A Glasgow woman is attempting to debunk stereotypical outlooks of yoga by creating a class with a twist for ‘weirdos like her’.

Steph Wall, founder of the Kali Collective yoga studio in Glasgow, says she wants to upend stereotypes about yoga by launching a ‘gothic’ experience of the activity.

Located on Washington Street, the new practice is an attempt to make yoga more inclusive by attracting a crowd who have never considered it before.

Steph says she noticed there was a certain type of stereotype that is associated with yoga, from the ‘chilled out tunes to £150 yoga pants and perfect bodies, and wanted to create the new class for ‘weirdos like me’.

Founder of Kali Collective Steph Wall leading a classFounder of Kali Collective Steph Wall leading a class (Image: Kali Collective)

The ‘Gothic Sound & Movement Immersion’ form Kali Collective will see attendees moving through restorative yoga postures to the moody and immersive sounds of Nine Inch Nails, Mogwai, and Mica Levi. 

Steph, who moved to Scotland from Canada nine years ago, will swap her usual ‘downward dog’ for the decks as she DJs a setlist of her favourite tracks. 

On the inspiration behind the unique event, Steph said: “When I hear about a “trend”, my immediate instinct is to challenge it.

“Sound Baths were the “thing” and they were all the same, I wanted to do things differently because that’s what our community wants and expects. I think this will appeal to weirdos like me. 

“A lot of yoga is about finding what works for you. When I’m practicing, I listen to the music I love, which is often intense and dark. Yoga shouldn’t be about expectations; it should be immersive and emotive – and that’s all about you doing you. 

“Music is a big passion of mine, and I love that I’m able to bring my two big loves together with this event.

Founder of Kali Collective Steph WallFounder of Kali Collective Steph Wall (Image: Kali Collective)

“I hope people will give this a try and give in to the yoga and the poses. This is an opportunity for you to be present with different layers of your body as the music guides you into new sensations and feelings. Even if you’ve not tried yoga before this could be a great way to explore.” 

The event takes place Friday, August 2 from 7:30-8:45 PM at the Kali Collective Yoga Studio on Washington Street, Glasgow.

Attendees can also opt for the opportunity to experience an elongated savasana being held by an aerial silk hammock.