Singapore, a burgeoning hub for health and wellness in Southeast Asia, has seen a significant surge in the popularity of yoga as a preferred method for physical and mental well-being. In recognition of the profound impact instructors have on student engagement and progress, DoYou.com, a prominent global yoga and wellness platform, has released its highly anticipated list of Singapore’s 10 most amazing yoga teachers for 2021. This selection follows the insights gleaned from DoYou’s Global Yoga Survey 2021, which definitively established the critical role of an inspiring teacher in fostering sustained student participation and a deeper connection to the practice.
The wellness industry in Singapore has been on a robust growth trajectory, with a discerning population increasingly investing in holistic health practices. Yoga, in particular, has transcended its niche origins to become a mainstream activity, appealing to individuals across all demographics seeking to enhance their health, strength, and stamina. This expansion has led to a vibrant ecosystem of studios and instructors, making the choice of a suitable teacher a pivotal decision for aspiring and seasoned practitioners alike. The "Mindful Guide to Singapore," an initiative by DoYou.com dedicated to promoting happy, healthy, and mindful living in the city-state, underscores this local focus by regularly spotlighting key figures and institutions within the wellness sphere.
The Pivotal Role of Instructors: Insights from DoYou’s Global Yoga Survey 2021
The genesis of DoYou.com’s annual teacher recognition program lies in its comprehensive Global Yoga Survey. The 2021 edition of this survey, a worldwide qualitative and quantitative assessment, gathered extensive data on student experiences and preferences. A standout finding revealed that the influence of a yoga teacher is a primary determinant in a student’s decision to continue their practice. Students who reported feeling more guided, empowered, and genuinely inspired by their instructors demonstrated a significantly higher likelihood of remaining committed to their yoga journey. This insight highlights that beyond physical postures, the pedagogical and emotional connection forged between teacher and student is paramount. The survey’s findings reinforce the understanding that effective yoga instruction extends beyond merely demonstrating poses; it encompasses creating an environment of encouragement, fostering self-discovery, and cultivating a sense of belonging. DoYou.com’s commitment to supporting this vital relationship informed their meticulous process for identifying and celebrating exemplary teachers.
Chronology of Yoga’s Ascent in Singapore’s Wellness Scene
Yoga’s presence in Singapore has evolved considerably over the past two decades. Initially introduced through expatriate communities and niche fitness centers in the late 1990s and early 2000s, its popularity gained momentum through the mid-2000s with the establishment of larger, dedicated yoga studios. By the 2010s, yoga had firmly cemented its place in the mainstream fitness landscape, with a diverse array of styles and approaches catering to various needs. The period leading up to and including 2021 saw a further acceleration, partly influenced by a global emphasis on mental health and home-based fitness solutions during the pandemic. This created an even greater demand for skilled and engaging instructors capable of adapting to both in-person and online teaching modalities. DoYou.com’s 2021 list therefore arrived at a crucial time, offering a curated guide to excellence within a rapidly expanding and increasingly competitive market.
Spotlight on Singapore’s 10 Most Amazing Yoga Teachers (2021)
The selection process for DoYou.com’s list involved rigorous evaluation, considering factors such as teaching experience, student testimonials, innovative class offerings, community engagement, and the instructors’ ability to embody the holistic principles of yoga. The following individuals represent the pinnacle of yoga instruction in Singapore for 2021, each bringing a distinct philosophy and approach to their practice:
Jiamin Yang (Jyan): For Those Who Like To Work Hard And Play Hard
Jiamin Yang, affectionately known as Jyan, is a dynamic force in the Singaporean yoga scene. Her unique background as an international ballroom dancer, coupled with her 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) certification and passion for AcroYoga, imbues her teaching with a distinctive blend of discipline, grace, and playful exploration. As the founder of Jyan Yoga Studio, she aims to empower students to achieve their self-improvement goals through her profound understanding of body mechanics, mindful awareness, and breath control. Jyan’s philosophy centers on the belief that consistent challenges to one’s physical abilities, driven by passion and play, are essential for holistic growth. Her classes are celebrated for their perfect equilibrium of rigorous effort, engaging fun, and restorative practices, offering both invigorating ‘yang’ sequences and calming ‘yin’ sessions, alongside rejuvenating mindfulness. Her holistic mindful movement style is instrumental in building a vibrant community focused on inner and outer well-being. Jyan’s innovative approach can be explored further via her website and Instagram (@jyanyoga).
Yoshie Roux-Chabert: For Those Who Seek Peak Pose Alignment And Form
Yoshie Roux-Chabert stands out as an exemplary instructor for practitioners prioritizing precision and safety in their yoga journey. A former flight attendant, Yoshie discovered yoga as a vital antidote to the demands of her career, finding balance and grounding through the practice. Her journey led her to become a 250-hour RYT, deeply rooted in the Iyengar tradition, renowned for its emphasis on exact anatomical alignment. Yoshie is also a veteran of numerous advanced workshops focusing on backbends, handstands, and intricate yoga techniques, equipping her with an exceptional ability to break down complex poses. Her teaching methodology is fundamentally driven by anatomical alignment, ensuring students build strength and flexibility safely and effectively, minimizing the risk of injury while maximizing the benefits of each posture. Yoshie’s detailed tutorials and inspiring practice examples are a valuable resource for students seeking to refine their form. Her schedule is available on Yogarena.com and her Instagram (@yrc.yoga) offers a wealth of practical inspiration.
