Professional Experience
Dr. Bartolec has extensive professional experience, combining leadership, teaching, and international retreat organization. She has trained hundreds of students and teachers globally.
- Current position: Creator and Director of Ashtanga Yoga Mama, Nicoya, Costa Rica
- Past leadership: Founder of The Body Element Studio, Zagreb, Croatia (2004–2014)
- International roles: Led Mysore programs in Bali and Europe; guest teacher at global yoga centers
- Teacher trainings: Designed and delivered yoga teacher training and wellness programs
Academic Contributions
Dr. Bartolec contributes actively to the academic and cultural development of yoga and mindfulness education.
- Writer: Contributor to Sensa Lifestyle Magazine since 2008
- Speaker: Lecturer and trainer at international workshops and retreats
- Meditation teacher: Featured on InsightTimer
- Mentor: Provides mentorship for yoga teachers and retreat organizers
Areas of Expertise
Her expertise includes a range of yoga traditions and wellness techniques designed to meet the needs of both beginners and advanced practitioners.
- Yoga traditions: Ashtanga Mysore & Led, Vinyasa, Restorative, Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga
- Wellness focus: Anatomy, physiology, rehabilitation, stress management
- Special support: Programs adapted for clients with injuries or chronic health conditions
Publications and Research
Dr. Bartolec shares knowledge through articles and teaching platforms, making yoga philosophy and practice accessible to a global audience.
- Medium articles: Personal and professional reflections on yoga and wellness
- Magazine contributions: Regular contributor to Sensa Lifestyle Magazine
- Online platforms: Meditation teacher on InsightTimer
Patient Care Philosophy
Her philosophy is rooted in empathy, respect for individual needs, and creating a nurturing environment where students feel supported.
- Individualized care: Adapts yoga sessions to personal health conditions, injuries, and goals
- Holistic approach: Blends yoga, meditation, and mindful living practices
- International support: Provides full retreat assistance, including logistics for global clients
- Testimonials: Praised for professionalism, kindness, and deep knowledge of anatomy and yoga
Professional Affiliations
Dr. Bartolec is internationally recognized and certified by authoritative yoga institutions.
- KPJAYI Authorization: Authorized Ashtanga Yoga Teacher since 2014
- International presence: Active educator and retreat leader in Europe, Asia, and Latin America
FAQs
Below are answers to common questions from students and patients about Dr. Irena Bartolec and her services.
- Is Dr. Irena Bartolec board-certified?
- She is an authorized KPJAYI yoga teacher, recognized globally for her traditional Ashtanga Yoga teaching. She is not a medical board-certified doctor.
- What types of programs does she offer?
- She offers yoga retreats, teacher trainings, mindfulness programs, and wellness-focused workshops.
- Does she work with international clients?
- Yes, she hosts international students regularly in Costa Rica, Bali, and Europe.
- How long is the typical retreat stay?
- Retreats typically last 5–7 days, depending on the program and location.
- What languages does she speak?
- She speaks English, Spanish, and Croatian.
- Does she adapt yoga sessions for health conditions?
- Yes, she specializes in adapting yoga for injuries, prenatal and postnatal needs, and physical limitations.
