The Happy Yoga Podcast

The way we speak is so powerful. In almost every culture there is a form of sacred speech. We have prayer, chanting, spells, mantra. Using language to weave the world is innate to us as human beings, and has been used as part of religion, spirituality and ritual since records began.But we don’t have to have an organised belief system to access it’s benefits. I love affirmations; I love how flexible and empowering they are and how quickly they make a difference.For me, affirmations are not about forcing myself to believe something or to deny reality but a way to shift the lens I am seeing the world through. A way to influence the landscape of my mind. I hope you enjoy this session, you can do a formal relaxation and sit and listen to it or you can have it on in the background as you go about your morning. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Did you ever read a bed time story as a child?Or maybe you listen to the radio, or have a comfort TV show that you watch before bed.The human brain is primed to find stories comforting and relaxing. For millennia we have told tales in the evening in front of a fire. They remind us of safety, of belonging, of being part of a tribe.A sleep story is an adult bedtime story, specifically picked for their gentle, cosy nature. They are interesting enough to stop your mind wandering but not so interesting you get involved in the plot. I have wanted to record one for ages but it’s a little bit different to what I normally post so I haven’t had the confidence. So when someone in my zoom studio specifically asked for one, I jumped at the chance. I have chosen the Wind in the Willows as this was a particular favourite of mine when I was a child, and if people enjoy it I will make it into a series. So pop it on when you’re dropping off and let me know. Did you know? That you can now download substack videos so you can watch them offline. Just click the three dots and choose download so you can then listen without having to be connected to the internet. That means you can listen without being distracted by other things. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Oh that little green eyed monster.We all have one, and it can cause so much misery in our own minds and in our relationships. Jealousy can be a destructive emotion if we let it fester or push it down or use it to lash out, but it can also be a message from our deeper wisdom guiding us on our desires and showing us our path towards a truthful life.For years I struggled to know what I wanted in life, I’d been living in survival mode just trying to be liked and fit in, and when I came out of it I didn’t know who I was or what I wanted. And it wasn’t until I started turning with curiosity and compassion to the parts of myself that I had tried to push down that I realised they’d been showing me the way the whole time.Tapping into your intuition doesn’t just mean looking for positive signs but also listening the less socially acceptable parts of us too.Yoga teaches us that emotions are morally neutral, they are all part of being human, it’s what we do with them and how we act that matters.What is your green eyed monster trying to tell you?Coming up on Monday we have something a little bit different.It’s a bedtime story for helping you drift off to sleep. 💤I’ve recorded the first chapter of Wind in the Willows as a super relaxing sleepy story to make you feel comforted and put you in a slumber.This is an experiment and if people like it I’ll make a series. Look out for it in your inbox on Monday. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

I’m a terrible tooth grinder, I’ve even chewed through the teeth grinding retainer they gave me (whoops) and when I’m stressed it’s so much worse. But over the years I’ve learnt that if I do regular, simple, jaw releases throughout the day then the culmination of tension is way less and I grind far less too. (Though it’s never fully gone away).This is the one minute session that I do, Enjoy!!Could you do me a favour?Gosh, that sentence is so hard to type isn’t it! Do you find it hard to ask for help too?As you probably know (and can tell) Yoga for Tired People is made entirely by me, I don’t have a team or an ad budget, it’s just been me in my spare room with my laptop. And yet it has grown into the most wonderful community of the best people on the internet (that’s you). And I’m not afraid to admit that I would love it to grow even more, I have a secret dream of Yoga for Tired People becoming a household name, and it becomes normal for everyone to take short breaks throughout their day to stretch and relax. So can you help me get the word out?If you enjoy the sessions here can I ask you to share Yoga for Tired People with anyone you can think of that would also enjoy the sessions? And let’s see if we can get everyone stretching, relaxing and grounding themselves. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

One of the biggest misconceptions about yoga is that if you practice yoga, you should never feel irritated or angry again. That you should just be able to go through life above it all, removed from the ups and downs of being human.And this is just not true. Yoga is not there to bypass our very real and valid emotions, it’s there to help us feel steady as we experience them fully.So instead of feeling like a little boat being rocked and tumbled about, at the mercy of the waves and storms of our mind, we remember that we ARE the ocean and this weather is simply passing through.Because at the end of the day, we can’t just go and live in a cave by ourselves. And personally I don’t think we should, we are social creatures and life is for living. For me, yoga has always been about living our life in the world rather than distancing yourself from it.And the world will always include people we don’t get on with, stressful situations, and things that annoy us.It’s so common to feel guilty for any negative emotion, like they make us a bad