Michelle Young
Michelle Young is an internationally recognized yoga therapist, educator, and the founder of My Vinyasa Practice, a leading yoga education platform rooted in accessibility, integrity, and depth. With nearly two decades of experience, Michelle empowers students and professionals through inclusive, evidence-informed yoga education.
A personal journey rooted in practice
Michelle began her yoga journey in 2004 in Kuwait following the birth of her first son. Seeking physical strength and emotional balance, she immersed herself in Ashtanga Yoga, practicing privately and independently for nearly ten years. After returning to the United States, she settled in Austin, Texas, where her path naturally evolved into teaching, advanced training, and therapeutic work.
Advanced training & therapeutic expertise
Michelle holds a 500-hour certification in Alignment-Based Vinyasa Yoga, earned through two years of private mentorship with Shanti Kelley. Her training extends into Yoga Therapy, Ayurveda, Tantra Yoga, Metaphysics, and Spiritual Coaching. She has worked professionally in behavioral health, eating disorder recovery, and cardiac rehabilitation, and continues to support private clients and clinical teams.
Academic background & certifications
Michelle combines a rich academic foundation with her therapeutic expertise. She holds a B.A. in Communications and Journalism (with minors in Biochemistry and Political Science), and an M.Ed. in Instructional Design and Curriculum Development. She is C-IAYT certified through the Ornish Program, an Anatomical Dissection Specialist through KNM Labs, and an E-RYT 500 with Yoga Alliance.
Influential teachers
Michelle’s work is inspired and informed by leaders in the field, including Richard Miller, Nischala Joy Devi, Leslie Kaminoff, and Monique Lonner.
Studio and online education innovation
In 2020, Michelle opened her first physical yoga studio on the Austin Community College – Highland Campus. This 2,400-square-foot space offers donation-based vinyasa and specialty classes, yoga therapy, workshops, and teacher training. She also founded one of the first comprehensive online yoga schools, delivering high-quality, affordable yoga education globally.
Leadership in continuing education and business development
Michelle continues to expand her impact through advanced teacher trainings, meditation and mindfulness education, and conscious business mentorship for yoga professionals. Her work supports sustainable careers and empowered communities.
A philosophy of accessible, authentic practice
At the core of Michelle’s mission is the belief that
Yoga education can be both profoundly deep and universally accessible.
Through her teaching, writing, and curriculum design, Michelle remains committed to creating inclusive, authentic, and sustainable content for practitioners at every level.
