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Santa Barbara Yoga Center Instructors
Teacher of the Month
| All Santa Barbara Yoga Center instructors, unless stated otherwise, offer private yoga instruction upon request. Please call the Santa Barbara Yoga Center at 805.965.6045. |
For Current Information on Classes (including cancellations), See Live ONLINE Schedule
Auspicious Asana
Bio: Leigh Aschoff is a dedicated student of Anusara Yoga and Rajanaka Yoga. Leigh completed her Anusara teacher training with Sianna Sherman in the Fall of 2011 & is an enthusiastic student of Douglas Brooks & Tantric Philosophy. Before moving to Santa Barbara Leigh studied & practiced yoga in New York City with Elena Brower, Zhenja La Rosa, Ross Rayburn, Jorja Rivero, Eric Stoneberg, Jordan Mallah, & Laura Juell. Leigh is currently working towards her Anusara Inspired teaching status.
For Leigh, the exquisite alignment principles of Anusara Yoga woven together with Tantric philosophy offer an endless expansion of self discovery, challenge, growth, affirmation, fun and creativity. The affirmative qualities of Anusara Yoga connect Leigh to her joy, her elegance and her desire which offer endless radical transformation to her embodiment and experience. She believes in living authentically from the inside out and offers the teachings with a soft heart and an astute awareness of biomechanics. Leigh loves mountains. She also loves self empowerment through biological and philosophical self-awareness. Leigh offers deep gratitude and respect to all her teachers and compeers.
Website: www.omayari.org
Facebook: Auspicious Asana
Classes:Auspicious Asana
Auspicious Asana is a yoga class, a daily practice, a conversation & an invitation. Take the seat of auspiciousness in your yoga practice & in your life. Open your heart expansively. Celebrate self discovery, challenge, growth, affirmation, joy & creativity. Breathe & move with elegance. Notice & follow your desire. Trust in the radically transformative quality of your heart. Live from inside out. Enjoy your breath; enjoy your body. Remember the ever present invitation to fully savor your embodiment and the exquisite dance of consciousness and bliss.
"You are the secret the universe tells." ~ Douglas BrooksWhen:
Auspicious Asana: Tues & Thurs 10:30-11:55am
Saturday 11:00-12:30pm
Yin & Therapeutic Yoga
Bio: After years of ignoring sports-related injuries, Morgan Balavage realized that there must be a way to heal herself while maintaining a reasonable level of fitness. She discovered a yoga studio mere minutes from her apartment and had no more excuses but to give yoga a whole-hearted try. She was quite please to discover that old injuries healed while new strength, physical and emotional, emerged. Morgan finally recognized that yoga was not just a hobby, but a passion and a lifestyle, and earned her 200 hour RYT certification from the illustrious Source Yoga School.
With an education rooted in Ashtanga and a decade's worth of experience stemming from thoughtfully sequenced vinyasa flow, her classes at the Santa Barbara Yoga Center explore a variety of gentle asanas, offering a multitude of hands-on modifications, bookended with pranayama and meditation.
When she isn't teaching or practicing, Morgan can often be found riding her vintage Schwinn around town, contemplating how to put her B.A. in English from UCSB to good use.
Her class:
Yin and therapeutic yoga provides a relaxing, refreshing introduction to the week.
We begin in a supported supine position, allowing the body and mind to become still, before introducing pranayama, or breath control exercises. We gently move through a short series of toning, balancing poses. Utilizing a variety of props to set up restorative asanas, we remain still for several minutes in order to allow the breath and gravity to open the deeper connective tissue, giving up all effort to gently release mind and body tension.
All levels, ages, and bodies are welcome. This is an excellent class to introduce yoga to your life, or to work toward healing injuries or illnesses.
When:
Yin & Therapeuitc Yoga: Mon & Wed, 6:30 - 7:55 PM
Yoga for Healing, Workshops, Teacher Training Modules
Bio: Cheri Clampett, E-RYT 500 is founder and director of the Therapeutic Yoga Training Program and co-author of the Therapeutic Yoga Kit. Cheri has co-led the Integrative Yoga Therapy Teacher Trainings and has presented her special style of Therapeutic Yoga at the White Lotus Foundation Teacher Training, Southwest Yoga Conference, Integral Yoga Institute, Himalayan Institute, Beth Israel Medical Center, and the Rusk Institute at NYU Medical Center. Cheri also teaches at the Cancer Center of Santa Barbara, and leads our Therapeutic Yoga Teacher Training course. As a certified Yoga Therapist, Cheri focuses on the healing aspects of yoga; freeing the body, breath and flow of energy through practicing with awareness and love. For further information, please visit www.therapeuticyoga.com.
Teaches Therapeutic Teacher Training Module & Workshops.