person, or mean we are ‘bad’ at yoga. But emotions don’t have any morality attached to them, they are simply data. There to be felt.It is how you behave, not how you feel, that makes the biggest impact in the world. And yoga can create the space you need to make sure you are behaving in a way that aligns with your morals.When we react out of anger, this is often when we lose integrity and do something we don’t feel proud of later. So taking a beat, returning back to ourselves and then responding means we are acting from a place of self power, and it usually means we get better results.This is never about pushing away our emotions or making ourselves okay with other people’s not-okay actions. We are not putting ourselves in ‘time out’ for having a ‘bad’ emotion.Instead, we are returning our nervous system back to a more steady state so we can decide how to act, and make the changes we need to make, to respond rather than react.So next time you are activated by someone try this 5 minute session to bring you back. Don’t forget to save it for when you need it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Anxiety is so rubbish, it is one of the most deeply unpleasant experiences that anyone can have.And because it’s so horrible, it’s very common to become anxious about getting anxious. Then you can get caught in a cycle of being anxious about your anxiety, which ironically makes you more anxious.When I had my burnout in 2022 and was experiencing regular panic attacks, I found my world getting smaller and smaller as I was afraid I’d experience a panic attack somewhere public, so I started restricting where I felt ok to go. And of course, the places I felt ok got fewer and fewer until my world was tiny.Also, everywhere I turned the advice was to breathe through my anxiety, but this wasn’t helping me, in fact when I was focusing on my breath I felt even more panicky!Now, I love breath work. I am a yoga teacher and I do breath work every day, but when your body is in a heightened state of anxiety, and it thinks it’s in danger, sitting still and forcing yourself to concentrate on your breath is not always the best thing to do.What helped me was seeing the distinction between the two types of anxiety:* The original anxiety* The anxiety about the anxietyI didn’t have much control over the first type in the moment, but if I watched it, it had a beginning, a peak, and then it passed. It was really, indescribably unpleasant, but it wasn’t going to kill me, and it couldn’t be more powerful than me because it was me.It was a sign from my body, not a moral failure.The second type was a bit more tricky; this one could seep into everything, but this is the one I had a bit more control over.It consisted of all the stories I was telling myself about the first type of anxiety, my reaction to it, and the way I kept pushing it away and trying to control it, and the way I was shrinking my life to try and avoid it.Weirdly, it was by accepting my anxiety that I was able to move through it.And part of accepting my anxiety was developing a toolkit for things to do when I can feel the physical symptoms of anxiety rear their head, and knowing that these might be different tools to the ones I need when I am in a calmer state.Here are 3 things that aren’t breathwork that can help with the physical symptoms of anxiety:* Eat a very sour sweet - this is a grounding body technique that helps move your attention away from ruminating and scanning and to a strong sensation.* Splash your face with cold water, this stimulates the mammalian dive reflex and stops you spiralling.* Do a simple but engrossing mind puzzle. I like to think of a band name for every letter of the alphabet. The key is that it needs to be hard enough to engross you but easy enough not to stress you, think something you’d play on a long car journey.Please note that these tools might not work for you every time. It’s so important to experiment yourself and find what works for you, and to know that you are not a failure if certain tools that seem to work for others don’t work for you. And just because something doesn’t work now doesn’t mean it won’t be useful to you in the future.Also, these techniques are never meant to be a replacement for therapy or medication.Here is a short anxiety release that you might find usefulDid you know that Yoga for Tired People has a soft paywall. This means that the videos and relaxations are available to everyone, regardless of whether you’re a paying member or not. This is because I trust that the people who can afford to and value what we do here will want to support the page and keep it accessible for all. All of my colleagues I have spoken to about this have told me that I’m mad. That this isn’t how things work, that no one will pay for something that they don’t have to. That if I make it available to everyone I’ll tank my business, that I won’t grow, that people will take advantage and I need to put my own oxygen mask on first.But I can’t help but have faith. I think so many of us are craving something new. We’re sick of big corporations and we yearn for a sense of community. And this is the world I want to live in so why not give it a try.If you want to support me to continue to make the videos then an annual subscription is pay what you feel, with a minimum of £20 because anything less gets wiped out by fees. Pay more if you can, pay it forward if you’re able. And if you can’t afford it right now, please just enjoy the videos guilt free. That’s what this is for.Yoga for Tired People is your permission slip to rest,To start where you are,And to stop waiting until life is less chaotic to take care of yourself.Good news!! I finally have some openings in the Zoom Studio coming up. The Zoom Studio is the online studio where we meet to practise nourishing, restoring yoga together.We have 3 live zoom classes a week, a library of on demand sessions and catch up on the live classes. Spaces are limited in the studio so it can feel cosy and