Phoenix posing

Phoenix Giselle Hicks

Age: 8
Home country: USA
Special skill: Yoga

Hi there! I’m Phoenix and I love yoga. When I was 5 years and 337 days old I became the world’s youngest yoga instructor – I lead classes for all ages alongside my mum! I also wrote a book named Breathe, to teach kids how intentional breathing can help them to feel calm, safe and happy. 

Phoenix doing yoga pose

How it all started…

I went to my first yoga class with my mum, Sydney, when I was only 3 months old!

I don’t remember it, obviously, but I guess I fell in love with it straight away because, by the age of 4, I could keep up with the more advanced sessions at my mum’s studio…

And eventually, we even began teaching together as a duo. It’s so much fun!

I really wanted to become certified so I enrolled in training, and on 22 June 2025 I became the youngest yoga instructor. Now I lead classes for all ages in Houston, Texas, USA.

But getting here wasn’t easy…

Breaking a world record

To become a yoga teacher, I had to complete 200 HOURS of training!

I was the only kid in a class full of grown-ups, but I didn’t let that scare me.

I read multiple books, learned about anatomy, took daily classes, wrote papers, did teaching practice and even went on a 10-day retreat.

A few months after getting my record certificate, I visited the Guinness World Records office in London, UK, where I guided 11 children through a 30-minute yoga lesson and then read them some of my book to teach them about mindfulness!

Mindfulness is the ability to relax and focus on the present moment, while calmly accepting your thoughts, feelings and sensations.

You should try it – it’s really good for you!

I am so grateful to inspire kids around the world to follow their dreams no matter how young they are.

Phoenix Giselle Hicks

Phoenix teaching yoga

My top yoga and mindfulness tips

First of all, it’s okay if you wobble or fall, just try your best!

In fact, my favourite yoga pose is the tree, because it’s fun to practise balancing and it can be a little tricky – challenging yourself is a good thing.

And when you feel upset, sad or angry, try to take deep breaths. 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.

The best part? You can do it anywhere and anytime!

Phoenix doing tree pose with certificate

When I'm not doing yoga...

I love travelling the world and exploring new places!

I’m passionate about dance and have been training in ballet since I was 2 years old. I’ve also been playing the piano since I was 3, and had the honour of performing at the Royal Academy of Music in London, England.

And I’m on a robotics team and enjoy working on science experiments.

I love trying new things and having fun while learning!

I also enjoy doing global community service projects and helping people in different communities around the world. Being able to make a positive impact means so much to me.

Finally, I had so much fun writing my first book! I love sharing things that help me feel happy and calm with the world. It made me really proud to see my words and ideas turn into a real book!

Do you have any of the same or similar hobbies?

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. I love helping people learn how to move their bodies mindfully.

Phoenix Giselle Hicks

Phoenix teaching yoga

My plans for the future

In 10 years, I’d like to be learning and preparing to become an… ASTRONAUT!

Beyond yoga, I have a big passion for STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths - and love learning about planets and outer space.

Who knows, maybe one day I’ll even be the first person to do yoga in outer space!

What do YOU want to be when you grow up?