The Shifting Landscape of Yoga
Aug 25, 2024
To my fellow Yogis,
The yoga community in Melbourne has always been vibrant. Offering a sanctuary for many to find peace, strength, and community. Yet, recent times have cast a shadow over this once-thriving landscape. The rising cost of living. Coupled with the long-lasting effects of the COVID-19 lockdowns. Has taken a significant toll on many small businesses. Including our beloved yoga studios.
It was with a heavy heart that I learned about the closure of Flex Studios in Ascot Vale last month. This studio, a cornerstone for many local yogis, had been on the market for a considerable amount of time before its inevitable closure. The news hit hard, not just because it was a fabulous studio. But because it represents a broader trend affecting many studios across Melbourne. I'm certain this is not just in Melbourne either. The current economic climate is proving to be too challenging for many. Leading to a wave of closures and unsold businesses.
The Harsh Reality for Yoga Studios
The challenges faced by yoga studios today are multifaceted. Many owners have poured their sweat, blood, and tears into creating spaces that nurture and heal. Yet, the narrow profit margins typical of yoga studios make it difficult to sustain operations. Even with immense dedication and long hours. The financial strain of keeping a studio afloat has become insurmountable for many. Forcing owners to make heartbreaking decisions to close their doors.
The Impact on the Community
The closure of yoga studios doesn't just affect the owners. It ripples through the entire community. With fewer studios available, practitioners now find themselves traveling further. Plus paying more to attend classes. Or having to go to a yoga class at a gym. A totally different experience to a studio. Which can turn many away from group Yoga classes.
This inconvenience can deter many from maintaining a regular practice. Depriving them of the transformative benefits yoga offers.
A New Era of Personal Practice
In light of these changes, there has never been a better or more critical time to develop a personal yoga practice at home. Tailoring a practice that suits your individual needs ensures that you can continue to reap the many benefits of yoga. Regardless of external circumstances. Online courses and private sessions offer a convenient and flexible way to stay committed to your practice. Don't let this change deter you from the tranformative effect of yoga.
How Online Courses Can Help
As a senior yoga teacher. Plus a dedicated student studying to become a yoga therapist. I have witnessed firsthand the power of a personalised yoga practice. My online offerings are designed to help you do just this. You can create a sustainable practice that fits into your life seamlessly.
Heartfelt Acknowledgment to Studio Owners
I want to extend my deepest sympathies to the owners of Flex Studios in Ascot Vale. I worked for them at their studio in Lynbrook. This studios also closed after failure to sell. I was hoping they would have better luck with Ascotvale. They deserved this, at the very least. My sympathies goes also to all the other studio owners who have had to make the tough decision to close down. The dedication and hard work that goes into running a yoga studio often go unnoticed. It is a labor of love. Seeing such efforts end in closure is truly heartbreaking. The financial burdens and emotional toll of these closures are profound. My heart goes out to everyone affected.
Moving Forward
While the landscape of yoga in Melbourne may be changing. Not to mention many other parts of the world. The essence of yoga remains resilient. By embracing personal practice and utilising online resources. We can continue to grow and find solace in our practice. Together, we can navigate these challenging times. Keeping the spirit of yoga alive in our hearts and homes.
For more information on how you can develop a personal yoga practice tailored to your needs. Contact me.
I have an exciting new package coming out in Spring (Souther Hemisphere). Stay Tuned!
Never underestimate the transformative power of yoga!
Liz