supportive in the zoom sessions. There are only 10 spaces available and once they are gone, they are gone. It’s £35 a month and you can cancel anytime. If you’d like to join us you can sign up with this link and of course if you have any questions just let me know This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Here we are—Day 7 of the Relaxation Reset.If you’ve been with me each day this week, I hope these practices have brought something useful into your days—a bit of calm, a shift in pace, even just the reminder that you’re allowed to stop for a moment.And if this is your first one, or the first one you’ve got to in a while—that’s fine too. These practices aren’t going anywhere. You can return to them anytime you like.Today’s audio is a gentle closing practice. Nothing dramatic, just a final quiet pause—and maybe something new to weave into your day going forward.If you’ve enjoyed the reset, I’d really love to know.The comments are open for your reflections, big or small. Whether something surprised you, stuck with you, or just helped you breathe a bit deeper—I’d love to hear.Big love,Jo x This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

I can’t believe we’re already on Day 6.You’ve made space for this all week—and whether you’ve listened every day or just caught a few, that’s something to celebrate. These short pauses can be so easy to skip, and you’ve kept showing up. That matters.Today’s meditation is another short one, and you don’t need to bring anything but yourself. Let the words do the work. You’re allowed to just listen.And if anything’s been quietly shifting—or even just becoming clearer—I’d love to know. The comments have been such a good part of this reset, and it’s always lovely seeing your reflections (or even just a quick wave to say you’re here).One more to go tomorrow.Big love,Jo x This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

How’s your week been?If you’re in the groove and listening each day—amazing. If you’ve missed a few and just opened this thinking “oh yeah, that reset”—also amazing. You can jump back in any time.Today’s meditation is short (as always), and it’s one of those ones that meets you right where you are. No pressure to feel a certain way. No deep insight required. Just take a few minutes, and see what happens.If anything lands—or even if it doesn’t—you’re always welcome to share in the comments. There’s no right answer, and it doesn’t need to be a big emotional post. A line, a moment, a “still here” is more than enough.See you tomorrow,Jo x This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

We’re halfway through the week.Whether you’ve been listening each day or just dipping in when it works - you’re doing this in your own way, and that’s exactly the point.And if anything has landed with you this week, I’d love to hear. The comments have been such a gorgeous thread running alongside the practices - it’s been so good to read what’s resonating, and to hear your take on it all.And for the people asking for the container affirmation written down it’s“I arrive in this moment, just as I am.With space to take my time.I soften into nowMaking room for whatever I feelI have so much wisdom to draw fromToday, I am holding onto this thought“….”Let it land, let it lingerLet it shape how I move through the day.”Speak tomorrow,Jo x This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Three days in. How are you doing?I know these practices are short, but sometimes it’s the short things that shift the rhythm of a day the most. Just pausing for a few minutes can be enough to interrupt the spiral or make space for a proper exhale.Today’s meditation is here whenever you’re ready for it. You don’t need to bring anything special—just yourself, as you are.And if anything’s stood out to you so far—something in the words, or even just the act of pressing pause—I’d love to hear. There’s a little community gathering in the comments, and it’s honestly been such a joy to read through.Even if you haven’t listened every day, or don’t know what to say, you’re still part of this.See you tomorrow,Jo x This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Day 2 already!I’m so glad you’re here. It’s easy to sign up for something like this and then forget it exists (been there)—so the fact that you’ve come back for another round is brilliant. I hope yesterday’s practice gave you something—space, steadiness, or even just a slightly deeper breath.Today’s audio is another short one—just a few minutes to land, listen, and let the day shift a little.And if you tried today’s practice and want to share how it felt, I’d love to hear.The comments are open, and it’s so lovely to see what resonates (or doesn’t!). No need to overthink it—just a little note if you feel like joining the conversation.See you tomorrow,Jo x This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

We’re off. Day 1 of the Relaxation Reset!Each day this week I’ll send you a short audio practice. Just a few minutes to pause and hear something a bit different from the usual noise in your head. You don’t need a mat or any kit, just yourself and a bit of quiet.We’re exploring affirmation meditation this week. It’s been around in different forms for thousands of years, really. Mantra, chant, prayer, lullaby, spell. Simple words repeated with care, words that help steady the mind and shape how you move through the day.Today’s audio is about 7 minutes long. Do it wherever you are, in bed, on the sofa, in between things. Just press play and listen.If you try it, I’d love to hear how you got on. How did it feel? Did your brain wander off somewhere? The comments are open, and it genuinely makes a difference when people share. It reminds the rest of us we’re not doing this alone.More tomorrow. For now, this is plenty.Big love,Jo x This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Some days you need a bit of motivation in the morning, and sometimes you need to stay in bed.This session is perfect for both of those times.Just a very simple but very effective stretch of the whole body that you can do from bed. I hope you enjoy it!!I few of you were saying that you’d lost your mojo and you needed a bit of a loving kick in the bum to reset yourself. Well your wish is my command, every day this week (starting from tomorrow) I am going to be sending you the relaxation reset to get you back in the habit (or start one) of doing a short meditation every day. The sessions are around 7 minutes long so perfect to fit into your day and we will be focusing on affirmation meditation which is the most powerful and life changing form of meditation. So look out for that email tomorrow. