How My Yoga Practice Has Evolved
My yoga practice has changed a lot over the years.
During my 20’s and 30’s Vinyasa Flow was my go to practice. It helped me to feel flexible, energised and strong. I was drawn to the rhythm of the practice, the fluidity, and the way it wove together movement, breath, and the more spiritual aspects of yoga. I was motivated by working towards more challenging asana and exploring what my body could do.
But over time, my body — and my life — began to change.
I gave birth to two beautiful children at 40 and 44. My body changed significantly, and while I embraced this, I also noticed that my relationship with movement began to shift. Practicing Vinyasa started to feel more draining than nourishing. What once energised me began to exhaust me.
Alongside this, I’ve been navigating perimenopause, recovering from two major surgeries, and learning more about how my brain works after being diagnosed with ADHD. All of these experiences have influenced how I move, how I teach, and what I now need from my practice.
For a while, I felt like I was pushing against the current. Trying to continue practicing and teaching in a way that no longer felt fully aligned.
Now, I’m choosing something different.
My practice has become slower, more intentional, and more supportive of where I am in life. I’m focusing more on mobility-based movement, incorporating strength work and weights to support bone density and build muscle as I move through my 40s. I’m also gradually returning to the gym as my energy allows.
Yin Yoga remains a huge part of my practice because of its benefits for mobility and joint health. But I also crave fluidity and movement, which is where mobility-based flow has come in. It gives me the best of both worlds. Movement with purpose, but without depletion
Mobility-based yoga and movement practices can be especially supportive during perimenopause and menopause, but they’re also incredibly beneficial for anyone who:
spends long periods sitting
trains in higher-intensity environments
is looking for a more balanced, sustainable way to move
At Meridian Yoga and Pilates Studio, this is reflected in classes like:
Strength and Flow
Tuesday evenings, 6:30–7:30pm
Mobility Flow
Saturday mornings, 10.30-11.15am
These yoga and mobility classes in the East End of Glasgow offer a chance to move more freely, support your joints, and build strength in a way that complements other practices like Vinyasa Flow and Pilates.
If you’re looking for more strength and challenge, our Strength & Flow classes offer opportunities to build strength and work towards more challenging asanas.
For me, this isn’t about leaving anything behind. It’s about evolving, listening to my body, and teaching in a way that feels sustainable, honest, and aligned with where I am now.
And perhaps most importantly, creating space for others to do the same.
You can view our yoga and pilates schedule here
About the Author
Michelle Lang is a Senior Yoga Teacher, Shamanic Practitioner, and Reiki Master. She owns Meridian Yoga and Pilates in the heart of the East End of Glasgow, a welcoming space offering yoga and pilates in Glasgow for all levels. Michelle has been teaching yoga for over 13 years, guiding students with a holistic, accessible, and inclusive approach that connects mindful movement, breath, and body awareness. Her classes and teacher training focus on Vinyasa Flow, Yin, energy work, and the body’s natural wisdom, helping people cultivate strength, mobility, and a deep sense of wellbeing.
