Yoga has a way of leading you exactly where you need to be

Martina Ivil • January 6, 2025

There is something about yoga that extends beyond movement and breath. It has a quiet wisdom, a way of leading you - not always where you want to be, but exactly where you need to be.



Starting my yoga journey was one of the most transformative decisions of my life. Like many, I was drawn to yoga for its physical benefits, but as I dived deeper, I realised its power went far beyond the mat.

My training took me to Bali, where I immersed myself in the practice of Hatha and Vinyasa yoga.


Finding My Path in Bali

Bali was the perfect place to begin my yoga teacher training. Surrounded by lush nature, the spiritual energy of the island created an ideal environment for learning and self-discovery. I chose a course that focused on Hatha and Vinyasa yoga, two styles that balance each other beautifully.

• Hatha yoga is the foundation of most modern yoga styles, emphasizing breath, alignment, and holding postures for longer periods. It helped me develop patience, discipline, and a deep awareness of my body.

• Vinyasa yoga is more dynamic, flowing from one posture to the next with the breath. It taught me how to find grace in movement and build strength while maintaining mindfulness.

 

During my training, I spent hours practicing asanas, learning about anatomy, meditation, and yogic philosophy. But what truly changed me was the inner transformation - learning to quiet my mind, trust my intuition, and embrace the present moment.

Discovering Yoga for Children
with ADHD & Autism

Being a mom of neurodiverse children I felt a strong calling to explore yoga beyond adult practice. I had always been passionate about working with children, and I wanted to understand how yoga could support kids with ADHD and autism.

 

This led me to a specialised yoga training course designed for children with neurodiverse needs. I learned how yoga could help improve focus, self-regulation, and emotional well-being in kids who often struggle with traditional learning and movement practices.

 

Some key takeaways from my training:

• Breathwork & mindfulness: Simple breathing techniques help children calm their nervous system and develop self-awareness.

• Adapted yoga poses: Traditional yoga poses were modified to be engaging, playful, and accessible for kids with different abilities.

• Sensory-friendly practices: Using props, music, and storytelling made the sessions more interactive and enjoyable.


Teaching & Sharing Yoga

Bringing yoga to children with ADHD and autism has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. Seeing a child who struggles with anxiety find peace through breathwork or watching a hyperactive child gain focus through movement has reinforced my belief in yoga’s healing power.

 

Yoga is not just about flexibility or strength, it’s about connection - with yourself and with the world around you. Whether in Bali, in a studio, or in a special needs classroom, the essence of yoga remains the same: to bring balance, awareness, and love to every moment.

 

Namaste x

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