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Yoga is More Than Exercise: Finding Strength Through Postnatal Depression

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At HerMove, we champion movement that supports both the mind and the body. Our newest contributor, Simone of Simone Yoga & Massage, shares her deeply personal journey of finding her calling after experiencing postnatal depression. Her story proves that yoga is not just about physical flexibility; it's about building mental resilience, finding balance, and discovering a passion that changes your life.


If you told me 10 years ago, when I attended a mum and baby Yoga class that it would lead me to a decade of practice and a Yoga teaching certification I wouldn't have believed it!


My Yoga journey started in 2015 after my first son was born. I had gained weight and struggled with postnatal depression. I needed a way to socialise, bond with my baby and get some exercise. I found a mum and baby Yoga class and after a few classes, I knew it was really helping me not just physically but mentally as well.

I soon attended classes just for me and my passion for Yoga was ignited. I loved the benefits I felt (increased flexibility, strength, balance etc) and realised there was so much more to Yoga then the physical practice. I think this side of Yoga is what makes it different to any other movement/exercise. I wanted to understand its teachings further, so I attend other classes on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Pranayama and other styles of Yoga and my passion in Yoga grew further.


I had my second son in 2019 and Yoga was my constant, helping me through my depression. I really enjoy Yoga and wanted those around me to experience the benefits of Yoga too. I would often chat about Yoga to friends, and it was a friend who said in passing why don’t you teach Yoga? And, I thought, why not?

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A seed was sown, and I was on the next part of my journey starting my Yoga teacher training. I began the course in 2022 and loved it! It was great to gain a deeper understanding of Yoga and have the tools to teach Yoga to others. I completed the course and started my own business and classes, which was tough at times as I had to juggle it around my then 7yrs and 3yrs old boys.


I’m very fortunate to do something I love, and it makes me so happy to get feedback from clients saying they enjoyed the class. My focus, passion and reason I do it, is to make others feel better both physically and mentally. It is a huge pleasure to teach, and I try to make Yoga accessible to as many people as possible from beginners, pregnant mums, children and teens all ages and abilities!


You can find me teaching regularly at the East Grinstead Sports Club and Ashdown Park Hotel Country Club. I also do workshops throughout the year, bespoke Yoga sessions for local clubs and teams as well as 1:1s.


Connect with Simone Yoga & Massage


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Simone offers a holistic approach to well-being through both Yoga and calming Indian Head Massage sessions.

Simone’s Offerings Include:

  • Yoga sessions in person and online for all ages and abilities (Hatha, Vinyasa, Prenatal, Kids, and Chair Yoga).

  • Indian Head Massage sessions focus on relaxation, improved circulation, and relief from tension.


To learn more about classes and upcoming events:

For more inspiring stories and to learn more about our mission, visit www.hermove.uk.

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