About Me

Hi, I’m Irena Bartolec.

For over two decades, my life’s work has been to create transformative spaces where students can step away from daily demands and reconnect with their deepest sense of wellbeing. My approach is built on a simple belief: true health is found in the harmony of mindful movement, deep rest, and wholesome nourishment. It is an honour to guide you back to your own inner strength and peace.

My journey is deeply rooted in both extensive academic study and traditional apprenticeship. I hold a Master of Science in Kinesiology and Physiology from the University of Zagreb, where my research focused on “The Influence of Yoga on the Cardiovascular and Respiratory System.” This scientific foundation allows me to teach with a profound understanding of the human body, ensuring your practice is both safe and effective.

My heart, however, belongs to the traditional path of Ashtanga Yoga. In 2014, I received the honour of Authorisation to teach from the KPJAYI in Mysore, India, after many years of dedicated study there. My teaching is forever shaped by the immense knowledge and generosity of my primary teachers, Sri. K. Pattabhi Jois and Sharath Jois, as well as the wisdom of revered masters like Rolf Naujokat, Richard Freeman, Lino Miele, and Nancy Gilgoff, Dr. Narashima and Yayashree.

This global search for knowledge has taken me from India to Bali, Europe to Central America, studying not just asana but also mindfulness with contemporaries like Sharon Salzberg and at Bodhi College. I am a constant student, and this lifelong learning—from anatomical studies to various physical therapy programs—ensures I can meet each student’s individual needs, including working with various physical and mental challenges.

My professional path reflects this commitment. I designed and established the first traditional Ashtanga Vinyasa program in Croatia through my studio, Body Element Yoga, which I owned and managed for ten years. Later, in Bali, I successfully run Ashtanga Mysore program at Seminyak Yoga Shala and created the Cosmos Yoga Academy Teacher Training. Today, I bring this wealth of experience to Costa Rica, where I host highly curated retreats on the peaceful Pacific Coast.

Through Ashtanga Yoga Mama, established in 2014, my refined philosophy comes to life: a balance of well-honed strength and proper alignment, equally pledging importance to creativity, individuality, dedication, and tradition. I am also a published writer The Medium, Sensa Lifestyle Magazine and a meditation teacher on InsightTimer.

I invite you to join me on this Journey to inner peace and prosperity for all.

May we all be happy and healthy.