5 ways I stay mindful as a yoga teacher living in Thame

A solo-stomp

A mindful walk where the only thing keeping you company is your own thoughts. And living in Thame The Phoenix trail is perfect for this. Try leaving your headphones at home and switching your phone to ‘do-not-disturb’. Allowing your thoughts to run and your mind to decompress from your day can be so beneficial. Imagine your mind like an old tap, and as your thoughts pass in and out, allow them to just ‘dribble out and away’, leaving behind a bit more space. Even 10 minutes can make all the difference.

A mindful coffee

Something I have absolutely loved is trying out all of the beautiful, independent coffee shops. We are so spoiled for choice! I love Kali for its gorgeously friendly staff and beautiful ambience. Pick your favourite and order your favourite drink. Now pop your phone away, sit back and sip slowly. Give yourself 5 minutes of quiet. People watch. Day-dream. Chat to the baristas.

Pausing for a deep breath

To be fair, you can do this anywhere. On the school-run, in the supermarket, in your car. Try to notice when you are feeling overwhelmed or tight in your chest. Pause. Pop a hand on your chest. Take a long, slow deep breath in through your nose. Hold for a moment and then breath all the way out through your mouth. And if it feels good, go for a second one. Your nervous system will thank you for it.

Go analog

This is definitely am aim of mine as I head into 2026. Popping away my phone and grabbing an actual paper book. Luckily Thame is full of lovely book shops. The book house is dreamy for taking lots of time picking one out. And I absolutely support you picking the one with the beautiful cover. Or the super friendly staff at Oxfam books will help you go home with a stack of lovely new books, and all for a good cause. Pop your phone on ‘do-not-disturb’ and give yourself 30 minutes. Great for our brains!

Move, move, move

We get told about this one so often, but it is for very good reason. Any movement is wonderful for our bodies and minds. Even a 10 minute walk around the block after dinner helps with digestion and helps us sleep better. If you’re looking for something a bit sweatier, check out the amazing MVMNT BOX in Thame, a crossfit gym which is so welcoming.

And of course, my bonus tip is to try yoga. It’s a practice designed to tend to your body and mind. It encourages mindfulness, soothes our nervous system and can have us feeling stronger and more resilient.

Starting January 2026 I have brand new classes starting in Long Crendon, just down the road from Thame at the gorgeous Unit Studio, Unit 1c, Long Crendon, Aylesbury, HP18 9EP

Becky has been teaching yoga for 12 years and has recently moved to Thame with her lovely husband and her big boy cat coco. With a calm yet playful energy, Becky creates a welcoming space where students feel confident to listen to their bodies, explore options, and move in a way that truly supports them. Expect thoughtful guidance, plenty of encouragement, and a practice that leaves you feeling present, uplifted, and refreshed.