Our Story
Back in 2005, I was demonstrating Yoga on stage as part of a large Fitness Convention held in Darling Harbour. I’d spotted a former Fitness Industry colleague and Lane Cove legend; Brenda McCartney, out there in the audience.
We made eye contact, and connected to chat after the session.
Brenda: “What are you doing with yourself?”
Me: “I’ve been teaching Yoga for 3 years, and am looking to start my own Yoga studio. What about you?”
Brenda: “I run a small Yoga school in Lane Cove and am currently looking to sell it. We should talk.”
The rest is history.
I bought her database, rebranded it as YOGABOWL - and I was off and running.
My strategy was always wanting to bring safe, do-able Yoga classes to real people like you. Like me. Like us.
I knew how to teach Yoga, though had NOT A CLUE about business, on any level. I kind of expected things would somehow just fall info place.
If I’d have been offered a look into the crystal ball back then, I’d honestly have been really surprised at how things would turn out.
How hard I’d have to work. Running a small business is like a brand new baby. It always needs attention, is a constant worry, and costs a lot of money and stress when you can’t be around to care for it.
Another part I wasn’t expecting was the warmth that the local Lane Cove Community offered me. I was made to feel at home, and really supported from day one.
Many of you have been with me from the start and are still going strong.
You wonderful souls know who you are, though may not know how grateful I am for you.
I was thrilled to celebrate Yogabowl’s 10th Birthday in October 2015.
We’ve survived the “small business curse”, and a GFC.
More importantly, we’ve formed a wonderful local community of like-minded souls who care - about their wellbeing, their community, and about making the world a better place.
In October 2016, we happily relocated Yogabowl literally next door, to (upstairs, in) Lane Cove Tennis Club. With windows and trees all around us, the fresh new space brings a wonderful renewed energy and feel to our Yoga space. We look forward to welcoming you there soon.
I have to say, you have been a godsend for me since i moved to Sydney. thanks to your yoga classes, and the lovely way you present to us all.
Christal
So glad we have you in our lives, Mitch - you do wonderful things for the earth and the people in it x
Susan
Congrats on your fantastic achievement - you should be immensely proud of yourself & everything you''ve done over the last 10 years.
Deb
I finally touched my toes for the very first time in class yesterday - Wow :)
Sherina
Thanks for an absolutely sensational class this morning- actually the vibe was so "chatty" before we began and then afterwards, no-one spoke .. just went about their business and when we/anyone round me did speak, it was like about how relaxed they/I felt.. So thank you. It was so nice.
Saira
I think you''re a wonderful teacher Mitch, with a very special way of connecting with your students. To have your support and encouragement with my Yoga Teacher Training, is something I''m really grateful for.
Jo
Thank you for looking after us and sharing your knowledge with us so generously in your workshops.
Viktoriya
The Beginner course with Jo was particularly good. I enjoyed the way that it progressed. Although, it was aimed at beginners, I found the poses sufficiently challenging and the environment encouraging and supportive. After each week I had an extraordinary feeling of wellbeing and peace that I was able to carry with me into the following days. I have attended yoga classes in the past but had never really derived such a sense of satisfaction with the practice before.
Terry
Whenever I come back to your classes I know why I''m meant to be there. It so centres me!
Janine
I used to have this permanent twinge in my back. Since I started doing your yoga classes it’s virtually disappeared. I''m enjoying the yoga classes and really feel the benefit of going on a regular basis.
Pat