enter the lions of August

Welcome to August! Enter the lion: whether it’s star sign in Leo, the Lion’s Gate Portal, there is big energy this month. Take time to tune into the warmth around you, the heat in your yoga practice, and the sun and stars in the sky.

Enter the Lions of August

The Lion’s Gate Portal takes place from 26 July - 8 August, and has been revered since ancient times and cultures. The Lion’s Gate Portal involves the alignment of celestial bodies, the star Sirius and the sun in Leo. You can best tune into the ultimate height of this shift on the 8th.

The number 8 is also associated with Lion’s Gate, and when turned on its side the number eight transforms into an infinity loop symbol, which represents the free flow of life energy, giving and receiving.

“When we allow the energy of Leo season to wash over us, especially on Lions Gate portal, we connect with the fiery, courageous parts of ourselves that know our worth.” (Yoga Journal 2024). 

\/ AUGUST MEDITATION SESSIONS /\

I’m excited to share that I’m hosting two virtual meditation sessions with Peppy Health in August - these are available to anyone who has access to their app and Peppy’s services through their workplace wellness program:

“Introduction to Meditation for Self-Awareness” -

5 August 12-12:45pm

"Introduction to Meditation for Reducing Stress" -

12 August 12-12:45pm

In these sessions, we will explore an introduction to meditation for self-awareness, and introduction to meditation with a focus on reducing stress.

These sessions will begin with some gentle, seated somatic movements and breath work, followed by a guided meditation, and some time for inner reflection. The session will open with a Tibetan Tingsha bell clearing and close with a Tibetan sound bowl. 

The benefits of meditation are many, including reduced anxiety, stress, a calmer and more relaxed mind-body, increased self-awareness and care. 

These sessions are open to anyone interested in learning more and experiencing the benefits of meditation; no prior experience is required. 

/\ NEW CLASS \/

I’m also happy to announce a new regular, weekly class to my schedule!

Join me for a Vinyasa Flow yoga class on Sundays from 11-12pm, just a stone’s throw from Chelsea and the Thames.

This class combines elements of traditional hatha, yogasana, and power yoga elements in their regular yoga classes. Expect a heat-generating, well-rounded, and invigorating vinyasa yogasana practice with elements of breathwork, somatic movement and relaxation.

Props such as blocks, bricks, yoga mats, and straps are also provided.

/\ AUGUST SCHEDULE /\

I’m here to support your practice this August:

/\ AUGUST ASANA /\

Simhasana (Lion’s Breath)

What better way to explore the strength of your own inner lion than playing with Simhasana (Lion’s Breath). Here is a beautiful introduction to this yoga asana (pose) and form of pranayama (breath control) from the one and only Lilias Folan, excerpted from her book Lilias Yoga and You (1972).

Simhasana is a wonderful way to let go of inhibitions, relax the jaw, facial muscles, enhance self-confidence, create space for your voice to emerge. You might find it’s a fun compliment to your practice and movements this month.

Enter the lions, enter the new.

I hope you are all having a beautiful August so far.

Keep in touch <[email protected]>

See you soon,

Marlie x

“Trust the messages coming from your heart and intuition.” 

-Ram Dass (Richard Alpert)

(Remember) Be Here Now (1971).