Former firefighter sets up yoga classes for all ages in the Valley
A FORMER firefighter has swapped battling blazes for breathing and posture by launching her own yoga classes.
Sarah Swindells, 36, runs classes in Rawtenstall, Crawshawbooth and various other locations around the Valley.
After leaving her job with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, Sarah journeyed to Spain to complete an intensive training course in teaching yoga.
She said: “I was joined on the course by people of all ages from all around the world. It was a very intense schedule, with very little spare time to enjoy the Spanish weather by the pool, but it was such a fantastic, life-changing experience.
“The journey was not only about learning how to confidently teach safe and enjoyable classes, but also about selfdiscovery and unlocking your own potential.”
On her return to Rossendale, Sarah, who lives at Spring Hill in Higher Clough Fold, set up Valley Yoga.
She said: “It was important for me to run classes from community spaces, helping to keep the buildings open for all the community uses.
“I’m hoping that I can make Valley Yoga a success as I really enjoy teaching yoga and the feedback I have had so far has been brilliant.”
Sarah said her classes are open to all ages, but she has created a specific class to teach yoga to teenagers.
She said: “In previous roles with Greater Manchester and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, I enjoyed working with teenagers and I realised that there aren’t many yoga classes available for teenagers.
“So I have decided to offer three classes per week to young people aged 13-16 at a discounted rate, as I really believe in the benefits yoga can offer to this age group.
“There is a growing number of teenagers who are suffering from depression, anxiety, stress, eating disorders and low self-esteem. CONTACT: BIANCA MURRAY OFFICE: 0161 211 2958 MOBILE: 07467 336860 @BIANCAMURRAY88 bianca.murray@trinitymirror.com ●● Sarah Swindell (centre), who has set up Valley Yoga, with the teachers on her training course Alicia Waters (left) and Vidya Heisel
“Yoga helps to address all these and offers many other benefits too.
“If enough teenagers in Rossendale attend my classes then I plan to apply for a government grant later in the year, so that I can offer free teen yoga classes across Rossendale.”
Along with group classes, Sarah also teaches private one-toone sessions, schools and corporate classes.
She added: “I’m a registered teacher with a new UK business that offers corporate yoga experiences, so I’m hoping to start travelling around the North West soon too, delivering fun team building experiences with a difference.”
For more information, visit www.valleyyoga. co.uk.