form a major part of my Sadhana (practice) and my life, to me there is no separation. Great master yogis and yoginis continue to inspire me through my yoga journey, as do my friends, students and my beautiful ball of prana my son dhruv, who inspires me everyday.”

Testimonial: “Quite often, your class is the best part of my week. I always find it challenging, but the feeling it gives me afterwards is priceless. I feel so much calmer, peaceful and I always sleep really well.  I've also found it useful at other times, one time when I turned up to class I had hardly slept the night before thinking about a difficult decision I had to make. You said something that day about existing in the moment and it concentrated my mind about the choice i had. At times your class is not only a welcome respite, but also a space to just 'be', after yoga I find it easy to accept life’s ups and downs.” Lee

Karen Livesey - qi gong.

karen liveseyKaren Livesey MRSS is a documentary film-maker, experienced Shiatsu practitioner and QiGong teacher practicing and teaching at clinics in South London. She feeds her skill and energy with on-going study of Movement Shiatsu & QiGong studying with Bill Palmer. QIGONG translates as Energy Exercise. It is a mindful movement practice strengthening connections between mind and body, by encouraging different parts of one to work together more harmoniously. The practice has evolved from ancient Taoism, Tibetan Yoga and Western developmental movement studies.
  
Karen: “I am interested in what helps me live life. My interest in a meditative approach to life started with practising Aikido, a Martial Art, in my teens.  Since then, meditation and creative experimentation have underpinned my work as a film-maker and more recently as a Shiatsu therapist and QiGong teacher. I love swimming outdoors and being in nature as much as possible.”

Visit Karen’s website: karenliveseyshiatsu.co.uk 
View her latest project: theladiesbridge.co.uk

Testimonial: "I have learnt QiGong exercises from Karen in the last year as part of the body awakening practice. The exercises she taught me have been very useful for establishing a contact with my inner self, develop a sense of my space and also for connecting with the environment. Karen's way of teaching is very loving, engaging and fun; I love how she conveys the essence of the practice, clearly explains the dynamics involving the body parts and makes me realise the changes taking place in my mind and body.” EC

 

Kes Kpokpogri - self-defence: men, women, children.

kes kpokpogriKes Kpokpogri is a Martial Arts and Fitness Professional, Founder of Team Kevlar Fitness, self defense instructor and healthy lifestyle activist. With 25 years of professional experience in the martial arts and fitness industry Kes is well versed in the best training and fitness techniques from around the globe. When people think about self defense these days, they tend to think about women and children but self-defense is for everyone regardless what age or gender. Kes uses a trademark mix of exercises that will not only help participants to learn how to protect themselves and feel safe, but will also help them reach their fitness goals. The self defense classes and courses he runs are fun, informative and will keep participants focused, motivated and safe.


Kes: “There is no better feeling than the knowledge that you can take care of yourself mentally, financially and physically. For many people, the physical part is just exercise. Being able to protect yourself in all situations is a confidence booster as much as it is a reassurance. I believe in the power of knowledge and consistent practice when it comes to self defense and also believe sessions are a benefit to everyone.


Visit Kes’ website: teamkevlarfitness.co.uk


Testimonials:


“I have seen Kes teach a slight 12 year old girl give such a mighty kick that despite wearing protective armour he had to take a couple of minutes out. He goes the whole way to teach you to feel and be safe. Highly recommend.”
“Before going to Africa I was told what to do should I be charged by a gorilla. Not the best instruction in the world prepared me for what it felt like when it happened and all I had learnt went out of the window. Taking Kes’s self defense course made me realise there is an effective way to help you prepare for and face a potentially life-threatening event whilst staying focused and in control.” IL

 

Laura Ahnemann - Nia dance.

laura ahnemannLaura Ahnemann is a Certified Co-Active Life Coach and an instructor of The Nia Technique. Laura co-runs Mind The Gap Coaching, a coaching company and community for young professionals. She supports people in their 20s and 30s when they find themselves paralysed or overrun by a Quarter-life Crisis and gives them the confidence, clarity and energy back that they need to move forward in all areas of their life. Laura is a successful group facilitator and trainer. She mentors coaches in certification and successfully blends coaching with embodied practices such as Leadership Embodiment and The Nia Technique to get her clients out of their head and into meaningful, courageous change processes. Drawn from three martial arts (t’ai chi, tae kwon do, aikido), three styles of dance (jazz, modern and Duncan dance), and three healing arts (yoga, the Feldenkrais method, the Alexander technique) Nia involves a variety of movement speeds, styles, ranges of motion and energy dynamics. Nia is accessible for EVERY body: super-fit athletes, occasional movers and unfit couch-potatoes alike will get a lot out of it.