Level 1 & 2, Back Care, Intro to Yoga Courses, Workshops, Teacher Training Modules
Bio: Kat is deeply committed to enhancing the lives of her students through a mindful, dynamic approach to yoga, integrating mind, body and spirit. She has been practicing Hatha yoga since 1992 and teaching since July 1999. Kat is a Yoga Alliance ERYT-500 registered yoga teacher with over 12,000 hours of yoga taught as of Janurary 2011, She was first inspired to teach by Ana Forrest, who imparted the fundamentals of Forrest Yoga - encouraging honesty, integrity, strength and the healing process. Kat has completed teacher trainings with Ana Forrest, Donna Farhi, Erich Schifmann and Lisa Walford. Deeply influenced by Donna Farhi who gave her the gift of internal alignment; Her teaching style draws upon her intention to connect each individual to their unique, inner wisdom. At the Santa Barbara Yoga Center, Kat teaches beginning Level, Back Care, Yoga for Healing, Introduction to Yoga Program and Intro to Yoga Teacher's Tutorial Program. She also conducts therapeutic yoga classes at the Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital and the Cancer Center of Santa Barbara. For more information about Kat, Please visit her website at www.KatConnors-Longo.com.
Her class: Kat provides a safe, compassionate and inviting environment. Her emphasis is on breath, alignment and strength. Students create a connection to their core and build a strong foundation to deepen their yoga practice. Each student's individual needs are addressed, which allows them to heal both physical and emotional injuries while creating space to deepen a relationship with their authentic selves.
When:
Level 1: Tue & Thu, 6:30 - 7:55 PM
Level 1-2: Sun, 10:30 - 11:55 AM
Back Care: Sun, 4:30 - 5:55 PM
Also teaches Intro to Yoga Courses, Workshops & Teacher Training Modules
Levell 1, Level 2- 3
Bio: Romi Cumes is a certified yoga instructor, licensed massage therapist and healing arts practitioner based in Santa Barbara, California. Her business Transformative Healing Arts offers professional yoga instruction, therapeutic massage, yoga/movement workshops and healing retreats. Romi has had a passion for movement and music her whole life. After a ten-year study of gymnastics and dance, she began practicing yoga in 1996. She began her advanced training in 1998 and received her Yoga Instructor certification from the White Lotus Foundation. Her other interests include: holistic health studies, wilderness and nature education, international travel, dance, meditation, culture, ethno-botany, art, playing music (guitar, piano, percussion) and songwriting.
Romi's style is eclectic and creative. She weaves strength-building sequences with movement and intuitive healing modalities. Each class is unique and draws from a mix of Hatha Yoga styles such as: Vinyasa flow, Ashtanga, Therapeutic Restorative, Anusara and Forrest yoga modalities. Romi draws from her extensive dance and acrobatic background and has been influenced by Modern/Jazz technique, Fire spinning, Afro-Brazilian, Traditional West African drum and dance, Improvisational, Hoolahooping/rhythmic gymnastics, Hip-hop and Capoeira.
Mystical shamanic studies and travels through the Americas and Africa have led her to explore the sacred connection between movement, nature, healing, rhythm and spirituality. Romi helps facilitate students to deepen their connection with Body and Spirit. Her intention is to help people live more freely in their bodies and embody their creative Spirit. Her classes and workshops support expansion, physical fitness, healing, spiritual wellness, personal growth and fun. For more information, please visit her website at: http://www.romicumes.com
Her class: Romi integrates focused, mindful sequences with compassionate healing awareness to provide a transformative and practical Yoga session. Her style is both dynamic and supportive of the needs of each individual. She emphasizes breath and core strengthening to help build a student's inner foundation. Romi offers healing touch and a loving, grounded space for one to actively work on their healing process.
When:
Level 1: Mon & Wed, 5:00-6:25pm
Level 2-3: Mon & Wed, 9:00-10:25am
Gentle Yoga
Bio: Candice started practicing yoga as a meditation, not as a workout, so every time by the end of the practice she would be confused about how she got so sweaty. She is a mental health counselor who has studied the worlds' wisdom traditions (Religious Studies BA). She delights in all the offerings of Santa Barbara living, especially the summertime! As we move attentively through the practice, we investigate what is always available for us: breath, truth, expansion. Candice is YogaWorks trained in principles of alignment and offers a practice that is safe and fun, strong and nourishing, joyful and authentic. Above all, you get the privilege to continually meet and befriend your true self, just as you are.
"The place to be happy is here, The time to be happy is now." --Wisdom from a coffee mug at Candice's workplace.Her class:
Gentle yoga
A breath-centered, meditative sequence of gentle stretches and supported yoga postures that takes place primarily on the floor. Perfect for beginners, seasoned yogis who want a quieter practice, those who are recovering from injuries, or people who are just plain shy about yoga. Variations are always given, and down dog is optional. You may not sweat, but you will slow down enough to rest comfortably in your true heart.
