Amid the hustle and buses of Chamberlyne Road, it is hard to imagine a peaceful haven lies tucked away just behind the shops. In fact many locals are incredulous – judging by their exclamations - as they climb the stairs of the Tay Building for the first time. 

Just off Wrentham Avenue, a vast warehouse has been lovingly converted into one of the most beautiful spaces in London dedicated to the practice of yoga and meditation. With classes to suit all ages and abilities, from expectant mums to busy professionals, the SYC (Special Yoga Centre) certainly lives up to it’s name - and it’s motto ‘yoga for everyone’ - providing welcome relief for busy minds and tired limbs.

Over the past two years the centre has grown in status and now attracts some of the London’s top teachers as well as hosting a packed schedule of concerts, workshops and courses covering varying styles of yoga, music and dance. 

My personal favourites are the Dynamic Flow classes – a vigorous workout for body and mind, with great music and a deep relaxation to close the class – the perfect antidote to London life! 

For those looking for a more peaceful practice, Hatha Yoga is the one to try and there are also classes catering specifically for beginners, kids, pre and post-natal ladies and over 50s.

However, more crucially, SYC is also home to Yoga for the Special Child– a charitable programme offering long-lasting benefits to hundreds of infants and children with special needs and their families. Founded by Jo Manuel in 2005 the charity offers yoga to over 350 children each week and also extends its work to schools and groups in the local area. 

Yoga has been proven to bring great and long-lasting benefits to all types of conditions including Cerebral Palsy, Downs Syndrome, epilepsy, ADD and ADHD, and other physical and developmental difficulties. As well as the physical benefits, children sleep better, gain confidence and awareness of their bodies and minds and become more relaxed and sociable. These improvements help not only the kids, but also provide great relief for parents and the whole family. 

By attending classes or workshops at SYC you will be directly helping this vital work to continue and reach more families, so why not pop in and chill out! 

The SYC is one of the charities supported by the KTF’s last benefit gig on Friday 4th Dec at the Mason’s Arms. 

 

NW10 3HA 

 

http://www.specialyoga.org.uk 

 

 

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