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About Sumo Yoga LA / Our Story

/Meet Sayuri:

From Japan to LA, 
a Journey of Freedom

Welcome to the heart of Sumo Yoga LA. Our story begins with Sayuri Tsuchitani, our visionary founder, who carried the rich traditions of Japan across oceans to the vibrant landscape of Los Angeles. Sayuri’s journey is deeply personal, rooted in a profound desire to forge a brand centered on perfect imperfections and the transformative power of learning to truly love who you are.
“She believes in living fully in the moment, free from the weight of judgment or external opinions.”
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/Embracing Authenticity

The Sumo Suit Revolution

For Sayuri, inspiration struck when she witnessed the incredible strength and unexpected flexibility of sumo wrestlers. This sparked the idea that true power comes from groundedness, and true freedom from embracing your body in all its forms. To vividly embody this philosophy of self-acceptance and living in the moment, Sayuri boldly began posing in a sumo suit everywhere she went.
This isn't just a quirky act; it's a powerful statement that happiness and self-love are achievable for everyone, exactly as they are. It's about shedding the invisible suits of judgment we wear and stepping into our own authentic strength.

/Sumo Cares Project

Honoring Our Roots

The spirit of Sumo yoga: Honoring Our Roots extends far beyond the studio floor. The vision for the Sumo Cares Project is an initiative deeply rooted in Japanese heritage and a heartfelt commitment to the homeland. Japan faces a significant population crisis, with the world's oldest population presenting unique challenges for new business and growth in many regions.

Through the Sumo Cares Project, the team is dedicated to making a tangible difference. We proudly feature sustainably sourced yoga products, meticulously handmade in Japan. Each purchase directly contributes to promoting new business and fostering growth in a beloved, but struggling, hometown. This endeavor is a testament to the enduring power of community, tradition, and conscious commerce.
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/Our Promise

Your Path to Inner Strength and Joy

Read The Sumo Journal
At Sumo Yoga, we invite you to join our mission. Our practice is centered on the shiko squat, a fundamental exercise in sumo wrestling that strengthens your core, builds hip flexibility, and improves balance. We also embrace the philosophy of Wabi-sabi (侘寂), a traditional Japanese aesthetic and worldview that finds beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and simplicity. Whether you're seeking physical strength, emotional release through our unique hip-opening practice, or simply a space to be authentically yourself, you'll find it here. We are a generational brand, building on the strong foundations of Japanese tradition, and always celebrating the beautiful, imperfect reality of YOU.
“Discover your freedom. Reconnect with your strength.z”

/Sumo Yoga

Join Our Community

Ready to experience a practice that strengthens your body, liberates your emotions, and celebrates your unique self? Discover the freedom of Sumo Yoga.