Breathe Dance & Yoga is led by Cat, a yoga teacher whose classes have earned consistently warm reviews from those who attend. It is worth being clear that the emphasis here is on yoga and mindful movement rather than partnered ballroom or Latin dance. Learners describe sessions that adapt to individual needs, including one-to-one work and post-operation recovery. If you are looking for a calmer, body-and-breath approach to movement, this may suit.
The teaching centres on yoga, with attention to how each person's body and stage of life differ. Reviewers highlight how sessions are tailored, whether in a group or privately, and how welcome complete beginners are made to feel. Online classes have also featured, giving people a way to practise from home.
Sessions focus on yoga postures, breathing and gentle strengthening rather than choreographed dance routines. One-to-one classes can be shaped around specific goals, such as building confidence after surgery or easing back into regular movement. Group classes are pitched to be accessible whatever your age or experience. For anyone wanting the wellbeing side of movement more than partnered dancing, this is a fitting choice.
Wear soft, stretchy clothing you can move and fold in comfortably, and expect to practise barefoot or in grippy socks as is usual for yoga. Bringing your own mat is helpful, though it is worth asking whether equipment is provided. Let the teacher know of any injuries or recovery needs beforehand.
Sessions have been offered both in person and online, widening access beyond a single location.
Cat had been recommended to me through a friend and I was meaning to get to one of her classes but then Lockdown hit. I subscribed to Cat's online yoga group and benefited from some of her free online classes. What can I say. Cat really reaches out to you in the session and I felt nourished both in body and mind afterwards. I particularly like the intention cards selected at the beginning as these help to give a focus (which I personally find hard as my mind wants to focus on many things at once!) Cat is so down to earth and caring and I'm looking forward to attending one of her classes in per— Karen Giles
Could not recommend Cat highly enough. Had never done yoga before and after a big operation thought it would be a great way to get back into feeling healthy both body and mind. I had 2 one to one sessions with Cat where she tailored it to my needs and recovery and this built my technique and confidence up to allow me attend her classes twice a week at Love2Live. I thoroughly enjoy the classes and not only has it built up my core strength and balance but it has really helped me to relax. Cat welcomes all abilities and will tailor the classes to specific needs if required.— Chloe Hart
Cat is the most amazing yoga teacher. I have been to many different classes over the years but this is the best one by far. Cat has an amazing understanding of how every woman is different and no matter what your age, she makes you feel capable of anything. I leave her classes feeling relaxed, calm and on top of the world. She’s encouraging and supportive and so welcoming. My flexibility, stamina and mental well being have improved immensely under her guidance. I can not recommend her highly enough.— Kim Wootton
I do Zoom classes with Cat and I love being able to fit yoga around my small baby and be able to do it in the comfort of my own home. Her classes have really pushed me to take my Yoga to the next level both physically and mentally . I think the classes are suitable for all levels as cat explains each pose and gives different variations for you to try. I look forward to my lessons immensely and I would go so far as to say that I need Cat's yoga in my life.— kate george
Yes. Many movement practices, including yoga and solo dance styles, need no partner at all. You work at your own pace and build confidence individually.
Comfortable, flexible clothing that moves with you is best. For yoga-style sessions you will usually be barefoot or in grippy socks rather than dance shoes.
Costs vary between group classes and private one-to-one sessions, and by length. Contact the teacher directly for current rates.
For those easing into movement, gentle, low-impact practices are a kind starting point. If you want partnered dance, the waltz is often recommended for its simple rhythm.
Adults often do well starting with something unhurried that builds coordination gradually. Yoga-based movement, or a beginner ballroom class, both offer approachable entry points depending on your goals.
Gentle movement can be beneficial for many people, but anyone with heart failure should seek advice from their doctor before starting. A qualified instructor can then help adapt sessions to your needs.