Hannah Barrett

Yoga Teacher

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Hannah Barrett is a London-based yoga teacher with a passion for helping people transform their lives through yoga. Yoga has given her the tools she needs to thrive and feel strong in her everyday life, especially during her pregnancies. The way yoga has supported Hannah in her journey through motherhood has encouraged her to share what she’s learnt, and helping women in pregnancy and postpartum has become her vocation. Hannah’s aim is to share the incredible benefits of yoga with as many people as possible through her classes and my postnatal, yoga-inspired book ‘Strength Through Yoga’.

Q&A's

• What does being healthy mean to you - really?

  For me health has to encompass both body and mind. I know for a fact that when I’ve been neglecting my mental health (usually through over-work) it impacts the rest of my life. I make less time for exercise, I don’t drink enough water or pay enough attention to what I’m eating and I don’t prioritise self-care.

  I think what I’ve learnt through my yoga practice is that mindfulness is key. Paying attention to thoughts and feelings without judging them. Noticing when I’m feeling over-whelmed and as a result slowing down. Noticing what I’m putting into my body and how it makes me feel. Knowing when to move my body and when to stop and spend time with my family or have a bubbly bath.

• One bit of advice you want to give to all Healthista readers?

  Practice gratitude – be grateful for today because tomorrow isn’t promised.

  When we move too fast and do too much, sometimes we can’t see the things we are meant to see.? Slow down, prioritise what is important to you and make sure that self-care is a priority. If you’re not looking after yourself, you won’t be able to look after the people you love.

  Be thankful for the people around you, supporting you, lifting you up, loving you. The people who make life better. The things that make life better. Appreciate and be thankful for life – for being here.

  A lot of research has gone into gratitude and the impact it has on your life. Research suggests that gratitude may improve physical and psychological health, improve relationships and increase happiness.

  So start the morning simply thinking of three things you’re grateful for and notice how over time this makes you feel.

• One thing you do daily that you wouldn't be healthy without?

  I sound like such a yogi but first thing in the morning I always have a cup of matcha and have ten minutes of quiet. Whether that’s a mindful meditation or simply sitting and breathing, it’s vital to my day.? I really notice when I don’t make time for it.

  If you find the idea of this impossible then there are some amazing apps to help. My personal faves are Headspace, Calm and Expectful.

• What will you be bringing to the Healthista Collective?

  I’ll be bringing some yoga love to the Collective. Flows to help you – whether that’s through finding your strength, reducing any anxiety, discovering and understanding you prenatal or postnatal body…I’ve got you covered!

  I’ll also be sharing some of the things that have changed the way I look at and live life.? Small habits that have made life that little bit easier for me.

  Yoga has had such an amazing impact on my life, shifting my outlook and making me happy, healthy and calm.? My aim is to share the incredible benefits of yoga with as many people as possible.