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey, I’m back from our retreat at Vericoco, Kefalonia Greece, and of course it’s raining here in the UK. We had such a wonderful time, laughing, relaxing, making new friends and taking time to step away from the world and be. So I thought it would be lovely to take a little slice of that so we can visit it any time. I really wish I could have packed you all into my suitcase so we could all have gone, but this is the next best thing. Sending lots of love and I hope you enjoy!Jo xx This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Did you know that our grip strength is one of the most reliable predictors of how long and how well you’ll live?Research consistently links stronger grip to lower all-cause mortality — it’s one of the simplest measures of overall health we have. And the good news? You can work on it from your sofa with a tennis ball.This short hand strengthening class takes you through a series of ball squeezes, pinch grips across every finger, and some gentle rolling and throwing work for dexterity. Grab a squishy ball if you’ve got one, a tennis ball if not, and let’s get to it.Please note: this is a general strengthening class. If you’re managing any pain or a flare-up in your hands, check with your healthcare provider before starting. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you so much to everyone who came live to this session, there were lots of thoughtful comments and questions in the comments and I apologise that we couldn’t get to them all. I hope you enjoy the recording as much as I enjoyed chatting to the wonderful Toni about her new book.If you want to purchase her book you can find it here https://www.poundproject.co.uk/youAnd if you enjoyed our conversation then you’re going to LOVE my new podcast that is coming out next week called Before the Work Begins. I’ll be talking to creatives about how they spend their mornings. The first episode is coming on Wednesday 13th May where I’ll be talking to the world class actress and local legend herself, Jill Halfpenny. All you have to is subscribe to make sure you never miss an episode. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Everyone, I hope you enjoyed todays live session, we did some alternate nostril breathing, moving meditation and ended with a compassion boost. Let me know how you got on!Much Love,Jo xx This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hello, Aaaaaand we’re back to our regular programming of one bite-size session you can do every Monday without having to get out your mat or change your clothes. With some more goodies in the week.Today is a stretch for your lower back and hips that you can do seated.I hope you enjoy!Much Love,Jo xx This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you so much to all 120 of you that joined me live for the 15 minute live relaxation session to celebrate the end of our Lent Sprint.It was so special to see people from all over the world come together and have 15 minutes to chill out and ground ourselves.Don’t worry if you missed it because here it is!If you do the session don’t forget to drop where you’re doing from so I can say hi and we can see how even though we are doing these sessions on our own, we’re so connected. Much Love!Jo xxPS Oh and of course here’s the final playlist, it’s called Songs for Staring Into the Horizon and it’s just full of beautiful music just for that. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Today we have a 5 minute breath work session to relax and calm the mind. As always with breath work, take it at your own pace, it’s always ok to stop or to start again. I hope you enjoy!🌻The Let’s Connect Back To Our Inner Magical Weirdo Selves - Alternative Lent Transformational Sprint (Working Title) 🌻 18th Feb - 2nd AprilEvery day in lent I will share a prompt for us to help us get our wonderful spark back together. It’ll be transformational, epic and of course lots of fun.The prompts will be easy to follow and to fit in the day. And we can all support each other in the comments and chat.This is going to be available to all members, because quite frankly I think the world needs it right now.But of course if you can afford it please consider upgrading because it’s the paid subscriptions that allow any of this to happen. This is all run by me from my spare room after all. If you have already upgraded know that I appreciate you so much.Let me know if you have any questions below!Much Love,Jo xx This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey there, beautiful weirdos, I’ve been speaking to so many people recently who are feeling a bit, bleh.Like there’s nothing actually wrong but at the same time, something is missing, like they are disconnected to who they are deep down. So I thought, lets shake it all up! Because yoga isn’t about making us conform and be ‘good’, and it’s not just about relaxing or getting strong, it’s also about connecting us to those weird and wonderful parts of ourselves, the playful, colourful, delighted parts. All the parts that can dull as we get older and try and fit into boxes.It’s to give us the skills, confidence and trust to be who we were always meant to be. Whole.So Let me Introduce………… 🌻The Let’s Connect Back To Our Inner Magical Weirdo Selves - Alternative Lent Transformational Sprint (Working Title) 🌻 18th Feb - 2nd AprilEvery day in lent I will share a prompt for us to help us get our wonderful spark back together. It’ll be transformational, epic and of course lots of fun. The prompts will be easy to follow and to fit in the day. And we can all support each other in the comments and chat. This is going to be available to all members, because quite frankly I think the world needs it right now. But of course if you can afford it please consider upgrading because it’s the paid subscriptions that allow any of this to happen. This is all run by me from my spare room after all. Let me know if you have any questions below! Much Love,Jo xxPs I am aware that the video says instagram not substack please forgive me, but I just couldn’t face recording it again. