Studio Y3, located in Zurich, Switzerland, is more than a yoga studio—it’s a space designed to inspire connection, mindfulness, and personal growth. Every element of the studio, from the dim lighting to the curated playlists, is thoughtfully crafted to create a calming and immersive experience. Home to the innovative Cecilia Jane Method, created by its founder Cecilia, Studio Y3 offers a unique blend of yoga, barre, and Pilates, fostering strength, stillness, and a deep connection to the self. It is a place where community thrives, and every visit invites a moment to pause, breathe, and reconnect amidst the busyness of daily life.
How did you find yoga and what was your path from student to teacher and finally into a studio owner?
My journey into yoga began as a personal exploration—a way to find balance, strength, and clarity during life’s challenges. Over time, yoga became much more than just a physical practice; it became a way to connect deeply with myself and cultivate a sense of stillness in both body and mind. With a background in Psychology, I’ve always valued self-awareness and mindfulness as key components of overall well-being. Yoga felt like a natural extension of that philosophy, combining movement, breath, and presence in a way that fosters embodiment and inner peace. My transition from student to teacher came from a desire to share this transformative practice with others, to help them build strength, release tension, and find a sense of calm within their body and mind amidst the chaos of everyday life. As a teacher, I place great emphasis on making yoga accessible and adaptable, meeting students where they are—whether it’s their first class or part of a lifelong practice. My classes incorporate elements of mindful movement, breathwork, and meditation, carefully linking them to music to create an immersive experience. Opening Studio Y3 felt like a natural evolution of this journey. It allowed me to create a space where community and connection flourish, and where people can experience not only yoga but also innovative practices like the Cecilia Jane Method. My goal has always been to help others discover the power of mindful movement to build strength, find stillness, and reconnect with themselves.
Is there a special teacher or guide that was instrumental in developing and sustaining your personal practice?
I’ve been fortunate to have many incredible teachers who have inspired and continue to shape my practice. One of the most impactful experiences was my first-ever training in London, where I was introduced to Ambra Vallo, whose teachings laid the foundation for my journey. Over the years, I’ve drawn immense inspiration from my Ashtanga teacher in Florida and the wisdom of Dharma Mittra. I’ve also been deeply influenced by teachers like Travis Eliot, each of whom has contributed something unique to my approach. The list of teachers who have shaped my path is long and ever-growing as I continue to evolve both as a student and a teacher. In addition to these profound influences, I’ve also learned a great deal from the support and knowledge of my team. Their collective wisdom, guidance, and energy continue to sustain and enrich my practice, and I’m deeply grateful for their presence on this journey.
Can you share the story behind the studio? What was the inspiration to open the space for the community?
The inspiration for Studio Y3 came from a desire to create a sanctuary where people could reconnect with themselves in a meaningful way. Yoga has always been a source of balance, clarity, and calm in my life, and I wanted to share that experience by designing a space that feels welcoming, grounding, and transformative. Studio Y3 goes beyond traditional yoga—it’s also the home of the Cecilia Jane Method, a unique blend of Yoga, Barre, and Pilates. This method is physically challenging, yet it’s designed to strengthen the body while cultivating a sense of stillness within the mind. At its heart, Studio Y3 is a space where movement, mindfulness, and community come together, offering a haven for personal growth and self-discovery.
The vision was to go beyond just offering yoga classes and instead build an environment that engages all the senses—a place where the lighting, music, and ambiance work together to create an immersive and calming experience. I felt there was a need in the community for a space where individuals could truly pause, breathe, and find themselves amidst the busyness of everyday life. Studio Y3 is the embodiment of that vision, designed to be a haven for personal growth and connection.
Why was Manduka chosen as the equipment partner for Studio Y3?
Manduka was chosen because it has always been a personal favourite for my yoga practice. Its exceptional quality and minimalist aesthetic perfectly align with the modern, clean design of our studio.
Tell us about the studio and the energy it brings to the local yoga community. When people enter the studio, what do you want them to feel?
At Studio Y3, our goal is to create a space that exudes calmness, safety, and warmth. Every detail is designed to engage the senses: the curtains are drawn, the lighting is dimmed, and a thoughtfully curated playlist sets the tone. As soon as you enter, you’ll find the room fully prepared, fostering a sense of ease and belonging. We envision the studio as a sanctuary—a place where people can pause from the hustle of daily life, slow down, and reconnect with themselves. When someone walks into Studio Y3, we want them to feel a release, a sense of arrival, and the freedom to meet themselves just as they are.
What is the goal or mission for Studio Y3?
The mission of Studio Y3 is to serve as a blank canvas, enabling individuals to fully immerse themselves in their practice, whether it is a form of Yoga or the Cecilia Jane Method Class. Every sensory detail—sight, smell, and sound—is carefully curated to enrich the depth of their experience. Music plays a central role, with every playlist thoughtfully crafted to guide and enhance the practice. At Studio Y3, we aim to offer a concept and experience that are truly one-of-a-kind.
How has the vision for the studio evolved since it first opened? Have there been any key moments that shaped this evolution?
As Studio Y3 has grown, we’ve come to fully realize the transformative power of music in our classes. Over time, we’ve intentionally integrated music into every session, with all instructors teaching to carefully curated playlists. Through team workshops, we’ve fine-tuned this approach, establishing a clear structure and vision for our classes that ensures they remain unique yet familiar, creating a deeper connection for our community. A significant milestone in our evolution has been the creation of a brand-new class (The Cecilia Jane Method), which is unique to Studio Y3. This class stands as a testament to our commitment to innovation and creativity, offering something special and exclusive to our community.
What do you want students to take away from an experience at the studio?
We want every member of our community to leave the studio feeling grounded, calm, and rejuvenated—carrying that sense of balance into their daily lives. Our goal is to provide an experience unlike any other, where students can enjoy the space and emerge with a renewed connection to themselves.
What is Studio Y3's teaching philosophy, and how does it influence the class offerings and community events?
Our teaching philosophy centers around creating a holistic and immersive experience for each student. By integrating sensory details, carefully crafted playlists, and intentional class structures, we ensure that every offering aligns with our vision of deepening the practice and fostering community connection. This approach informs not only our classes but also our events, creating a cohesive and meaningful experience.
What are your hopes and aspirations for the future of the studio?
We aim to continuously refine and expand our unique concept, nurturing growth both within our team and alongside the incredible community we’ve built. While we remain deeply connected to our roots in Zurich, we look toward the future with a vision of sharing the Studio Y3 experience beyond our immediate surroundings, exploring opportunities to bring our vision to new places around the world.
Are there any upcoming projects or events to mention to the community?
This year, we’re excited to expand "The Cecilia Jane Method" with more classes and plans for a future teacher training program. We’ll also continue to grow our workshops on inversions, advanced asanas, and breathwork, alongside restorative weekend events. Additionally, we’re planning exciting collaborations with like-minded brands to bring fresh experiences to the studio—and hopefully, much more to come.
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Address: Weststrasse 138, 8003, Zurich, Switzerland
Website: studioy3.ch
Type of styles offered: Cecilia Jane Method, Yin Yoga, Vinyasa, Ashtanga Vinyasa, Sweat Yoga, Breathwork: Breathe to Heal, Yinyasa