Every time I’ve had the pleasure of attending an event at the Park Hyatt Melbourne, whether it be a weekend retreat, high tea, jazz night, millinery couture evening, oysters & cocktails, or an ultimate dining experience at Radii Restaurant, has expected my expectations. Last Friday’s Yoga On The Deck was no exception.

Rows of yoga mats, towels and Aqua Panna are neatly lined up on the deck of Park Hyatt’s Health Club, located on level 9. Aside from perhaps the beach, I couldn’t think of a more inviting surround for the yoga session.

I’m very much of a beginner when it comes to yoga, so was a little apprehensive at first about whether I could keep up. But instructor Shaan‘s effervescent smile and encouraging instructions were so easy to follow, everyone, from young to old, beginner to advanced, all had an invigorating workout.

What I loved about the hot yoga session is that it not only was such an exhilarating stretch for so many of my muscles, especially those that have been used and abused by inappropriate posturing and heavy-lifting, it also ‘activated’ my internal organs. Who knew that when you create a double chin, you are actually activating your thyroid gland and boosting your metabolism? Or when you lie on your belly with all limbs high up in the air, you are stretching your lower back?

Another life-saving pose Shaan, an ex-accountant, led us through is balancing on one leg. “When you balance on your left leg, the right side of your brain works so hard to keep you upright. These poses help reduce the risks of stroke!” I’ll be telling my folks about this one for sure!

If the incredible yoga session was not enough, we were treated to a delicious and nutritious morning tea prepared by Park Hyatt’s Head Chef Dane Clouston, who is also a bit of a fitness fanatic. I’ve never seen a strawberry as a big as my first before! A vast array of bread, fruits, nuts and yogurt was on offer, complete with smashed avocado, matcha powder and Park Hyatt’s very own rooftop honey! One attendee exclaimed: “I don’t usually eat honey, but this honey is amazing!”

After a refreshing shower, we were each gifted a Technical cashmere Tee from Canadian leisurewear label Kit & Ace on the way out. The morning just got better and better!

Park Hyatt Melbourne will be running Yoga On The Deck (sans breakfast) every Friday morning throughout summer. Each session is $25, but the peace and serenity of doing a workout session without being interrupted constantly by little people, for me, is priceless. Thanks hubby for babysitting so that I can attend!

For more deets about Yoga On The Deck, head over [HERE]. Hope to stretch with you at the next one!