Joyful Movement Yoga Level-2
Movement as its own reward. A slow-flowing, breath-centered asana (yoga pose) practice. We will build heat, strengthen and detoxify the body, and develop greater range of motion, all while drawing ourselves more fully into the joy that can only be found in this present moment. Fun music keeps you moving in new and interesting ways, followed by a deep silent relaxation.When:
Gentle Yoga: Mon, Wed & Fri, 1:45 - 2:55pm
Joyful Movement Yoga Level-2: Sat, 4:30-6:00pm
Yoga for Diabetes
Bio: Marcy DiGregorio has been working in the field of health and wellness since 1997. She has been studying yoga for over 10 years. In addition Marcy is a registered dietitian,a certified diabetes educator, and a certified weight management specialist for children and adolescents. Marcy has taught yoga at American Indian health and services for people with diabetes and for persons trying to prevent it's onset. She also teaches a feel it flex it flow class where strength, core, flow and breath are all integrated. In addition Marcy has tought water aerobics for all ages and senior exercise fitness classes. Marcy is well versed in her health, nutritional and fitness background. She has conducted several nutrition workshops on nutrion, wellness, weight loss, diabetes prevention, diabetes management, and maternal nutrition and child nutrition. Marcy is also Reikki certified and incorporates its use into some of her classes. Marcy's yoga classes will leave you feeling refreshed, worked and rejuvenated.
Class: Yoga for DiabetesYoga for diabetes is a class for persons with diabetes or for persons looking to prevent its onset. Through a series of postures, Yoga for Diabetes may help benefit the health of the pancreas, blood sugars, blood pressure, heart health, circulation and breath. You will activate your flexibility, build strength in your muscles and increase your heart rate to promote cardiovascular strength. You will learn softness and relaxation methods that may help reduce overall stress. Yoga for Diabetes will be taught at both the beginner and intermediate level. Participants are encouraged to bring a snack and some water to prevent low blood sugars and dehydration. Yoga if done regularly, along with a healthy diet and good lifestyle habits, may be beneficial to your overall health. It is recommended that you consult with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
When:
Wednesday & Friday, 3:00-3:55pm
Kundalini Yoga, Prenatal Yoga, Siddhi's Cleanse, Workshops & Teacher Training Modules
Bio: Siddhi studied with Yogi Bhajan, is a certified Kundalini Yoga Teacher, and has facilitated meditation classes for over 20 years. She is a published author with a book on adolescent sexuality, and certified Tantric Shiatsu practicioner. Siddhi holds a degree in social-pedagogy. Siddhi is ERYT with yoga Alliances, KRI certified Kundalini Yoga Teacher Naam Yoga Teacher and Teacher Trainer. Siddhi teaches Prenatal at Golden Bridge Yoga in Hollywood where she also got certified in the Khalsa Prenatal Teachings with Gurmukh Kaur Khalsa. For more information, visit Siddhi's website at www.siddhisyoga.com
Her classes:
Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan is an ancient science. It’s extremely powerful in providing clarity of mind, vitality and health. It centers you from the inside, which is imperative in this world of constant stimulation from the outside. Benefits of Kundalini Yoga:
Promotes muscle strength and flexibility
Increases circulation and purifies the blood
Promotes relaxation in times of stress
Helps with addictions, depression, insomnia, neurosis, and various dysfunctions by balancing metabolism, digestion, and the body-mind-spirit configuration
Anti-aging both mentally and physically
In this class you will learn breathing techniques, movements, postures, meditation, and chanting to strengthen your immune and nervous systems. There are no intermediate or advanced levels in Kundalini Yoga. From your very first class, you will experience a feeling of well being and happiness. Regardless of your age, fitness level or flexibility, you can reap those benefits this sacred tradition offers. With practice you will become more aware, radiant and youthful.
Prenatal yoga: In her pregnancy yoga class, Siddhi shares her wisdom, joy and love for the becoming mothers and their unborn babies. Through gentle and powerful yoga she prepares the becoming mothers physically and emotionally for the time of birth and motherhood. Siddhi uses advanced Naam yoga meditations which consist of unique attributes as: specific breath patterns, exact positioning of hands and fingers; particular mantras; consisting of distinct, vibratory sounds; and mental concentration to support each mother on her path through pregnancy and childbirth. Each woman gets in touch with her courage, acceptance, mental and spiritual strength.
When:
Prenatal Yoga: Tues & Thur, 5:15-6:25 pm
Also teaches her "Yogi Cleanse" (seasonally) and other Workshops, and Teacher Training Module.
Coming Soon!Yoga for Every Body, $12
Bio:
Coming Soon!
Classes:Yoga for Every Body
When:
Yoga for Every Body, $12: Wed & Fri, 3:30-4:55pm
Yoga with Baby $12
Bio: Cybil Gilbertson is a White Lotus Certified Yoga Teacher, Pilates Instructor, Licensed Massage Therapist, Doula and Professional Dancer with over 10 years of private and group teaching experience. Cybil has danced professionally with Santa Barbara Dance Theatre since 1997, teaching and touring locally and internationally. She has also performed with Cirque Destino, The California Coastal Project and several local choreographers. Cybil's lifelong love of movement has led her to study an ecclectic blend of modalities. Cybil has taught at Blue Star Rising, Simpatico Pilates and Gyrotonic, UCSB Department of Dance, Santa Barbara Dance Theatre, La Playa Pilates and Wellness Center, The Esalen Institute, in Big Sur, CA, as well as classes in China and The Dominican Republice. Please visit her website at: www.cybilgilbertson.com
Her classes:
Coming Soon!
When:
Yoga with Baby, $12: Saturday 10:30-11:30am
Coming Soon!Kids Yoga, $12
Bio: Coming Soon!