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogi, I’ve got something a bit different for you today. It’s a guided, mindful clean.Why?Because the little, repetitive, boring chores like cleaning your kitchen are actually a perfect time to meditate. Especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed, cranky, or just don’t have the headspace to sit still. So pick up your cloth and join me for 17 minutes to make your kitchen and mind sparkle. Please note that this isn’t about getting a ‘perfect’ clean, cleaning is a never ending job so we aren’t looking to get it finished, just as much done in the time we have, and using whatever energy is available to us today. We are taking it slow and steady and obviously if there is a reason you cannot clean due to an injury or whatnot, please skip this one without a second thought. Let me know how you get on!Much Love,Jo xxPSThe Zoom Studio Schedule has gone back to its normal rhythm so we have Monday/Wednesday 7.30am GMT Lets Stretch - 30 minutes to start your day gently stretched and ready for anything.Thursday 6.30pm GMT Let’s Rest - 60 minutes of deep relaxation and nourishment to make you feel wonderful. All sessions are recorded and popped in the practise library if timings don’t align. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you Sandy S, Rachel Healy, Alicia María Fernández, and many others for tuning into my live video! I was just teaching the Let’s Stretch Class in the Zoom Studio and thought it would be nice to do a substack live to stretch out the cobwebs. It’s just five minutes to ground yourself and relax, I hope you enjoy. Much Love,JoPSDon’t forget we have the New Years Eve Soul Circle at 9.30am on 31st December. We’ll be checking in, journalling and making sure we end the year feeling connected and steady. If you’re a member of the Zoom Studio this session is included and if you are a member of the Practice Library then the recording will be available for you to catch up with when you’re ready. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogi,Can I tell you something really big?Last Monday evening I was doing some work on my laptop when it ran out of battery. I went to plug it in and realised I’d left the charger in the studio after teaching the teacher training at the weekend.It was already dark, it was freezing, and I’d fully planned on parking myself on the sofa with a cup of tea for the rest of the night. But I needed to finish what I was working on, so I had to drag myself all the way into town to pick it up.So I just… did it.And it might sound tiny, but for me it was huge. I didn’t beat myself up. I didn’t launch into the usual “you’re so useless / you always forget things / you’ve ruined the whole evening” narrative. I just went, “Well, that’s annoying,” put my shoes on, and got the charger.People forget chargers. It’s not a moral failing.This is the way yoga sneaks into your actual life — you do the practice, and then one day you notice you’re being kinder to yourself without even trying.Today’s session is all about building self-compassion.Just a heads-up that this one has a bit more emotional tone than usual. If you’re feeling tender today, take it slowly and stop whenever you need toI hope you like it.Much Love,Jo xxPS: On Sunday 30th November at 8pm we’re having a Soul Circle in the Zoom Studio.The Soul Circle is basically a guided, end-of-month check-in: a little relaxation, a short writing prompt, a bit of gentle conversation in the chat, and a chance to take stock before the month rolls over. The Zoom Studio is simply where I run live sessions on Zoom. It’s cosy, relaxed, and very “come as you are.”If you can’t make it, the replay will be in the Practice Library on Monday — that’s the on-demand area where all the recordings live so you can do them whenever suits you. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogi,This weeks session is a little holiday you can take from your armchair. It’s only ten minutes long, so give yourself a treat and give it a go. Much love,Jo xPS If you’re looking for a real escape there are still some spots left on our yoga holiday to the beautiful island of Kefalonia in May 2026. It’s a full week of relaxation, delicious food and of course gentle restoring yoga. Click here for more info. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogi,Today’s session is a bit different — it’s a vagus nerve stimulation practice to help shift you from fight-or-flight into relaxation. It’s perfect for days when you’re feeling overwhelmed or want to unwind but aren’t quite ready for breathing exercises or closing your eyes.I hope you enjoy it 🥰On Saturday I taught the Yoga in Harmony session at The Glasshouse and it was so lovely. Even more special was getting to meet some Yoga for Tired People folks in real life — such a treat. This is going to be a monthly event up to December, so if you’d like to come along you can check it out here.I hope you have a wonderful day,Much love,Jo xxPS — If you enjoy Yoga for Tired People, I’d be so grateful if you could share it with a friend who might also love it. The whole thing is run by me from my spare room, and every bit of word-spreading makes a difference. Thank