In 2010, founders Annette Hartwig and Daniel Schudt left Hamburg and set off in a van filled with yoga mats, surfboards and a massage table. Guided by a love for simplicity and truth, they travelled through many corners of Europe. The wild, elemental landscape of Portugal’s southwest coast called them back with its raw beauty, open skies and surf-shaped rhythm of life. In the small village of Aljezur, they created a home base. A place to land, to practice, and to share what they love—with locals and visitors alike.

The name yogabija is inspired by the Sanskrit word bija—seed. A seed holds the beginning of everything. Growth starts when it cracks open, breaks its shell, and allows transformation to happen. Life invites us, again and again, to plant potent seeds by choosing what we think, speak and do. As we grow, we shed old layers and become more willing to listen—to the quieter voice beneath habit and mental noise. The hearts whispers become louder and inner wisdom begins to surface. Bringing us closer to who we truly are: more grounded, more alive, more radiant.

Our work is shaped by over two decades of dedicated self-practice, study and learning alongside inspiring teachers around the world. We share an integrative approach to presence—drawing from traditional teachings while staying deeply rooted in contemporary understanding.

Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga is our foundation, yet not our limit. We continually expand the conversation through functional movement research, somatic and embodied practices, philosophy, breath, meditation and sound.

We believe in practice—not as discipline alone, but as devotion infused with curiosity and play. Whether that looks like moving on a mat, sitting beneath a tree, listening deeply, writing, or simply paying attention—any sincere practice has the power to shift perspective.

Our intention is simple: to support relaxation, resilience and a deep, intimate connection with yourself. Yoga is a personal journey—unique in expression, rhythm and need. We encourage the development of a practice that is gentle yet potent, one that honours your body, boundaries and life as it is. A practice that meets you where you are, and grows with you over time.