Donald brings a unique blend of depth and humor to his classes and teacher training, his teachings are informed by the rough and tumble, love and humor of his upbringing in a Jamaican family in London’s East End.
Throwing in the salt of the Earth cockney attitude and humor means he is grounded in the reality of life.
Taking on the initiative to practice meditation in 2003 and yoga the following year, from there he begun educating and transiting to a yoga and meditation practitioner and teacher by 2008.
It has been his life experiences that have led him to seek to help others, to become empowered through their bodies using yoga, meditation and Tibetan singing bowls.
“I teach yoga because I have witnessed its transformational power in myself and in others. I encourage a deep connection to nature, community and the true teacher within… On and off the mat.”
The most beautiful thing about a yoga class by Donald is his overwhelmingly love and passion for his craft. The vibrancy and energy in which he brings to each practice resonates throughout the studio and inspires yogis to let go of any preconceived notions of what they can and can’t do; be present, and in-turn realize their potential.
Exploring the benefits of yoga extend well beyond the physical practice itself. Combining alignment of the body with celebration of the heart and spirit. We breathe, meditate and flow; we sweat, laugh, have fun, balance on our hands and remember how alive we are.
Donald’s classes build heat, endurance, flexibility, and strength in a supportive environment. The flowing sequences of diverse poses, encouraging the link between mindful body movement and the breath. Appropriate for beginners as well as those with an ongoing practice. His classes provide a gentle experience for those starting out as well as a sharp practice guaranteed to challenge the most seasoned yogi.
In specialised classes to complement our practice, singing bowls are introduced. The pure sonic waves that ring from Tibetan Singing Bowls wake up our ability to hear with more than our ears. We feel the sound of Tibetan Singing Bowls as much as we take it in with our ears. Unique tones create the perfect state for deep meditation, creative thinking and intuitive messages.
Donald is not your average yoga teacher, as you will discover when you meet him.
Currently teaches Hatha Vinyasa based Yoga, Meditation and Wellness Workshops. He is a qualified Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider® (YACEP) teaching 10 to 200 hour Hatha Vinyasa based Yoga Teacher Training Courses and Shakes Yoga is a registered yoga school with Yoga Alliance. Please see our upcoming workshop details page for further information.
I’m grateful to my teachers – "Donald Shakes"