I came to yoga slightly reluctantly. I watched my partner doing his practice and wondered how he didn’t just get bored contorting his body into all those strange positions. I started attending classes and found the problems in my body start to diminish; but it is since joining Soma classes that I have started to feel the real benefits. The courses are very structured and allow you to discover gradually and naturally how the physical, energetic, mental and spiritual aspects of your being are intertwined.

It took me a while to take the plunge with Soma, partly because I was concerned about possible conflicts with my Christian faith. While there have certainly been some challenges as I get to grips with new ways of connecting with the divine, Sublima has guided me through with compassion and confidence. I can honestly say that it has complemented and enhanced my existing spiritual path. Nothing is forced on you and you can take things at your own pace.

It may help to describe a typical class. Usually it will include three aspects.

• A meditation, often using music to connect with a concept or aspect of the divine.

• Hatha yoga practice, with each asana being held for several minutes and a focus on the energies and subtle effects as well as the physical aspects.

• Some teaching about the spiritual side of yoga. This is always presented in a way that is relevant and applicable to modern life.

Soma is a community as well as a school. There are opportunities to socialise and share experiences.

If you are looking to discover the more esoteric aspects of yoga, I would highly recommend Soma as the place to do that. If you are unsure (as I was at the beginning) I would strongly encourage you to try it for a month or two. It could just be that a whole lot of things click into place and you discover a new fire for life.