My journey with yoga began in 1995 when my mum sent me a yoga video while I was working as a croupier in New Zealand. As I practiced, I noticed a profound transformation—not just in my flexibility, balance, and strength, but in my overall sense of being. A new light had been ignited, a passion discovered.

In 1998, work took me to the Seychelles, where I became a student of Dr. Henry Naiken, deepening my awareness through yoga, one-on-one Tai Chi lessons, and Qigong sessions. This period of exploration expanded my understanding of movement, breath, and presence.

Seeking to learn more, I completed the British Wheel of Yoga Foundation Course in 2000 under the guidance of Vedantananda (Veronica Burningham). It was through her that I discovered the teachings of Swami Satyananda Saraswati—a lineage that resonated deeply with me and became the foundation of my own practice and teaching. Over the years, I absorbed as much as I could, attending workshops and retreats with inspiring ‘Satyananda’ yoga teachers, including Swami Pragyamurti, Swami Vedantananda, Swami Satyaprakash, and Swami Nischalananda.

In 2002, I returned to working overseas, and it was during this time that I found myself naturally sharing my practice with curious colleagues. What started as informal guidance soon turned into my first experiences teaching yoga—an endeavour that was both nerve-wracking and deeply rewarding.

By 2005, I was ready to fully commit to this path. I returned home and was accepted into the Teacher Training Course at Mandala Yoga Ashram in Wales, studying under the profound wisdom of Swami Nischalananda Saraswati. This rigorous two-year course, accredited by the British Wheel of Yoga, further solidified my dedication to sharing yoga with others.

In 2006, I began teaching extensively around West Leeds, and by 2012, with a growing and supportive community of students, I found the confidence to open my own studio—Om Yoga Works. Initially, Bridget Rowan joined me in establishing the space, and although she later moved away, Om Yoga Works continued to evolve.

Today, I am grateful to share the studio with other wonderful teachers who bring their own passions, while also helping to sustain this sacred space.

Community has always been at the heart of Om Yoga Works. Together, Om teachers raise funds to support Oms Foundation which pays for a  free weekly community class, along with other accessible offerings, ensuring that yoga remains available to all who seek it.

I was honoured to receive the spiritual name Vigyana from Swami Nischalananda—a name meaning Insight.

It serves as a reminder to remain open, always, to deeper understanding and awareness.

This name inspires me to be a lifelong student. There is way too much to learn in this short life but I keep trying 😉

I am passionate about sharing all I learn with my students so that together we can be the best version of ourselves and live a happy, healthy and useful life whilst remaining curiously curious.