you 🤩 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogi,We’ve got a super short one today, and its to help rebuild mobility in your shoulders and arms. It’s very simple but very effective, so give it a try and let me know how it goes.Much Love, Jo xxPS For members of the Zoom studio, this months Soul Restore Session is this Sunday 24th August at 8pm GMT, if you are a member of the Practise Library the recording will be available the next day. You can book in here What is the Zoom Studio? If you’ve been enjoying the short sessions over on Substack but want more support, more connection, longer practices, real-time classes, a bit of structure - the Zoom Lounge is where we meet. You can find more about it here This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogi,Here’s something gentle for your weekend or your next break between tasks—a 20-minute walking meditation.Pop your headphones in and press play when you’re ready. You can do it on your regular walk to the shops, or in the garden, or looping round your block. You don’t have to walk slowly or look serene. This is about how you’re paying attention, not how you look doing it.Let me know if you try it—I’d love to hear where it took you.With love,Jo x This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogi, Take a break from your screen with this super quick relaxation. Your neck and upper back will thank you. If you’re looking for a slightly longer version you can find one here Have fun Love JoxxPS Don’t forget we have the Soul Restore Circle on Sunday 16th June at 8pm for members of the Zoom Studio and the recording will be available in the Practice Library from Monday. Book HerePPS If you missed out on getting a room for our Midsummer Renew Retreat we have had a cancellation so there is one space available. You can find out a bit more about it here (Early bird pricing will be honoured as that’s what the other person paid). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogi, How are you?I just got a really irritating email, so I thought—let’s talk about anger. And frustration.Confession: I get angry quickly. Like, bushfire quick.But I also laugh quickly. And cry. And feel things deeply. I’m a passionate lady (eyebrow wiggle).For a long time, I thought that made me bad at yoga.I thought being good at yoga meant being calm all the time. Never rising to anything. Never reacting.So I tried to shut it down.And of course—then I started getting angry about being angry. Anxious about feeling anxious. Frustrated by my frustration. Just endlessly turning in on myself.And I think that happens to a lot of us.Not because anger is wrong—but because we’ve never seen it handled well.If you’ve only ever seen anger turn into shouting or coldness or blame, of course it feels scary.But the feeling isn’t the problem. The modelling is.We mix up anger with aggression. Frustration with being mean.But you can feel those things and still be decent. Still be thoughtful. Still take a breath before you act.It’s not the feeling that needs fixing. It’s what we do with it.You don’t have to pretend it’s not there. You don’t have to bottle it up.You can let it be without clamouring for a story.And yeah — sometimes we get an email from a numpty and our whole nervous system lights up.It’s totally normal if that hurts your feelings. It doesn’t make you silly or weak.Fun fact: emotions only take about 90 seconds to peak and start to fade.It’s the thinking about them — the spiralling, the story-making -that keeps us stuck.So when that feeling hits—move . Shake your hands. Roll your eyes.Wiggle your body. Make a cup of tea. Let the perfectly normal experience of having a human emotion happen. And then get on with your day.(And of course the usual caveat is—if you’re in a situation that feels unsafe or abusive, you don’t need to breathe through it. You need to get the hell out.)Much Love,Jo xxPS: If you missed it this weeks post was a 5 Minute SOS Session for moving through Anger and Frustration so save it for when you need it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired YogiThis one’s for when you’re irritated, short-tempered, and absolutely not in the mood to rise above it.It’s a seated session quick, simple, and easy to do at your desk. There’s a few strong exhales and some movement to help your body process your emotions.It’s not about calming down. It’s about shifting the feeling so it doesn’t sit in your jaw all day.And yes, even if you do yoga every morning and eat flaxseeds or whatever, things will still get under your skin. That’s just how it goes sometimes.Love,Jo xPS If you’re wanting join us for the live sessions there are still a couple of spaces left in the Zoom Studio if you are wanting to join before the doors close. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit happyyoga.substack.comHi Tired Yogi,It’s a bank holiday Monday here in the UK which can mean only one thing - gardening and trips to the garden centre. So as promised here’s a ten minute session for warming up or cooling down for a day in the garden. This session would also be perfect after a long car journey. I’ll be using it myself as I’m driving to the Lake District for a…

