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.
Your classes have given me the peace of mind, clarity and courage to wean myself off my anti-anxiety medication. Thank you so much for your support.
Julia
Thank you so much for a wonderful term! I''ve found the Corporate Yoga sessions so relaxing and look forward to the next term.
Prashanti
The free trial Corporate Yoga class this morning was WONDERFUL, and your customer service is spot on. We look forward to dealing with you.
Kersten, Jones-Davis.
Congrats on your fantastic achievement - you should be immensely proud of yourself & everything you''ve done over the last 10 years.
Deb
I can''t remember a time when I felt so good at the end of the day! Thanks for a wonderful 1-day Retreat.
Becky
2 hours of blissful uninterrupted Yin yoga today....feeling bendy, fantastic and ready to tackle what will be a very BIG week. It was intense but in a fabulous ''I really need more of this'' way. If you are near Lane Cove go and check out one of these awesome classes. Sooooooo good!
Tanya
Don''t ever feel that your efforts are not appreciated - you positively influence more people than you can imagine!
Jayne
I have greatly enjoyed two Beginner/Gentle courses this winter, first with Deb then with Tory. A big step for me as a gym and running enthusiast who once thought Yoga wouldn’t mix with “real” exercise. But it’s opened up an entirely new way of perceiving my body and my life.
All the sessions have been intense and really quite moving: if I’m quiet during and after the sessions it’s because it’s very affecting and not because I’m bored!
(name withheld)
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
I have a tendency to just think I''m doing okay and I''ll get through the week .......then I take part in that amazing 2 hour Restorative workshop and am reminded of how much I needed to get back on the mat. It''s so good - and so is the sleep that follows. Thanks, see you soon xx
Tanya