Boutique Yoga is a renowned yoga studio in Gerringong, Australia, that was established in Canberra in 2006. The founder, Merryn Lee Perez, comes from an education background specialising in physical education, dance, health, music, and fitness. With a deep interest in the profound teachings of yoga, Merryn embarked on a journey to understand the wisdom and peace that lie within us.
Boutique Yoga aims to create a sense of belonging within its community. It offers a sanctuary in a world plagued by dis-ease, providing a space for self-care, nourishment, openness, and safety. Welcoming people from all walks of life, ages, cultures, and experiences, Boutique Yoga strives to cultivate a supportive and inclusive community in today's fractured world.
At Boutique Yoga, the practise of yoga is seen as a tool for freeing ourselves from the entanglement we create in our bodies and minds. The studio emphasises the importance of daily practise, even if it's just a few minutes each day, as a means to sustain and guide us through life's challenges. Through practises that encourage freedom, strength, clarity, and calm, Boutique Yoga helps its students remember that they already possess the wisdom and resources they need within themselves.
While encouraging commitment and dedication to yoga practise, Boutique Yoga also highlights the importance of having fun, leaving behind any competitive urges, and not taking oneself too seriously. The studio believes that a joyful and lighthearted approach to yoga enhances the overall experience for practitioners.
One unique aspect of Boutique Yoga is its commitment to operating as a home-based space. This conscious decision aims to reduce the stress and financial costs associated with operating a commercial venue. By prioritising stress reduction, the management ensures that its teachers can hold space for others compassionately and professionally.
Boutique Yoga recently unveiled its new studio adorned with a magnificent mandala created by Scarlet Barnett, a Bundjaling woman of Palawa descent, trained yoga teacher, and visionary artist. Named Unity, the mandala represents the common ground between First Nations people and the yoga community. It symbolises the wisdom of “one-ness” and our interconnectedness, with the eight petals representing the eight limbs of yoga and the waves and spirals symbolising our connexion to the natural flow of life and ancestral lineage.
The classes at Boutique Yoga cater to different levels and preferences. The Hatha class is a balanced system of physical techniques that purify the body and mind, including mindful movement, basic breath control techniques, relaxation, and meditation. It is ideal for beginners and those seeking a slower-paced practise.
For participants with some yoga experience and a moderate level of physical fitness, the Flow class explores a variety of mindful yogic movements, incorporating elements from Tai-Chi, Qi Gong, dance, and Pilates. Pranayama and relaxation techniques are integrated into this moderately-paced "Vinyasa Flow” style class.
The Full Flow class is similar to the Flow practise but includes a 15-minute relaxation period called savasana after a more vigorous meditational movement flow. Crystal bowl sound therapy is often used during this class to promote a deeper sense of letting go and healing.
Restorative Yoga offers a deeply relaxing and rejuvenating experience, focusing on gentle, supported postures and breath work. It is suitable for practitioners of all levels who seek profound relaxation and revitalisation.
At Boutique Yoga, they understand that everyone's journey is unique, and they aim to support each individual in their practise. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced yogi, Boutique Yoga invites you to join their community and experience the transformative power of yoga. Namaste.