My name is Gil and I am a retired (sort of) mathematics teacher.

Before the days of "The Pandemic" I was really a quite active member of Moreton Hall gym which is where I first me that legend Jordanna. She taught Zumba and step, and I really looked forward to and enjoyed her classes. There was always an alternative move if your body wasn't up to it, and you were never made to feel silly.

After the pandemic I felt that my knees wouldn't cope with step classes and the new teachers at the gym didn't quite appeal.

I bumped into Jordanna who told me she was now a yoga teacher and encouraged me to give it at go. This did not immediately appeal to me (I imagined sitting cross-legged on the floor contemplating and humming) but I knew I needed to do something.

I am so glad that I did. I first joined the Wednesday morning class at Risby. This was more advanced that I expected but, with loads of encouragement from Jordanna I persevered. I've been challenged many times but, as in step classes there were always gentler alternatives on offer. The new beginners class at the IC Centre on Tuesdays was a breath of fresh air. There are lots of repeated instructions and careful checking. Sometimes I think that I haven't progressed, and then I think about the moves I can do that I couldn't do earlier in the journey. I've also learned to take a breath (4-7-8) which is very helpful for getting to sleep or just to calm in a crisis. I haven't stopped the Wednesday class because the people there are so lovely and I count them as my friends.

Outside of yoga I sing in two choirs and play the flute in a music group. I walk a lot with my dog feeling very lucky to have all the footpaths in the countryside. I also still coach GCSE mathematics students which keeps my brain alive. I spend a fair quantity of time by the sea in my home county Norfolk.

I recommend anyone who think yoga isn't for them to give it a try. You might be very surprised.