There’s something about putting the word “private” in front of the word “yoga” that instantly engages people's curiosities! When people hear the words “private yoga” their minds often imagine it as an exclusive, underground form of yoga that’s reserved solely for VIPs and those in the know.

They’re actually half right! Private yoga is exclusive, and it is for very important people - in the sense that it is a custom yoga experience designed entirely for individuals (not just celebrities!).

Private yoga mostly benefits individuals who want to engage in regular yoga practice, but who do not have the confidence or time to attend group sessions. Private yoga will usually therefore take place in the privacy of their homes, or in a private studio run by a yoga professional, at a time that’s convenient for the individual.

It’s more than just a PT version of yoga, too. Whilst it does incorporate a physical workout, private yoga will also draw on yogic philosophy and meditation to make for a full mind and body experience. That’s especially important for those who can’t make yoga classes as it means that they do not miss out on the full yoga experience.

Not so long ago, the only place to practice yoga was at a studio. However as the practice grew in popularity, yogis and teachers became more inventive with where yoga could be practiced. An influx of yoga YouTube routines meant that yoga at home surged in popularity, and unique yoga practices were even held in locations like breweries!

Perhaps one of the most surprising locations to practice yoga has been the office.

Corporate yoga is becoming increasingly common with workplace initiatives and employee wellness schemes as workplace stress rises and workload demands increase.

More and more companies are recognising the importance of employee health and wellbeing, and are branching out into new initiatives to increase productivity and decrease absenteeism.

Yoga in the office may be worlds away from yoga in the studio, but the benefits of yoga remain the same wherever it is practiced and so it’s a great form of exercise to implement into an employee wellbeing program.

When a patient is diagnosed with cancer, the diagnosis can impact all areas of their life. Patients can feel anxious, fearful, stressed and worried which becomes harmful to both mental and physical wellbeing.

At all stages of the process, from initial diagnosis, to treatment and then survivorship, patients are encouraged to implement self-care routines and relaxation into their daily lives.

One such recommended practice is yoga due to its natural wellbeing benefits. Whilst the benefits of yoga for cancer patients is an ongoing study, initial research has found the mind body connection of yoga to be powerful in assisting with cancer patients emotional, physical and mental states.

Patients living with cancer, or who have survived cancer, often report feeling that their quality of life has improved, alongside their physical health and mental wellbeing.

This is because the holistic nature of yoga is able to reduce psychological stress caused by a diagnosis as well as improve strength, balance and flexibility and reduce pain. All of which are vital components in the treatment and recovery stages.

Let’s take a look at the main areas where cancer patients feel yoga has benefited them.