Discovering Community and Connection: The Inspiring Journey of the Community Yoga Project
In a city as vibrant and bustling as London, finding genuine connection can sometimes feel like a challenge. But a new movement is changing that, one breath, one stretch, and one heartfelt conversation at a time. Meet the Community Yoga Project (CYP), a rapidly growing community that’s revolutionising the way we think about yoga, accessibility, and building authentic relationships.
The Birth of CYP: From Rejection to Resilience
It all began quite unexpectedly in May 2023. Mattia Masini, a dedicated yoga enthusiast and lawyer, completed his teacher training , initially without the intention of teaching. After his certification, he decided to organise a simple, free outdoor yoga session in a London park, just to try it out and see how it went. Little did he know, this spontaneous act would spark a movement. Fourteen people showed up on that sunny Saturday, and within just two months, the community grew to over 100 members.
Mattia shares, “It was very random, but I just thought, let’s see what happens. I put it out there for free, and people showed up. I had fun teaching, and they had fun practicing - that’s how it all started.”
Core Principles: Accessibility and Authentic Connection
The success of CYP lies in two key pillars:
1. Radical Accessibility:
From the beginning, the community has been committed to making yoga open to everyone. The Saturday classes operate on a donation basis, suggested £7 but open to zero, ensuring that cost is never a barrier. Monthly events like Mindfulness Day, which includes breathwork, yoga, ecstatic dance, and sound healing, cost just £25, with free entry for those unable to pay. The inaugural retreat in Sicily, where participants enjoyed a eight-day holiday, was fully booked within 60 minutes, thanks to Mattia’s extensive personal network.
2. Building Genuine Community:
Beyond physical practice, CYP exists to foster real human connections. After each session, attendees gather for coffee and conversation, turning yoga from a solitary activity into a social experience.
Mattia emphasises, “Yoga is a pretext for building real relationships. We create a safe space where vulnerability is encouraged and embraced.”
The Man Behind CYP: Mattia Masini
Mattia’s journey is as inspiring as the community he has built. After facing rejection from London’s yoga scene, studios demanding two to three years of experience, he refused to give up. Instead, he channeled his passion into creating something new. “I thought, ‘How do I get experience if no one gives me a chance?'”he reflects.
His persistence paid off. Starting with that outdoor class, he gradually expanded, finding ways to secure indoor venues despite challenges. His approach combines a deep sense of purpose with a pragmatic attitude: managing CYP as a one-man limited company while balancing a full-time legal career. For Mattia, creating a safe, connected space is his mission in life.
Addressing the Heart of the Issue: Isolation and Rejection
Mattia’s story resonates with many who feel excluded or lonely despite engaging in yoga practice. His own experience of being turned away because of lack of experience emphasises the importance of inclusivity and human connection. CYP was born out of a desire to offer just that: a welcoming environment where everyone belongs.
Looking Forward: Ambitious Plans for 2026 and Beyond
The future of CYP is packed with exciting projects:
The Saturday classes will continue as the foundation of the community.
Monthly Mindfulness Days remain a staple, providing dedicated space for holistic wellbeing.
In October 2026, the community will gather in Sicily once more for “Mare Calmo 2026”, an eight-day retreat in a beachfront resort.
A four-day, camping-style retreat in the UK’s countryside is planned for late June.
Additionally, CYP will host activities at the Wellnergy Festival in London, integrating into the city’s thriving wellness scene.
In Summary
Mattia’s journey from rejection to creating the UK’s largest yoga community exemplifies resilience, passion, and a genuine desire to bring people together. His approach, offering open access, fostering relationships, and creating safe spaces, proves that yoga is more than a physical practice; it’s a pathway to belonging.
If you’re seeking a welcoming community that prioritises authenticity and connection, keep an eye on CYP’s upcoming events. Like Mattia, you might discover your own space to breathe, stretch, and connect in a truly meaningful way.
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