What my students say

2025

Thank you Stephanie. I so appreciate your teaching in supporting my well being. It is so skillful and well thought out.

I know that expertise has come through a lot of personal learning and experience on your part, as well as time and effort to create each term's offerings.

2016

I’m always tremendously impressed at what you spot, and how brilliant you are at keeping a beady eye on us all, with eyes at the back of your head.

2016

Thank YOU so much Stephanie- you made these first few months of pregnancy so much easier for me with the amazing routine you created for us this term, and all the tweaks you did to ensure that I could follow it. Thank you for all your care and all the wisdom you have passed on.

2017

I am in awe of your energy and professionalism in single handily taking us through those 2 sessions. They were so well put together- balanced, engaging, challenging. My intention was "better body awareness" and I definitely felt that.

2018

I have really enjoyed the classes and found them super beneficial for my cycling and knees and have been able to do more than I have done for years. I really hope the class is running next term.

2016

Thank you so much for all that you teach. It has changed my life and I admire the way you teach so much

2021

I've really looked at your leg (esp knee) alignment in reverse trikonasana and also how you come up into warrior one with your arms behind you. I think I'm not moving my forward leg out far enough in humble warrior as I can just hang out by propping myself up on my thigh so this is something to work on too!  (Everything can be worked on and it's really helpful having had this focused visual!). I know I've said this before but it's worth repeating - I LOVE your lessons and feel that they are good for me in every single way.

2017

Thank you for such a wonderful rich day of learning at so many levels. And for nurturing us all so explicitly in a variety of ways and for creating a warm group of companionship and for welcoming my friend Katie into the group - she really enjoyed and valued the day.

2017

I would just like to say how lucky I am to have you as my yoga teacher. You have helped me to overcome my arthritis in my hip and I love your Yoga classes.  We are very lucky to have you teaching in Oxford!

2026

I want to write and thank you so very much for all the work you have done with me over the last seven months. 

I can’t overstate how important it has felt to me and how much I feel that I have benefitted in a lasting way. 

I have been doing Pilates one to one for about 15 years, with a number of different instructors, each of whom had very good points, but the work that I have done with you has felt very different and much more fundamental.   You listened carefully to what I thought I was looking for, but in the best possible way, you observed me and my movement and strength and fed back to me what you considered I needed most. I’m so grateful for that! 

When I do the stretches and exercises it doesn’t feel at all like work; it feels as though I am releasing so much tension  and becoming so much more grounded in who I really am.  It is often quite emotional.  I feel as though I am gradually  being able to occupy more of my own space in the world and be confident with myself as I am.   And so I look forward to keeping doing the work rather than finding it something I need to find self-discipline for!   I love the way you help me visualise, particularly the idea of raising my heart up! 

Of course, some of the stretches are indeed quite hard work, in places where I am quite stiff, but I am excited and motivated by the prospect of improving. You have been so  encouraging and I always feel that I can indeed improve if I work at it, (even at my age!) and that is such a positive feeling. 

As I said to you, I only wish that I had found you sooner!  But so often things happen at exactly the right time when one is ready for them and I look forward to continuing  to work with you in your online classes and perhaps even on a retreat.

I knew that Yoga was for Lycra clad young women, and that therefore as a middle aged man on whom Lycra would be the stuff of nightmares I knew Yoga was not for me.However someone I trusted had said that Yoga was a great way to avoid injury from other activities and so somewhat reluctantly I started the search for a Yoga teacher in Oxford. After a couple of false starts I ended up in a class with Stephanie, and the result has been transformative both physically and emotionally.

Today I not only pick up fewer injuries and am demonstrably more flexible, but with Stephanie’s help I have a completely different view of healthy movement. I have also come to embrace the more meditative aspects of the practice which I have been able to integrate with my daily life which tends to involve sitting at a desk dealing with high stress phone calls and e-mails.

Stephanie has really given me a good view of how Yoga positions can be done, what they are trying to achieve and most importantly what works for me and what does not. This means that when I travel, I often now go to Yoga classes in new cities and I feel very well equipped to recognise what the teacher is trying to do in the class and also to feel very comfortable about whether I should be doing a particular movement or replacing it with something similar if that feels more sensible for me. 

And finally, I just want to say that Yoga is not something I do because it is good for me. Learning with Stephanie, Yoga has become something that I do because I really enjoy it, but as complete as my commitment has become, I still don’t wear Lycra!

Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist / Chair, BPS Division of Neuropsychology

Stephanie Ross Russell's vocation is to teach movement for living well in your everyday life. Whatever your size, shape or level of ability, you will feel the benefits of her classes! Whether you are a Pilates or yoga instructor, personal trainer or an average person, like me, who spends too much time sitting, or hunched over a computer, you will benefit.She has an extensive background in dance, yoga, Pilates and, more recently, Slings Myofascial training. Her Pilates classes combine classical Joseph Pilates sequences with elements of other movement techniques, and are never boring. Her yoga sessions build over a 4–6 week half term's practice into a more flowing sequence, targeting one particular pose or a specific area of the body. She has a great understanding of anatomy, physiology and the mechanics of movement which she imparts with a very light touch.Her particular strength is the effort she puts into cueing postures with images and preparation, so that poses or sequences that look completely impossible at first, gradually – or even sometimes surprisingly quickly! – become accessible. Even in a class of 15–20 your struggles and progress will be noticed, and she will individually support and correct you. I'm thrilled with how much I have learned. So, go on, and try a class!

