Chai – Caitanya Malaga

In 2009, (Chaitanya) Michael Malaga was fortunate enough to cross paths with his yoga teachers—a profound moment that sparked a lifelong journey. The practice felt so deeply resonant that it was simply impossible for him to turn away. Driven by a desire to understand its roots, he spent time living in a traditional yoga ashram in India, fully immersing himself in the timeless principles of yoga, Ayurveda, and spirituality.

Chaitanya was formally trained as a Hatha Yoga Teacher under the guidance of the Saraswati lineage of Bihar, India. Hence, his classes offer a beautifully balanced sanctuary of both energising and calming classical practices. Through a combination of intentional yoga postures, long holds, deep relaxation, breath expansions (pranayama), cleansing practices (shatkarmas), and gentle steps toward meditation, he guides students back to their own centre.

Guided by a deep sense of devotion and curiosity, Chaitanya has spent three years practising Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga with Eileen Hall and is currently continuing his studies with Angelika Knoerzer at North Sydney Yoga. His extensive experience and genuine passion for healing have naturally led him toward Yoga Therapy—allowing him to adapt practices with love and care for all ages, injuries, medical conditions, and prenatal journeys.

Away from the yoga mat, Chaitanya finds inspiration in creativity and nature. He enjoys graphic design, the timeless beauty of film photography, long walks by the ocean, and exploring new places and cultures.

Above all, Chaitanya hopes everyone who walks into his class feels welcome, supported, and accepted just as they are. It is a privilege for him to share these traditional teachings with an open heart, creating a space where people can cultivate greater balance, peace, and connection—both on and off the mat.

NSY Yoga Teachers

Angelika Knoerzer

Angelika Knoerzer

Director
Angelika’s passion in teaching lies in her desire to encourage students to gently explore and deepen their practice at their own pace.

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Angelina Whitaker

Angelina Whitaker

Angelina started practicing Hatha Yoga in the 90’s and when she discovered Ashtanga Yoga, she knew it was the practice for her . She was living in Japan at the time and started actively seeking out...

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Iris Yuen Chan

Iris Yuen Chan

Iris grew up as an active child in China, playing various sports. She later studied architecture in Hong Kong and became a table tennis varsity team member. After having children, she became...

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Katerina Ilikova

Katerina Ilikova

There aren't many sports Katerina hasn't tried as a child/teenager. While always swimming, playing basketball or volleyball, she also had a strong interest in teaching and helping others, from a...

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Kai Rainer

Kai Rainer

Kai began practicing in 2015, encouraged by the intelligent and inclusive approach of his teacher, Rebecca de Villa. He started assisting in her Mysore program in 2019. That same year, he had the...

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Adele Yin

Adele Yin

My Ashtanga Yoga journey began with Angelika at North Sydney Yoga in December 2020. One of my earliest and most memorable experiences was receiving an adjustment while Angelika stayed with me for...

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