As a Gypsy wanderer, it is important to find somewhere when you move, that sets down an anchor to still the soul and nourish one’s need for community.

9 years ago, I moved to Manly after 10 years being in the bush, and found Manly Yoga to be that place.

The teachers are remarkable. The nurture holds true on any day, and most importantly when the tumult of life’s challenges appear.

I am part of this place and it is part of me.

I’m on board to ride the next phase.  Manly Yoga has a momentum that is about authenticity and honouring the very real ups and downs of this life as we do our best navigating the calm and the storm. Love it!

Hah!  Who would have thought I would ever take up Yoga!  However, following episodes of excruciating back pain due to disc bulges, my GP recommended that I try Yoga.  Thankfully, she understood and respected the merits of preventative methods rather than simply trying to manage the damage and the pain, after the event!

Manly Yoga has changed my outlook in relation to my body and its functions and it’s provided me with a new way of life.  As a very busy school Principal, Manly Yoga has not only relieved the issues pertaining to my physical well-being, but I have learned how to approach life in a more balanced way.  I respect my body and take a little time out from my ridiculously busy schedule to center myself and focus on my sense of self and harmony.  Manly Yoga has given me balance in my life!

Manly Yoga is a very special, relaxed and friendly sanctuary where I go to spend bit of “me time” so that I can bring myself into alignment before or after work.  The teachers are very experienced and knowledgeable and are always available to answer any questions that I have so that I can improve my yoga practices.

The thing I love about Manly Yoga is the variety of classes that enable me to choose the best class to suit me where I’m at, in myself, on a particular day.  I particularly love the Meditation and Yoga Nidra (relaxation) classes that always make me feel very chilled out, which I know my family really appreciates!

I first came through the doors at Manly Yoga in 2009 because I was looking for a space to hold community acupuncture sessions.  The energy of the place when you stepped through the gate was peaceful and sanctuary like.  I began attending the classes and was struck by how quickly this style of yoga dropped me into a place of stillness.  I became aware of the part of me that is always still, always watching.  This has been a revelation for me and has inspired me to delve deeper into yoga’s offerings.

Over the last 8 years Manly Yoga has become a cherished part of my life.  The fabulous sense of community, the inspiring workshops, the joyous practice of singing mantra at the Havan and Kirtan nights, but most importantly, it is the quality of yogic knowledge offered and the high caliber of teachers that command such devotion to this style of yoga and our yoga center.

I entered the Manly Yoga Centre for the first time in 1991 and felt at peace instantly in that beautiful space and was intrigued by the style of yoga that was taught there.  It’s hard to put into words what Manly Yoga came to mean to me and my life, but over the ensuing years, it became immensely important on so many levels.

As an immigrant to Australia, it became my haven, my community, my spiritual home.  What has kept me coming back for more, over so many years, has been the depth of the practices; I love how they both ground me and expand me as a person.  I love how the teachers sprinkle their magic in class, each bringing their own unique flavor.  I love the serenity yet vibrancy of the place, and I love all the people who make this yoga community so special.

Back in 1991 I was very shy and lacked confidence, but getting involved with Manly Yoga changed me over time.  It taught me so much about myself, my capabilities, my limits, and my relationship to other people.  I’m a much braver person today, more open to the world, more aware, and yes, happier in my skin. Manly Yoga Centre made me feel like I belonged somewhere in this world and has taught me to stand on my own two feet, putting to use all the yogic skills I’ve learned.

Much has changed at Manly Yoga over the years, but thankfully the heart of the place remains strong and beating.  So I reckon I’ll keep on coming back for more!

Manly Yoga is an incredibly welcoming and accepting studio for all people of all shapes and sizes.

The teachers are expert, their methods varied and they’re always available to answer any questions or help with postures without making me feel awkward or exposed.

Manly Yoga has positively impacted all areas of my life and I am humbled and proud to be a part of such a generous and loving community.