2017

I love the new sequence. How can there possibly suddenly be dragon moves just as I've gotten my dragon tattoo? It's challenging for sure, but wonderful, and keeps me distracted from whatever nonsense my body seems to be getting up to! Sometimes I forget to tell you when it's great. I felt fabulous all day from this morning's class. You are a total star. Thank you.

2017

I wanted to let you know what a positive experience it is coming to your classes. My movement and posture are so much easier and the yoga practice you have taught me has fostered both joy and stillness in a time of change. Thank you!

2017

I can honestly say how much I enjoy my yoga classes with you Stephanie.  I have weak upper arms and can see how much stronger they have become just from one yoga lesson a week!  I only wish I had time for more classes.

2017

Practicing with you has been a life-changer, can’t tell you how big the impact it has on my body and my mind.

2021

Just a brief note to say both your yoga and Pilates classes are ‘always’ amazing but this terms sessions are particularly ‘amazing’... so ‘thank you’ :)

2021

Manue was just saying how yoga has made such a difference to her life under COVID, and I was thinking the same about Pilates this past year. The variety and challenge of your classes and the rhythm and well-being have definitely helped a lot. So, thank you!

2021

Having gone to bed tired, restless, troubled, stiff and aching I now feel really joyful. My body feels alive again and happy, resilient and ready. I feel my body changing - for example the oblique work – I could not imagine how I would ever do that earlier in the term and today I sort of could, oo and the delicious stretch afterwards! It is harder to decide to change the way we feel, but we can decide to change the way we move. You are a wonderful teacher and leader. Thank you,

2024

I’m loving this term (both days) and have yet again learnt so much. I’m still trying to get my head around the fact that you can teach nearly the same thing every week so differently….. just with your choice of language. I hear your language in me all the time when I teach, and then I can physically see the change in all my clients.

It’s such a joy for me……. I know it must be even more special for you.

2025

I have also been meaning to say how helpful I have been finding your cues in both yoga and pilates regarding the integration of the pelvic floor into every movement.

I feel that I am really making progress with that now. My experience has been that it is such a good illustration of how the whole body affects the whole body (and of course all the other dimensions too) - rather in contrast to traditional medical models I'd say!

2026

I just wanted to say thank you for all of your direction. My movement has changed dramatically and progressively over the 3-4 years that I have attended your classes.

I can turn much more easily in my golf, am conscious of my abdominals for the first time in 30+ years and my back curves more easily when I get into cars. I never thought it would have such a significant impact.

Alongside Daria’s dietary regime, my health and movement feels much better than 5 years ago.

2026

Dearest Stephanie,

I don’t know where to start with the profound and positive impact you’ve had on my life.  I’ve never continued with any teacher for so long, stuck with classes so consistently, or made anything non-negotiable for myself other than your movement lessons.  You have fundamentally changed how I relate to my body, how I move and the pleasure I feel in moving.   

What have I learned?  That my body is strong, capable, dynamic, alive, up for a challenge, worthy of respect and care.  How do I know this?  From the huge variety of movements you choreograph to reach every part of our bodies (and to move not in straight lines!); from your discerning, subtle adjustments that transform a pose; from your mind-bogglingly informed, insightful and personal cues; from your brilliant explanations, which you demonstrate so clearly in your own body and describe with so many creative, pertinent metaphors.  You’ve taught me to listen to my body – the forces within me, the space around me, the connections to the ground beneath me – and to experience movement in a way that brings balance, grounds, lifts, energises, soothes.  

On and off the mat, on my bike, sitting in the cinema (sometimes with you!), pacing through crowded pavements, standing on the train, everywhere and anywhere, I now have a sense of physical freedom and competence which would have been unimaginable to my younger self.  At school, I was the very last person to be chosen for any team, never got beyond a forward roll in gymnastics, was considered uncoordinated and chose to be inactive.  I would never have believed that I would learn handstands and headstands in my forties and beyond(!), contort into some sort of suburban sparrow (vs. bird of paradise), and (largely) willingly follow your lead!  When you instruct us to ‘Smile!’ at the most challenging moment, my first thought is often ‘Are you having a laugh?’.  Looking around the room, I realise that  we are all laughing: alongside the seriousness of our commitment, there has been so much play, fun and joy.  

How lucky we are that you took the turning to Oxford! In different venues in the city and online in different countries, when parts of our individual lives have closed or the whole world has shut down, you’ve enabled us to keep learning together and growing together. That so many friendships have emerged is testament to your kindness, generosity and grace. Thank you for all that you give, for your dear friendship and for creating a space where I come home to myself.

