I’m Gemma Maryan, a full-time yoga teacher, teacher trainer and mentor
Hello, I'm Gemma! With over a decade of experience as a yoga teacher and massage therapist in Glasgow, I am dedicated to guiding you toward wellness and confidence through yoga. My journey began at 19 when I discovered yoga during my pregnancy—looking back, it was a deeply transformative moment that went on to spark my lifelong passion for yoga.
As a former dancer and gymnast, movement has always been integral to my life. I spent years running daily when I lived in Dubai, even logging 10Ks while eight months pregnant! However, over time, running left me with tight hips and knee injuries and a need for a new approach to fitness and well-being. This led me to my first yoga class for pregnant women.
After my daughter’s birth, I continued with a pretty rigorous running schedule with a regular Hatha yoga practice. In 2005, I moved to Scotland and later discovered Bikram Yoga. This new passion motivated me to pursue a big life change through extensive training in Bikram, Hot Yoga, Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, and Yin Yoga.
In 2011, I found my true stride with a daily Ashtanga practice. I had the privilege of working with Cathy Moran at Ashtanga Yoga Glasgow, assisting with her Mysore program before we co-founded the Finnieston Yoga Shala. There, I led regular Yin Yoga classes, Ashtanga, and Mysore-style sessions, creating a vibrant community of practitioners.
I’ve been so fortunate to study under renowned teachers, including Sharath Jois, Phillippa Asher, John Scott, David Svenson, Sarah Hatcher, and Bernie Clark. These experiences have been immensely insightful and helped deepen my practice and teaching, blending traditional yoga with modern science.
Since 2017, I have been offering Yin Yoga teacher training, sharing my knowledge with over 60 dedicated students and teachers in Scotland. I continue to teach online and in-person private yoga and massage sessions, as well as workshops, and trainings, helping students and teachers feel empowered and confident in their practice and teaching.
What you can expect from studying with me:
I am obsessed with anatomy, biomechanics, and the latest in movement science which means my teaching style is always safe and effective. By grounding each session in solid scientific principles, I do my upmost to make sure that every movement and posture benefits your body in the best possible way. This results in a movement practice that promotes longevity and helps you move with ease.
My teaching is focused on understanding your unique needs and providing personalised, cue-based instructions, rather than just demonstrating poses. This approach helps foster a deeper mind (mental) -body (somatic) connection, making your practice more mindful and connected. As a result, it enhances your experience with each pose and brings a deeper sense of awareness to your own unique body and needs.
I am a very supportive teacher and do my best to create a safe and nurturing space for everyone. My goal is to assist you every step of the way, helping you progress at your own pace and achieve your own unique yoga goals. Together, we will develop an effective, supportive, and transformative practice that works perfectly for you and your life.
YIN TEACHER TRAINING AND IMMERSION
My Yin Teacher Training and Yin Yoga Immersions are designed to deepen your understanding and practice of Yin yoga, providing you with the tools and knowledge necessary to teach Yin yoga classes to your students confidently.
The training takes place in my home and includes a small group of no more than 6 students, allowing for a personalised and intimate learning experience. You'll enjoy home-cooked food and nourishing practices and teachings to inspire your own yoga practice and teaching.
The 50-hour Yin Teacher Training is suitable for both experienced yoga teachers and dedicated practitioners looking to deepen their knowledge of Yin yoga. During the training, we will cover Yin yoga's history, philosophy, benefits, foundational postures, and sequencing principles. We will also delve into the anatomy of the Yin yoga practice, exploring the fascia, connective tissue, and joints.
Throughout the training, you'll have the opportunity to practice and teach Yin yoga, receiving feedback and support from both myself and your fellow students. You'll leave the training with a solid understanding of Yin yoga and the skills necessary to confidently teach Yin classes to your own students.
The Yin Yoga Immersions are shorter, intensive courses that focus on specific aspects of the Yin yoga practice, such as the principles of Yin Yoga, anatomy, sequencing, or meditation. These immersions are open to both experienced yoga teachers and dedicated practitioners looking to deepen their practice and understanding of Yin yoga.
All of my trainings are registered with Yoga Alliance, which means that you will receive a certificate that can be used towards your Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Whether you join me in person or online, my Yin Teacher Training and Yin Yoga Immersions offer a unique opportunity to deepen your practice, connect with a supportive community, and gain the skills and knowledge necessary to confidently teach Yin yoga classes.