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.
Thanks so much for all that you do for us in class.
We are indeed fortunate.
Elizabeth
As a former yoga student of Mitch, all I can say is that she sets the standard for every yoga teacher I have been looking for since. I had the honour of being her student for a little over a year - though having relocated recently, no teacher has come remotely close.
She has ruined me for the better and my body misses her classes. :)
She is so kind and patient and encouraging for any student looking to learn yoga; yet she knows just how much to push you to go that little bit further. Her intuitive teaching style and attentive eye, makes you feel like you are having a one on one class with her, never mind the fact that there might be 20 other people in the room.
Every yoga student should have a teacher like Mitch at least once in their lifetime. If I was back down in Sydney, I''d be at her classes every weekend in Lane Cove. If I had the authority in my workplace, I''d have Mitch giving my co-workers a lunchtime yoga class (but I don''t).
In a world of increased sedentary lifestyles and employment, yoga is necessary for good health. If you have always wanted to learn yoga, go to Mitch. I''m not kidding.
Christine
So glad we have you in our lives, Mitch - you do wonderful things for the earth and the people in it x
Susan
You and your cleverly disarming playlists, sheesh :)
Inge
I would just like to thank Mitch for Gentle on Tuesday morning. The ribs, isolators and concert music (well that''s what I''m calling the session!) made yesterday''s class possibly THE BEST YOGA CLASS I have ever attended. Thank you!! Because all parents need a holiday after the holidays.
Dee
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
2 hours of pure restorative magic. Mitch, yr a magic woman.
Stella
Love my workplace yoga and remind myself (and friends) how privileged we are to have such a great instructor.
Elizabeth
Restorative Yoga is nothing short of totally transformational!
The gentle, nurturing nature of this event, enriched by, the care you and Mary provided, made for a very welcome and utterly relaxing couple of hours ... with on going benefits of calmness and relaxation.
The barbed wire in my brain has been transformed into the softest velvet. I haven''t felt so relaxed and peaceful in a very long time.
Diane
Thanks for great GENTLE classes on Saturday mornings. I appreciate the sensitivity and lightness to your class style.
Elise