Series 06: Mai Izumitani

Meet Mai Izumitani — London-based Yoga Teacher & Ceramicist. Through her practice, Mai crafts minimalist ceramics inspired by her Japanese heritage, while offering yoga classes that blend fluid movement with mindful grounding. Her work invites you to slow down, embrace simplicity, and find beauty in the everyday.

How do you describe what you do and what do you love the most about it?

My week is a blend of teaching yoga, making ceramics and occasionally working on creative shoots. What I love most is the freedom it gives me - no two days are the same. There’s a beautiful rhythm to it all and the sense of community I’ve found through each part of my work is what keeps me inspired.

What morning ritual or habit have you developed that sets you up for a better day?

Every morning starts with a matcha. It’s a quiet moment just for me, before I step out into the world. I’ve also been journalling lately and Sundays have become my reset day, spent vacuuming and doing laundry. Both rituals help clear mental and physical space before the week unfolds.

What’s your daily uniform?

A comfy pair of jeans and a cashmere jumper that doubles up as a scarf. You'll never know it but underneath will always be a layer of yoga gear.

Where are you local to, and what’s your best neighbourhood recommendation?

I’m based in NW London - feeling very lucky to have Primrose Hill, Marylebone and Regents Park just a stones throw away. I wanted to gatekeep this one for as long as possible but St. John’s Lodge Garden is my peaceful escape.

Which modern convenience couldn't you live without, and why?

I hate to admit…my phone.

"For me, materially better doesn’t mean having more, it means surrounding myself with things that are crafted with intention and built to last. They’re not extravagant but each brings comfort, care and a sense of slowness to my everyday life. In my profession, quality is central to my work, whether it’s shaping a vessel or guiding someone through stillness. I value the things made with presence and care. The objects I keep reflect that philosophy, they support my rituals and remind me to move through life more intentionally."

What’s your favourite piece of art (regardless of medium, e..g painting, design, movie)?

Severance. It left me speechless after each episode.

What are you currently coveting, reading, watching and listening to?

Coveting: currently a house to make a home with my fiancé!

Reading: Mongrel by Hanako.

Watching: Adolescence and (rewatching) Past Lives.

Listening to: my Spring Equinox playlist (and Sabrina Carpenter - balance is key right?)

"There’s a beautiful rhythm to it all and the sense of community I’ve found."

How do you protect your time and attention from the constant demands of modern life?

Learning the value of saying “not right now” to conserve my energy.

How do you maintain human connection in an increasingly digital world?

I recently came across the word sonder - the realisation that every stranger has a life as complex as your own. It reminds me to stay curious and present in everyday interactions, whether it's a short chat with some in a class or just exchanging a smile with someone on the street. It helps me stay rooted in the real world, that we are in fact not as alone as we feel sometimes.

What makes your life materially better?

A beautiful matcha bowl to drink from, my yoga bolster, a luscious body lotion. Nothing too extravagant but they all bring comfort and slowness into my life and in turn, makes everything else feel better.

Follow Mai

@m_a_i_z_u

maizustudios.com