Denise Keller: For Those Searching For Exhilarating Mind-Body Experience
Denise Keller is a household name in Singapore, transitioning seamlessly from a celebrated MTV host to an influential yoga instructor. After leaving her television career in 2010, she earned her 200-hour RYT certification from Pure Yoga in Singapore, rapidly establishing herself as a formidable presence in the yoga community. Denise offers an experience far beyond typical yoga instruction; each class is characterized by her boundless charisma and infectious joie de vivre. Her extensive experience in live entertainment translates into highly engaging sessions that are both informative and captivating. She has served as the resident yoga instructor for the Genting Dream Cruise, showcasing her ability to connect with diverse audiences. Denise’s unique fusion of media expertise and profound yoga knowledge makes her a highly sought-after host for large-scale yoga events across Singapore, Malaysia, and beyond, delivering an exhilarating mind-body experience that leaves a lasting impression. Discover more about Denise through her website and Instagram (@denisekellerofficial).
Jeremy Lim: For Those Craving Deep Relaxation And Release
Jeremy Lim embarked on his yoga journey in 2008 and has since cultivated a rich expertise through mentorship from some of the world’s most respected teachers, including Bo Srey, Fuyuko Sawamura-Toyota, Jason Crandell, and Judith Lasater. His teaching repertoire includes "Power and Alignment" classes, which meticulously guide students to integrate mind, heart, breath, and body through strength-building and precise alignment. Complementing these dynamic sessions, Jeremy also offers "Resting Conversation" sessions, designed to cultivate the profound art of deep and complete relaxation. His background in mental health and psychology significantly informs his teaching, allowing him to present yoga as a powerful pathway to inner well-being, holistic health, and a more authentic, expansive life. Jeremy’s expertise is recognized internationally, having led master classes and workshops across Singapore, Taiwan, Australia, London, Denmark, Germany, and Sweden. His extensive schedule and activities are detailed on his website and Instagram (@jeremylimyoga).
Jesq Lee: For Those Who Want To Feel Seen
Jesq Lee is the visionary founder of Jogalove, a versatile studio in Geylang offering a comprehensive range of wellness practices including yoga, qi gong, pilates, yin, and sound healing, alongside accessible Zoom classes. Jesq’s personal journey with yoga began with initial skepticism, finding it "boring" until she realized its deeper essence—not merely about mastering poses, but about cultivating the right attitude, precise alignment, and profound self-awareness. This transformative understanding now guides her mission to inspire others, particularly those navigating the complexities of modern life, to use yoga as a tool for personal growth. She derives immense satisfaction from witnessing individuals recover and thrive from various physical and mental challenges through yoga. Jesq’s teaching emphasizes creating a supportive environment where students feel truly "seen," empowering them to become comfortable and connected with both their physical bodies and their inner selves. Connect with Jesq via Jogalove’s website and her Instagram (@jesqleeyogawithlove).
Maya Trisari: For Those Who Want A High Vibe And Good Energy
Maya Trisari brings an infectious enthusiasm and vibrant energy to her yoga classes. Initially an interior designer, Maya found herself unfulfilled in her profession for five years before a yoga teacher training course sparked a new passion and direction. She now serves as a dedicated coach at Yoga Lab, part of Lab Studios, a thriving wellness community with multiple locations across Singapore (East Coast, Joo Chiat, Duxton, and Holland Village) offering both yoga and barre. Known for her fun-loving and spirited approach, Maya ensures her classes are highly enjoyable while maintaining a strong focus on breath awareness and meticulous posture alignment. For Maya, the most rewarding aspect of her work is the shared space and genuine presence she cultivates with her students. She cherishes the vulnerability and shared laughter that define her classes, making her feel truly alive in her role as an instructor. Explore more of Maya’s dynamic style on Yoga Lab’s website and her Instagram (@shademaya).
Fizzy: For Those Working On Their Core And Upper Body Strength
Fizzy, a senior teacher at Warrior Studios in Lorong Telok, is a highly respected 200-hour Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT) who has been shaping the Singaporean yoga landscape since 2016. His teaching philosophy is built upon the conviction that while self-improvement is crucial, it must be pursued with joy, calmness, and gratitude, rather than self-judgment. Through his own rigorous asana practice, Fizzy has discovered stillness and profound meaning amidst the demands of daily life, lessons he meticulously weaves into his instruction. His classes are renowned for their intense focus on building core and upper body strength, with specialized attention to handstands and calisthenics. These challenging elements are expertly complemented by restorative stretch flows and strength sequences that emphasize precise alignment and balance. Fizzy’s unique approach encourages students to deepen their breath, harness their innate strength, and forge an authentic connection with themselves, their purpose, and their surrounding environment. Find Fizzy’s schedule and offerings on his website and Instagram (@fizzyoga).