Her class:
Kids YogaWhen:
Kids Yoga, $12: Mon, Wed & Fri, 3:30-4:25pm
Level 2-3
Bio: Coming Soon!
Her class:
Level 2-3: Coming Soon!When:
Level 2-3: Monday, 6:30-7:55 pm
Anusara-Inspired Yoga™ Level 2 & Level 2-3,
Advanced PracticeBio: KAJ HOFFMAN (pronounced Kî) has been practicing yoga for twenty years, and teaching for ten. He has studied Iyengar, Astanga, and Anusara® yoga, as well as other yoga methods and philosophies, and he integrates elements from all these into his classes. For the past six years he has had the honor of studying yoga and yoga therapy with John Friend, the founder of Anusara Yoga. Kaj has been deeply inspired by the teachings of John's elegant system of alignment principles and heart based philosophy. More recently Kaj has also been studying yoga philosophy with two of John's colleagues, Paul Muller-Ortega and Douglas Brooks, who are great, engaging, and inspiring yoga philosophy scholars. All three of these teachers have been a great boon in Kaj's life, helping him to discover more of the sweetness at the heart of the yoga, and the joy of being alive.
Kaj also studied aikido and tai chi for eight years and he uses his knowledge of these beautiful movement arts in his teaching. Kaj has studied fine art as well, focusing on plein-air and figure painting. He is also a professional photographer, a graphic artist, a carpenter, a cabinet maker, and an organic gardener. He plays classical, flamenco, and jazz guitar, and composes music for guitar and piano.
Kaj considers yoga as a way to more fully realize our true, radiant, creative, and artistic nature, and to live a more harmonious and joyful life. Kaj's intention in his classes is to share the richness he has received from his teachers, because its more fun that way! Kaj is a licensed Anusara-inspired yoga teacher™.
His class:A vigorous class for yoga students who want to delve deeper into refining their practice. We'll work and play with elegant and effective alignment principles woven together with a joyful, heart based, life affirming philosophy.
When:
Anusara-Inspired Yoga™ level 2-3: Sat, 8:45-10:30 am
Advanced Practice: Fri, 7:00-9:30am (Call to register)
Fitness Yoga All Levels
Bio: As a 200-hour certified yoga teacher through YogaWorks, Rachel caters to students looking to improve their focus, strength and balance as well as athletes looking to improve their flexibility and prevent injury. Her classes combine the heat and flow of Ashtanga with precise instruction for a well-rounded practice that is accessible to everyone. For more info visit rachelghorn.com
Her class: Fitness Yoga with Rachel: This NEW all levels class will make you sweat – and give you the strength and energy you need to support your fitness goals on and off the mat. Rachel's classes combine the heat and flow of Ashtanga with precise instruction for a well-rounded practice that is accessible to everyone. Rachel encourages the use of modifications and props to make every pose accessible, whether the student is young and athletic or in need of a more gentle approach. Rachel truly believes that yoga is for everyone and her goal is to create a practice environment that makes every student feel safe and comfortable. Learn more at: http://www.facebook.com/FitnessYogaWithRachel.
When:
Fitness Yoga All Levels, $12: Sun, 10:00-11:25pm
All Levels
Bio -Dorothea Lasswell, a native of Germany, comes to yoga with a background in nursing and theatre arts. She received her training at the Santa Barbara Yoga Center and has been teaching since 2002. She believes that life has a thousand springs and that it's never too late to learn something new in order to transform life to the highest spiritual level. What she loves about yoga is that it combines mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual elements to produce a synergy that can have powerful effects on all these aspects of life.
Dorothea's main objective is to create a safe and comfortable space in which her students may flourish. Taking a holistic approach, she creates a nurturing environment which is suitable for all levels, abilities, and ages and for those with injuries and medical conditions. She believes that yoga should be individual, personal, and appropriate for all.
Her Class Descriptions-Her teaching style is a safe, intensive vinyasa flow, and the classes are gentle but firm with a holisitic perspective. She believes that simplicity is the wisest approach to all aspects of life.
When:
All Levels: Sunday, 6:00-7:30 pm
Ashtanga Based Vinyasa Flow, $12
Bio:
Tori was first introduced to yoga through physical therapy after being diagnosed with scoliosis at the age of 12. Under the guidance of her therapist she experienced a dramatic improvement and continued to practice for the health benefits as well as the sense of confidence and empowerment it instilled. Years later her passion for music led her to pursue a graduate degree in vocal performance at San Diego State University where she studied opera and classical voice. During this time, she developed a practice of pranayama (breath control) and meditation. After graduating she traveled to India where she received her teacher certification at the Himalaya Yoga Valley Center. Tori studies and practices different styles of yoga but she primarily teaches Ashtanga and Vinyasa based classes, integrating sound, music and the spiritual and philosophical teachings. She is dedicated to offering a safe and creative environment for students to explore their individual beauty. Tori also teaches voice and piano, kids yoga, and has taught yoga workshops for performers at San Diego State University and the University of San Diego.Her class:
Ashtanga Based Vinyasa Flow, $12When:
Ashtanga Based Vinyasa Flow, $12: Fri, 6:30-8:30pm
Coming Soon!Gentle Strech & Movement, $12
Bio:
Coming Soon!
