Welcome

coming soon – summer 2026

IMPORTANT – Please read

Zen yoga classes are offered by Nicolet Valentin in a personal, non-clinical capacity. These classes are entirely separate from and do not form part of her regulated osteopathic practice or reflective embodiment practice. No clinical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment is provided. These classes are general movement sessions for adults.

Book your class here (link in construction)

From July 2026 – in person (St Ouen) & online classes – 60-minute class – £18 per class – Block of 6 = £98

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this healthcare, therapy, or osteopathic treatment?

Although the instructor holds clinical healthcare qualifications, these classes are delivered in a personal, non-clinical capacity and are entirely separate from any regulated healthcare practice. They do not involve osteopahtic assessment, diagnosis, or treatment. Classes are not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or medical treatment.

Individuals with injuries, medical conditions, or recent surgery are encouraged to seek appropriate medical advice before participating. Participants are encouraged to move within their own comfort and physical limits. If at any time something feels uncomfortable, you will be encouraged to:

  • Modify movements
  • Rest
  • Or choose not to participate

Is this a religious or spiritual class?

No. These classes are movement-based, not religious services. They do not include worship, prayer, mantras, rituals, or doctrinal teaching.

The word Zen refers to the style and tone of movement — calm, simple, and non-competitive — rather than a religious path.

Why do you use the word “Zen” at all?

“Zen” is used to describe the approach, not the belief system.

In this context, Zen means:

  • Minimalist
  • Slow and attentive
  • Focused on presence rather than performance

Participants are not asked to adopt Zen beliefs, practices, or philosophy.

Do you teach meditation or “emptying the mind”?

No. We use gentle attention — noticing breath and movement — to support comfort, ease of movement, and general wellbeing.

Participants are never asked to empty the mind, dissolve the self, or pursue enlightenment.

Are there mantras, chanting, or energy concepts?

No.

There is:

  • No chanting
  • No mantras
  • No talk of energy, chakras, enlightenment, or spiritual awakening

Instruction remains practical, physical, and optional in interpretation.

Are yoga poses religious acts?

In this class, poses are used as physical movements, similar to stretches or mobility exercises.

They are taught without religious symbolism, devotional intent, or spiritual claims.
Participants are free to engage with the movements in a way that aligns with their conscience.

What if my faith discourages mixing spiritual practices?

We respect that completely.

That is why we are clear and upfront:

This class does not ask participants to mix belief systems or participate in alternative worship.

Can I use this time for prayer or reflection?

Yes — if you wish.

Some participants choose to:

  • Pray silently
  • Reflect
  • Practice gratitude
  • Or simply focus on physical movement

The class is designed to allow personal interpretation, not dictate one.

Is this mindfulness training?

Only in the everyday sense of paying attention to what you are doing.

This is not a clinical or therapeutic mindfulness program, nor does it teach philosophical claims about consciousness or the self.

What beliefs are required to attend?

None.

You do not need to:

  • Believe anything
  • Change your beliefs
  • Suspend your beliefs

All that is required is a willingness to move gently and respectfully.

Who might this class not be right for?

This class may not be a fit for those who:

  • Prefer explicitly religious instruction
  • Are uncomfortable with any use of yoga-based movement
  • Prefer high-intensity or fitness-focused workouts

We encourage everyone to choose what best supports their values and wellbeing.

Are online classes different from in-person classes?

Yes. When participating online, individuals are responsible for ensuring they have:

  • A safe, clear space to move
  • Suitable flooring and equipment
  • A stable internet connection

During online classes the instructor may not be able to see all participants clearly at all times. As a result, they may not be able to monitor or correct movement in the same way as during in-person sessions. As such, instruction remains general and non-clinical. 

Participants are encouraged to:

  • Move conservatively
  • Modify or pause whenever needed
  • Stop immediately if anything causes discomfort or concern

Classes are not recorded unless explicitly stated in advance. Participants may choose to keep their camera on or off. No one is required to share personal information or explain their reasons for modifying or resting during class.

Is this compatible with specific religious traditions?

People from many faith backgrounds participate in movement practices differently. Below is general guidance to help individuals discern whether this class aligns with their beliefs and conscience. 

The list below is ordered alphabetically, as we do not wish to imply preference for any one religious tradition.

Buddhism

While the word Zen originates in Buddhism, this class:

  • Does not teach Buddhist doctrine
  • Does not include meditation aimed at enlightenment
  • Does not instruct participants in Buddhist practice

Some Buddhists enjoy the calm, minimalist approach; others may prefer explicitly Buddhist settings for spiritual practice.

Christianity (Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant)

Many Christians comfortably participate because the class:

  • Does not teach theology, worldviews, or alternative salvation paths
  • Does not involve worship, prayer, or religious instruction
  • Silence and attention can be interpreted as rest, reflection, or prayer

Some Christians choose to use the class as embodied prayer or quiet attentiveness before God, while others engage purely at a physical level.

That said, some Christian communities avoid all yoga-based movements for theological reasons. We respect that discernment.

Hinduism

Hindu participants often recognize yoga as having historical roots in Indian traditions, but in this class:

  • Movements are not taught as spiritual discipline or religious obligation
  • No philosophical claims about liberation, karma, or devotion are made
  • Participation does not require belief or ritual observance

The class is offered as a modern, secular movement practice, not as a representation of Hindu religious yoga.

Islam

Many Muslims participate comfortably because:

  • There is no worship, mantra, or invocation
  • Movements are not presented as religious acts
  • Breath and attention are used for relaxation, not spiritual attainment

Some Muslims choose to avoid yoga-based practices altogether; others participate while engaging the class purely as physical movement. We encourage individuals to follow their conscience.

Judaism

Many Jewish participants are comfortable with the class because:

  • It does not involve idol worship, chanting, or spiritual invocation
  • Movements are treated as physical exercise
  • Silence can be understood as rest or mindful attention, not meditation toward a deity

As with all practices, individual comfort may vary by denomination and personal observance.

Secular or Non-religious participants

No belief system is required.

The class can be experienced entirely as:

  • Mobility and flexibility work
  • Support for relaxation
  • Calm, focused movement

No spiritual interpretation is expected or imposed.

Sikhism

Many Sikhs find the class compatible because:

  • It does not promote renunciation of the self
  • It does not involve worship of other deities
  • Movement and breath are treated practically, not devotionally

As always, personal discernment is encouraged.

What if I’m unsure?

That is completely okay.

We encourage anyone with questions or concerns to:

  • Observe a class
  • Speak with the instructor about class format or participation options
  • Participate at their own pace
  • Step out or modify at any time

Your beliefs and boundaries are respected.

If you are still unsure, we encourage you to seek guidance from trusted leaders within your own faith tradition before participating.

Why are you so explicit about all of the above?

Because trust matters.

We believe people should know exactly what they are participating in — especially when faith and conscience are involved.

Closing reassurance

If you have questions or concerns about faith compatibility, we are always happy to talk. No pressure, no persuasion.

This class is designed to be transparent, non-coercive, and respectful of conscience. Participation never requires adopting beliefs, practices, or worldviews.

Online participation is entirely voluntary, self-paced, and guided by individual comfort, ability, and conscience.

You will find the following pre-class consent checkbox in your initial booking for your first Zen Yoga Class (non-legalistic).

We will review this annually to make sure that you are still fit to practice these movement-based classes and will require a GP certificate should you have undergone any medical treatment or intervention(s) before returning to practice if this happens during a booked block of 6 classes.

☐ I understand that this class is a general movement session, not healthcare or religious instruction. I will move within my own comfort and take responsibility for modifying or resting as needed.