Over 5,000 years of history is hard to argue with; yoga is good for you.

That being said, for many of us, it is also inaccessible – both financially and also as yogis tend to take their practice just a little bit too seriously for the average person.

Sydney Yoga Collective is filling the accessible gap. Practicing across many iconic Sydney locations and gyms – and now a permanent studio located at the Andrew (Boy) Charlton pool on the harbour of Sydney’s CBD, they offer affordable yoga with just the ‘right amount of hippie.’

Founder of the Sydney Yoga Collective Casey Castro, fits this mould herself – she is not your typical yogi; she sees and believes in the benefits, but her wit and humour prevent the classes from getting overly spiritual. The classes are a fresh take on traditional vinyasa, they are upbeat and strike the right balance between mindfulness and frankly, fun.

“I left the corporate world after my third child and wanted to do something with more impact and purpose. I am not a traditional hippie, but I do love the holistic license it gives me and the new my way thinking” explains Casey.

With the culture of the group permeating from the top, Sydney Yoga Collective is undoubtedly a reflection of Casey herself; an entrepreneur and mother of three, who left the corporate world only two years ago to set up the company which has experienced growth from mostly word of mouth and now has secured the coveted Andrew Boy Charlton as a permanent base.

Consisting of five core instructors who offer yoga classes across a range of Sydney parks, gyms, the Woolloomooloo PCYC and now their permanent location at Andrew Charlton Pool, classes are a flat rate of $12. They run on average 30 classes per week and also a highly sought-after children’s class on a Wednesday afternoon.

“Teaching children yoga has amazing benefits. The benefits are not just with fitness, as most kids are insanely fit from the playground at school but as a way to control and breath so that they can navigate difficult situations and learn the skill of patience” explains Casey. “I am a mother to three boys; I know how hectic life is, especially in the city. Having my boy’s practice yoga sets the mood for a calm night and a good nights rest.”

Perfect for beginners, occasional yogis or serious contenders, Sydney Yoga Collective offer a range of styles and classes to suit individuals looking for an affordable yoga studio.

For more information and a timetable visit www.sydneyyogacollective.com