Hallo – welcome to Therapeutic Yoga Illawarra. I teach in the Illawarra in NSW both at my private studio where I offer small group classes, yoga therapy programs and see clients 1:1. I also provide in-home visits. I’m qualified as both a Yoga Teacher (Diploma – 500 hours) and a Yoga Therapist (Graduate Cert – 690 hours).

My teaching journey:
It took me nearly 30 years of practice (Iyengar, Ashtanga and Vinyasa Flow) before I felt I was ready to undertake formal yoga teaching qualifications (500 hour Diploma) in 2020. Importantly I had landed on the lineage I wanted to train in: that of TKV Desikachar (the son of Krishnamacharya; the father of modern yoga). I’m drawn to this lineage as it’s core focus is therapeutic. We’re encouraged to tailor practice for each individual’s needs, interests and goals. “A work in, not a work out” as they say. I continue my studies in this lineage through Gary Kraftsow (American Viniyoga); other senior teachers such as the Mohan family and Amy Wheeler (Optimal State). I then added Yoga Therapy in 2022.

My profession development continues – be it additional mental health insights and skills, deepening trauma-informed approaches, supporting people living with specific issues (e.g. chronic pain, lower back pain, arthritis) taking a yogic lens to working with the fascia, chanting, or insights to the philosophical texts with Yoga Therapy Australia’s annual program.

My teaching style:
I love to teach both private 1:1 sessions and small classes; especially at my quiet and light studio in Thirroul, NSW where classes suit between 1 and 8 students. Here I’m able to provide individual attention and support, recognising and working to peoples’ histories, goals and individual personal experiences.

Clients who see me for yoga therapy usually have a specific issue that they’d like to work on.
Others come for a personal practice, and others love the community of a general group class. There’s home for everyone here.

A key aspect of my teaching (and as a mature teacher myself) is supporting healthy ageing and working where we are at today.
Classes are designed to help students work towards greater agility, improving balance, flexibility and strength. An important part of the practice is equanimity so classes are designed with both physical and psychological goals. Most students are 50 plus. Some come new in their 60s or 70s. Plenty of options available including multiple uses of a chair, props or wall.

As well as studio work and visiting clients in their own homes, I have taught with fellowship groups, for the charity Frontline Yoga, chair classes for seniors and those preparing for or recovering from surgery, and have retreat experience.

All classes include focussed attentive breath work. My teaching style would be classed as Viniyoga – broadly Hatha. Group classes include a mix of breath-centred dynamic vinyasa flows and static asanas, with pranayama and savasana to complete. And often some discussion. Themes change monthly depending on, adapting for, and responding to, the students needs, interests, and goals (on all levels).

Those coming for yoga therapy will have a 1.5 hour initial session. The structure of their sessions vary considerably. For more details feel free to contact me or see the website.

In essence I teach a “work in” not a “work out” so classes suit those with no yoga experience as well as those with years of practice. You’ll get a good stretch (if that’s what you’re after) and flex affecting body, breath and mind.

Some student and client feedback that may better tell the story:

“Really liked the breath cues. I’ve never been guided like that – thank you”
“That was a beautiful practice. I feel so calm now. Thank you”
“As a person with challenging chronic pain I have found Hazel to be empathetic and adaptable in mutually developing a program of yoga exercises and related practices. In particular her practices around breathing and relaxation are very helpful [for me]. I’d have no hesitation on recommending Hazel to assist people with complex pain conditions” (yoga therapy client – now comes to general class)
“Really interesting class. Your wording and the way you guide us is great. Especially for beginners /less experienced guests. Then you weaving in the philosophy throughout. Thank you”
“Wow in all the years I’ve done yoga, I’ve never explored putting my foot like that. Really changes things. Feel more stable and takes away the pain sensations”
“Wanted to thank you for today. Felt wretched when I arrived and nearly human when I left. For me, whatever you do restores confidence that I can bring things under control. Thats a pretty good skill and pretty rare.”
“I loved how I was able to engage with my breath”

And this is me….http://www.therapeuticyogaillawarra.com.au