The founder who turned her struggle into our mission
Born Syfon, she was raised in a blend of Thai and Chinese cultures, steeped in the wisdom of ancient Eastern philosophy.
This rich heritage instilled in her a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit,
and a profound respect for the balance that shapes our lives.
Her journey with yoga began in 2007
While working in a demanding executive position at an international bank in Thailand, the pressures of her role manifested as both mental strain and debilitating back pain. She sought relief through chiropractic care, enduring years of daily hospital visits, yet the pain persisted, reminding her that healing was more than just physical.
“During those years, I often felt trapped in my own body and mind. It was exhausting, painful, and sometimes lonely. But I realized that healing isn’t only about removing pain—it’s about learning to slow down, to breathe, and to reconnect with yourself. Yoga became the first place where I could truly feel alive again.”
One fateful day, Poppy (her nickname) met a chiropractic doctor who was also a yoga guru. This encounter opened the door to a new world of healing. She began practicing asana, and slowly, her physical pain subsided.
Over time, what started as a method to relieve pain became a deep, personal journey of self-discovery. She immersed herself in yoga, studying under masterful teachers, and eventually became a knowledgeable instructor herself.
What happens when yoga loses its soul?
Through her practice, Poppy realized that yoga offered far more than physical well-being. It nurtured her inner self, provided clarity and purpose, and revealed a path to balance and peace.
At the same time, she noticed a growing disconnect between the true essence of yoga and its portrayal in popular culture. Social media and trends often reduced yoga to a fitness routine, stripping away its philosophical and spiritual depth.
“I began to worry that so many people were missing the heart of yoga. It is not just exercise or a way to look a certain way—it is a practice of awareness, presence, and intention. I wanted to create something that could remind people of this, even in the small, everyday moments of life.”
“I wanted something that spoke to the soul."
Yoga is not just about poses or flexibility—it’s about the mind, the heart, and how we relate to ourselves and others. Similarly, jewelry should not be just metal or decoration. It can carry intention, support, and human connection, reminding us of what truly matters.
In 2012, Poppy’s vision began to take shape. She started searching for jewelry that could reflect her inner journey and resonate with her deep connection to yoga. However, she found little that felt authentic. Frustration sparked inspiration: she realized that both yoga and jewelry were losing their essence—yoga reduced to exercise, jewelry reduced to lifeless objects.
What do we carry every day?
Thus, Touch of Yoga was born. Poppy’s vision was to create jewelry that is not only beautiful but also a tangible reminder of yoga’s transformative power and, more importantly, its connection to the mind and heart. Each piece embodies the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, turning jewelry into more than an accessory—it becomes a daily practice, a gentle reminder to stay present, intentional, and connected.
Touch of Yoga ’s offerings go far beyond yoga practice. The brand curates collections designed to support mental health, offering encouragement for those who feel emotionally fragile or vulnerable. Our pieces also celebrate relationships, with jewelry gifts, personalized jewelry, and items that honor human connection, emphasizing the power of human touch and meaningful bonds. These collections reflect the philosophy that the essence of yoga—and the essence of life—is in the heart and mind, not just in the physical body.
The hard part of doing things right
Touch of Yoga became more than just a brand—it became a platform for sharing the true essence of yoga, mental wellness, and human connection, reminding people of its profound depth and its ability to enrich every aspect of life.
However, Poppy also acknowledges a difficult reality: even the best intentions can face challenges in the modern business world. Small, purpose-driven businesses—committed to handmade quality, community support, and authenticity—can be overshadowed by larger competitors with advanced production capabilities.
“I’ve learned that love for what you do and good intentions are essential, but they are not enough on their own. To make a real impact, we need a community of like minded people who share our values and are willing to support authenticity, care, and meaningful human connection in a world that often favors speed and scale.”
We hope that you will join us as an essential part of this community supporting a vision that honors craft, mindfulness, mental wellness, and the true spirit of yoga, while also celebrating human connection.