Years ago, when I first joined a Dru Yoga class, I remember phoning the teacher beforehand to ask if I would be OK with my painful knees. At the time, I was experiencing the early signs of arthritis, although I didn’t fully realise it at the time.

I was in a stage of life where I was trying to do all the things, work, family, caring for others, and somewhere along the way my own health had taken a back seat. I still remember the feeling of apprehension as I walked into that first class.

Of course, my teacher was able to reassure me. She offered gentle variations so I could participate comfortably, and it wasn’t long before my body began to soften and ease. The class started to feel like a kind of coming home.

I share this because I’ve been there too. Much of my inspiration for offering Dru Yoga comes from my own experience of how supportive and accessible it can be. It makes me so happy to be able to adapt a posture so that it works for each person’s unique body.

Every body is different. What feels right for one person's knees may not feel right for another, and that’s absolutely OK. There are always options. Often a posture can be explored standing or with the support of a chair, or we can use props such as a rolled towel or a cushion to make things more comfortable while still experiencing the intention of the pose.

Some kneeling positions or postures with deeply bent knees can feel challenging. In these cases, we might adjust to a higher kneeling position, add extra support, or choose an alternative that feels more easeful. Chairs are always available if needed.

For example, child’s pose is often offered as a resting posture, but for someone with sensitive knees, it may not feel restful at all. Instead, we might take a seated rest, or a supported version, so the body can still relax without discomfort.

Yoga is never about pushing through pain. It’s about listening, adjusting and finding a way of moving that feels supportive for you.

If you’ve been hesitant to try yoga because of painful knees, please know that you’re not alone, and there is a way to practise that can feel supportive and easeful.

With the right guidance and a willingness to listen to your body, yoga can become a gentle and nourishing way to move, breathe and reconnect.

You’re always very welcome to join us and explore what feels right for you.