Classes:
Gentle Stretch & Movement, $12
When:
Gentle Stretch & Movement, $12: Tues 8:00-8:55am
Level 1-2 Flow, $12
Bio:
Liz began her yoga practice in 2003 while living in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina. After moving to Chapel Hill, NC to pursue a graduate degree in Ecology, she returned to the mountains in 2009 to complete her 200-hour certification with Stephanie Keach at the Asheville Yoga Center. Her classes are inspired by her training in Vinyasa Flow Yoga, although she also draws from many different forms of yoga, always with the goal of connecting breath, body, and mind through conscientious movement. Her intention as a student and teacher is to listen for guidance from the teacher within us all-- and to approach life, on and off the mat, with a playful spirit.
Classes:
Level 1-2 Flow, $12
When:
Level 1-2 Flow, $12: Tues & Thurs 3:30-4:55pm
Kundalini Yoga
Bio:Mitsuko Conner Newlan is…
Mitsuko is a native Santa Barbarian who lives here now with her wonderful husband and two beautiful children. She enjoys being outdoors, meeting new people, and trying new things. Her energetic, compassionate, and supportive spirit enables the student to find their own way through their yoga practice.
Certified: She is a KRI (Kundalini Research Institute) certified Kundalini Yoga Teacher having received instruction from Siddhi Ellinghoven and Guru Meher Khalsa.
Personal Practice: After trying several different styles of Yoga (Hatha, Restorative, Yin Yoga, and Meditation) Mitsuko found Kundalini Yoga when she dropped into a class taught by Siddhi at Yoga Soup in the Fall of 2010. This class opened Mitsuko to a spiritual path through Kundalini Yoga. Mitsuko was drawn to and deepens her practice because of the combination of high and low energy exercises, an opportunity to deeply relax, and then to meditate in an active way, all in one class.
Why Kundalini: The mental clarity to pursue and achieve personal goals, increased personal strength and flexibility through the high and low impact exercises, and increased calm in previously stressful situations are the reasons why Mitsuko maintains her personal daily practice of Kundalini Yoga and looks forward to sharing this practice with others who are interested in a similar experience .
Teaching Style: Mitsuko crafts each of her classes to include what draw her to Kundalini: a powerful combination of high and low energy exercises, the opportunity to find your voice through chants, and the skill to breathe with and through your body. You will also have the opportunity to deeply relax and then meditate in an active way.
"Let us be virtuous and share our values with the world so we can bring peace to ourselves and to all those around us." Yogi Bhajan 06/ 21/2002
Class:
What is Kundalini Yoga?
Kundalini Yoga (The Yoga of Awareness) builds an awareness of the self. One can gain inner calm, inner clarity, inner strength, physical strength, and mental strength. It is a practice for those who want to deepen their yoga practice by connecting and developing a loving relationship with themselves and others. During a Kundalini Yoga class students practice creating stillness in the mind and body to build the capacity to meditate. One's ability to maintain stillness and meditate accesses and activates one's inner divinity, creativity, and innate human potential. If you can control your mind and body you can overcome blocks in yourself and gain a better understanding of yourself, and explore how to bring the best of yourself to those around you.When:
Kundalini: Wed & Fri 9:00-10:30am
Level 2-3
Bio: Gale Parker has been practicing yoga for over twenty years. Rooted in the Iyengar tradition, Gale has studied with some of the great teachers around the world. Mary Dunn, Tony Briggs, Sarah Means, Judith Lasater, and for the past several years has been and is studying with Erich Schiffman and Lisa Wolford. Gale's belief that with proper alignment as a foundation in your postures, there is a release of energy and joy and playfulness that is expressed in Freedom Style Yoga. This type of practice is inspiring, joyous and can bring great peace of mind. In 2005, Gale was diagnosed with Non- Hodgkin's Lymphoma and was treated with Western medicine for a year. Her yoga practice sustained her throughout her illness and recovery and coaxed her to always have beginner's mind each time she steps on the mat. For Gale, yoga is a lifestyle that she would love to share with others....
Her class: Level 2-3
When:
Level 2-3: Sunday, 10:30-12:05 PM
Level I
Bio: Peggy has always been drawn to teaching. After receiving her M.A. from Case Western Reserve, she taught literature at a small college in New Jersey. When she entered the banking world, she did product development and training. But it was not until she began teaching Tai Chi that she was able to share her spiritual journey with others. Then, after teaching Tai Chi for seven years, Peggy fell in love with yoga.
For Peggy, yoga is about self-knowledge. She believes that by moving energy throughout our bodies, we add vitality to our daily lives…and that our practice on the mat teaches what we need to learn outside of class. Practicing all the limbs of yoga helps to quiet the mind, and only with a quiet mind can we hear our truest voice.
