Learn about yoga and mindfulness from Phoenix, world’s youngest yoga teacher!

At 5 years and 337 days old, Phoenix Giselle Hicks (USA) became the world’s youngest female yoga instructor, after she completed an incredible 200 hours of Yoga Teacher Training course!

Have you ever practiced yoga? It’s a fun way to move your body while taking slow, deep breaths to help you feel strong and calm.

Not only did Phoenix break a world record, but she even secured a spot as one of our Young Achievers in Guinness World Records 2027, which is out now!

Today, Phoenix is 8 years old, and she isn’t just mastering poses but teaching others, leading classes for both kids and grown-ups with her mum in Houston, Texas.

“I love teaching classes with my mum,” she said. “She inspired me to be a yoga teacher so it’s fun when we get to teach together.”

Earning a yoga teaching certificate is challenging for most grown-ups, but little Phoenix refused to let her age hold her back.

“I was the only kid in a class of all grown-ups,” she recalled. “I had to read a lot of books, learn about anatomy, take classes daily, write papers, and complete practice teaching hours.”

But all the hard work was worth it for the chance to make her dream come true!

“When I’m teaching yoga, I feel honoured and proud that people allow me to lead them.

“It inspires me to see my community grow, be calm, and find relaxation.” 

So how does Phoenix prepare to teach a class?

She starts by practising her flow, then she does breathwork to make sure she is calm and her energy is balanced.

Her favourite yoga pose is the tree pose, because “it's fun to practise balancing and it can be a little tricky at times.”

As she likes to remind her students: “It's okay if you wobble or fall, just try your best.”

Sounds quite fun!

Phoenix’s mum, Sydney, is super proud of her. She told us: “Through her playful yet powerful teaching style, Phoenix is not just guiding yoga sessions – she’s nurturing a movement. A movement that says you’re never too young to breathe deeply, move intentionally, and change the world.”

And about breaking the world record, Phoenix said: “I am so grateful to inspire kids around the world to follow their dreams no matter how young they are!”

Do you think Phoenix’s story will inspire you to become a record breaker?

The young yogi is passionate about mindfulness, and recently published her first book teaching us everything she knows about it: “[I teach] kids how to take deep breaths when they feel upset, sad, or angry. 

“Just pause, breathe in slowly through your nose, and breathe out through your mouth a few times. It helps your body relax and your mind feel calm. You can do it anywhere and anytime.

“I hope my book inspires everyone across the globe and reminds them that their breath is always with them. I love sharing things that help me feel happy and calm with the world!”

If you ever feel anxious or upset, give mindfulness a try!

Earlier this year, Phoenix came to visit our office in London, UK, and taught a beginner’s yoga class to a group of kids! 

“I love helping people learn how to move their bodies mindfully!” she told us.

Phoenix has many other hobbies, such as:

• Travelling the world
• Dancing – especially the ballet!
• Playing the piano
• Robotics

Do you share any of the same interests?

When we asked her what she wants to be when she grows up, she said:

“In 10 years, I’d like to be learning and preparing to become an astronaut. Beyond yoga, I have a big passion for STEM and love learning about planets and outer space.

“Maybe one day I’ll even be the first person to do yoga in outer space!”

Would you join an outer space yoga class?!

Congratulations, Phoenix, you are Officially Amazing!