Aki developed a herniated disk while working as a hair stylist, making any prolonged activity difficult. As part of her rehabilitation, she attended a gym that happened to offer yoga classes. There, Aki developed the discipline of daily yoga, which, in time, helped relieve much of her pain and improved her quality of life.

In 2007, she happened upon Ashtanga yoga and felt the uncanny pull, so much so that two years later she travelled to the source, KPJAYI (K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute) in Mysore, India. Under the tutelage of R. Sharath Jois, grandson of the founder Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Aki quickly knew that she had found a calling that would give shape and form to her life.

Upon her return to Tokyo, she found a teacher and community at Mysore Tokyo with Tarik Thami. After some time, she was invited to assist Tarik, an opportunity that further honed her practice. A few years later she travelled to London to practice under Hamish Hendry. Wanting to deepen her understanding of yoga and gain the confidence to teach anywhere in the world, she committed herself to learning English. Her time with Hamish was particularly impactful. It was not long before she was invited to teach in different studios around the world. This time of unprecedented personal growth gave credence to Sri K. Pattabhi Jois’ advice to many seekers: Practice and all is coming.

She continues to deepen and refresh her practice with annual visits to India. She is committed to the tradition and parampara (lineage) of Ashtanga yoga, a belief that frames both her practice and her teaching. Aki is an Authorized Level 2 teacher.

Classes will not require advance reservation but may involve a wait time when the room is at full capacity. Beginners are welcome. The start-time for those new to Ashtanga yoga is 8am.