Tom the Yoga Teacher
I teach Mysore Style Astanga Yoga at Oru Space in East Dulwich, London. When this life enhancing practice is offered in the right spirit, it builds communities. I started building my local Mysore community there in March 2022. I was born in Camberwell and have lived in Southeast London for most of my life. I also run evening Mysore classes at Astanga Yoga London and offer private tuition.
I am authorised to teach the primary and Intermediate series as set out by the Krishna Pattabhi Jois Astanga Yoga Institute (KPJAYI / SYC) in Mysore, India. I have studied there regularly with Paramaguru R Sharath Jois since 2010.
I am not just a teacher of Astanga Yoga. I am, first and foremost , a student of the method. I practice at Astanga Yoga London where I have been taught by Hamish Hendry for almost two decades.. Hamish is a highly qualified and respected Astanga Yoga teacher. He has been a true mentor to me and a major influence on my teaching style.
My path to Mysore and teaching began when I was 38, having worked in restaurant kitchens for most of my adult life. A desire to manage the stresses and strains of such an all consuming career took me to a yoga class in my local gym. Some months later I found my way to Astanga Yoga London (AYL).
AYL is one of very few places in Britain dedicated entirely to teaching Mysore style Astanga Yoga. Being able to help other students reach their potential there is an honour and a pleasure.
Parampara is a sanskrit word meaning “unbroken lineage”. It refers to the traditional way of learning and teaching this practice through direct experience. Knowledge is passed unadulterated from teacher to student through years of dedicated practice together.
It is to my amazing teachers Hamish Hendry and Sharath Jois and to the transformative power of the practice that I dedicate my work with anyone who wants to try Astanga Yoga. Back in my restaurant years the practice helped me find genuine breathing space in a schedule that was anything but 9 to 5. My experience has enabled me to help you work with your other commitments rather than against them. I can help you create a nurturing, sustainable yoga practice that will last a lifetime. If you can make a little space for it to begin with and let it grow naturally, it’s extremely do-able. Some patience and a sense of humour is all you really need!
Follow the link below to find out where you can practice with me…