Supporting Workplace Wellbeing Through Mindful Movement

In recent years, a quiet revolution has been taking place in offices across Japan. From Tokyo startups to traditional Kyoto-based companies, more businesses are turning to corporate yoga as a way to support their employees’ mental and physical wellbeing.

When we started providing Corporate Yoga 11 years ago, we didn’t get any calls. I spoke with multiple CEOs in different industries. They seemed interested, but we got a lot of negative feedback:

“Using company money for personal use doesn’t make sense.”
”We’re not flexible.”
”We need to get approval from multiple layers of management.”

Over the years, thanks to a shift in work culture in Japan and our continued efforts to spread corporate yoga to the busy minds of Tokyo and Kyoto communities, Nami Yoga Studio had the privilege of bringing yoga directly into workplaces—offering on-site sessions, online classes, and wellness intensives that help teams feel better, move better, and work better. Currently, we get multiple calls a month to bring Yoga to the workplace.

So why is corporate yoga gaining momentum in Japan now? And how can your company benefit?

Quick Relief for Professionals, Students & Anyone Who Sits Too Much

If you’re reading this at a desk, hunched over your laptop or phone, take a moment:
Roll your shoulders. Unclench your jaw. Take a deep breath.
That’s yoga. Simple moments of awareness and movement can make a big difference—especially when we spend hours every day sitting.

At Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto and Tokyo, we know not everyone can make it to the mat every day. But that doesn’t mean you can’t feel better in your body.
Here are 3 easy yoga poses you can do at your desk, in your office, or at home—no mat, no leggings, no problem.

A Beginner-Friendly Guide for New Students in Kyoto & Tokyo

If you’ve been thinking about trying yoga but feel a little nervous, you’re not alone. At Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto and Tokyo, many of our students are brand new to yoga—or returning after a long break. Whether you're here for your physical health, stress relief, or simply curious about mindful movement, we're here to welcome you with open arms.

This guide will walk you through exactly what to expect in your first yoga class, from what to wear to how the class flows, and how we help you feel supported from the moment you walk through our door.

A Deeper Dive into Yoga Beyond the Pose

When most people think of yoga, they picture poses (asana), breathwork (pranayama), and maybe a few moments of relaxation. But yoga, as described in the ancient Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, is a full path—a holistic system made up of eight limbs that lead us toward peace, presence, and self-realization.

Once we’ve begun turning inward through Pratyahara (the withdrawal of the senses), we arrive at the sixth limb: Dharana, or concentration.

At Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto and Tokyo, many of our practices—whether it’s a steady warrior pose, a guided meditation, or even a moment of silence—invite you into Dharana, often without even realizing it.

A Gentle Introduction to Yoga Philosophy (With Everyday Examples)

Yoga isn’t just movement—it’s a path of awareness. Beyond the poses and breathwork, yoga offers ancient tools to help us live more peacefully in an overstimulating world.

One of those tools is Pratyahara, a lesser-known but deeply powerful limb of yoga. At Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto and Tokyo, we often explore this practice—whether we name it or not—every time we close our eyes, soften our gaze, or begin to listen to our breath.

In this post, we’ll explore what Pratyahara means, why it matters today, and how you can gently bring it into your life—on and off the mat.

How Yoga Helps Office Workers and Students Unplug, Reset, and Reconnect

If your eyes feel dry, your neck is tense, and your brain won’t stop spinning, you’re not alone.
Between work emails, online meetings, social media, and studying, most of us spend hours every day staring at a screen. It’s part of modern life—but it’s also exhausting.

That’s why, at Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto and Tokyo, we invite you to take a digital detox every time you step onto the mat. Yoga isn’t just exercise—it’s a reset for your nervous system, a way to slow down, feel grounded, and return to the present moment—without notifications.

Exploring Inward Focus, Body Awareness & the Heart of Yoga Practice

At Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto and Tokyo, you might notice something different when you step into the studio:
No mirrors.
It’s not a design oversight—it’s intentional.

In a world that encourages us to look outward, check our appearance, and measure ourselves by reflection, we’ve chosen a different path. One that aligns with the heart of yoga philosophy:

Turn inward. Feel. Observe—not to fix, but to understand.

Here’s why we’ve created a mirror-free space—and how that decision supports a more meaningful, embodied practice.

In a fast-paced world where productivity and multitasking are often glorified, slowing down can feel radical—even in yoga. At Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto and Tokyo, we often hear new students ask:

“Isn’t slow yoga too easy?”
“Will I even feel anything?”
“Isn’t faster better?”

But here’s the truth: Slow Flow isn’t about doing less—it’s about feeling more. And often, going slower is the most powerful thing you can do on the mat.

Let’s explore the philosophy, benefits, and beauty behind Slow Flow yoga—and why it just might be what your body and mind are craving.

Benefits, Best Poses & Recommended Classes for Each Time of Day

“Is it better to do yoga in the morning or at night?”
This is a question we hear often at Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto and Tokyo.

The truth is, both morning and evening yoga have unique benefits—and choosing the right time depends on your goals, energy, and schedule. In this post, we explore the differences between morning and evening yoga, the best poses for each, and which classes we recommend depending on the time of day.

