Being closer to nature and the elements has influenced my practice and teaching profoundly.

My explorations into yoga began in Singapore in 1998. I grew up on the coast in Norfolk, which is a beautiful county in England and all I wanted to do was get out and travel. I began teaching English as a foreign language to be able to have some adventures around the world. One of those was Singapore. I had never heard of yoga before (hard to believe!). I was curious about the Buddhist culture around me and began reading and that was where I found reference to yoga. What began as a casual interest grew until I decided to enrol in a teacher training in 2005.

Like many it was simply a way for me to have a structured way to learn more about yoga. I did not intend to teach! But that’s part of the deal and they ask you to start a class. And so began my journey of teaching yoga - in a small Quakers’ meeting room in Beccles, Suffolk. I am still connected with some of those first students.You can rest assured that I take my work very seriously. All offered in a spirit of playfulness and curiosity. If this planet is to thrive, we all need to thrive too. These practices may just help you do that.

In 2011 my husband and I (along with our beloved dog and two cats) moved to Santa Maria in the Azores. We had a pretty clear intention and motivation: We wanted to try to live more lightly, more simply. We had gone through a lot of emotions around the ecological destruction of the planet and humans’ need for more and more energy.

We are still here in our yurts. We have a beautiful home and welcomed our daughter into the world in 2016.

Being closer to nature and the elements has influenced my practice and teaching profoundly. Becoming a mum brought a whole new appreciation of different ways we can practice, how important it is to ground, and of course all the shades of my shadows. There is nothing quite like being a parent to bring you regular opportunities for reflection and humility!

As a long term practitioner and teacher I have been able to explore the world of yoga and related disciplines to some depth. I feel lucky to be able to share practices that I love and know to be helpful. I like a lot less all the hustle and admin behind the scenes but, hey, that’s life. There is always something to learn and different directions into which we can go. I think one of the greatest gifts this path has given me is a love of learning. Or perhaps it was always there.

You can rest assured that I take my work very seriously. All offered in a spirit of playfulness and curiosity. If this planet is to thrive, we all need to thrive too. These practices may just help you do that.

More ways to practise with Mandy

  • I have been offering yoga online since 2011 and was instantly impressed by the benefit of working this way.

    I offer a range of online Yoga classes and workshops.

    Please check my EVENTS page for what’s coming up.

  • As well as teaching pranayama, yoga breath control techniques, in my yoga offerings, I am also trained in other breathwork disciplines.

    Join my online Breath Body Mind™️ class on Wednesdays 11am Azores time.

    Book Now.

  • Join me for occasional classes, workshops and day retreats in my home base of Santa Maria, Azores.

    Also check my RETREATS for dates.

  • The joy of 1-1 yoga is that it is completely tailored to your physical and emotional needs, as well as your desires for your practice.

    Maybe you have a specific question about the practice? Perhaps you are just beginning your yoga exploration? Or are you seeking to find a way back after an injury or illness?

    For many this is simply the most convenient way to have a regular practice. Whatever your motivation, you will find that practising this way really accelerates your understanding and progress.

    As a registered Senior Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance Professionals UK I also welcome enquiries from yoga teachers that are seeking mentoring support.

    Currently I have a full schedule and am not accepting any new 1-1 clients.

  • Why retreat?

    Being on retreat is a chance to connect with your practice and
    your life more deeply.

    I host small group retreats in places where you can step out of the rhythm of doing and rushing and into being with more ease.

    In places of natural beauty with hosts that are down to earth and love supporting the local economy.

    You can expect lots of practice, wholesome food (all diets welcome), and plenty of time outside.

    Each retreat is different. Some have themes and requirements for attendance, some have periods of silence, so please read the details to find out which ones can support you the best.

Kind Words

“The retreat on Ischia Island, Italy, hosted by Mandy Brinkley, was a truly transformative experience. Mandy proved to be an outstanding teacher, skillfully guiding us through various aspects of yoga, including flow, breathwork, and meditation. The picturesque location added to the serenity of the retreat, making each session a true escape. I left the retreat with a treasure trove of new tools for daily life, and I couldn't recommend it more for anyone seeking a holistic yoga experience in a stunning setting.”

— Marisa M, USA

“Mandy’s teaching is so beautiful. Her love of teaching and her desire to keep learning herself means the retreat experience is always extremely unique and special. I can’t quite express how valuable I find the retreats. They always help me come back to myself & empower me with new knowledge and understanding of the practice.”

— Katie C, UK