James Rafael

James Rafael is a yoga, somatics and qigong teacher who has been practising since 2009. He leads teacher trainings and workshops internationally, teaches in London and online, and has studied with teachers including S. N. Goenka, Mimi Kuo-Deemer, Jean Hall, Mark Coleman, Martin Aylward, Tara Brach and Charlotte Joko Beck.

Ask anyone who’s spent time with James, though, and they’ll probably tell you something else first: his kindness.

Whether he’s teaching in London or leading a retreat in Patagonia, James brings the same thoughtful, compassionate approach to everything he does. Drawn to wild places, he loves creating experiences that invite people to slow down, reconnect with nature and discover somewhere a little off the beaten path.

Having read English at Cambridge University, James also has a love of language, poetry and mindful communication, all of which gently weave their way into his teaching.

We’ll let James take it from here…

Kindness at the heart of practice

People often ask what kind of teacher I am. More than anything, my intention is to be kind.

For me, yoga and meditation aren’t just about awareness. Awareness without compassion, awareness without kindness, doesn’t really go the full distance to being part of what it is to be human.

If our practice isn’t helping us become kinder, more conscious, healthier and more helpful people, I think there’s something worth exploring. These traditions have so much to offer us as individuals, but they also have the power to strengthen our relationships, our communities and the way we show up in the world.

When I teach, my aim is for everyone to feel included, empowered and able to make their own choices. I’ll happily adapt a class to the people in front of me, because every group is different. My hope is that everyone leaves with something they can carry into their own practice—and into their life.

Drawn to wild places

When I think about travel, what gets me excited is going somewhere wild. Somewhere a little more remote, a little more unusual, where nature has a way of putting everything else into perspective.

That’s why the retreats I lead tend to be a little more adventurous and a little further off the beaten path. I love creating opportunities to step away from the noise of everyday life, reconnect with the land beneath our feet, and experience new places through their geography, culture, history and people.

For me, that’s what great travel is all about. Those are the experiences that stay with us long after we’ve returned home, and they’re the ones I love sharing with others.

Join James on a retreat

If the way James thinks about yoga, kindness and adventure resonates with you, we’d love for you to join him on retreat.

Expect thoughtful teaching, meaningful conversations, wild landscapes and plenty of opportunities to slow down, reconnect and experience somewhere a little off the beaten path.

Upcoming retreats with James

Want to explore more? Visit James’ website to discover free classes, join a live online session, or learn more about his work. You can also follow along on Instagram.