Why I’m stepping away for some exciting learning.
I had my first-ever session with my new strength coach, Gav, this week, and it sparked some serious reflections on movement, yoga, and everything in between.
Gav seemed a bit surprised I was so open to his ideas (apparently, us yoga teachers can get a bit attached). But I get it—I’ve shared some of his concerns myself. I’m always up for fresh perspectives because they push my understanding of yoga, making my teaching stronger and safer.
Cecily guiding us through a session—challenging us to rethink old patterns and explore a more sustainable practice.
In fact, I fell out of love with yoga for a time—largely due to injuries. Discovering Cecily Milne, Founder of Yoga Detour and her evidence-based approach in 2018 changed everything, challenging traditions I’d long held close. Her teachings reignited my passion and helped me shape a practice that’s truly sustainable.
In 2020, after months of online learning, I trained with Cecily in person in Melbourne. Those were transformative days, filled with rich conversations about yoga’s future—just before the world shut down.
Recently, Cecily invited me onto her podcast to talk about how I’ve structured and grown SWY. Reflecting on what we’ve built together here felt like a true full-circle moment with a mentor who has so profoundly shaped my path.
Exciting Training Ahead: Studio Closed for Week 6 (4–8 Nov)
Now, in the spirit of always learning and growing, I’m thrilled to let you know that I’ll be closing the studio for a week to dive into some much-needed, in-person training.
It’s been since early 2020 that I’ve had the chance to learn directly from teachers in person, and although I’ve done some fantastic online courses since then (hello, Jason Crandell!) there’s something about that real-time energy and interaction with like-minded people.
This training will focus on “yoga assists”—an area I feel a bit rusty in but believe can bring so much value to your practice when done thoughtfully and with consent.
After some confronting experiences in the past, I chose to step away from offering assists, but with guidance from some of the country’s best teachers, I’m excited to explore how assists can deepen our practice together.
This amazing crew with whom I trained, all deeply invested in creating a safer yoga practice.
A Challenging Week for Many of Us
Last week, I noticed how challenging it’s been for so many of you, and it reminded me how precious our time together really is.
I’ve witnessed both struggles and resilience—from birthdays filled with bittersweet moments, to a beloved pet's passing, closed roads after an accident, health scares, and some seriously long work hours (hello, 42 hours in a chair!). And sometimes, life’s busyness just means we forget things, too. Like, showing up to class! 😅
As we closed each practice, as I placed towels on your foreheads or gave your feet a gentle squeeze, I sent each of you love and gratitude. We don’t need to fix everything, but we do need to hold space for each other.
The serene beauty of Prana House in Melbourne, where I completed my Yoga Detour training—now filled with memories of growth and learning.