 

Laura: “The Nia experience delivers holistic conditioning and movement training. Repetitive jogging, jumping and pumping are replaced with grounded movements that combine steps, stances and kicks. Body education is integrated into each workout resulting in Sensory IQ and Body Literacy. Conditioning includes: cardiovascular conditioning, voluntary conscious & mindful - conditioning, and reflexive spontaneous & unconscious conditioning. The pleasure principle is one key to well-being. Nia will make you feel so good you’ll want to come back for more.”

Visit Laura’s website: makeyourselfhome.co.uk

 

Testimonials

"I had so much fun! Thanks!" Caroline

 

"Possibly the best exercise we have ever done. We love the music, even asked Laura to get us a CD and DVD to continue at home." Patrick & Patricia

 

"The hour long class has made me feel fitter and gives me energy to do so much more. I feel 1000% better and so look forward to the weekly class." Vernon 

 

Lon Gibbons - yin yoga.

lon gibbonsLon Gibbons is a hatha yoga teacher and massage therapist specialising in women’s health and fertility.  She qualified as a massage therapist in 1999 and as a Yoga Teacher in 2000, whilst working full time in publishing. She has been teaching in New Zealand and the UK since 2001. In 2002 she let go of the ‘day job’ and has since devoted herself to bringing health and healing to her clients and students. Her knowledge and experience of yoga is integrated into her massage therapy treatments. In 2008 she became an Arvigo Therapist, firing her enthusiasm for optimal abdominal and pelvic health. She continues to add to her skills both in the therapy room and on the mat, most recently training with Marty Ryan in deeper techniques of Visceral Therapy and with Lois Laynee in Restorative Breathing. Her areas of special interest are Digestion and Women’s Health & Fertility. Lon has also been a Birth and Postnatal Doula since 2008. She draws on the wisdom of yoga, the grace of massage and the essence of being a doula to provide nurturing, educated and non-judgmental support to her clients and students. Lon trained in the rich tradition of Satyananda Yoga and has been influenced over the years by many renowned teachers and different teaching styles, which are reflected in her unique teaching style.

Visit Lon’s website: longibbons.com

 

Lon: “The basis of all my classes is to become aware of the breath and to integrate breath with movement.  The awareness of breath naturally enables a deeper connection to mind and spirit. I welcome all students whatever their level of experience. I very much look forward to welcoming you to the classes at EffraSpace.”

 

Testimonial

“Lon is a ‘helluva’ yoga teacher! Her classes are addictive!” Gina PT

 

“Lon is a wonderful yoga teacher for both beginners and more experienced yogis alike. She has a supportive and nurturing teaching style, which is underscored by a sound and pragmatic knowledge of technique. Her warm, sunny and thoughtful personality make classes a pleasure - highly recommended!” Jessica E

 

Nefra Canning - Nia dance, LifeDance for kids, parent & baby dance, tango for mindfulness.

nefra canningNefra Canning is a professional dancer, licensed Nia Instructor, dance teacher & movement coach. From the age of 4 Nefra has studied many diverse dance forms from Egyptian Temple Dance to Tango as well as drama and mime. She has peformed internationally and taught both abroad and in the UK at Pineapple Studios, Jumpers (Ealing YMCA), the Rambert Junior School, Morley College and The Tango Club. Nefra has presented demos and taster classes at many mind-body expos and has also brought the joy of moving in a natural, imaginative way to hospitals and care homes within the NHS. We are delighted to make Nefra’s acclaimed Parent & Baby Dance, LifeDance for Kids, Nia and Tango for Mindfulness classes available at effraspace.

 

Nefra: ‘From a pirouette to a Tango step, from mothering to caring for elders, from Contemporary to Tai Chi, my journey has been a dance. Having learnt from exceptional teachers, my passion is to continue to explore this dance-life connection and to bring its fruits to my students to help them find a quality of ease in their movement from everyday activities to dance-floor intricacy.’

Visit Nefra’s websites: NiaWithNefra.com | NefraDance.com

 

Testimonials

“Critical for work in this field is energy. Nefra is energy: energising those with whom she works and with whom she has contact. The dynamics of her work are fascinating. At the end of Nefra's class ones energy levels are tripled. Nefra undoubtedly brings a wealth of experience with her, together with innovative ideas. She is ideal for both one-to-one and group work where she empowers individuals according to their capacities. Very highly recommended!” Stephen Twist, Barrister

 

“I have been a regular pupil of Nefra's in both her Nia and Ready to Dance classes since April 2008. She is an excellent teacher, bringing a healing and developmental aspect to her movement classes. The classes provide excellent exercise, but are also extremely effective in developing self-awareness of how one uses one's body, contributing to both long-term health and creativity. The classes are also tremendous fun!” Deborah Henry-Pollard, Coach

 

