From a 15-year NHS career to a 200-hour yoga teacher training and a recovery from brain surgery — my own path is what shapes the way I teach.
I've worked in the NHS for over 15 years. I have a degree in Business Management and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), both completed while working full-time. I'm currently studying an MSc in Psychology and Mental Health & Wellbeing.
My yoga journey started 16 years ago, and it changed the course of my life — not just physically, but in how I understand calmness, resilience and recovery.
After suffering from insomnia and bouts of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, I found a 6-week Ashtanga yoga class. It was hard to begin with, but by the end I felt rejuvenated — and slept well for the first time in years.
I continued exploring different styles — Hatha, Rocket and Yin yoga, as well as hot yoga three times a week — alongside swimming as part of my exercise routine.
I once suffered from a weak knee and wrists, which grew stronger through yoga. I also live with hypertension, which I manage with medication and breathing exercises — pranayama, Kapalbhati, Ujjayi and Bhastrika.
I completed my 200-hour yoga teacher training course with Yogahaven in Birmingham, qualifying as a yoga teacher.
Shortly after graduating, I had an aneurysm and underwent brain surgery to repair a broken blood vessel, which kept me from practising and teaching for nine months. After that recuperation, I returned to yoga to rebuild both body and mind.
I hold additional certificates in Yin Yoga and Yoga Nidra, and I teach beginners through to advanced practitioners — men and women, in groups and one to ones — always shaping my style to who is in front of me.
“No two sessions are the same. I believe in giving practitioners a challenge — keeping classes interesting, with a hint of playfulness.”
Sharon TownsendBook a one-to-one session, join a workshop, or just say hello.