Supporting and empowering women through midlife and beyond
with movement to connect mind, body and soul
EMBRACING MIDLIFE WITH MOVEMENT AND STILLNESS
Donna's Journey from Law to Yoga and Pilates
Hello there! I’m Donna, a midlife mum of two teenagers, and I took a bold leap from a thriving 30-year career in law to become a Pilates and Yoga teacher.
From Courtrooms to Calm Spaces
For the last 10 years of my legal career, I served as a Partner at a global law firm. Despite the success, I felt a growing desire to tread a different path due to life experiences. My journey into the world of teaching Pilates and Yoga began with training through YMCA for my Pilates certification and a transformative Yoga Teacher Training (RYT200 Yoga Alliance) in Goa, South India, at Trimurti Yoga School. This experience was a beautiful blend of traditional Eastern teachings and modern Western practices, profoundly enriching my spiritual and physical journey.
Movement as a Lifelong Companion
Movement has always been my ally. In my 20s, I was a cardio enthusiast, then took up running in my 30s, and embraced strength training in my 40s. Pilates and Yoga have been a constant throughout these years, but it was while I was grieving the loss of my mum and two of my sisters, and later, while seeking relief from peri-menopausal symptoms, that my Yoga practice deepened significantly. I yearned for sanctuary on my mind and a balanced mind in a balanced body.
Navigating Midlife with Yoga and Pilates
Leaving my legal career was a bold step into what I call my "second spring." This transition has been a rewarding learning curve. I believe in the power of Yoga to help us connect with ourselves, discovering our potential both on and off the mat. I encourage my students to listen to their bodies and explore their abilities. There’s no one-size-fits-all; our bodies are all different shapes and sizes so we all create unique shapes.
Pilates offers similar flexibility. My classes can be as challenging or as gentle as you need them to be.
My goal is to inspire particularly women in midlife to embrace their second act with energy, optimism, and health, becoming the best version of themselves.
The Benefits of Yoga and Pilates for Midlife Women
Midlife and menopause bring unique challenges—parenting teens, managing work, caring for aging parents, coping with an empty nest and maintaining relationships. This phase can also bring significant emotional strain due to bereavements and work stressors. Finding personal space becomes crucial for wellbeing.
My Yoga and Pilates classes provide a safe, inclusive space to navigate these challenges. Gyms can be intimidating, especially for midlife women dealing with weight gain, anxiety, or menopausal symptoms. My friendly group classes, held in community settings, offer a welcoming environment with like-minded individuals. I also run events and Retreats where I promise you will be surrounded by amazing and likeminded people!
For those who prefer a more personalised approach, I offer one-on-one sessions, both virtually and in person. These sessions are tailored to your specific needs and goals, providing accountability and a bespoke plan.
Join Me on the Mat
I am passionate about supporting everyone, especially women navigating midlife and beyond. If you’re looking for a supportive, inclusive environment to bring movement into your life, I’m here to help.
Feel free to reach out with any questions. I look forward to seeing you on the mat and supporting you on your Yoga or Pilates journey!
Donna
"The body benefits from movement, the mind benefits from stillness"
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Melanie B says
"I keep reflecting on what a fabulous, calming yet energising experience I had on the retreat. Every element of it was perfect! You poured your heart and soul into the experience, and that made it all the more special; more meaningful and experiential, creating wonderful memories, and to have lovely, nourishing food throughout was a huge added bonus, not to mention the lovely environment we were in. 😊
It was also moving to see my dear friend go on her own journey of grief and renewal, so caringly supported by you. I really believe the weekend helped her to see her way forward. For me, it helped me focus on what’s important, to create more calm and reflection in my everyday life, and to realise what kind of tribe I need around me at this stage of my life.
I can’t thank you enough for providing such a great experience with such a fabulous group of like minded women. From being concerned about being an outsider to your usual group, I was converted to a dedicated follower very quickly through your warmth, humour and guidance. I’m sad I’m not based in Rossendale to join your classes!
I look forward to the next one, please add me to the list, I’m a convert!"
Review of Pilates, Yoga and Spa Retreat, Shropshire 2025
Yoga and Pilates classes in Helmshore, Haslingden and Rawtenstall.
Debbie J says
"I've not really been looking after myself over the past few weeks..
Your yoga sessions have been my shining light of health and happiness.
I've especially loved the recent spring sessions of opening up our bodies and welcoming the awakening of our bodies.. They've done me the world of good.
Thank you again for your wonderful teaching.. See you soon,"
Would you like me to support you individually?
I offer a full consultation which includes a posture assessment, understanding your goals and any barriers. With that information, I prepare an individual and progressive 12 week plan tailored to your needs. I can also provide nutrition guidance and work with you weekly to motivate you and provide accountability so you can achieve your goals.
Helen C says
"I’m now on my 4th lot of the 12 week 1 to 1 sessions with Donna. Pilates, and Donna, have honestly changed my life! I've found a new love and respect for my body, along with strength I never knew I had. Pilates has taught me that it’s not about how you look, but listening to your body and what it needs, and that translates in so many positive ways to my daily life off the mat. I’m more in touch with myself and my needs than I’ve ever been and am so grateful to Donna for guiding me in this journey. Donna puts you at ease from the second you step on your mat, I couldn't recommend her more!"
More Testimonials
"Being a beginner at yoga, I was slightly hesitant as to what to expect of the class, but I quickly realised I needn't have been. At the start of the class, Donna stated that yoga is for all. "If you can breathe, you can do yoga." Which was very reassuring to hear. I found the class thoroughly enjoyable and extremely relaxing. Donna's instructions were clear and understandable. I wanted a teacher that gave me confidence and that is exactly what I got with Donna. I am really looking forward to going on my yoga journey with her as my teacher."
-Jo Hemmings
"Donna has taught me both Yoga and Pilates. I haven’t undertaken any real form of exercise for a few years so I felt like a beginner with little confidence going into Pilates and Yoga. However Donna’s teaching was very clear and concise but most of all motivating and inspirational! I felt at one with Yoga and a sense of strength in Pilates which I haven’t felt in years! I am very much looking forward to further classes with Donna. "
-Clare Barker
"For someone who bikes and runs a lot, Donna's Pilates classes were just what was needed … the positive impact was an immediate and lasting combined impact on my aching muscles and mind and Donna brings energy, explanation and personal considerations to make you feel ready to go again - my Pilates review is definitely 5* for the improvement in my running, cycling and most importantly exercising my mind. "
-Ian Critchley
Are you are looking for a gift with a difference to give or receive?
What better than the gift of movement!
I am delighted to offer e-gift cards as a gift option.
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Rossendale, Lancashire
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