Yoga is more than just a physical practice - it is a philosophy of life that has been shaped by many inspiring women. From Indra Devi, the first female yoga teacher, to modern power women in the yoga scene, women have not only revolutionized yoga, but also changed the world. In this blog post, on the occasion of the upcoming International Women's Day, we would like to give these inspiring women in yoga a voice.
The following blog post covers these topics:
- Historical Pioneers of Yoga
- Internationally renowned yoga teachers
- Inspiring Women of the Yoga Scene in the DACH Region
- Women shape the future of yoga
- Recommendations: Books, podcasts and documentaries about inspiring women in yoga
Historical Pioneers of Yoga
1. Indra Devi
Indra Devi was the first Western woman to be initiated into the traditional practice by Krishnamacharya, one of the greatest yoga masters of the 20th century. She brought yoga to the West, particularly the United States, and popularized it there by adapting it to Western needs. Her work helped make yoga accessible worldwide.
2. Geeta Iyengar
Geeta Iyengar, daughter of the famous BKS Iyengar, recognized that the female body has different needs than the male. She developed special yoga practices for women - adapted to the cycle, pregnancy and menopause. Her book "Yoga: A Gem for Women" is still a standard work for women who want to adapt their practice to their physical needs.
3. Lilias Folan
Lilias Folan is considered one of the first women to bring yoga into American living rooms via television. Her TV show "Lilias, Yoga and You" (1970s) made yoga accessible and understandable to millions of women. She emphasized the healing and therapeutic effects of the practice.
Internationally renowned yoga teachers
4. Shiva Rea
Shiva Rea is one of the most famous modern yoga teachers. She developed the concept of "Prana Flow Yoga", a dynamic form of Vinyasa Yoga that emphasizes the energy flow in the body. With her international presence, she has inspired millions of people.
5. Seane Corn
Seane Corn is not only a yoga teacher, but also an activist. She combines yoga with social movements and campaigns for women's rights, environmental protection and social justice. Her work shows that yoga goes far beyond the mat.
6. Adriene Mishler
With her YouTube channel "Yoga with Adriene," Adriene Mishler has inspired millions of people around the world to practice yoga. Her personable and authentic style has helped make yoga easily accessible - regardless of age, gender or fitness level.
Inspiring Women of the Yoga Scene in the DACH Region
7. Anna Trökes
Anna Trökes is one of the best-known German yoga teachers and authors. She has been teaching yoga for over 40 years and has written numerous books on the subject. Her focus is on the connection between yoga and science.
8. Patricia Thielemann
The founder of “Spirit Yoga” is a central figure in the German-speaking yoga scene. Patricia Thielemann has created a yoga practice that is both physically and spiritually oriented and inspires numerous people.
9. Mady Morrison
Mady Morrison is one of the best-known German yoga teachers and YouTubers. With her professionally designed and easy-to-understand yoga videos, she has reached millions of people in German-speaking countries. She makes yoga accessible to beginners and teaches the practice in a modern and motivating way. Her focus is on holistic movement, mental health and a relaxed approach to yoga.
Women shape the future of yoga
These nine women have had a lasting impact on the yoga world - whether by spreading yoga in Western countries, developing new yoga styles or connecting yoga with social issues. They show that yoga is a powerful tool for bringing body, mind and soul into harmony.
Recommendations: Books, podcasts and documentaries about inspiring women in yoga
If you want to learn more about the fascinating world of inspiring women in yoga, we have some recommendations for you:
books
- Yoga for You by Indra Devi: This book offers a comprehensive insight into the practice of yoga and shows how yoga can contribute to a healthier and happier life.
- Yoga: A Gem for Women by Geeta Iyengar: a standard work for women who want to adapt their practice to their physical needs.
podcasts
- · Yoga Beyond the Asana: Wanda Badwal, a well-known German yoga and meditation teacher, offers insights into topics related to yoga, spirituality and personal development in her podcast. Available onApple Podcasts .
- · Let's Talk Yoga: Nora Kersten, yoga teacher and mother, talks about different aspects of yoga in her podcast and shares her experiences and insights. Available on Spotify .
documentary
- · Yogawoman: This groundbreaking documentary shows how women around the world have transformed the practice of yoga. The film highlights the stories of inspiring female yoga teachers and their influence on the modern yoga world. For more information and streaming options, visit the official website. yogawoman.tv
