written testimonials
'Written Testimonials' extensively lists written tributes from people who have attended Vicky's classes, workshops and retreats. Most of these testimonials have been written independently for the bestofwandsworth.co.uk.
You will love this retreat! Completely chilled, a fantastic venue (with lovely hosts), in a stunning location, delicious (and plentiful!!) food, great company and wonderful, inspiring yoga from Vicky, whose classes I have been attending for 9 years now. If you want to completely unwind and switch off from the world, go to the Hacienda with Vicky!
Evelyn W, London
I love being back in Vicky's classes. It's great seeing her again weekly and even managing to do yoga once a week makes a big difference to me. Vicky is amazing!
Nicki S, London
As a P.E. teacher but non yoga teacher I was a little concerned about how I would cope with the teaching of yoga. I knew I would be fine teaching children as that is what I do for a living, but teaching yoga is different. However, I needn't have worried, Vicky is an excellent teacher who gently guides you through the training and fills you with confidence. The course is intensive, physically and mentally demanding, but fun, interesting and inspirational. As well as learning about teaching yoga to children I have improved and perfected my own yoga practice so that the classes I attend now make much more sense. The course is essentially practical and you are thrown in at the deep end so to speak! There is homework to do and it is tiring. But at the end of the weekend you feel ready to teach yoga to children, which is the aim of the course.
Vicky herself is a warm, caring lady who puts you at ease, nurtures you and inspires you with her own knowledge, energy and enthusiasm. If you are lucky enough to meet her family, as I was, they too are delightful. I recommend the course, go for it and enjoy!
Sandra S, Manchester
Vicky Oliver's yoga classes are a real pleasure to attend! Vicky manages to integrate beginner, intermediate and advanced students into a class that is not only well balanced but challenging to each individual student accordingto their level of practice.
All postures are guided according to ability and personal care is given to students that may have disability in certain postures whether this be attributable to old injuries, health implications, pregnancy, etc. This individual attention includes challenging each student to reach a higher level of practice thereby enhancing the physical, mental and spiritual benefits that good yoga practice can deliver. Having attended many yoga classes over the years, Vicky Oliver's classes are a gift to me.
The individual attention she manages to give each student facilitates a 'personalised' approach to yoga practice that is 'shared' within a class environment. Therefore, when I practice "I am me, in the presence of others".
Nadine P, Surrey
I am a woman in my forties and have been practicing yoga for near enough ten years. I have tried different types of yoga with different teachers but truly the best and the person I have stuck with for the last three years is Vicky Oliver.
I completely trust that she will correct me if I am in the wrong position. She talks through each pose explaining which muscles will be used and explaining how it will feel, helping me to understand for myself if I am in the correct position. All of which is essential for safe yoga practice. Vicky pays particular attention to what is going on with each student and combines a varied, fun and often challenging holistic yoga class with information on what changes to the body the different seasons may bring.
It is not easy to find a teacher who obviously loves the work they do and takes the time to keep up with all the latest developments in yoga and the body as a whole physically, spiritually and mentally and I feel very lucky to have found Vicky.
Sarah C, London
Here is my testimonial, from the heart.
I introduced myself to Vicky by saying, "I don't like yoga", but quickly added "but I love your class!" I am a Pilates instructor and always felt I really should do yoga as well. Over the years I have tried many yoga classes just because I thought I must but always came away thinking that I really didn't get it. Then, I stumbled into Vicky’s class by default really and immediately felt like I had come home. Her gently reassuring voice and attitude instantly put me at ease and when I realized that every week we did something completely different and exciting I knew that I had found the teacher I had been always looking for. I always feel safe and cared for with Vicky. Her knowledge is extensive and her creativity endless. She is a superb teacher on all levels.
Linda H, London
Still the best yoga teacher ever (and I've tried a few in the last 4 years since moving to Edinburgh, I can tell you).
