In conversation with Kirsten Nielsen

Meet Kirsten Nielsen

Kirsten Nielsen is an internationally recognised yoga teacher based in Byron Bay. With nearly 12 years of experience and over 1300 hours of training, Kirsten is known for her soulful, alignment-based vinyasa and grounded yet playful style. 

Kirsten has contributed to multiple teacher trainings, and now leads her own 200hr Soul Studies Yoga Teacher Training. Through her YouTube channel and retreats like Shaka Shakti, Kirsten shares accessible, heart-led practices that blend movement, philosophy, and deep presence, inspiring students to connect, grow, and move with purpose.

I’ve been teaching for over 11 years now, but I stumbled into yoga somewhat unexpectedly. At the time, I was working as a personal trainer and injured my back weightlifting. Someone suggested yoga might help, so I walked into an Ashtanga class and was immediately hooked. It was intense, challenging, humbling. In those early years, my practice was very physical, but over time it shifted into something much deeper. These days, I’m more interested in the stillness, the inner awareness, and the spiritual growth that unfolds far beyond the mat.

What styles or traditions of yoga do you draw from the most in your teaching?

My teaching blends anatomical precision with soulful intention. I'm deeply influenced by alignment-focused vinyasa teachers like Dice Iida-Klein and Tiffany Cruikshank, while also drawing inspiration from the heart-centred practices of traditions like Jivamukti—bringing in elements of chanting, philosophy, and the deeper meaning that lies beyond the movement.

Tell us a bit about your upcoming Yoga Teacher Training and Retreat?

I’m incredibly excited to share my upcoming 200hr Yoga Teacher Training, set in the breathtaking beauty of Goa, India—right on the beach! This unique hybrid experience begins with a 6-week self-paced online journey, giving students the chance to immerse themselves in anatomy and philosophy at their own rhythm, with the freedom to revisit and absorb the teachings as deeply as they like.

We then gather for a transformative 2-week in-person immersion in Goa, where the knowledge truly comes to life through embodied practice, community, chanting, and meaningful connection. It’s a journey that honours both the structure and spirit of yoga—a chance to deepen your practice and come home to yourself.

I'll be joined by an incredible team: co-facilitator Tal Derhy, philosophy teacher Jacinta McEwen, and anatomy teacher Chloe Jamieson.

Why do you love Divine Goddess and which styles are on rotation the most?

Divine Goddess onesies and leggings are hands down my favourites—I seriously live in them! They’re always on rotation and have become a core part of both my teaching and personal practice.

Whether I’m moving through a dynamic vinyasa flow, guiding a class, or just relaxing on a slow Sunday, they’re my go-to. The fit is so flattering, the feel is incredibly comfortable, and they move beautifully with the body. Every time I slip into one of my onesies or leggings, I feel instantly good—grounded, confident, and ready for whatever the day brings, on or off the mat.

I'm also a huge fan of the Luna Yoga Mats —I have them in a variety of colours, and the grip is absolutely amazing. They’re perfect for both teaching and my personal practice, offering the support and stability I need no matter the flow.