When most people think of yoga, they picture fancy poses, stretchy pants, and breathing exercises. But the real magic of yoga happens off the mat – in those everyday moments when you’re not trying to master your downward dog.

I stumbled into yoga at a tiny studio in North Bondi, feeling pretty down, medicated, and thinking life was just how it was going to be.

But after one class, something clicked. It wasn’t about the abs I thought I wanted – it was the way yoga made me feel. And that’s what kept me coming back.

At its core, yoga teaches us about unity – connecting with the present moment and realising that, deep down, we’re all connected.

The more you practice presence, the more you shift from fear to love.

And who couldn’t use more love and less stress in their life?

Off the Mat, On with Life

Practical Tips for Living Your Yoga

Morning Ritual:
Whether it’s five minutes of meditation or an hour of stretching, starting your day by checking in with yourself sets a positive tone and keeps you from running into the day like a crazy person.

Connected Conversations:
Put your phone down when talking to friends. It’s a simple way to actually be present and deepen relationships. Trust me, they’ll appreciate it.

Slow & Low Breathing:
Set an alarm a few times a day to take deep, slow breaths into the belly. This is scientifically proven to downregulate your nervous system and helps you move out of stress and into relaxation.

Grace Under Pressure:
When stress hits, take a breath and remember your real yoga: forcing things only makes you rigid (like when you’re in that two minute hold of Warrior II)

Surrender the need for control and ask, “What’s the best way to handle this?” It’s the art of letting go.

Yoga is more than abs and handstands – it’s a tool to live a more present, peaceful life on and off the mat.