Michael Barnes

Based in Sydney, Mick is a 1,000-hour teacher with a 200-hour Samadhi certification, a 300-hour Jivamukti certification, 500-hour Jivamukti mentor training, and Advanced Certified Jivamukti Teacher status. He is registered with both Yoga Australia and Yoga Alliance.

Yoga arrived in Mick’s life twenty years ago, just when he least expected it. After years of pushing himself hard, chronic pain had taken hold and his body had begun to lock up. A chance arrangement with a remedial therapist led him to three classes each week. At first, he did not enjoy it. The practice felt uncomfortable, he felt stiff, and he did not feel he belonged. Still, he kept coming back. About a year later, something changed. Yoga began to release his body and showed him a more easeful way to live, one that helped him step back from the pull of thoughts and emotions. From there, gratitude grew, and so did his commitment.

He later immersed himself in the eight-limbed path, studying with teachers including Sharon Gannon, David Life, Greger Maehle, David Garrigues and Anja Kuehnel. With more than a thousand hours of training behind him, he has developed a thoughtful approach to bringing traditional methods into modern life in a way that feels safe, welcoming and accessible for every body.

For the past 18 years, Mick has owned and run The Yoga Factory in Sydney, where he teaches daily classes and trains new teachers. His teaching is clear, grounded and practical. He meets students exactly where they are, supporting them as they build strength, concentration and confidence in their own practice.

At Ulpotha, Mick offers a deep understanding of the body alongside down-to-earth yogic wisdom. Morning classes focus on strong foundations through bandha, drishti and breath. As the weeks unfold, you will progress at your own pace, with variations available for all levels. Afternoon sessions include steady asana, kriyas, pranayama and simple meditation. Each day is designed to leave you feeling calm, clear and quietly stronger.

By the time you leave Ulpotha, you can expect to feel rested, relaxed and resilient, with a much deeper understanding of yoga.

What you will experience with Mick:

• Clear instruction that makes practice feel accessible
• Strong foundations in bandha, drishti and breath
• Inclusive options for every level and body
• Kriyas, pranayama and meditation to steady the mind