Yoga classes for seniors in Liverpool: how to choose a gentle one

If you're looking for yoga classes for seniors in Liverpool, we suggest starting with a Beginner - Level 0 class at Shiva Yoga. These classes are open to all levels, and the school is led by Mohan, who has over 50 years of personal practice and has taught since 1987. Below you'll find what to look for and what to ask before you book.

What makes a yoga class gentle enough for seniors?

The word gentle means different things on different timetables. For some teachers it means chair-based work. For others it means a slow mat class with plenty of time to rest. It helps to know which one you're signing up for.

A few things matter most:

  • The pace is slow enough that you can settle into each posture and keep breathing comfortably.

  • The teacher offers alternatives, so you never have to get down to the floor if it doesn't feel right.

  • The session length suits your energy, and a shorter class is a perfectly good place to start.

  • The venue is easy to reach and comfortable once you're there.

Which Shiva Yoga class suits seniors in Liverpool?

Shiva Yoga is a Liverpool yoga school led by Mohan, offering weekly public classes that welcome students of all levels, including those new to yoga or returning to movement after a break.

Our weekly timetable includes several classes labelled Beginner - Level 0, and they are open to all. For most seniors, this is where we suggest starting.

The classes run at community venues and leisure centres across Liverpool, including The Hope Centre, Porchfield Community Centre, Liverpool Sunflowers and David Lloyd Speke. Liverpool Sunflowers is a local charity that offers exercise and rehabilitation services for people with long-term conditions. Days and times can change, so check the current timetable before you set off.

Choose a session length that suits you

Our class lengths vary. The timetable includes a 70-minute class from 09:30 to 10:40 and a 45-minute class from 11:40 to 12:25. If you're unsure how your body will respond, the shorter class is a sensible first step.

Learn from an experienced teacher

Mohan has over 50 years of personal practice, has taught since 1987 and has been based in Liverpool for more than 25 years. Our site cites more than 100,000 students guided over that time. Our Google rating is 5.0 across 78 reviews, and student testimonials highlight his calm, supportive way of teaching.

Try a slower workshop

If you'd like something more restorative, we hold monthly wellbeing workshops of around three hours. They combine gentle movement, breathwork and Yoga Nidra, a guided relaxation practice done lying down. They are longer than a weekly class, so many people try a Level 0 class first.

What should you ask before booking yoga classes for seniors in Liverpool?

Whichever class you're considering, a few questions will save you a wasted trip. Ask by phone or email. A good teacher will be glad to answer.

  • Is the class chair-based, or does it include some floor work, and can the teacher offer alternatives?

  • How big is the class, and will the teacher have time to check on each person?

  • Is the venue step-free, and are there accessible toilets, public transport or parking nearby?

  • How long is the session, and is there a shorter option?

  • Can you try a single class before committing to a block?

We encourage you to tell us about any surgeries, medication or conditions before you come, so we can suggest the most suitable class. Our 200+ hour teacher training, accredited by Yoga Alliance Professionals UK, also includes Chair Yoga in its syllabus.

Is gentle yoga safe if you have arthritis or limited mobility?

For many people it can be a comfortable, low-impact way to stay active. Versus Arthritis includes adapted movement in its advice on staying active with arthritis, and NICE has published evidence reviews on exercise for osteoarthritis that include yoga and chair-based approaches.

We can't give medical advice. If you've had recent surgery, are in a flare-up or have a long-term condition, talk to your GP or physiotherapist first, then tell your teacher what they said.

Try one class and see how it feels

You don't need to be flexible, experienced or confident to begin. You need a class that meets you where you are, and a teacher who listens. That is what Shiva Yoga aims to offer in Liverpool.

If you'd like help choosing between our Level 0 classes, or want to talk through your health and mobility first, Book a call and we'll point you to the right one. You can also reach us on 07791 148410 or at shivayoga.world@gmail.com.

Frequently asked questions

Which Shiva Yoga class should a complete beginner over 60 start with?

We suggest starting with one of our Beginner - Level 0 classes, which are open to all levels. If you're unsure, tell us about your health and mobility and we'll help you pick the most suitable class and venue.

Do I need to be able to get down to the floor?

Ask the teacher in advance, as some classes labelled gentle still include mat work. Let us know before you come and we can talk through the options, so you feel comfortable throughout.

How long are the classes?

Session lengths vary across our timetable. For example, there is a 70-minute class from 09:30 to 10:40 and a 45-minute class from 11:40 to 12:25. Check the current timetable for days, times and venues.

Is yoga suitable if I have arthritis?

Many people with arthritis find gentle, adapted movement helpful, and Versus Arthritis includes adapted movement in its advice. Because every case is different, speak to your GP or physiotherapist first, and tell your teacher about your condition before the class.

Is there anything slower than a weekly class?

Shiva Yoga holds monthly wellbeing workshops of around three hours that combine gentle movement, breathwork and Yoga Nidra. They suit people who want a slow, restorative experience, and many students try a weekly Level 0 class first.

Who will be teaching me?

Shiva Yoga is led by Mohan, who has over 50 years of personal practice, has taught since 1987 and has been based in Liverpool for more than 25 years. Our Google rating is 5.0 across 78 reviews.

Next
Next

Prenatal yoga Liverpool: how first-time mums can choose a class