Maddy M, Edinburgh
Thank you, Vicky for saving my life. After 12 months off sick with depression (2 young children and a career is not work-life balance), a friend sent me the link to Vicky's Yoga Bananas site. Something clicked, and a week later I found myself on the Teacher Training Course. For someone who had not managed to have any relationship with her own children as she struggled to manage her illness, a course to teach other children was rather a leap of faith. Vicky supported me and held my hand every step of the way. Her teaching methods and empathy were inspirational. I learned more in 2 days about myself, my abilities, and dealing with my illness than 12 months of medication and therapy. I rediscovered my love of Yoga, and more importantly, my love of myself, and my children. I learned to laugh as a child, and think as a child. I could never have believed I'd be standing teaching a class after 3 days, but the response of the children was truly humbling. I'm now back in the corporate rat race, but the skills Vicky shared have a place here too - laughing juice is a regular refreshment during day long meetings, and lions and butterflies often make an appearance.
Liz C, London
I have been practising yoga for over 14 years. I can honestly say Vicky is one of the most superior teachers I have come across during that time. She delivers dynamic as well a gentler paced class, always giving great instruction and theory behind each posture. If you are a beginner or advanced practitioner I would highly recommend Vicky's classes.
Maxyne R, London
I had very high hopes from Yoga Bananas and I can honestly say that Vicky's course both met my expectations and went beyond them. The course is very well organised and you'll be amazed by the amount of information received in just a weekend. Some teachers can be very protective of their own work and not want to give everything away, however I found that Vicky truely wanted to share every last bit of knowledge and experience with her students (and there is a lot of it!!), nothing was held back. I found the course very intense but also a lot of fun due to Vicky's natural fun way of teaching and my two fellow students, Gill and Debbie. Two days after the course, I am thinking and dreaming Yoga Banana poses. I don't think I'll ever look at animals and children in the same way again:-) Thank you for such an empowering experience!
Julie Nolan (former PA), Milan 2009
I first came to Vicky’s class suffering from a significant injury to my knee. This meant that I was unable to bend my leg and some full poses were inaccessible to me as was other exercise.
But I received a warm welcome and Vicky took the trouble to work out adaptations that I could achieve, by trying them out herself and helping me get into them. It was very important for me to feel that I could achieve certain things within yoga as my injury meant that everyday actions such as walking normally, let alone running or kneeling, were impossible for me. Vicky was very encouraging, but I did not feel singled out either, as everyone gets personal attention in the classes.
My physiotherapist also practised yoga and was very pleased that I was using it as part of my therapy. I have now recovered and it has been great to measure my progress in achieving poses which were impossible a few months ago. I have every intention of continuing yoga.
Vicky ensures that the true spirit of yoga is maintained in her class it is not about competition with anybody else, which was certainly very important with someone with an injury as it is all about what you can do, not what you can't. This is a confidence booster to someone with an injury.
There is also laughter in the classes and a friendly atmosphere, which is fostered by Vicky and spreads through the class.
The class combines poses with relaxation and mediation and Vicky ensures a variety of poses, with something different to try each week.
Julia G, Surrey
A huge thank you again for a brilliant weekend. It was so good to meet you, you are such a warm giving person, that I couldn't help but have a great time! I had such a good time and will definitely be on future retreats.
Caroline W, London
I started taking yoga and meditation classes with Vicky earlier this year, and from the outset, she made me feel welcome, relaxed and comfortable. Her classes really do manage to suit everybody, from the complete novice like me, to those with years of experience. They are always great fun, and you always feel you have worked hard and achieved lots. Her meditation sessions are amazing, and the effects of these have flowed into the rest of my life. I can't recommend Vicky's classes enough.
Lisa D, London
The training Vicky gives is more like spending a couple of days with a good mate. You truly don't realise how much you are learning until you are actually in front of a class. As a primary school teacher I was more concerned about my knowledge of yoga, but Vicky somehow manages to accentuate your strengths so that confidence grows in other areas. My own yoga practice has been enhanced beyond measure. Her course materials relate perfectly to the practical work, are presented beautifully, and provide enough ideas for lessons for years to come. Most of all though, the small groups she teaches, and the fact she is keen to stay in touch after the training is finished, ensure the integrity of her course; it is a very professional grounding for teaching yoga to children.
