Stephen Thomas

Stephen [eng] is the founder of svarupa and our senior teacher. He brings 25 years of experience and knowledge and remains passionate about his study and practice. He was a long term student of  O.P. Tiwari at Kaivalyadham in India - a master in the science of Pranayama and Ayurveda.

He combines that foundation with decades of study and exploration in the fields of alignment-based asana, breath and meditation. His work brings together a subtle mix of practices from the vinyasas systems and  his deep connection to the clarity of B.K.S Iyengar’s approach. He teaches in a way that recognizes the possibility of healing, freedom and joy through discipline and dedication but without imposing dogma. "Yoga is not necessarily the path, but rather it shines the light on one's path and reveals the essence of one's self - svarupa."

Stephen leads the programs and teaches at both studios of svarupa in Bern. For over 15 years he also holds classes, trainings and immersions as a senior teacher at AIRYOGA in Zurich. 

He is a father and husband and dedicates his time to family life, writing, documenting and researching Yoga. He also works one-on-one with many students and helps to mentor teachers in the community. His passion for travel, art,  architecture and design can be seen in our spaces.