L’Atelier Yoga is a boutique yoga studio for women in the heart of Muswell Hill by longtime friends Claire and Hélene. We caught up with Claire to learn more about the inspirations to set up the studio and their mission going forward…
Find out more about L’Atelier Yoga and book a class through the link here: https://www.latelier.yoga/
After nearly 30 years launching products in the corporate world, perimenopause hit me like a truck. Constantly exhausted, battling back pain, and feeling mentally at my lowest point, doctors had no answers. When my friend Hélène (now my business partner) suggested yoga—again—I finally listened. I’d love to say it was an instant fix, but those first months were humbling! Each time I felt like giving up, Hélène’s gentle guidance kept me going. Now, not only can I tie my shoes without wincing, but I’ve discovered what feels like a second spring. The back pain that once defined my days? Gone. This transformation showed me how women “of a certain age” need spaces that truly understand their unique journeys.
Life has a funny way of realigning your stars when you least expect it. In 2023, I received a cancer diagnosis and lost my job within weeks of each other. Instead of spiralling, I decided it was time to fulfil my dream of becoming my own boss while supporting other women in realising theirs. When the opportunity to open a yoga studio with Hélène appeared, it felt like the universe was practically shouting at us. We chose the name “L’Atelier” with intention—hinting at our aspiration to be more than just a place for physical practice. We opened our doors on 1st October 2024, bringing this vision to the community of Muswell Hill and North London.
To create a different kind of yoga studio—a haven where women of all ages and abilities can find physical practice suited to their needs and capabilities. We embrace the yogic principle of svadhyaya (self-study), encouraging women to turn inward and discover their own wisdom through practice. We’re building an inclusive community in Muswell Hill and North London, recognising that women have unique needs that evolve beyond just the physical aspects of yoga.
Our motto guides us: “a different kind of yoga studio.” While excellent yoga instruction forms our foundation, we’re beginning to stretch beyond traditional offerings. Recently, we launched a Social Media Club to support women entrepreneurs through community wisdom and expert guidance. Our teachers aren’t just instructors—they’re part of the L’Atelier family. We support their growth and host teachers-only classes where we share knowledge, stories, and usually a few laughs. True wellness comes from nourishing not just the body, but also the mind and occasionally, the creative spirit.
Embrace imperfection and pack your patience! Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your studio be. You’ll make mistakes, plans will go sideways, and that’s perfectly normal. Accept every helping hand that comes your way, and don’t be shy about asking for support. Most importantly, know your community—understand what makes them unique and build something that truly speaks to them. For us, that meant creating a space where women in North London can feel seen, supported, and inspired to grow in ways they perhaps didn’t expect.
“It is never too late.” Or on brighter days, simply: “Life is fun.” Both remind us that we’re always at the perfect moment to begin something new.
At just six months old, we’re still finding our feet, but we’re walking with purpose! While strengthening our core yoga offerings, we’re also exploring the “L’Atelier” aspect of our identity with: new classes like Pilates and Kundalini yoga; workshops blending sound baths, creative writing, and women’s circles; expanded support for local entrepreneurs through our Social Media Club; our first retreat beyond Muswell Hill walls; a community open day; a pop-up shop filled with treasures; and a Poetry Club for those who find movement in words. We’re crafting experiences that honour what women “of a certain age” are truly seeking—a yoga studio that understands physical practice is just the beginning of what they need at this stage of life.
Find out more about L’Atelier Yoga and book a class through the link here: https://www.latelier.yoga/
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