Irena Bartolec is a yoga teacher who brings together a light-hearted, grounded, no-nonsense presence with a deep respect for the wisdom of the practice. Her approach creates a truly safe space where students can explore their own path, meet their limitations with honesty, and grow with confidence. She has a way of making it feel acceptable to be afraid sometimes, while still encouraging you to keep going with courage, patience, and even a sense of humour.
Many students first discovered Ashtanga Mysore yoga through Irena, often arriving with hesitation, physical concerns, or the belief that the practice might not be suitable for them. With her steady guidance, they learned to trust both her supervision and their own bodies. She is attentive to alignment, breath, and individual needs, and she adapts asanas with care so students can work around physical blockages and move safely. Her teaching helps people go beyond mental and physical self-doubt without forcing the body or losing the integrity of the method.
Students describe her classes as both powerful and calm, traditional yet accessible. Irena is known for maintaining respect, commitment, and authenticity while avoiding ego or unnecessary complexity. In her Mysore space, the focus remains on the practice itself and on each student’s personal journey. Her teaching style is supportive, direct, and deeply knowledgeable, with a strong emphasis on body awareness, safe progression, and correct movement. For many, this has led to real transformation: greater mobility, stability, flexibility, confidence, and a deeper understanding of how to practice without injury.
Her influence extends beyond the mat. Students speak of her positive energy, inspiring attitude, and love for life, travel, and adventure. She is also appreciated as a skilled organiser and a dedicated guide during retreats, including a memorable retreat in Sintra, Portugal, which became a highlight for one student’s yoga experience and holiday. Whether teaching in Zagreb, Bali, or on retreat, Irena is remembered for her calm energy, strong character, and sincere commitment to each person she works with.
For some, she has been a teacher since their teenage years; for others, she was the one who made traditional Ashtanga feel approachable for the first time. Across all these experiences, one theme remains constant: Irena helps students feel seen, supported, and respected. Her classes offer not only a disciplined yoga practice, but also a sense of safety, encouragement, and genuine care.