Peggy has completed a 200 hour Teacher Training with OM Yoga, 100 hours with Hart Lazer and is currently midway through a 500 hour program with Rod Stryker. These incredible teachers as well as others that include Mark Whitwell, Rodney Yee, David Nictern, Richard Freeman, Sarla Nichols, Chris Conniaris, Cora Wen, Doug Keller, Shiva Rae, Jim Bennett, Jennifer Brilliant and Brenna Greehan have deepened her teaching as well as her personal practice.Her class, Level I: This level one class works well as either a foundation for further study or a safe, yet challenging, beginner class. The classes are designed to open and strengthen even the most resistant bodies. And the supportive and compassionate environment, with an emphasis on alignment, allows students to work towards their personal edge without fear of injury.
Peggy loves sharing what she has learned, and her past experiences with yoga help her understand how to bring students to their fullest physical, emotional and spiritual potential. This is Peggy's passion, what wakes her up in the morning. Join her class and explore how a simple downward dog can begin a fascinating journey.
When:
Level I: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday, 10:30-12:00 PM
Coming Soon!
AcroYoga
Bio: Coming Soon!
Her class:
AcroYogaWhen:
AcroYoga: Wed 6:30-8:00pm
J'aime Yoga
Bio: While relatively new to teaching Yoga, Jaime has been fascinated in the complexities of the body for many years. It all began in High School when she discovered the human form through running track, Aerobic Dance and Step Aerobics. In 2002 Jaime turned her creative energies to Hoola Hooping and began teaching the art form in 2003. She's a regular participant in the Summer Solstice Parade, and has also performed on-stage at the High Sierra Music Festival, West Beach Music Festival, and many other events. Jaime went on to become a certified Massage Therapist in 2004 at the Santa Barbara Body Therapy Institute. Jaime has been practicing Yoga for 3 years and has her 200 hour certification. She is dedicated to enjoying her surroundings and exploring what life has to offer. Her brilliant smile and infectious personality cause all who work and play with her to be elated themselves.
Her class:
J'aime Yoga Level-2When:
J'aime Yoga Level-2: Mon, Wed & Fri 10:30-11:55am
Anusara-Inspired Yoga™
Bio: Coming Soon!
Her class:
Anusara-Inspired Yoga™When:
Anusara-Inspired Yoga™: Mon & Wed 10:30-11:55am
Level 1–2
Bio: Barbara’s yoga teaching style is insightful, inspiring and dynamic. Wth her vibrant energy she shares the teachings and traditions of yoga to create a powerful and holistic healing experience for her students.
Barbara is the co-author of Yoga for the Joy of It!, a book guiding college classes and individuals across the US through the physiological and psychological benefits of yoga. She has facilitated twenty-three yoga/meditation retreats in Montecito and two yoga/meditation/hiking retreats in Italy. She offers private sessions, and especially enjoys working with women during their times of recuperation and transition
Barbara is a Yoga Alliance E-RYT-500 certified instructor grounded in the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda. She is a devoted practitioner of yoga and has trained with Eric Shiffmann, Lisa Walford, Ganga White, Tracy Rich, and completed Cheri Clampett's Therapeutic Yoga Teacher Training. She taught Hatha Yoga and Restorative Yoga at the Westlake Yoga Center for twelve years before moving to Santa Barbara.
She combines the scientific with the metaphysical in her classes and healing workshops, including Women’s Health and Healing, read testamonials, The Science of Sleep—Pajama Yoga, and Meditate, Pray, Heal. She has presented health and wellness seminars in colleges, health clubs and corporations. From working with special needs children to CEO's, Barbara's compassion and dedication to her work and to her students are clearly evident.
Barbara led a Red Cross Yoga Benefit after 911, taught yoga to the athletes of the Special Olympics, and helped the dental needs of indigent children of Isla Vista, CA through Direct Relief International. Yoga Journal Magazine featured Barbara in an article aptly titled, Open Wide and Say Om, for her use of yoga relaxation techniques in dentistry. Barbara participates in the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles Little Stars Program which benefits sick children of low income families.
Barbara earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Southern California. As a wedding officiate, she creates and conducts beautiful spiritual marriage ceremonies. She has generated four websites and written two educational films. She loves spending time with her husband, Stu, and with her family, and enjoys hiking in the foothills of Santa Barbara.
Please visit her website: www.BarbaraRoseSherman.com for information on private yoga instruction and for upcoming workshops and retreats.
Her class: Barbara teaches from her heart, incorporating the principles of alignment, core strength and balance which reveal the beauty and power of asana and meditation. Her classes mix strengthening and relaxation poses weaved together with insights and a loving presence.
“Your classes have been so meaningful and powerful to my physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional well being. Each Saturday I leave your class with a stunning rejuvenation like no other.” ~O.G
When:
Level 1–2: Saturday, 9:00-10:25 AM
Deep Relaxation & Healing: Friday 5:00-6:25pm
Morning Stretches, Yoga for Stress & Anxiety
Bio: Five years ago Whitney was asked the question: If today was your last day on earth, what do you wish you would have done more of? Her answer: Working out, helping other people, and being more spiritual. Today, Whitney strives to achieve those things daily, especially through sharing yoga. Whitney has been practicing yoga for ten years, but found her heart in yoga three years ago when running took a back seat due to a back injury. Yoga has not only strengthened her back and body, but also her heart and mind. In her classes, Whitney creates a supporting environment to empower students to find their inner physical and mental strength. While Whitney loves a grueling personal practice, she realizes the importance of a restful and relaxing practice as well. In both her classes, Morning Stretches and Yoga for Stress and Anxiety, Whitney combines strong poses with restorative poses for a satvic practice. Whitney very much enjoys sharing yoga with students who have special needs. She started a yoga course for elderly at a local senior center and also teaches with United Cerebral Palsy. Whitney has an AA in Psychology and a BA in Business.
