Nestled in the picturesque coastal town of Lee-on-the-Solent, Solent Yoga offers a unique space for working parents and carers to find their balance—both on and off the mat. With a mission to create moments of zen and empowerment, the studio provides weekly yoga classes and private sessions, all set against the calming backdrop of the sea.
In this interview, we delve into the profound connection Solent Yoga’s founder has with the coast. From childhood memories of sailing in The Solent to the daily inspiration drawn from the ever-changing tides, their reflections on coastal living remind us of the power of nature to ground and rejuvenate us.
Join us as we explore their thoughts on life by the water, the magic of sunset on the beach, and the ocean’s influence on personal wellbeing.
Interview with Solent Yoga: Embracing Life by the Sea
How does living near the coast influence your daily life and outlook?
I grew up in a coastal town; my home and school overlooked the sea, and my dad was a keen sailor, so there wasn’t a day when I wasn’t connected to the water as a young child. At about five months old, my mum recalls stories of when I was out on my dad’s boat while he sailed around Portsmouth Harbour and The Solent. I have always felt at home by the sea.
I’ve lived in London and other big landlocked cities, but I’ve always felt a little lost without that direct connection to the water. I love the scale and beauty of the sea; it awakens this sense of awe and humility in me. It’s such a powerful reminder that on this Planet Earth, we are part of something bigger. We can get so consumed by the busyness of our own lives, but the sea always makes me pause, zoom out, and consider what really matters.
Can you describe your favourite time of day at the beach? What makes it special to you?
My favourite time of the day at the beach is definitely sunset. Where I live, the sun sets over the sea, creating a breathtaking view. When the sky is clear, the colours are stunning—burnt oranges filling the sky or gorgeous light pinks on other days. It’s incredibly grounding to watch.
Sometimes, it’s blowing a gale, but that can be just as special—watching the waves move with intention as the sky begins to darken. Even in stormy sunsets, there’s a sense of stillness that presents itself as darkness arises. It gives me an opportunity to reflect on the day, acknowledge it for what it was—neither good nor bad—and appreciate the small moments. Ultimately, it evokes a wonderful sense of letting go. The day ends, and it all begins again the next morning with a new sunrise.
What role does the ocean play in your personal wellbeing?
For me, the sea is a calming presence in my life, even on stormy days. The moment I turn a corner and leave behind buildings, cars, and the rest of modern life, I’m met with uninterrupted beach, sea, horizon, and the wind on my face. It’s such a powerful way to step out of my mind and into the present moment.
I immediately forget the relentlessness of modern life and enter a space that has hardly changed in hundreds of years. The beach where I live has played so many pivotal roles throughout history, and I often wonder what people from the past thought when they stood on this same shore.
I also love the sense of freedom and adventure that the sea represents. It’s a joyous and childlike space—a place where we can all engage our inner child by throwing stones, building sandcastles, walking barefoot, or jumping in the waves.
The changeable nature of the sea resonates deeply with me. Some days it is calm and still; on others, the waves swell. It serves as a metaphor for life. The sea cannot be fought, controlled, or resisted. The tides cannot be stopped. If we sail, kayak, or swim in the sea, we must work with the flow of the waves, not against it.
All too often, we try to control life or situations, only to find resistance. But when we learn to go with the flow of life, everything feels so much better.
As our conversation with Solent Yoga draws to a close, one thing becomes abundantly clear: their connection to the sea is more than just geographical—it’s a source of inspiration, mindfulness, and vitality. Whether it’s the calming presence of the waves, the awe-inspiring sunsets, or the lessons learned from the ocean’s natural rhythm, their reflections remind us of the importance of pausing, connecting, and flowing with life’s tides.
If you’re seeking a way to reconnect with yourself and find balance in the midst of life’s chaos, Solent Yoga offers more than just yoga classes—it’s an opportunity to embrace empowerment, presence, and the calming influence of the sea.
To learn more about Solent Yoga or to join their weekly classes, visit [insert website or contact details]. Whether on the mat or by the water, let their practice guide you toward a deeper sense of zen and harmony.
