Wonky hips = normal hips

If you've ever had a physical therapist, chiropractor, or trainer mention that your hips are "uneven" or "rotated," you're not alone—and it's not necessarily cause for concern. In fact, one of the most fascinating truths about human anatomy is that our hip sockets are not perfectly symmetrical, and they’re not supposed to be. Here’s why—and how—that asymmetry exists.

Our bodies are built with a remarkable amount of variation. Just like you might have one foot slightly larger than the other or one hand more dominant, your pelvis—and the hip sockets (acetabula) within it—aren’t mirror images. The hip sockets may differ in depth, angle, height, and orientation, depending on a variety of genetic and developmental factors.

For example, one acetabulum, (hip socket), might sit slightly higher or face more forward than the other. These subtle differences often begin in the womb and become more pronounced as we grow and move through life. Even daily habits, like which leg you prefer when standing, the side you sleep on, or how you sit, can influence the positioning of your pelvis and hips over time.

So what does this mean functionally? Surprisingly little—unless there’s pain or dysfunction. The body is designed to compensate for small asymmetries. Muscles, tendons, and ligaments adapt, allowing you to move fluidly despite slight structural differences. In fact, a perfectly symmetrical pelvis is incredibly rare and, arguably, not even ideal. A bit of asymmetry can actually help us move more efficiently by creating natural movement patterns and stability.

Problems typically arise only when asymmetry is excessive or combined with injury, overuse, or muscular imbalance. This can lead to issues like lower back pain, hip impingement, or uneven wear in joints.

Understanding that our hips aren’t symmetrical helps shift the focus away from trying to “fix” what isn’t broken. Instead, the goal should be supporting your body’s unique structure with mobility work, strength training, and mindful movement. This is why yoga is the perfect practice to determine your personal asymmetry. Moving your body through a yoga practice will identify these characteristics and a yoga practice will develop the functional stability and reduce the risk of future injury.

So, the next time someone says your hips aren’t level, smile and say, “that’s nature’s design and I do yoga to be the best I can be”

The best 'homework'

The most attractive things about yoga for me is the accessibility, what I mean is that you can practice anywhere, and you don’t need to be an expert. There is no judgement or ego and each time we practice, it makes us feel a little better about ourselves.

Whilst I teach yoga, and I really enjoy the classes and the energy, I also love practicing in my living room.

Starting yoga at home is easier than you might think. You don’t need an expensive membership or fancy equipment—just a little space, some comfortable clothing, and a willingness to begin. Whether you’re looking for a way to relax, improve flexibility, or strengthen your body, yoga is a fantastic option that can fit into any lifestyle.

Yoga requires very little equipment. A yoga mat is helpful for comfort and grip, but if you don’t have one, a soft carpet or towel can work in the beginning. Some practitioners also use yoga blocks and straps, but these are optional and can be substituted with household items like books or belts. Comfortable clothing that allows for free movement is all you really need.

Thanks to the internet, learning yoga from home is incredibly simple. There are thousands of free yoga videos on platforms like YouTube, covering everything from beginner-friendly poses to advanced sequences. Many websites and apps also offer guided yoga classes, often with step-by-step instructions. You can start with short 10-15 minute routines and gradually work your way up as you become more comfortable.

Practicing yoga at home means you can do it whenever it suits you. Whether you have five minutes in the morning or an hour before bed, you can tailor your practice to fit your daily routine. Unlike a studio class, you’re not tied to a fixed schedule, making it easy to integrate yoga into your lifestyle without stress.

Yoga is all about listening to your body. When practicing at home, you can move at your own pace, focus on the poses that feel best, and modify as needed. There’s no pressure to keep up with a class or compare yourself to others. This makes yoga an ideal activity for all ages and fitness levels, including those who are completely new to exercise.

Beyond improving flexibility and strength, yoga offers significant mental health benefits. Practicing deep breathing and mindfulness during yoga can reduce stress and improve focus. Many people find that even a short daily session helps them feel more relaxed and energized.

There are really good headspace apps and resources where you might follow a guided meditation, even for a couple of minutes to help unwind .

Starting yoga at home is simple, inexpensive, and incredibly rewarding. With the right mindset and a few online resources, anyone can begin their yoga journey today. So roll out a mat, take a deep breath, and enjoy the process!

Movement is the key......

Fascia is one of the most essential yet least understood tissues in the human body. This web-like structure of connective tissue plays a vital role in movement, posture, and overall health. Despite its importance, fascia has only recently gained attention in medical and wellness communities.

Fascia is a connective tissue that surrounds and interconnects muscles, bones, nerves, and organs. Think of it as an internal meshwork that provides support and structure while allowing fluid movement. It consists of collagen, elastin, and a gel-like ground substance that helps tissues glide smoothly over one another.

There are three main types of fascia:

1. Superficial Fascia – Found just beneath the skin, it helps with fat storage and skin mobility.

2. Deep Fascia – Surrounding muscles, bones, and nerves, this dense tissue provides support and reduces friction during movement.

3. Visceral Fascia – Encasing and supporting internal organs, helping maintain their positioning within the body.

Fascia does much more than simply hold the body together. Some of its key roles include:

• Structural Support: It provides a framework that helps maintain the body’s shape and posture.

• Force Transmission: Fascia distributes forces throughout the body, reducing strain on individual muscles and joints.

• Movement Facilitation: Healthy fascia allows muscles and tissues to slide over each other efficiently.

• Nutrient and Waste Transport: It aids in cellular communication, supporting hydration and waste removal.

• Injury Prevention: Flexible and resilient fascia can absorb shocks, reducing the risk of injury.

Fascia can become tight, dehydrated, or stiff due to poor posture, lack of exercise, or injury. Common signs of unhealthy fascia include:

• Stiffness or restricted joint flexibility

• Chronic pain or muscle tension

• Poor circulation

• Reduced flexibility

My favourite analogy is a pair of leather gloves that are really nice and comfortable, but you drop one in a puddle and then dry it out on the radiator overnight. The glove has lost its softens and pliability, it becomes dry and tight. To recover the glove, you gently move it and massage it to loosen it up. Movement is the key…

To maintain healthy fascia, consider the following practices:

1. Hydration

Fascia relies on water to remain supple and functional. Drink plenty of water and consume hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables.

2. Movement and Stretching

Regular movement prevents fascia from becoming stiff. Activities like yoga, stretching, and dynamic movements promote flexibility.

3. Proper Posture

Maintaining good posture reduces strain on fascia and prevents unnecessary tightness and stiffness.

4. Strength Training and Functional Exercise

Building muscle strength helps support fascia and prevents excessive strain on joints and tissues.

5. Massage and Bodywork

Techniques like deep tissue massage, or myofascial release therapy can improve fascial health and mobility.

Fascia is an integral part of your body’s structure and function. Keeping it healthy through hydration, movement, and proper care can significantly improve your flexibility, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being. By giving fascia the attention it deserves, you can unlock a greater sense of movement and vitality in your daily life.