Mindfulness, Presence, and the Heart Behind True Service

At first glance, yoga and omotenashi may seem unrelated—one is a centuries-old practice of physical and spiritual wellness from India, the other a deeply rooted Japanese approach to hospitality and service. But look a little deeper, and you’ll find a powerful connection:
Both are about being fully present, aware, and generous without expectation.

Let’s explore how yoga can support the spirit of omotenashi, especially for those working in service industries, caregiving roles, or simply anyone seeking to serve with more grace and mindfulness.

How This Tradition Connects India and Japan

At Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto and Tokyo, one of the first things you’ll notice is that we practice yoga barefoot. But have you ever wondered why yoga is traditionally done without shoes? Is it for comfort? Cleanliness? Or is there something deeper?

In this post, we explore the roots of barefoot yoga, its physical and spiritual benefits, and how this simple act connects deeply to both Indian and Japanese cultures.

New to yoga? Or maybe you’ve tried a few classes and wondered, “Is this the best fit for me?” At Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto and Tokyo, we offer a variety of yoga styles—from energizing flows to deeply relaxing sessions. But which one is your perfect match?

To help you find your yoga soulmate, we’ve created this playful, approachable quiz-style guide. 🧩✨

Tight hips? You’re not alone—especially if you sit a lot, walk on concrete, cycle through Kyoto’s charming alleys, or spend long hours at a Tokyo desk. Your hips are home to major muscle groups, and when they’re tight, you might feel discomfort in your lower back, knees, or even your shoulders. The good news? Yoga can help—gently, deeply, and effectively.

At Nami Yoga Studio, we love combining mindful movement with the power of props to make hip-opening poses more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Here are five of our favorite hip-opening poses, plus tips and prop suggestions to help you go deeper with less strain.

At Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto and Tokyo, we love our props. Why? Because they turn every practice into something accessible, supportive, and—let’s be honest—more fun! Whether you’re deepening your flexibility, recovering from a long day, or just want to explore movement in new ways, yoga props are your best friends on the mat.

Here’s a guide to our most-loved props—what they are, how they help, and three creative ways to use each.

Beginner-Friendly Tips from Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto & Tokyo (English-Friendly Yoga Classes)

Thinking about starting yoga, but feeling unsure because your body is stiff, you’re not confident in your breathing, or you’re not sure you can keep it up after work? You’re not alone. Many beginners have these same questions before stepping into their first yoga class.

When people come to yoga for the first time, they often do so for physical reasons. Maybe they want to become more flexible, get stronger, or lose weight. Some think of it as an alternative to the gym or as part of a wellness trend. And honestly? That’s how I started, too.

As a yoga teacher now, I can confidently say that those physical aspects—while important—are only the tip of the iceberg. What lies beneath is vast, profound, and life-changing: philosophy, breathwork, meditation, self-study, discipline, compassion, and a way of living that brings you closer to your truest self.

But let’s rewind.

Whether you're packed into a Tokyo subway or riding a Kyoto city bus, commuting can be a draining part of the day. But what if you could turn that time into a moment of peace?

With yogic breathing techniques (pranayama), you can shift your nervous system from stress to calm—without anyone even noticing. All you need is your breath, a few quiet minutes, and the intention to slow down.

Here are three powerful yet discreet breathing practices you can try during your next commute.

In a fast-paced world where movement is constant and schedules are packed, Yin Yoga offers a rare invitation:
Slow down. Go inward. Stay.

Unlike more active yoga styles like Vinyasa or Hatha Flow, Yin Yoga is a quiet, meditative practice that targets the deep connective tissues of the body—and the stillness of the mind. It’s a practice of presence, patience, and deep release.

As interest in this style continues to grow around the world, so does the demand for skilled, grounded teachers who can guide others into this profound experience. If you're curious about teaching or deepening your own Yin Yoga practice, our Yin Yoga Teacher Training in September 2025 at Nami Yoga Studio may be your next step.

Sento & Café Spots Near Nami Yoga Studio

After a good yoga session, you don’t always want to jump straight back into your busy day. Why not take the time to really soak it in—literally or figuratively?

Whether you’re looking to unwind in a traditional Japanese sento or treat yourself to brunch and great coffee, Kyoto has plenty of charming local spots within walking distance of Nami Yoga Studio (Gojo). Here are five of our favorite places to create your own "yoga + soak" or "yoga + brunch" routine in Kyoto.

In Japan, the suffix 「道」(dō) means “the way”—a path of discipline, inner cultivation, and lifelong learning. We see this in traditional arts like Sado (茶道 – the Way of Tea), Kado (華道 – the Way of Flowers), and Judo (柔道 – the Gentle Way). These are not simply activities or hobbies; they are deeply philosophical practices that shape the way we live.

At Nami Yoga Studio in Kyoto and Tokyo, we often find ourselves reflecting on the parallels between yoga and these time-honored Japanese arts. Like Sado, Kado, and Judo, yoga is not just a form of exercise—it’s a way of being.