Mark Whitwell

Mark Whitwell shares the authentic teachings of T. Krishnamacharya and TKV Desikachar, focusing on individual-adapted yoga practice. Through his four decades of teaching, Mark emphasizes breath-centered movement, making ancient wisdom relevant to modern life.
From my first session and practice with Mark, his instruction on hatha yoga principles ignited something profound—like a generator switching on. His teaching revealed what had been missing in my practice, inspiring a daily sadhana that continues to nurture and sustain me.

His approach stems from direct transmission through his close 20-year relationship with Desikachar and deep understanding of Krishnamacharya’s teachings. Importantly, UG Krishnamurti’s influence helped Mark strip away notions of spiritual striving, emphasizing direct experience over future attainment.

Mark teaches ha-tha yoga as a holistic practice integrating asana, pranayama, bandha, meditation, and chanting. As Krishnamacharya said, “Breath is the Guru.” Mark embodies this wisdom, teaching that breath and body movement are one—a powerful, non-hierarchical approach accessible to all practitioners.