Yoga instructor at men’s prison helps relieve inmates’ stress and anxiety.

Yoga instructor at men's prison helps relieve inmates' stress and anxiety.

Teaching Yoga at a Men’s Prison: A Privilege and a Side Gig

Rory Bradshaw, a 31-year-old prison program lead in London, has been teaching yoga classes at a male prison for the past four years. As a prison yoga instructor, he not only finds his job rewarding, but he also earns up to $500 a week. In this as-told-to essay, Bradshaw shares his experiences and insights into what it’s like to teach yoga at a men’s prison.

Discovering Yoga and Connecting with the Practice

Bradshaw’s journey into yoga began years ago when he worked at a community center in South London. Encouraged by women running free community yoga classes, he decided to give it a try. The practice resonated with him on an emotional, mental, and physical level, prompting him to incorporate yoga into his own life. Recognizing the potential benefits of yoga for his work and relationships, he seized the opportunity to teach a free yoga class at a men’s prison in South London.

Falling in Love with the Job

Bradshaw’s first experience teaching yoga at the prison ignited a passion that has lasted for four years. He devotes two days a week to teach yoga classes to the inmates. Despite the early start to the prison regime, he enthusiastically wakes up at 6 a.m. and commutes for an hour-and-a-quarter by bike and train to reach the prison.

Once inside, Bradshaw goes cell-to-cell, rounding up the men and motivating them to attend the class. It can be a challenge as some may still be asleep, have family visits, or healthcare appointments. Additionally, some inmates may resist yoga due to preconceived notions and misconceptions. However, Bradshaw patiently explains how yoga can help alleviate stress and anxiety.

Despite these obstacles, Bradshaw manages to gather around 20 participants for each class. The group consists of young fit guys, weak elderly men, and even staff members. The classes last for up to an hour and fifteen minutes, providing a much-needed escape from the chaos of prison life.

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A Trauma-Informed Approach to Yoga

In his classes, Bradshaw takes a trauma-informed approach, helping the men process their life experiences by encouraging them to be aware of their body sensations and focus on the present moment. The class typically begins with a meditation, followed by gentle movements and controlled breathing exercises. Gradually, Bradshaw introduces postures like child’s pose, cat-cow variations, and sun salutations, guiding the men through a flow.

After each class, Bradshaw seeks feedback from the participants, discussing what felt good and what didn’t. This feedback helps him refine and adjust his yoga routines accordingly.

Positive Impact and Transformation

Bradshaw has witnessed the positive impact of yoga on the men in the prison. Participants have reported experiencing less back pain, increased hip mobility, and an overall feeling of lightness and relaxation. Many who initially felt skeptical or resistant to yoga have become regular attendees, finding solace and respite from the harsh prison environment.

Overcoming Challenges and Building Connections

Contrary to what some might think, Bradshaw does not find his job scary. Despite the noise, alarms, and occasional disturbances, the men in the prison are friendly, creative, and intelligent. Bradshaw emphasizes that he and the participants have a good time during the classes.

A Side Gig and Future Aspirations

While teaching yoga at the prison is Bradshaw’s side gig, it provides a substantial income. In the UK, a standard yoga instructor typically earns between £30 to £50 ($38 to $64 US dollars) per class, depending on the prison budget. By teaching multiple classes a day, one can earn between £300 to £400 pounds ($386 to $514 US dollars) in a week.

Looking ahead, Bradshaw plans to expand his yoga instruction to a new prison, where he will teach once a week on a voluntary basis. He also intends to film yoga content that will be streamed throughout the prison, making it accessible to all inmates. His ultimate ambition is to bring yoga to every prison cell in the country.

Offering Well-Being in a Harsh Environment

For Bradshaw, being able to teach yoga in such a harsh and challenging environment is a real privilege. Through his classes, he provides the men with a space to prioritize their own well-being, offering them a reprieve from the difficulties of prison life. His dedication and passion for yoga contribute to the transformation and betterment of the inmates’ lives.

• as told to
• Prison
• rory bradshaw