Building a connection between like-minded individuals is something we’re passionate about at our yoga studios. “Kula” means community in the ancient and sacred language of Sanskrit. Not only do we provide yoga classes for locals from the Hawthorn and Hampton areas, we also offer them with a community space where people can connect, share and grow. Along with our students, our teachers are the backbone of our community. They come from a range of areas, backgrounds and experiences, each keen to sweat, play, learn and help you reach your health and fitness goals.
At Kula not only do we share our love of yoga, but our passion for guiding our students towards a healthier, happier lifestyle. Each of our teachers have their own journey to yoga; we wanted to share their stories with you.
1. When was your first yoga class and why did you start practicing?
I attended my first yoga class with my Dad at the age of 17. I had a lot of self-doubt at the time and unsure of my path. I quickly became addicted to the rush of euphoria and tranquillity. The mat became my happy place and yoga guided me back to my roots and true authentic self.
2. What other sports, fitness or activities to you enjoy outside of the yoga studio?
I love to balance my yoga practice with 2-3 gym sessions a week. I walk the dog almost every day and occasionally sign up to half marathons.
3. What do you love about teaching at Kula Yoga Hawthorn/Hampton?
I attended my first hot yoga class at Kula when it had just opened. I was a student for many years before becoming a Kula Yoga Teacher. I absolutely love waking up at 4.45am knowing that I am going to walk into a beautiful space and be joined by the Kula Tribe. The familiar faces makes it such a welcoming space and it feels like a second home. I also am obsessed with the sliding doors at both studios, who isn’t?
I am addicted to teaching hot. The combination of a slow pace and heat allows the body to go deeper. I love watching students from start to finish and how their bodies adapt.
4. Tell us about the styles of yoga that you love to teach and practice most.
I am addicted to teaching hot. The combination of a slow pace and heat allows the body to go deeper. I love watching students from start to finish and how their bodies adapt. There is also something tranquil in savasana after a hot yoga practice. When I am not teaching you’ll likely see me in a hot or yin class.
5. What is your favourite yoga pose?
Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog)
6. What is one thing your yoga students don’t know about you?
If my partner (Zoot) didn’t hide the chocolate, I would have at least one piece of chocolate every day 🙂 Pedicures are also my weakness!
7. When you’re not in the studio, where are your favourite hangouts in Boroondara or Bayside area?
In Bayside, Cabin, District Brewer, or Bayside coastal walk. In Boroondara, Porgie Mr Jones, Not Just a Pretty Face, or Short Straw.
About Lara:
Lara began practicing yoga nine years ago. She became instantly addicted to the rush of euphoria and tranquility. Yoga brings our her true authentic self and is what she believes to have moulded the person she is today. After many years of practicing and falling in love with yoga, Lara completed her certified 200hr yoga teacher training in Bali with Zuna Yoga, so that she too could let other in on the magic. Lara is passionate about the bodies alignment, mindfulness and self-love. Through her education and knowledge in Psychology, Anatomy, Yoga/Meditation and Goal Coaching, Lara takes you through a practice that connects the mind and body leaving you feeling full of life and open to the unknown. “When we love, we always strive to become better than we are. When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.” ~ Paulo Coelho
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Detoxify & energise with Hot Yoga. Tone & sculpt with Power Flow. Strengthen & stretch with Basics and Slow Flow. Relax & mobilise with Yin Yoga at our beautiful studios in Hawthorn & Hampton, Melbourne. Our studios also host regular workshops, Victorian and overseas retreats to exotic places like Bali, Thailand & India, as well as a mobile yoga service for community, school and corporate groups.
Our Hampton studio has now opened our classes up to the Bayside area including surrounding suburbs such as Sandringham, Brighton, Black Rock, Highett and Beaumaris. Enjoy modern facilities, expert teachers and a range of complementary wellness services for optimal health.
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