Ashtanga Yoga Shala Sunnybank Studio

My wife and I have been Richard’s students at the Ashtanga Yoga Shala for few years now, and meeting Richard has been one of the greatest things to have happened in our lives. Richard’s approach to yoga will possibly be the most sought after (knowingly or unknowingly) by genuine seekers in this realm, and therefore, those in Brisbane must be among the most fortunate on the planet to have access to a guru such as Richard. His approach and intention towards yoga are unblemished and divine. During the primary series and then in the Mysore classes, Richard helps us make progress with whatever we can offer/come with. He’s always there for us, with us, tailoring the practice to our abilities. As he often says, there is yoga for everyone. For anyone who’s considering joining the school, take a plunge and try it for a few months; it will take very good care of you. I have a full-time job and go to Richard’s classes at least a few times a week. I was apprehensive about whether I could fit them into my work week, but it only got easier and better with time. Such is the impact of yoga perhaps. The two centres, North and South of the river, are quite convenient and easily accessible. I cannot recommend the Ashtanga Yoga Shala enough. A teacher and a school like this are not something we come across often.

I’ve been practicing yoga with Richard for over 13 years, and his teaching has been a consistent and grounding part of my life. His deep knowledge of Ashtanga and Hatha yoga, combined with his calm presence and clear instructions, make every class accessible yet challenging in the best way. One of the most significant benefits I’ve experienced through Richard’s guidance is relief from persistent lower back issues. His attention to alignment and thoughtful sequencing has made a lasting difference in my overall well-being. Whether you’re new to yoga or have years of practice behind you, Richard creates a supportive environment that meets you where you are. I’m incredibly grateful for the impact his teaching has had on my health and practice. Barbara

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Richard’s Ashtanga yoga class at Sunnybank is incredible! He’s knowledgeable, supportive, and creates the perfect balance of challenge and calm. I’ve gained strength, flexibility, and focus, and always leave feeling lighter and more centered. Highly recommend to anyone wanting a truly transformative yoga experience.

To rate and review a teacher of this knowledge and depth does not do justice to the skill and decades and decades of experience he brings to the sadhana of Yoga. But we are bound by words and technology, and hence I can only try to somehow share my experience. I have learnt the Classical Dance form of Bharatanatyam at a very senior level as a serious practitioner too for many years in my prior career. Hence I do have an idea what ‘sadhana’ or spiritual practice means and what experience is required by teachers in ancient arts to impart the skill in the student. However, I have not yet come across a teacher of this depth of not only the knowledge of the skill to be taught, but also the holistic knowledge of the lifestyle to be followed around the skill. Richards training in Ayurveda, Chinese Medicine, Naturopathy and Ashtanga Yoga really makes for a valuable package for the serious Sadhak (practitioner) of this ancient path of Yoga. Not only that, I am yet to come across a teacher of this level who also walks the talk of what a Guru actually should be like- humble, walking the talk, upholding dharma, and a genuine desire for the students progress and may I say salvation! Hence, going many steps beyond being a teacher too. If you wish to truly understand what Yoga is - there can be no better place, where so much effort is taken to uphold dharma and give us an unbroken tradition- from the Rishis to us in the 21st century, via Richard. This is not a physical practice only- it is a great super science of humanity- the path of Yoga, and I consider us, his disciples to be blessed to get to learn it in such an authentic way!

I would like to share my experience so that you don't miss out on a really good thing. You are very safe in this class. Richard attentively sees how you are and how you move, and tailors the yoga towards your abilities, whether you need a gentle yoga practice or a physically challenging experience. I love the beautiful garden outside, the wooden floor, the (optional) chanting before class and the challenge of the poses. For me, it has been a very calming experience. You are in good hands with Ashtanga Yoga Shala. Richard's commitment to learning & sharing the practice is very evident from his depth of knowledge, attentiveness and skill in adapting the postures, breathing techniques and other yoga strategies. I appreciate the benefits of yoga practice and hope you may enjoy it too.