Her class:
Yoga for Strees & Anxiety:
Yoga for Stress and Anxiety is a gentle practice. It includes strong poses designed to build confidence, and restorative poses to encourage relaxation. Sequences are designed to calm and increase self-awareness. Through heart opening asana, breathwork, and movement we learn to recognize our responses and manage stress. All levels welcome.When:
Yoga for Strees & Anxiety, $12: Tues, 6:45 - 8:15 PM
Level 1-2, Level 2-3, Intro to Yoga
Bio: Silla is a Certified Anusara Inspired yoga teacher with a bachelor's degree in Psychology. Born and raised in Denmark, she moved, after finishing university, from London to Malibu in 2001 and has been teaching hundreds of yoga classes to students in Malibu, Westlake Village, Silverlake and West Hollywood since 2004.
She has been a student of Lauren Peterson’s since 2002 and also studied with master teachers Erich Schiffmann, Anthony Benenati, Camilla Bergman, Noah Maze’, Tiffany Frazer and John Friend. Her teaching focuses on healthy alignment and on creating a deep yet uplifting practice with emphasis on deeply connecting breath, mind, and body. She aims to inspire students to be passionate and dedicated about their yoga practice as well as their daily lives and draws inspiration for her teaching from her daily life and her many interest such as reading, science, philosophy, gardening, cooking, travelling, music and much more. She lives in Santa Barbara with her husband and son
Class: Level 1-2, Level 2-3When:
Level 1-2: Monday & Wednesday, 6:30-7:55 PM
Level 2-3: Monday & Wednesday, 5:00-6:25 PM
Yin Yoga & Meditation, Level 2-3
Bio: Jasha found his love for yoga through Ashtanga in 2009 and quickly became immersed. Passionate about life and helping others, Jasha finds yoga to be an essential part of creating a balanced and beautiful existence. Through the love of meditation and movement he weaves the gentle grace of yoga asana and brings the focus inward to help deepen the everyday experience of life for his students.
Classes:
Yoga for Healing: Jasha incorporates Therapeutic Yoga techniques including gentle & restorative yoga, breathwork, healing touch and guided meditation. For all who are in the process of healing on physical, mental or emotional levels, or those who want to experience a mild yoga class.
Yin Yoga & Meditation: Combining the subtle and powerful techniques of Yin yoga and meditation to create an energizing and freeing experience.When:
Yoga for Healing: Tue & Thu, 5:00 - 6:25 PM
Yin Yoga & Meditation: Sat 9:00-10:30am
Power Flow Hour, $12
Bio:
Lynne has had a passion for movement and the healing arts her entire life. She started dancing at 4 years old, and continued throughout early adulthood. Her extensive dance background gives her a deep mind body connection and a true understanding of the human body.She went to school to become an esthetician in 1999, and attended massage school at the Body Therapy Institute shortly after. Feeling a draw towards helping others to heal, she knew she was on the right path to finding her true calling.
Lynne has studied under many brilliant and influential teachers during the past 10 years. Her instruction draws from many different styles of Hatha Yoga. Formally trained under Baron Baptiste, Lynne teaches a Power Vinyasa focused class.
Let her journey of yoga and her passion for teaching others transform you on and off the mat. Find yourself in a challenging class that is fun, powerful and invigorating. Come play!
Classes:
Power Flow Hour, $12:When:
Power Flow Hour, $12: : Mon, Wed & Fri 12:15 - 1:20 PM
Kundalini
Bio:
Over many years, Vikki discovered, explored and studied many different forms of yoga, religions, Eastern & Western philosophies, meditation and “spiritual mindfulness”, quite like a puzzle, piecing together parts of each practice, but never arriving “home” as she describes. However, after taking her first Kundalini Yoga class in 2007 with Siddhi Ellinghoven, Vikki knew immediately that Kundalini Yoga had finally brought her “home”. Kundalini yoga became as Vikki passionately describes “my beloved”, as the practice, gently and sometimes not so gently guided her physically, spiritually and mindfully into the “fullest expression of My Authentic Self”.
During a sabbatical in Italy and an extended stay at a Kundalini ashram, Vikki discovered that her calling was to teach. Vikki is a KRI certified (200 hr) Kundalini yoga teacher and a member of the 3 HO International Kundalini Yoga Teachers Assocation (IKYTA).