Rebecca L,Teddington
Very few people have the ability to relax me, and Vicky is one of those people! Vicky's weekly yoga classes play an important role in my lifestyle, offering muscle strengthening, posture improvement, relaxation and meditation, in a fun environment, with a personalised approach, something you do often get with yoga teachers. You're confident knowing you're in the best of hands in Vicky's sessions and that she'll get the best from you.
Her meditation specific sessions place me in the most relaxed state I've ever achieved, whilst her Yoga Days and Master Classes invigorate the body and mind through innovative sequencing.
Vicky's yoga classes are the best available!
Sally W, London
The best thing I did in pregnancy! Vicky’s pregnancy yoga class in Earlsfield on Wednesdays has been the highlight of my week - I started when I was 14 weeks and Vicky really opened my eyes to what a joy preparing for labour and motherhood could be (in stark contrast to the indifference of the medical profession until you’re actually in labour). The yoga postures are expertly tailored to pregnancy and are challenging enough to improve cardio, strength and flexibility. But what really made the class special was Vicky’s relaxation and inspirational phases at the beginning and end of the session. I left every class feeling relaxed and uplifted, no matter how stressed and snarled up I was when I arrived after a day at work and a rushed journey not to miss my favourite class. Vicky encourages you to believe that you are not only capable of meeting the challenge of labour and birth, but can enjoy this most precious experience - both emotionally and physically. I had only done yoga once or twice before i got pregnant but with Vicky’s clear tuition and gentle guidance (individually where needed) I got the hang of it straight away, and I’m so glad I went. Another great feature of the class is that Vicky changes it every week, showing how much thought she puts into our sessions and ensuring we don’t get bored or start to find it easy (unlikely with a growing bump)! The class is very popular - not surprisingly - but Vicky still creates an intimate atmosphere and a sense of calm whatever the size of the class, and of course it’s a great way to get to know other pregnant women in the area. I would recommend Vicky’s class to any pregnant woman.
Jessica P, London
Vicky’s class is well suited to an enthusiastic class of all abilities, with a wide range of different levels of experience. It is relaxed, friendly, humorous and tailored to suit the individual. The high repeat factor in successive courses is a good testament to Vicky’s teaching skills. I have been attending for seven years.
Richard H, London
Very few people have the ability to relax me, and Vicky is one of those people! Vicky’s weekly yoga classes play an important role in my lifestyle, offering muscle strengthening, posture improvement, relaxation and meditation, in a fun environment, with a personalised approach, something you don’t often get with yoga teachers. You’re confident knowing you’re in the best of hands in Vicky’s sessions and that she’ll get the best from you. Her meditation specific sessions place me in the most relaxed state I’ve ever achieved, whilst her Yoga Days and Master Classes invigorate the body and mind through innovative sequencing. Vicky’s yoga classes are the best available!
Sally W, London
I have been a regular at Vicky’s inspirational classes for almost 7 years. Each week there is a new structure, sequence or challenge and this variety keeps the classes focused and interesting. Vicky brings a considerate and humorous personality to the classes and works very well with all levels. The meditation sessions are like a detox for the brain and the Master Classes are an excellent challenge for both body and mind. This is WHYOGA!
Naomi S, London
Thank you for taking us all to such a wonderful place and leading some fabuous yoga. I loved doing all the masterclasses - it was great to feel physically pushed in the morning and then have a relxing session in the evening. I think it gave each day a 'ying and yang' feeling. Thanks again for such a great weekend. Looking forward to hanging out with you soon.
Katie B, London
Initially I was wondering how on earth I would learn to teach yoga to children in a weekend but I need not have concerned myself, Vicky is a star and she gets you involved right from the start so you are not even aware you are learning because you are so focused in the moment and having lots of fun in the process. Furthermore it was an absolute joy to have the opportunity to actually go into a school and see Vicky teaching children as well as teaching real children myself, so that I came away from the course thoroughly exhausted but totally inspired, there is nothing more empowering than putting into practise what you have learned. I can't wait to start teaching my own children's yoga classes.
Emma D, Guernsey
I just wanted to say thank you so much for such a wonderful retreat at Villatalla. It was such a privilege being able to join the group and enjoy your yoga classes for three days. It was also lovely to talk to you at dinner on Saturday night. I have been inspired by the retreat to think about many things, not just by my angels, but by the many conversations with the interesting people in that group.
Kirsty Stephenson, London
Vicky thank you so much for the fantastic training you gave to me over the 3 days. Your course fulfilled everything that it promised and more. I was drawn to this particular training because it is practical, undertaken during the week end, intensive and because it culminates in a day practicing and teaching at a school with pupils.
I liked all the exercises and tasks you gave me - particularly requesting that I start to write my own lessons from day 1 of the training. Had I not been given this and not been given the push to teach my own lessons by the end of training, I probably would not have had the confidence to do it. Hence I found the training enabling.
I found the second day very difficult as there were so many postures to learn. However as I continue to write my own lesson plans and come up with new material I am finding the teaching from that day inspiring and integral to ensuring my own teaching is varied and comprehensive.
Further to teaching about postures, you also taught me about the spirit of yoga in the way you treated me as a guest at your home. Again I incorporate this respect and courtesy and friendship to the children and their parents.
Finally thank you so much for your ongoing support since I completed my training. I do not feel so isolated while setting up my own business as a result of your advice.
I’ve been attending Vicky’s yoga and meditation classes for nearly two years now and I can’t recommend them highly enough. In addition to the classes, which are always well paced with a great combination of physical yoga and some mediation/relaxation, the yoga days, master classes and retreats are all excellent - if somewhat challenging! I have just come back from my third retreat - this time in Liguria in Italy . The retreats are always situated in beautiful surroundings and the atmosphere is always warm, supportive, relaxing and challenging, in the right proportions. And frankly, I can’t wait for the next one!
Sonia S, London
Quite the best yoga teacher I have encountered. I do love Vicky’s classes and always feel fantastically energised afterwards.
J.C. London
I have been to a few yoga classes in my time but Vicky is in a class of her own. She is fun, interesting, skilled, careful and very knowledgable with truly spiritual intuition. Besides her classes I have also been on 2 retreats with her, one in Wales and one in Italy and both were fantastic. I met truly wonderful people and felt very supported and energised when I returned home. If you are at all interested in yoga go with Vicky.
Roma W, London
Vicky is a truly inspiring teacher. I have been practising yoga for 4 years now, and I must say a teacher has never been as warm, open and such good fun as Vicky. The classes are always a fantastic "workout" for both the mind and the body. I would definitely recommend all of Vicky’s Yoga Classes, Yoga Days, Master Classes and Retreats.
Sam W, London
I have been attending yoga days and retreats with Vicky for several years now. She manages to combine a truly spiritual approach with a physically energising and demanding practice, a feat that not many yoga teachers accomplish. Like several of the other reviewers, I have just returned from a retreat in Liguria, where master classes every morning and deep relaxation and meditation every evening made for a profoundly relaxing and transformational experience.
Lisa S, London
I started going to Vicky’s antenatal yoga classes in Earlsfield when I was 8 weeks pregnant. I’d never done a yoga class before and didn’t really know what to expect. (so I’m writing this review as a bit of a novice). Vicky’s positive energy has really inspired me. When others were telling me to take it easy so early in my pregnancy, Vicky reminded me that I was a "female mammal, designed to give birth". I’m now 34 weeks pregnant and she’s just as positive as I’m preparing myself for labour. Vicky’s style is to combine relaxation, muscle toning and cardiovascular exercise. Just what I need to prepare for life as a mum. I have tried out other pregnancy yoga classes, they’ve been slightly "gentler", if that’s your thing. But after Vicky’s class I feel stronger - like I’ve had a bit of a workout and totally re-energised. Vicky’s style is so relaxed, its encouraged all the women in the class to get to know each other. Those of us who are now close to the end of our pregancy, have started to email each other and have organised a coffee morning. Perfect for when I’m off on maternity leave. I’d recommend this class to anyone who is pregnant, at any point in your pregnancy. Personally I’m convinced that by starting so early, its made me very confident and positive about my pregnancy. Aches and pains haven’t bothered me at all.
Raji N, London.
Thank goodness classes like this exist! I too am a faithful attendee of Vicky’s antenatal class which gives me an opportunity to escape the week’s stresses and truly connect with my baby. Each week, her inspirational readings help to focus my mind on my growing baby, and the changing routines build confidence in my body’s ability to both handle the later stages of pregnancy and the birth. Vicky creates a wonderful, relaxing environment for the women in her class to meet, socialise and practise yoga. And taken at my own pace, it allows me to enjoy the positive effects of maintaining a clear mind and body that stay with me throughout the week. Vicky’s antenatal yoga is a mini retreat in Earlsfield for any mom-to-be. I won’t be the first to say that I look forward to her class all week long!
Kelly M, London
I’ve been going to Vicky Oliver’s classes and yoga days for some time, and she is AMAZING! I’ve done lots of yoga over the years, and Vicky is one of the best teachers I’ve ever come across. She has a wonderful nature and you can’t help but warm to her. The yoga days are great value for money, including both a dynamic morning session and a more meditative afternoon session, with a yummy Indian lunch included in the price too! She is truly inspirational - so book up now!
Caroline W, London
Vicky Oliver is an excellent Yoga teacher whose classes are stimulating, enjoyable and have always provided me with a fantastic weekly fix of yoga.
Renee C, London
On arrival at Yoga Bananas teacher training day I was immediately made to feel at ease and welcomed by Vicky and her whole family, the youngest boy, proudly showing me the Yoga Bananas DVD! I was priviledged to have Vicky all to myself! and received one on one tuition over the weekend. Vicky has a wonderful enthusiasm for children's yoga and inspires a creative and thorough approach to yoga for children. The different stories and names to frame the yoga teaching really inspired me and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Vicky doing her Lions, Whales and Frogs! The day in the school was great and I loved watching Vicky teach a class before I taught my own, it helped me to see how this style of teaching can really work!. The whole training weekend was highly rewarding and the personal attention I received from Vicky during and following the course has been immensely valuable. I am very grateful for the training I received and have reccommended the course to two people already!
Daisy D, Bristol
Having attended Vicky’s classes for 18 months and enjoyed 2 wonderful retreats, I would rate Vicky as the best yoga teacher I have been lucky enough to meet in many, many years. Each class is fresh and different. Everyone is treated warmly, professionally and with care. Vicky explains the why as well as the what with generosity and authority. Her spiritual yet playful approach means you will feel wonderful after every session. Everyone who attends her classes seems to be lovely. And most importantly you will laugh as you progress - the highest praise possible. Go!
Penny H, London
I just want to say thanks for the lovely weekend we had at Duncton Mill. Looking at the weather this last weekend, we were really lucky.The other thing to report is that I had a go at headstand in my yoga class last night. I managed to get up straight and hold it for at least 30 seconds - it's not long but it's all an improvement! My yoga teacher commented on my good control and strength in my stomach! Thank you very much for your patience and help. The time you spent helping me has really moved my headstand on. I just need to keep practising......
Rae W, London.
I have been attending Vicky's yoga classes for over 8 years, having had many teachers over the years I can honestly say that no other teacher compares to Vicky. Vicky's classes are always varied, no two classes the same. Vicky is inclusive of everyone from new-comers to pregnant women and the more experienced. She makes everyone feel welcome. Her classes are always good fun and her Yoga Retreats and Yoga Days are a special treat. I have been to retreats in Normandy, the Brecon Beacons in Wales, Italy, The Red Sea Egypt and Sussex. The locations are always very special and handpicked by Vicky. I have recommended Vicky to many friends, I am pleased to have the opportunity to write this review to share my experience to a wider audience.
Justine G, London
A couple of days at In Sabina with Vicky are worth a two week holiday anywhere else! As soon as you arrive and discover the lovely traditional house perched on a hill-top surrounded by trees, you feel as though you've left your everyday life behind. Evening meditation sessions are in a lovely cosy room, and morning yoga is on the stunning wooden platform overlooking the valley. Add to that the gorgeous food and wine, the daytrips to Rome and to a traditional Roman spa, and the great company, and you really couldn't wish for more!
Sally M, London
I just wanted to say thank you so much for the Yoga Day you organised yesterday, I loved it. I've enjoyed all the pregnancy yoga I've done with you and am a complete convert. I've found your wisdom and philosophy on pregnancy hugely empowering. I've gained a lot of confidence in myself and in being a woman, which is fantastic so thank you!
Lucy C, London
I have been attending Vicky's classes for 2 years now and have never enjoyed my yoga practice more! Vicky is by far the best teacher I have come across - her classes are a perfect mix of relaxation and invigoration, for both the mind and the body. Although she obviously takes her practice very seriously, her classes are always fun, inclusive and friendly - open to all without any intimidating or snooty air to them. The range of additional classes and retreats she offers is also excellent - I recently attended one of her two-hour yoga master classes, which challenges both mind and body, increasing your stamina, strength and discipline. Vicky always encourages everyone to go at their own pace, however, so you never feel pressured to push yourself any harder than you want to. I have never been on one of Vicky's retreats, but it is on my wish-list for this year!
Tricia W, London
I’ve been attending Vicky’s classes, yoga days and retreats over the course of the last year, and I am delighted to be able to have the opportunity to recommend her to other people in the area. Vicky has a special gift of making yoga accessible to anyone and everyone. I have just returned from a fantastic long weekend retreat with her in Liguria in the north of Italy. Vicky creates a warm, fun and supportive atmosphere and chooses the most wonderful locations which means her retreats are a real delight. This was my third retreat, and I look forward to many more in the future.
Katie B, London
II had a lovely time at Villatalla, it was all and more than I expected and I am feeling fully rested and revitalised! I hope you are planning one for the same time next year!
Jo B, London
Vicky has been a massive inspiration to me in wanting to take the next step on my yoga journey. I have enjoyed every one of her classes - she is a very special teacher. I just wish she had already developed the Vicky Oliver teacher training programme..... !
Catherine M, London
A brilliant and inspiring teacher training weekend with Yoga Bananas and Vicky Oliver. As Albert Schweizer once said, "In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit."
Florence P, London
I have really enjoyed all of the weeks of yoga with Vicky. It was in fact her class that first prompted me to even consider a natural birth and as a result I read two Michel Odent books and the Grantly Dick-Read book (Childbirth Without Fear) that set me on the course for hypnobirthing. In addition it all kept me physically fit, calm, relaxed (at least for 1hr a week!) so that I could bond with Max as he developed. Kelly P, London How can the course be improved? Vicky asked me of the Yoga Bananas Teacher Training Course. Well, nothing springs to mind to be honest except to say that, from my point of view, (being a yoga teacher but not having much contact with children) I feel that the course covered the teaching children aspect perfectly and I think Vicky's training manual is excellent, informative and well presented. I feel that Vicky inspired me to make the step towards working with children and to show how fun and rewarding it can be. Attending the Wormholt school was invaluable - I think I'd be feeling a bit lost if we hadn't had that opportunity. Oh yes, and the Nepalese lunch was just great
Thank you so much for all your time over the weekend. It was a wonderful experience and I have been greatly inspired by your Yoga Bananas Teacher Training Course. It was a priviledge to have you all to myself! I learnt a great deal and there is so much that I can take forward into specific yoga sessions and also into the daily classroom environment. I hope your business continues to thrive.
My private Monday night sessions became one of the favourite parts of my pregnancy. Vicky knew just how far to stretch me so that each class was energising as well as relaxing. Every week was different but always involved breathing, readings, and mantras. By the end of my pregnancy I felt relaxed and confident about the birth.
When I went into labour, I was able to spend most of the time at home, relaxing and breathing through contractions. I was only in hospital for two hours before I gave birth to my little girl, Esme, totally naturally. Without doubt, the preparation and yoga I had done with Vicky was really important in helping me cope.
Thanks Vicky for helping me have the pregnancy and birth I hoped for.
Suzanne B, London
I have been practising yoga for over 14 years. I can honestly say Vicky is one of the most superior teachers I have come across during that time. She delivers dynamic as well a gentler paced class, always giving great instruction and theory behind each posture. If you are a beginner or advanced practitioner I would highly recommend Vicky’s classes.
Maxyne R, London