A memory from the finish line...

There is a very specific kind of energy at the start line of a charity event. It’s a mix of adrenaline, nervous anticipation, and a deep, shared sense of purpose.

A few years back, we were approached by the team at Guys and St Thomas’ Trust  (the unit formerly known as Dimbleby Cancer Care). They wanted to do something special for the volunteers and walkers who were embarking on an all-night trek to raise funds for cancer research and patient support.

The Mission

The challenge wasn’t just about "doing yoga," it was about matching the emotional and physical arc of an all-night journey. These walkers weren't just testing their stamina; they were carrying the stories of friends and loved ones with every mile. To do this right, we needed a strategy that accounted for the flow of the event.

• The Starting Line: I joined my fellow coaches at the kick-off to lead a high-energy mobilisation session. We focused on waking up the joints and steadying the breath, preparing the walkers for the long miles ahead.

• The Finish Line: Knowing that participants would be trickling back in at different intervals and in varying states of exhaustion, we ensured we had a consistent presence at the finish. We were there as the sun rose to help them "land," offering mellow, restorative movement to ease tired muscles and creating a space for them to reflect on their incredible achievement.

Movement with Meaning

It was a beautiful example of how movement can support a mission. While this was a special one-off "give back," it highlighted how much we love integrating wellness into the broader corporate culture.

We love bringing these type of sessions into community days, upskilling workshops, and leadership away days. Whether it’s helping a leadership team find clarity during a strategy retreat or supporting staff during an intensive training period, these moments of movement are vital.

Helping the Dimbleby team support their community reminded us why we do what we do. Whether it’s a 24-hour walk or a high-pressure corporate project, yoga helps us find our centre.

Both at the start and the finish.