She says of her commitment to the practice and experience of the powerful affects of Kundalini Yoga;
“It is my honor, passion and intention to share this transformational practice with as many people as possible, to guide each student “home” to his/her own true Divine nature, and to assist each individual in reclaiming his/her Destiny to live as a sovereign Being, in fullest expression of the Authentic Self - walking in grace, joy, oneness, and happiness upon this planet”.
Class:
What is Kundalini Yoga?
Kundalini Yoga (The Yoga of Awareness) builds an awareness of the self. One can gain inner calm, inner clarity, inner strength, physical strength, and mental strength. It is a practice for those who want to deepen their yoga practice by connecting and developing a loving relationship with themselves and others. During a Kundalini Yoga class students practice creating stillness in the mind and body to build the capacity to meditate. One's ability to maintain stillness and meditate accesses and activates one's inner divinity, creativity, and innate human potential. If you can control your mind and body you can overcome blocks in yourself and gain a better understanding of yourself, and explore how to bring the best of yourself to those around you.When:
Kundalini: Mon, 9:00-10:25am
Peak Performance Yoga
Bio:Tiff Thompson is a neurotherapist in training with graduate degrees in Depth Psychology, and Rhetoric & Political Culture. Her background in renewable energy development lends itself to her consulting work on behalf of environmental justice, largely in the vein of planetary sustainability. Tiff believes "Sustainability is the capacity to endure. This endurance is fostered by the long-term maintenance of well being. Our ultimate success as individuals and as a collective, depends wholly on this cultivation of well being. We must remain mindful of sustainability personally, in relationship to one another, and in our relationship to the planet. Yoga is an integral component of the this maintenance of human well-being."
Athletics have been a core component of Tiff's life since her childhood, her daily practice has included all forms of yoga, running, biking, hiking, weightlifting, aerobics, kickboxing, rollerblading, and plyometrics. Her class is designed for both the devoted yogi, as well as the urban athlete. Tiff's Peak Performance Yoga weaves together conscious breathing, meditative focus and alertness, and a challenging series of asanas and vinyasas, which serve to calm the monkey mind and instill feelings of calm and peace.
Classes:
Peak Performance Yoga: Tiff's Peak Performance is an athletic and intense, yet calming class, weaving in various yoga traditions and breath-work, allowing for a dynamism that leaves the practitioner with feelings of clarity and tranquility. Using full involvement cultivated through asana-centered yoga, energized focus is placed on the mastery of breathing, intention, and mental fluctuations over the course of 90 minutes. Peak Performance Yoga will allow the level 2 practitioner to deepen their practice and understanding of asanas, with the ability to grow into level 3. The level 3 practitioner will find a vigorous class and the opportunity to push the envelope on their yogic prowess.When:
Peak Performance Yoga: Mon & Wed 5:00-6:25pm; Saturday 10:30-11:55am
Level 1-2
Bio:
Heather, E-RYT500, has been teaching yoga full time since 1998. Maintaining a consistent and evolving personal practice since ’96, she has also trained extensively, studying with a variety of teachers including Erich Schiffmann, Lisa Walford, Ana Forrest and Sarah Powers. From 1998 - 2004, Heather completed a personal teaching apprenticeship with Ana Forrest and trained teachers as a faculty member in the Forrest Yoga teacher training courses. Since 2004, Heather has focused her practice and training on Yin yoga and meditation practices; exploring the balance of Yin and Yang (active Hatha yoga) styles of asana. She continues teaching ongoing classes, workshops, retreats and yoga teacher trainings locally and across the country.Class:
Level 1-2:
Heather offers yoga as a healing practice. Her classes are known for weaving challenging physical intensity with self awareness, and for her practical, focused, and sensitive individualized instruction. Her skillfulness in adjusting and modifying poses empowers students to work safely and in a healing way with injuries and health conditions. Rather than offering short term symptom relief or a convenient distraction from daily life, Heather’s classes offer the opportunity for a consistent, committed and mindful yoga practice. This can bring deep and lasting transformation in our lives; revealing the deeper benefits of yoga: reducing suffering and fostering peace and joyfulness. www.HeatherTiddensYoga.comWhen:
Level 1-2: Tues & Thurs 5:00 - 6:55 PM
Iyengar Style Yoga
Bio: Sarah Tuttle began her study of yoga and meditation in 1980. In 1992, she began teaching in a rural corner of the Northwest. Though the population there was not typically the type to seek yoga, Sarah's passionate yet practical approach drew students from every age and walk of life. This quickly led to the opening of her studio.
Teaching in the Iyengar style, Sarah is attentive to her student’s individual needs and capabilities. She inspires them to work deeply, fostering a self-awareness that is relative to every area of life. A sufferer of seizures in her youth, scoliosis since the age of 12, and a mother of four, Sarah knows firsthand the transformative benefits a yoga practice brings.
As BKS Iyengar says, "Asana is perfect firmness of body, steadiness of intelligence, and benevolence in spirit." Sarah's many years of applied experience and her love of yoga guides her students on this path.
Sarah is Co-Director of Santa Barbara Yoga Center and has been a registered yoga teacher through Yoga Alliance (RYT-500) since 2002. She was the original co-owner and founder of Bheka Yoga Supplies Company.
Sarah's teachers are Richard McLaughlin, