Our yoga practice is at the heart of everything we do, rooted in science & shared with joy
The fundamental ethos of Bristol School of Yoga is shaped by Laura’s extensive experience of inquiry, experimentation and adaptation. We respect the genius of the original yogis as a way to enhance our understanding of body and mind through contemporary science.
At Bristol School of Yoga, we believe that the realm of yoga is infinite, one where there is space for staying true to the integrity of the tradition, while simultaneously exploring what neurology, functional training, health research and sports science can reveal to us about the physical and subtle nature of the human condition.
Every class and every program is intelligently and creatively structured, inviting students and teachers to explore this multi-layered approach by guiding them towards an embodied understanding while cultivating a discerning mind.
We share current thinking in strength science, pain science, neurology, as well as the benefits of integrating functional movement patterns and active mobility to asana practice. While offering a perspective on how these practices are relevant for yogis, the influence on the “subtle body” and discovering the “self”.
Our methodology incorporates:
Classical asana practice
Strength practices from functional training & active mobility
Culturally sensitive appreciation and awareness of tradition
Internal arts of meditation, mindfulness and contemplation
The latest evidence–based research on psychology, neurology, physiology, strength & pain science
Adaptable practices for trauma-sensitivity
Role of fascia in how we experience stillness, movement and breath
Ancient systems of the subtle body, the chakras, vayus, koshas
Neurological and psychological effects of yoga on mental health
An applied anatomical understanding of the practice & of biomechanics
Our school’s mission is to always provide exceptional education that changes lives
We pride ourselves on creating a supportive environment, whether in-person or online, where our trainees can immerse themselves in the richness of each program, develop an in-depth understanding and robust skillset, while building confidence in their skills and finding their voice as teachers.
Trainees often describe our courses as life changing and transformational, which is further evidenced by the fact that we have a 98.4% completion rate, while 99% of our trainees are teaching within three months of completion. Many return to continue their education by pursuing the ongoing opportunities we are always looking to create to stimulate our understanding of yoga at the physical and subtle level.
Every course is led by seasoned tutors who bring a wealth of experience and inspired understanding, both in terms of the specialisms they share and their personalised approach to helping every individual find their way through.
Train with us and you can expect:
A sensitive, kind, non-judgemental and non-competitive learning environment
Personal support to help you manage your workload
A celebratory approach to difference where individual expression is encouraged
A person-centred structure accommodating the changing energetics of our trainees
Inspiration, guidance and detailed feedback on class plans
A down-to-earth take on yoga philosophy, translated into modern contexts
Encouragement to develop a critical and inquiring mind
An embodied understanding of everything from functional anatomy to the chakras and the vayus
Our teachers and team bring a personalised approach, a wealth of experience and inspired understanding
Laura Gilmore
School Director & Yoga Teacher Trainer
Charlie Musgrove
Training Co-ordinator & Yoga Teacher Trainer
Florence Quick
Studio Manager
Ashley Russell
Yoga Teacher Trainer
Kitty Billings
Yoga Teacher Trainer
Hear from our graduates
“Laura and Lizzie were a fab team. Laura is exceptional at holding the space and being with everyone in the room and shared her knowledge and wisdom generously. Lizzie is completely of service for everyone; generous, fun and humbling to be around. I love that nothing was significant or heavy, and nothing was ignored. Everyone's concerns, questions, comments were completely heard.”
Sarah
“I cannot thank the Laura and the team at the Bristol School of Yoga enough for everything that they have done throughout our 200 hour Hatha yoga teacher training course. I cannot imagine a more wonderful way to transition from yoga student to yoga teacher – even though the student part never stops!”
Jake
“Thank you so much for such a humble delivery and explaining these teachings in such a well-rounded and easily accessible view point. Shining some light on the more mystical magical experiences of practice and empowering them with language and explanation.”
Imogen
“I’ve loved every minute of the Yoga Teacher Training course. The process has been as much about personal growth as it has been about learning to teach yoga so I feel like every area of my life has benefited.”
Jen
“Thanks for helping to stagger the course in a way that really aids confidence, I've felt so supported and rarely out of my depth. A healthy dose of challenge and pushing my own comfort zone. I feel the course has been structured and held in a really sensitive and thoughtful way.”
Marianne
“Bristol School of Yoga helped me find my voice. I always loved yoga, but I never thought I would have the confidence to share yoga with others. When completing the Hatha 200hr YTT I found it transformational. From day one to the very last goodbye I felt incredibly lucky to be surrounded by such a wonderful group of fellow students and teachers. Laura, Ashley, and all the other teachers at BSY are all so unbelievably knowledgeable I was always left feeling amazed and fulfilled after every module. I always felt at ease and my confidence grew more and more with their guidance and support. It was such a lovely experience to be able to share openly and learn in a judgment free environment.”
Lisa