A place for peace at Native Yoga Studio

Natalie Williams has just opened Native Yoga Studio amid tranquil surroundings in Torquay.

Native Yoga Studio has just opened in Torquay, offering a unique and tranquil experience for yogis of all levels.

Set in a barn-inspired space on an acreage surrounded by gum trees, the studio is owned and directed by Natalie Williams, a Torquay local who has been practising yoga for more than 10 years.

She said she was inspired to take up yoga as a profession as a way of “getting away from the corporate life”.

“I was in management and marketing before I did my teacher training – so it was more for work-life balance, helping people, and for myself as well.

“I suffered severe burnout last year after COVID and motherhood got the better of me. I ended up looking after myself better with my own yoga and meditation practices after many years of neglect I started getting better.

“That’s why I think it’s important for people to have the opportunity to also come and practice, as I know many people feel the same way.”

A highlight of her journey has been travelling to the United States to complete a 500-hour Strala Yoga training course in New York.

“That was amazing; I had the best time,” Williams said.

“It was really nice to connect with people from all around the world as well.”

The barn-style studio on Williams’ own property offers a variety of yoga classes, including Gentle Flow, Energise Flow, Yin, and Relax & Restore.

Williams dreamed of opening her own studio and still found it very surreal she could share her passion for helping others find peace and relaxation through practice.

“I’ve wanted to have my own yoga space for a long time. It almost happened before COVID, but it turned out that wasn’t the right time,” she said.

“When we were building a barn on our block, it sort of just happened. It wasn’t really built to be a yoga studio, we just built a space which was originally going to be for ourselves, but it turned out so nice that I thought ‘This could be a nice place to practice yoga’.”

Classes are small and intimate, allowing students to connect with their breath and their bodies in a safe and supportive environment, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi.

Surrounded by nature, views of the surrounding bushland and the sound of the birdsong, the studio is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with yourself.

Native Yoga Studio held its first classes less than a fortnight ago.

“The opening was really great, lots of locals have come through the door,” Williams said.

“There’s been lots of people coming via word of mouth and connecting through Instagram; it’s great, lots of different people I didn’t know before.

“From the feedback that I’ve gotten, it’s a really calming, really natural space, because we are out of the centre of Torquay; it’s very serene.

“I just want people to know that when they come, they have a small community where they can practise in a safe space, there’s no pressure, no judgement, nothing about people’s previous experience – they can have their own experience.”

As well as classes, Williams offers private sessions and will host specialised workshops such as Guided Meditation and Sound, and full-day yoga retreats.

Native Yoga Studio is also home to Native Retreat Torquay, an Airbnb property that offers short-term rentals and is the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate.

The retreat is located next door to the studio and is also used for yoga day retreats, making it an idyllic wellness destination. Native Retreat Torquay sleeps up to four and features a private outdoor bath, fire pit, and plenty of space to relax in nature.

The venue is on offer to fellow wellbeing practitioners interested in collaborating or leasing the space for special events – contact Native Yoga Studio for more details.

Williams also has a special offer for readers:

For 50% off group classes, use the code TNG50C

For 20% off workshops, use the code TNG20W

Native Yoga Studio is at 29 Libra Lane (rear building), Torquay.

Book your class at nativeyogastudio.com.au or follow them on Instagram @nativeyogastudio for the latest news.

Photos: Leslie Carvitto Photography