Brandon Chong: For Those Who Want To Get Stronger And More Flexible
Brandon Chong’s introduction to yoga came during his service in the Singapore Navy corps, where he found the practice reawakened the body awareness, flexibility, and balance he had cultivated as a competitive dancer and figure skater in his youth. This early foundation in movement arts profoundly influences his teaching. Following his military service, Brandon pursued formal yoga teacher training in Nashik, India, a significant step in deepening his expertise. Since then, he has adeptly taught a diverse range of students, from absolute beginners to seasoned athletes, advanced practitioners, and men seeking to diversify their fitness routines. Brandon firmly believes in making the holistic benefits of yoga accessible to everyone. He primarily teaches power vinyasa flow and yin yoga, a powerful tandem that emphasizes the critical value of core stability in dynamic movement while simultaneously fostering deep mindfulness and release. His dedication to both strength and flexibility makes him a versatile and effective instructor. Follow Brandon’s journey on his Instagram (@branstands).
Myca Velarde: For Those Who Want To Get Healthier Inside Out
Myca Velarde’s inspiring yoga journey began during one of the most challenging periods of her life, a common narrative among many who find solace and strength in the practice. Following a friend’s suggestion, she turned to yoga to help navigate depression, regain focus, release self-doubt, and instigate positive life changes. Yoga proved to be a profound catalyst for Myca, enabling her to overcome her struggles and ignite a newfound passion for fitness, despite not being athletic in her youth. Beyond yoga, her commitment to physical well-being now extends to regular Muay Thai, handstand training, and boxing classes. Today, Myca channels her personal transformation into empowering others. She teaches yoga both in-studio and online through her newly founded wellness community, Camp Health, guiding students to strengthen their minds and bodies from the inside out. Myca’s story is a testament to yoga’s power for profound personal healing and empowerment. Connect with Myca via her Instagram (@supermyca).
Sammie Kim: For Those Who Want To Deepen Their Backbends
Sammie Kim is widely recognized as one of Singapore’s most visible and active yoga teachers on Instagram, a platform she utilizes to inspire and connect with a vast audience. Her Instagram feed is a vibrant showcase of her dedication, featuring stunning photographs of her executing exceptionally advanced yoga postures, particularly intricate backbends. Sammie’s relentless energy and unwavering commitment to her practice are evident in the countless branded campaigns and yoga challenges she participates in, making her a prominent figure in the wellness influencer sphere. Her page is not only a source of profound motivation for those aspiring to master complex poses like the King Cobra but also a practical resource for discovering yoga and wellness products. In true influencer fashion, her Instagram provides links to numerous brands that sponsor her active yoga and wellness lifestyle, offering followers access to discounts and exclusive content. Whether seeking inspiration for challenging postures or looking for deals on yoga apparel, Sammie serves as a go-to figure for the modern yoga enthusiast. Follow Sammie on her Instagram (@sammekimyoga).
Broader Impact and Implications for Singapore’s Wellness Sector
The recognition of these exemplary teachers by DoYou.com carries significant implications for Singapore’s burgeoning wellness sector. Firstly, it elevates the professional standing of yoga instructors, setting a benchmark for excellence and inspiring aspiring teachers to pursue higher standards of training and pedagogical skill. Such curated lists provide invaluable guidance for students navigating a crowded market, ensuring they can connect with instructors whose philosophies align with their personal wellness goals.
Secondly, the prominence of online platforms and social media, as exemplified by several teachers on this list, underscores a crucial shift in how yoga is accessed and disseminated. The ability of instructors to build communities and share their expertise virtually has broadened yoga’s reach, making it more accessible to individuals who might otherwise be constrained by time or location. This digital expansion has been particularly relevant in the post-pandemic landscape, highlighting the adaptability and resilience of the wellness industry.
Finally, by showcasing such a diverse array of talent, Singapore reinforces its position as a dynamic and holistic wellness destination. The varied specializations of these top teachers—from alignment and strength to deep relaxation and mindful movement—reflect a mature and comprehensive yoga ecosystem capable of catering to a wide spectrum of needs and preferences. This strengthens the city-state’s appeal to both local residents and international visitors seeking high-quality wellness experiences.
The continuous evolution of yoga in Singapore, driven by dedicated and inspiring teachers, promises a healthier and more mindful future for its community. Finding the right teacher is often the first and most crucial step in a rewarding yoga journey. For those ready to embark on or deepen their practice, exploring the offerings of these top instructors provides an excellent starting point.
This article is part of The Mindful Guide to Singapore—your comprehensive guide to happy, healthy, and mindful living in the red dot. Click here to discover places and mindful activities that you and your whole family can enjoy.