With so much love,

A week in Stephanie’s yoga retreat at Monte Velho Retreat Centre was a joyful, nourishing and restoring experience in so many ways. Although I typically only attend a weekly yoga class, I comfortably eased into the schedule of three practices a day; a morning session followed by brunch or lunch; then beach, walk or massage; followed by afternoon practice; dinner; beautiful sunset-viewing and ending the day with a relaxing Yoga Nidra. All the while Stephanie’s guiding cues and watchful eye were improving my postures and meditation. One of the highlights for me was the circular Yoga Shala, which is a harmonious and inspiring space in which to practise. The vegetarian menu was varied, delicious and plentiful, all freshly made with local produce. A key part of the retreat was Stephanie’s and Tiago’s knowledge and enthusiasm about the local area. We were introduced to beautiful uncrowded beaches and unforgettable walks. Both Stephanie and Tiago were exceptionally generous with their time, attention, and willingness to share so much of their spiritual home with us over the week. It was much more than a yoga retreat – it was very special. I am looking forward to returning next year.

I've been telling people about my wonderful week and it has helped me crystallise what was so brilliant about Stephanie's retreat. Not only was Monte Velho Retreat a great choice with its sumptuous vegetarian meals, beautiful shala and views of the sea and sunset but it was also very clear how much thought and hard work Stephanie had put into devising a tailored yoga practice; a practice that, over the week, reinforced the key asanas, gave us the chance to try new poses, introduced us to new ways to increase energy and stay healthy and most importantly, I think,  teach us new routines that are easy to add to our every day lives. On top of that, we spent every afternoon at a different beach, swimming and soaking up the glorious sunshine - a really memorable holiday as well as a yoga retreat. Thank you Stephanie!

I have been practising yoga for 10 years – with different teachers. Stephanie I did not know at all but I had this urge to go for the retreat she was offering in Monte Velho, Portugal. I am soooooo happy I followed my intuition! In Stephanie I found an experienced teacher with deep understanding of healthy and safe movement. I loved her calm yet very passionate and clear guidance. The lessons were well balanced, no element of yoga was neglected, the retreat had it all - asana practice, breathing techniques, mantras reciting, mudras, deep relaxation. Well prepared and thought through! And at last I am particularly grateful for a morning routine (5 Tibetan rites and 4 purification breath techniques) that Stephanie shared with us and that I am so determined to stick to (such a gift!), and also for offering an advice on some somatic/personal issues.

A week in retreat to break my patterns. To take a sojourn from my well-worn paths and learn to breathe again. To leave all decision-making behind and rediscover what's important. To unfurrow my brow and re-engage with my physical self. My yoga retreat with Stephanie has meant these things to me and much more. Located amidst the pine scented hills of the national park, our daily practice refined, challenged and invigorated me. With plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and stunning beaches, the retreat has been truly transformative. Thank you Stephanie!

It was such a joy to spend the week with Stephanie and the group in such a beautiful unspoilt part of Portugal. The yoga felt amazing and it was such a privilege to be able benefit from such professional and thoughtful teaching. Everyone was so friendly and the atmosphere warm and inclusive and we all felt enriched from meeting others from UK and different parts of the world. The food was healthy and delicious and my accommodation was comfortable and had everything I needed. Stephanie and Tiago took such great care to ensure our safety, comfort and enjoyment and it was hard to say goodbye at the end!

Set on a remote Portuguese hilltop, the Movement for Living Well Yoga Retreat was just what we needed. My three girlfriends and I enjoyed the early morning movement and meditation, discovering the Five Tibetan Rites, meeting new people and enjoying Stephanie's slow and restorative teaching. Overall it was a wholesome, nourishing and wonderful week.

I can highly recommend this retreat with Stephanie. She is an amazing and highly skilled yoga teacher.

Very pedagogically clear and an incredibly committed teacher, who sees each student what she/he needs.

The location of the retreat is in a very peaceful place with a beautiful shala to practice in, and great vegetarian meals served every day.

I hope to be able to come back next year.

It was with trepidation that I approached my first Yoga Retreat as I really didn't know what to expect as I am not a big one for navel gazing on the top of a mountain at sunrise. This week was the exact opposite. Three sessions of Yoga a day that I looked forward to as it was a great mix of poses, meditation and relaxation - with a perfect blend of instruction, correction and support. When I grow up I want to be as brilliant a teacher as Stephanie is. I will certainly be going again next year.

I’ve done a lot more pilates than yoga and thought I preferred pilates. But after a week of yoga in Portugal with Stephanie, I completely changed my view. I was surprised by how much stronger I felt, as well as feeling more flexible, stretched and relaxed. The retreat itself is in a lovely place – surrounded by woodland on a hill with views of the sea and a beautiful breeze. There is as much “joining in” as you want to do with plenty of time to do your own thing. The food was amazing – and lots of it! But perhaps the best thing was how the benefits of the week have stayed with me well beyond the time we were away. I felt like it was a “reset”!