About Debbie

Debbie Sumner is the founder of Sitara Yoga, based in the beautiful Nelson–Tasman region of Aotearoa New Zealand. With over 30 years of personal yoga practice and more than a decade of teaching experience, Debbie brings a grounded, embodied, and compassionate approach to her work.

Her background includes extensive experience in group fitness and health promotion, giving her a rich understanding of movement, body awareness, and how to support people of all ages and abilities on their wellness journey.

Alongside her yoga teaching, Debbie is also a skilled health coach working within primary health care. Her coaching is grounded in compassion, presence, and deep listening—helping clients gain clarity, build confidence, and take meaningful steps toward lasting wellbeing.

Debbie also has many years of experience in Middle Eastern dance (belly dance), which she has taught and performed. She now offers unique fusion workshops that blend yoga and belly dance, creating playful, expressive experiences that celebrate movement and creativity.

For Debbie, yoga has been a deeply personal journey. While she initially came to the practice for its physical benefits, she stayed for the profound mental and emotional support it offered. As the saying goes, “You come to yoga for the body, but stay for the mind.” Over the years, yoga has been a powerful tool in managing anxiety and nurturing inner calm—something Debbie is passionate about sharing with others through her teaching.