What is SYC authorization and why is it important?

SYC (Sharath Yoga Centre) authorization is the highest level of certification in traditional Ashtanga yoga, granted directly by Sharath Jois in Mysore, India. I received this authorization in 2023 after years of dedicated study. This means I'm qualified to teach the authentic Ashtanga method exactly as it's preserved at the source. Only a select number of teachers worldwide hold this authorization.

How long did you study in Mysore, India?

I've made multiple trips to Mysore to study directly with Sharath Jois at the Sharath Yoga Centre. Each trip involved intensive daily practice and learning, typically lasting several months. This traditional student-teacher relationship is how authentic Ashtanga knowledge is passed down. The experience of learning in Mysore profoundly shaped my understanding and teaching approach.

What makes your teaching approach unique?

Having studied directly at the source in Mysore, I teach traditional Ashtanga exactly as it's practiced there - not modified versions. I focus on the complete practice including proper breathing (ujjayi), gazing points (drishti), energy locks (bandhas), and the philosophical foundations. I also bring a deep understanding of how to adapt the practice for different bodies while maintaining its authentic essence.

How did you become interested in Ashtanga yoga?

My journey with Ashtanga began through a deep calling to understand authentic yoga practice beyond the modern adaptations. The discipline and transformative power of traditional Ashtanga drew me to seek the source in Mysore. What started as personal practice evolved into a calling to share this ancient method with Hong Kong students, preserving its traditional essence while making it accessible.

Why did you choose to teach in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong needed authentic traditional Ashtanga teaching. Many yoga classes here mix different styles, but I wanted to offer the pure, traditional method I learned in Mysore. Hong Kong students are dedicated and hardworking, making them perfect for the disciplined practice of Ashtanga. I'm passionate about creating a community where people can experience this transformative practice in its authentic form.

Do you continue studying and updating your knowledge?

Absolutely! Traditional yoga is a lifelong study. I continue to deepen my understanding through regular trips to Mysore, ongoing study of yoga philosophy, and maintaining my own daily practice. This commitment to continuous learning ensures I can offer students the most authentic and informed guidance. In traditional yoga, the teacher remains a lifelong student.

My Story | SYC Authorized Ashtanga Yoga Teacher | Hong Kong

2017

The Beginning

Tung's yoga journey began in 2017, when he first stepped onto a yoga mat, unaware that this moment would completely transform his life. Like many beginners, he was seeking something – perhaps physical fitness, stress relief, or simply a new experience.

What he discovered was much more profound than he could have ever imagined. The practice of yoga opened doors to self-discovery, inner peace, and a deeper understanding of the connection between mind, body, and spirit.

2018

Life-Changing Moment in Mysore

In 2018, Tung made a decision that would forever alter the course of his life. He traveled to Mysore, India, the birthplace of Ashtanga Yoga, to complete his RYT 200 Hatha & Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training.

This experience was nothing short of transformative. Learning in the sacred land where this ancient practice originated, surrounded by dedicated practitioners from around the world, he discovered the true essence of Ashtanga Yoga.

It was here that Tung became a devoted Ashtanga practitioner, realizing that yoga is not just physical exercise, but a complete way of life that encompasses discipline, devotion, and self-realization.

2018

Sharing the Gift

Inspired and deeply influenced by his teachers in Mysore, Tung began teaching yoga in 2018. The transition from student to teacher felt natural and necessary for him; Tung felt called to share the profound happiness and transformation he had experienced through his practice.

Tung's teaching philosophy focuses on helping people build strength not only physically, but also emotionally and spiritually. He believes that yoga has the power to heal, transform, and bring joy to everyone who approaches it with an open heart.

Every class Tung teaches offers an opportunity to share the ancient wisdom he has received, creating a space for students to discover their own inner strength and peace.

2019

Building a Yoga Community

In July 2019, Tung co-founded 一念瑜伽 (Tapas Yoga HK) with his business partner. He wanted to share authentic Ashtanga yoga with more people in Hong Kong and create a good space to teach traditional practice.

The name "Tapas" means disciplined practice in yoga philosophy. Tung chose this name because he wanted to keep traditional Ashtanga teaching while welcoming students of all levels.

Word about Tapas Yoga HK spread through the students themselves. People liked the teaching style and the atmosphere, so they started bringing friends along to try the classes.

Tung saw Tapas Yoga HK as a way to bring what he learned in Mysore back to Hong Kong. He wanted to share those traditional teaching methods with local students and help authentic Ashtanga yoga grow here.

2022-Present

Life-Long Learning

Since 2022, Tung has returned annually to practice with Sharath Jois at the Sharath Yoga Centre (SYC). This yearly pilgrimage to the source keeps him connected to the authentic tradition of Ashtanga Yoga.

Learning directly from Sharath Jois, the grandson of the legendary Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, ensures that he maintains the purity and integrity of the practice. Each visit deepens his understanding and refines his teaching.

This commitment to continuous learning reflects his belief that teachers must remain eternal students. The practice is alive and ever-evolving, and there is always more to discover.

Today

Tung's Dharma (Mission)

Today, Tung is proud to share Ashtanga Yoga with the Hong Kong community through Tapas Yoga HK, with locations in Yuen Long, Tsuen Wan, and Lai Chi Kok. His mission remains the same as when he first began teaching: to share the happiness and transformation that yoga brings.

Tung welcomes everyone, from beginners to experienced yogis, believing that everyone deserves happiness, strength, and peace through yoga.

Through traditional Ashtanga classes, Mysore practice, workshops, and private sessions, Tung fosters a supportive community where each person can thrive on their unique path. He looks forward to sharing this journey with you!

My Story

The Beginning

Life-Changing Moment in Mysore

Sharing the Gift

Building a Yoga Community

Life-Long Learning

Tung's Dharma (Mission)

My Teaching Philosophy

Traditional Teaching

Your Own Pace

Safe Space

Try Ashtanga Yoga with Tung