Ellie Gray
Ellie completed the Auckland Yoga Academy YA800 Ashtanga teacher training course in January 2025 and also holds a RYT500 Yoga Alliance Certificate. Ellie’s first motivation for signing up for teacher training was to deepen her understanding of Ashtanga yoga to enhance her personal practice. But she soon realised that teaching the benefits of yoga to others had become her primary goal and purpose.
Ellie immersed herself in learning about all aspects of Ashtanga yoga, including philosophy, meditation and pranayama, to embrace it fully as a lifestyle. She wanted to experience its transformative benefits, as well as enhance the physical aspects of her asana practice. But what she also experienced was the joy of connecting to a genuinely caring community of dedicated yoga students, who became her supporters and friends.
Ellie brings this sense of connection to her teaching. Her style is all-inclusive, whether students are absolute beginners, or more experienced. Everyone is welcome to share the benefits of this beautiful practice.
I was drawn to the heritage and tradition of Ashtanga yoga and wanted to learn from Jude and Peter, authentic, experienced teachers, who studied with Sri K Pattabhi Jois. I am learning every day because you never stop learning here at the Academy, whether teaching classes, or practicing Mysore-style, alongside others.
At my graduation ceremony, Peter spoke of the lineage of this yoga practice and the importance of protecting it and passing it on. That was when I knew with complete conviction that teaching others would be the next step for me.
Stepping on to this path as a mature student was made possible for me by Jude, my teacher, guide, friend and mentor.
I look forward to sharing Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga with you too.
Namaste.
Ellie currently teaches at the Auckland Yoga Academy:
