Two yoga social prescribing opportunities are starting later this month (September) for NHS patients in Ely.  

The sessions are donation only and will be led by the chief executive officer of the Yoga In Healthcare Alliance charity, based in Ely, Paul Fox. 

The first Yoga4Health class will start on Friday, September 29 from 9:30am until 11am at Chapel Street Methodist Church. 

The 10-week evidence-based programme equips patients with self-care skills to manage stress and anxiety and become more active. 

The programme can be done in a chair or on a yoga mat and is very gentle. It was commissioned by and is accredited by the NHS. 

The first Love Your Nature social prescribing walk in partnership with Ely Wildspace will start of Friday September 29 from 12pm until 1pm. 

There will be guided walks for six weeks while learning a yoga breathing practice, mindfulness and appreciation of nature in and around Ely. 

Paul Fox said: “I am delighted that the GP surgeries in Ely and the surrounding area are actively referring patients to both the Yoga4Health and Love Your Nature interventions to promote health and wellbeing. 

“People wishing to join either programme can go via their GP, or self-refer by contacting me at the Yoga In Healthcare Alliance charity directly by emailing contactyoga4health@gmail.com or calling 07782 413146. Pre-booking is essential. 

Two published studies from Westminster University have shown the evidence-based benefits of the Yoga4Health programme, and there is good research from Natural England on the benefits for mental health in particular of green social prescribing and engaging with nature.