A Harrogate mum has launched classes combining yoga for parents with sensory play for babies.
Phillippa Strong, who runs Exhale Yoga and Baby Massage Harrogate, introduced Yoga Sensory in September after coming up with the idea during a 4am wake-up with her two-year-old.
At the time, she was nearing completion of her 200-hour yoga teacher training at the Yorkshire Centre of Wellbeing on Duchy Road and already running baby massage sessions.
Phillippa said:
“The idea of combining my passion for yoga and supporting postnatal mothers in a way that benefits and entertains babies too came to me.
“Yoga Sensory was born!”
The 90-minute sessions include sensory music, bubbles, instruments and a central play mat where babies can explore while parents take part in yoga.
A gentle warm-up leads into a yoga flow, before the class finishes with relaxation and a song from Phillippa.
She said:
“It's incredible how babies react to the changes of tempo of music and cuddle up to their parents at the end!
“It's a complete sensory experience for both and it's truly fulfilling to see mums feeling good stretching and babies socialising and enjoying the environment.”
A recent Halloween-themed session included a yoga flow to Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’.
Parents attending the classes have praised the opportunity to spend time with their babies while also looking after themselves.
One mum said:
“I absolutely love Exhale Yoga Sensory! It’s become such a special part of our week and gives me the chance to connect with other mums while also taking some time to look after myself.
“The yoga instruction is really high quality, and Phillipa puts so much thought, care and creativity into every session.”
Another testimonial read:
“I genuinely smile all the way through each class! My baby loves having the opportunity to explore and play with all the different sensory toys and activities, and he gets so giddy as soon as we walk into the hall because he knows what’s coming.
“It’s wonderful seeing how much he enjoys it.”
A further comment added:
“It’s such a lovely balance of wellbeing, connection and fun for both mums and babies. I couldn’t recommend Exhale Yoga Sensory enough!”
The next seven-week term begins on Thursday 5th November at 1st Pannal Scout Hall on Spring Lane.
Phillippa also runs baby massage classes on Tuesdays and is completing an 85-hour pregnancy yoga course, with plans to introduce pregnancy yoga sessions.
Bookings for the full Yoga Sensory term or individual classes can be made through the * Exhale Harrogate Bookwhen page.*