The way we discuss money in the European yoga community is often avoidant—terms like ‘investments’ and ‘offerings’ allow us to shy away from explicit conversations about cash.

We know there is a growing disparity in our sector, particularly between the millionaires franchising their studio concepts and the teachers working within them. It is now increasingly common for teachers in these studios to be paid per hour the same amount that a single student pays to attend a class.

With teachers leading five or six classes a day just to make ends meet, many are supplementing their yoga careers with other jobs. Studio rental costs in central London now start at well over £100 per hour, making it increasingly difficult for teachers to keep classes financially accessible to students while paying themselves a fair wage.

The teachings encourage us not to be materialistic and to seek humility, which can create internal conflict about money, our worth, and our value. In a sector where success often depends on who you know, advocating for fair pay can feel challenging. But spiritual teaching doesn’t have to be silent on matters of profit, loss, and distribution. If we are not to lie and cheat, shouldn’t we apply the same ethics to money?

Emma and Scottee want to discuss the economics of yoga with you, exploring what it means to have a livelihood, considering how our sector might look with a fairer distribution of resources, and examining the pitfalls of alternative models.

Both Scottee and Emma will share their thoughts on money before inviting representatives from the Yoga Teachers’ Union to discuss their ambitions for our sector and its workers. There will then be an opportunity to discuss money, survival, and sustainable working practices through questions, comments, and silence.

Yoga & Money
Wednesday 2nd April
11am - 12.15pm
Online only
Pay What You Can
All donations will be split between the Yoga Teachers Union to support their work, Emma and Scottee.