On Saturday, I made my first trip to the Norwich Yoga Festival – and I’m already planning my return.
Now in its third year, the festival was held at the beautiful Whitlingham Broad, nestled in Whitlingham Country Park. From 9am until around 6.30pm, the area was transformed into a haven of movement, mindfulness and positive energy.
There was so much on offer it was almost overwhelming – in the best possible way. Yoga sessions included Ashtanga, Kundalini, Yoga Nidra and flow, but that was only the beginning. There were also Qigong classes, sound baths, forest bathing, and even trapeze workshops and cacao ceremonies.
The Zen Tent was one of the most popular spots, with sessions there often oversubscribed. I particularly enjoyed Yoga Nidra, although I was quite a way outside the tent, which made it quite difficult to hear. People were often queuing for the next session before the current one had ended.
Over in the Fit Tent, things were a little more high-energy. I joined in with Zumba and DanceFit, both of which were brilliant fun. There were also boxing, mobility and bodyweight sessions on the schedule – and even a morning run for those who fancied a sweat before breakfast (I skipped that one!).
Elsewhere on site, the Community Tent hosted a series of lifestyle talks and panel sessions. I didn’t manage to catch any this time, but it’s firmly on my list for next year.
Between sessions, there was plenty to keep you occupied at the Norwich Yoga Festival. Local businesses were selling yoga accessories, clothing and handmade goods, while Namaste Village, Pokenom and others kept us fuelled with delicious food. For those after a bit of pampering, there were massage services, reiki sessions, palm readings and even a wood-fired sauna.
The logistics were well thought through, too. You needed to bring your own mat, which was no trouble, and there were lockers available to store your things. Free water refills were available – just remember to bring a bottle.
One lovely touch was the pink wristband system. If you arrived alone and fancied making a few new friends, you could wear one to show you were open to chatting. It made the whole day feel that bit more inclusive – not that it needed much help. Everyone I met was friendly, open and encouraging.
The hardest part? Choosing what to do. I genuinely wanted to go to everything, and picking between sessions was the only stressful thing about the whole day.
I came away feeling calm, centred and physically tired in the best way. It gave both my body and my mind the attention they needed.
Would I go again? Without a doubt. See you there next year.
Find out more: NorwichYogaFestival.org
