a little bit
about me
Hi, I’m Karen! Welcome to Samsara Yoga, which is based between Thornbury and Berkeley/Dursley in Gloucestershire. I’m a qualified Hatha Yoga teacher, and a certified Yoga Pros teacher. I found yoga later in life, in my 50’s, having tried it years ago. I really didn’t get it back then, but fast forward to today and yoga has changed my life on every level.
Yoga has been a wonderful gift that has enabled me to improve my physical and mental health, to the point where I have changed careers to share what I have learned so far, and bring this joyful journey to others, in the same way that yoga has inspired me.
Whilst I can’t yet do handstands (one day!) I’ve found yoga has given me a physical strength and mental resilience that I’ve never experienced before. Beyond the physical experience of practicing yoga, I have found an increased sense of calm and balance in my life, enabling me to feel more conscious and intentional, and embrace what life may bring.
I have a particular interest in yoga for menopause, for those over forty and fifty, and beginners who want to experience a holistic and authentic practice. Whether you are a beginner or a more experienced student, my aim is to meet you wherever you are in your practice and support you in developing it further. Everyone is welcome to join. My aim is create a safe and welcoming space for all to develop.
![KarenBleakley[400x400px] Karen Bleakley Yoga Instructor](https://samsarayoga.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/KarenBleakley400x400px.jpg)
why yoga
benefits & outcomes
Better Joint Health
as we age bones weaken and aches and pains become common – yoga can help reduce age related muscle and bone deterioration
Sleep Better
by calming your nervous system, regular yoga practice can prepare your body for more deeper and more restful sleep
Balance Your Mind
stress relief, improved sleep, noticing your internal signals and being able to respond to them, improving your concentration and mood overall
Pain Management
can help to alleviate chronic pain through relaxation and gentle stretching
Lower Blood Pressure
and better breathing, improving cardiovascular functioning
Increase Flexibility
and balance, throughout the body, reducing the risk of injury, increasing your overall strength
why yoga
benefits & outcomes
Better Joint Health
as we age bones weaken and aches and pains become common – yoga can help reduce age related muscle and bone deterioration
Sleep Better
by calming your nervous system, regular yoga practice can prepare your body for more deeper and more restful sleep
Balance Your Mind
stress relief, improved sleep, noticing your internal signals and being able to respond to them, improving your concentration and mood overall
Pain Management
can help to alleviate chronic pain through relaxation and gentle stretching
Lower Blood Pressure
and better breathing, improving cardiovascular functioning
Increase Flexibility
and balance, throughout the body, reducing the risk of injury, increasing your overall strength
dont delay
book today
WhatsApp me for a booking link on 07713 854 169 or
Download the Spond App, register and use the code UXDET to join the Samsara Yoga Community where you can view and book classes
introducing our
yoga classes
![KarenBleakley[Pose_v4]200px Karen Bleakley yoga pose](https://samsarayoga.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/KarenBleakleyPose_v4200px.jpg)
Beginners Yoga
For those new to yoga or returning after a break. This class focuses on building a strong and confident yoga foundation in an inclusive and supportive environment
![KarenBleakley[Pose_v2]200px Karen Bleakley yoga pose](https://samsarayoga.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/KarenBleakleyPose_v2200px.jpg)
121 Yoga sessions
Tailored to specific goals and needs, supporting you in building your individual practice, suitable for beginners through to intermediate students
![KarenBleakley[Pose_v3]200px Karen Bleakley yoga pose](https://samsarayoga.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/KarenBleakleyPose_v3200px.jpg)
Mindful Flow
For those advancing beyond beginner stage who wish to develop an embodied practice that builds strength and flexibility whilst cultivating a more profound mind-body connection
![KarenBleakley[Pose_v1]200px Karen Bleakley yoga pose](https://samsarayoga.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/KarenBleakleyPose_v1200px.jpg)
Yin Yoga
Coming in April 2026, this deeply revitalising practice increases flexibility and releases deep held tension from your body and mind, by targeting fascia, ligaments and joints
our most
frequently asked questions
You can either WhatsApp me for a booking link on 07713 854 169 or download the Spond App, register and use the code UXDET to join the Samsara Yoga Community where you can view and book classes
Classes at Falfield and Berkeley are £10 each, duration 60 minutes
The six week course options vary depending on location, please WhatsApp for prices.
All classes or courses are payable via the Spond App
Please book only for classes you can attend, as refunds aren’t offered for missed classes. If in the unlikely event a session or course is cancelled by us you will be offered a refund or the option of being transferred to another course or class.
Where a waiting list exists for a class, and we are able to fill your space, we may, at our discretion, offer to move your booking to the next available session. Please WhatsApp to see if this option is available.
Thank you for understanding, this helps us keep classes fair and accessible for everyone.
121 classes can be held at your home or a suitable location of your choice. You may choose a 121 because you prefer not to attend a class, or you may want personalised support to help you develop your practice. A phone consultation to assess your requirements is required first. Please contact me for more information.
Yes, the beginner classes are designed to support an increase in flexibility over time. You’ll be guided through the classes which will be designed to support you in building both strength and flexibility.
Berkeley Town Hall 7pm Tuesdays (15 spaces) GL13 9DB
Falfield Town Hall 6pm Thursdays (13 spaces) GL13 8DH
Thornbury: Turnberries Community Centre Mondays 7pm (15 spaces) BS35 2BB
Please arrive at least 5 minutes early to ensure we can start on time.
Please wear comfortable clothing that you can move easily in. If you have a mat please do bring that, and any props you are comfortable using (cushions/blocks). In winter months you may want an extra layer for the end of class, but the classroom is heated. If you are unsure what you may need please don’t hesitate to contact me
read our
testimonials
“Thank you for the lovely yoga session, I felt great afterwards. I’ve been practicing and making sure I eat regularly and it’s really helping with my sleep. Thank you so much!”
“After a Samsara Yoga class I always feel deeply relaxed and released. My strength is building too, and I always feel encouraged and able to participate as there are options for every pose, so I feel I can learn and develop each time.”
Yoga Pro member

Disclaimer
As with all forms of physical exercise it is prudent to consult your doctor before starting.
If you have any doubts about the suitability of yoga you should refer back to your medical practitioner.