"The graceful Nefra guided us through one hour of much needed movement after all of our travels during the past few days. Our moods were quickly transformed from exhausted to energized and this class kept us recharged for the busy afternoon and evening ahead."Mary & Jubie's Great Adventure

 

Simone Halfpenny - pilates, post-natal pilates.

simone halfpennySimone Halfpenny is a trained ballet dancer. She danced with Sadlers Wells Royal Ballet for 9 years before moving to Cape Town City Ballet where she danced for a further 3 years. It was during her time as a dancer that she was introduced to Pilates and was amazed by the effects it had on her and her dancing. Realising the power of the exercises, she decided to train as a teacher back in 1997. She has trained with two of the UK`s leading teachers, Lynn Robinson and Gordon Thomson. Having qualified in mat work she went on to qualify on all the Pilates equipment, and continues to attend workshops and development weekends with some of the world’s finest teachers. Simone is also a Pilates teacher trainer as well as examiner for Body Control Pilates and a yoga teacher. By understanding how the body should feel and move, one gains awareness of one’s own alignment and posture. Pilates exercises are geared to improving posture and alignment, which, in turn, bring about freedom and ease of movement. The exercises are beneficial for absolutely everyone from the very fit to people recovering from injuries, and for all age groups.

 

Simone: “I believe that the teaching of Pilates re-connects people with their mind, body and spirit, and brings clear improvements to their everyday life. The benefits of the exercises are remarkable and can be felt, both physically and mentally, even after just one session. I honestly believe that Pilates should be compulsory in schools, as our health is the greatest gift we possess.”

 

Testimonial:

“When I joined Simone's Pilates class 18 months ago I was struggling with pain and instability after the birth of my daughter. Simone really listened to the problems I was having, adapted exercises where needed and gently encouraged me to push myself as I became stronger. I have really benefited from her classes, all of my initial problems have cleared up and I am so much stronger than before. Now well into my second pregnancy, Simone continues to adapt the class to suit where I'm at. Each class with Simone is different so I always feel I am learning something new and she makes the group a lot of fun. I would highly recommend Simone as a Pilates instructor.” Carrie C

 

Talin Sellian - parent & baby kung-fu, baby massage.

talin seillanTalin Sellian is a mother of three, a doula, qualified shiatsu practitioner, baby massage teacher and fully licensed White Crane Kung Fu instructor. After practicing White Crane Kung Fu for 12 years she became a fully licensed instructor in 2009. Kung Fu is roughly translated ‘skill achieved through hard work'. There can be Kung Fu in anything that we do. Parenting is Kung Fu. The Parent & Baby classes are about taking time to train, to strengthen the body and in turn the mind. The classes are open to new as well as seasoned practitioners wanting to continue their practice or learn a new skill together with their babies/toddlers.

 

Talin: “At my peak I was training sometimes up to 18 hours a week, entering competitions, learning pattern after pattern, now three kids on I feel more Kung Fu than ever”.

 

Testimonials:

I can't thank Talin enough for the amazing classes we had with her, I felt relaxed and toned after every session, my daughter (13 months at the time) was well involved too making the bond between us beautiful. I only wish Talin lived closer so we could continue. I highly recommend Talin’s classes.”Leanne

“Talin's Kung Fu parenting class was a perfect mix of challenging movements, traditional expertise and motherly understanding. You could take the moves home with you and do at home with your little one at any time. Talin has a great awareness of your body’s needs, strengths and limitations.”

“I would love to congratulate you on coining the class Kung Fu Parenting! I thought it was such a wonderful idea, and it was a thoroughly enjoyable chapter of my parenting skills.  It is hard to go to a class and have two small children, and one was only 3 months when we joined, as I have always needed a childcare provider, which can be another expense. To be able to partake in some physical exercise, which had meaning, meditation and power, and to include the children in the practice was truly a valuable and fun way of easing back into fitness and vitality. I have since taken up Kung Fu and Tai Chi as I was so inspired, and have been doing it for 2 & half years now. I can understand your concept of Kung Fu parenting, as now everything from cleaning the dishes, doing tedious chores, from lifting buggies to children now takes on a hidden meaning of Kung Fu, the force has awakened! Thank you so much for your clear instruction, inventing such great games for the children to be involved in and to handle the sometimes chaotic class of babies and small children with such ease and calmness as only a patient and dedicate mother as yourself could do". Dee

 

 

Venue

effraspace
21 Effra Parade
London SW2 1PX

Nearest tube: Brixton (Victoria Line) (10 minutes walk)

Nearest train: Herne Hill (8 minutes walk), Brixton (10 minutes walk)
Buses: 3, 37 & 196 (1 minute walk); 2, 415, 432 (3 minutes walk)
Parking: There is limited metered parking in Effra Parade, currently £4/hour (parking is free after 5.30pm, before 8.30am & on weekends).