Hey Tired Yogi,It’s Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK (12-19th May), and this year the theme is COMMUNITY, which is one of the speciality subjects of our friends over at the Shelf Help Club.Toni has been conducting a series of lives all week exploring this theme and yesterday I was lucky enough to be invited. This was such a fun conversation. Toni is such a lovely host and I am thrilled to be able to share the recording with you guys. I hope you enjoy! Jo xPS for members of the Zoom Studio don’t forget it’s our Let’s Rest class tonight at 6.30pm, it’s almost full but there are a couple of places left if you want to join us. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Guess what?I’ve been quietly working on something that feels a bit tender to say out loud:I’m writing a book! It’s called Yoga for Tired People.Same name as this space—but the book is becoming its own thing.It’s not a how-to.More like a soft collection of stories and reflections from the edges of burnout,and the slow, quiet ways I’ve been finding my way through.As someone who’s dyslexic, this feels like kind of a big deal.It probably won’t be very long (because I get tired too).But it will be true.While it’s still unfolding, here’s a short practice that came from the same place:gentle movement for when you really don’t want to do yoga.You can move a little, or just lie down and listen. That still counts.It always counts.With love,Jo xPS. Zoom studio spaces filled up really fast this time—sorry if you missed out!More spots will be opening in May, and I’ll let you know as soon as they’re available.Or you can pop yourself on the waiting list in case a space opens up before then. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hi Tired Yogi,I just went live with a 5-minute affirmation meditation—something super simple you can do in bed, on the sofa, or while hiding from your to-do list.(Full disclosure: I made it because I was avoiding packing for the silent retreat I’m off to this weekend at Samye Ling. I’ve packed nothing. Not even a sock. But I have done a live meditation. So priorities.)Affirmation meditation is really gentle. No pressure to concentrate, no need to “clear your mind.” Just repeating words that feel supportive, and letting them sink in—like background music for your nervous system.If that kind of short, grounding pause feels good, you’ll love the 7-Day Relaxation Reset starting April 21st.It’s for paid members, and it’s low-key, doable, and quietly uplifting.Just a few minutes a day to shift the tone of things.Also, the annual membership price is going up soon, so if you’ve been hovering on the fence, now’s a good time to hop over as it’ll lock in this price. And if you’re already a paid member (thank you) you don’t need to do a thing the 7-Day Relaxation Reset will arrive in your inbox.Big love (and no, I still haven’t packed),Jo x This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey you,If you’re here because of that neck stretch—hi, welcome, and yes, it really does feel like magic, doesn’t it?But I promise it’s not.I made a video to explain what’s actually happening—because as brilliant as it feels, it’s not a fix-all. And I get a bit twitchy when things go viral without the “why” attached.✨ And if you have no idea what I’m talking about you can find it hereIn this Anatomy Focus video I talk trapezius muscles, stress shoulders, and why your neck suddenly turns further than you expected. I also introduce the vagus nerve—and how flexibility is about more than just muscles and joints. Sometimes, it’s your nervous system that’s holding on, and sometimes it just needs permission to soften.If you loved the neck stretch, you’ll probably enjoy this one too:Happy Hamstrings on Lazy Days.Another not-magic-but-still-excellent stretch. Easy, repeatable, and you can do it in bed, so whats not to like.Hope you stick around,Jo xPS If gentle, nervous-system-friendly relaxation is your thing (or you want it to be), I’ve got something coming up.✨ The 7-Day Relaxation Reset starts April 21st.It’s not a movement course—it’s a week of short, steady affirmation meditations.Perfect if you’ve never meditated before, or if your brain is a bit loud and you just want someone to talk you down gently every day for a week.It’s for paid subscribers only, so now’s a great time to upgrade if you’d like to join us. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogi,So, this one’s short, sweet, and a tiny bit spicy—it’s called Stop, Drop & Core, and it’s designed to fit into the time it takes for an advert break.We’re talking 5 minutes, no mat needed, just you and your core waking up a little while the kettle boils or your show buffers (again). It’s quick, it’s doable, and it might even make you feel a bit smug afterwards—in the best way.Buuut, if today is more of a “snuggle under a blanket and exhale slowly” kind of vibe (I get it), there’s also a 10-minute cosy relaxation waiting for you too. Zero effort required, just press play and melt.Whichever one you pick, I hope it feels like exactly what you needed. Let me know if you try it—and how your abs or your nervous system respond 😅💛Big hug,Jo xx This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogi,It’s so rarely sunny here in the North East of England, so when the sun actually made an appearance today, I did something a little impromptu—I went live.Just a simple 5-minute relaxation, sitting in the garden, soaking up the warmth, breathing, and settling into stillness. Hardly any movement, just a moment to pause and let everything soften. And honestly? It was so lovely, I didn’t want you to miss out.If you’d like to take a few minutes to unwind, you can watch the replay hereMaybe you can even take it outside with you (if the weather’s on your side). Let me know if you give it a go—I’d love to hear how it felt for you. 💛Take care,Jo xx This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogi,I was thinking today about how easy it is to rush through things—to fill the spaces in between with noise and movement and endless to-do lists. And I just wanted to send you a little something to slip into one of those in-between moments. It’s a simple 5-minute breathwork video—nothing fancy, just a gentle pause, a way to settle back into yourself for a moment. I did it live with over 50 people joining us, it was such a lovely energy. Maybe you’ll try it right away, or maybe you’ll tuck it away for a day when you need it most. Either way, I hope it feels like a small exhale in the middle of everything.Don’t forget to comment—I’d love to hear how you’re doing.With warmth,Jo xxPS This weeks session for paid members is going to be a Stop, Drop and Core session that you can fit into an advert break, to get your core lovely and strong. And we’ll be compiling the March playlist with the theme ‘Joy’ so get thinking of a song that makes you joyful to share.If you’re not already a paid member then we’d love to have you! It’s only £6 a month for a weekly session, the archives and access to all the chats (or for even more of a bargain it’s £48 for the entire year)And if you are a paid member then thank you! The only reason I am able to share these videos is because of your support, I appreciate you. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogi,You know those days when your energy’s just… meh? Not bad, not great—just kinda there? I get it. And instead of pushing through, what if you gave yourself 10 minutes to just pause?I put together a little relaxation session for those low-energy, need-a-reset moments. It’s super gentle, easy to do, and perfect for when you want to feel better but don’t want to try too hard.✨ Press play, close your eyes, and just be.Let me know if you give it a go—I’d love to hear how it feels for you! Big hugs,JoP.S. If you’re craving even more relaxation, come hang out in the Zoom Lounge! It’s a peaceful space where we come together to stretch, breathe, and shake off the day—without any pressure or pretzel poses. Just comfy vibes, gentle movement, and deep relaxation. You can find out more here Would love to see you there! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogis,I couldn’t resist sharing a relaxation with you from my hotel room in the beautiful city of Krakow where I am currently on holiday.I hope you enjoy ☺️ Jo xx This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogis,Ever wonder why your jaw feels tight or why tension headaches sneak up on you?In this video, I’m breaking down what’s really going on with your jaw—specifically how mandible elevation (fancy way of saying “closing your mouth”) works and the muscles behind it, like the temporalis and masseters.But here’s the interesting part—jaw tension i… This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey tired yogis, I was just hitting my afternoon slump and was about to do a meditation and thought how lovely it would be to share with you!It’s not my most polished of videos as I literally pressed live and went with what I needed but sometimes you just need to do things as you are. Hope you’re doing well, Jo x This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Last night I had the a wonderful time chatting to the amazing Annie Macmanus about all things yoga. Annie writes the gorgeous substack Changes and she has a some very interesting interviews lined up, so give it a follow if you don’t already.I hope you enjoy listening to our chat as much as I enjoyed chatting it. Much Love,Jo x This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit happyyoga.substack.comHey tired yogis,Here’s your sign to drop your shoulders, give them a little wiggle, and breathe.There’s a reason we say someone’s “carrying the world on their shoulders”—because stress and tension love to settle right there.And honestly? Nothing beats a good shoulder stretch.Whenever I ask what classes you want most, shoulders are always top of the list…

Hey Tired Yogis, If you’re anything like me then your screen time seems to be creeping up every year. Whether it’s checking my emails on my desktop, using my phone for everything from maps to recipes or watching the new season of Severance. It’s sometimes like the whole world is on a backlit screen. And by the end of the day my eyes can feel so tired and a bit dry. (It would help if I ever remembered to wear my glasses of course 🫢)So I like to do a little treat for my eyes if they feel fatigued, and the great thing is it also works as a marker between the working day and rest time. It’s only 5 minutes and it’ll leave you soothed, relaxed and happy that you’ve done something lovely for yourself, so give it a go and don’t forget to comment and tell me how you found it. Much Love,Jo x This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

Hey Tired Yogis, I was just about to do a stretch before I leave my desk and go and make my lunch, so I thought I’d jump on live and we could do it together!I hope you enjoy it,Jo x This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit happyyoga.substack.comHey Tired Yogi, I hope you’re having a lovely day. This week I have a delicious back stretch for you. It’s done from hands and knees and is just a treat for your whole spine. I’ve needed this today as I’ve spent the day driving which always give me a tight back, so I thought I’d share it with you too. I hope you enjoy it!Much Love, Jo xxPS If anyone has…

Yoga for Tired People - One short yoga routine a week delivered to your inbox. To do as you are, no need to get out your mat or change your clothes. Hosted by Jo Hutton a Senior Yoga Teacher living in Newcastle Upon Tyne.Hey Tired Yogis, Well that’s it. January has well and truly begun. I have finished the last of my Christmas chocolates and the house feels so empty without the decorations (how good does that first vacuum clean feel after you’ve taken them down though? One of the hidden joys of the season in my opinion). But don’t fear, we’ve got plenty of cosy, do-as-you-are yoga coming up in the near future at Yoga for Tired People.But first, a big thank you to everyone who attended the Soul Restore Circle last night, it’s always a pleasure to see you 🥰 such a joy. This week’s session is one for you to do again and again, it’s just a simple five minutes for the morning to put you in the right frame of mind and body to go into your day. As it’s the first Monday of the month this session is available for everyone to do so feel free to share with anyone you think might enjoy it. And don’t forget to comment and let me know how you found it,Have a wonderful day,Much Love, Jo xPS We’ve got a couple of monthly spaces opened in the Zoom Studio opened up for anyone who’s had their eye on a spot. You can find more info here This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyyoga.substack.com/subscribe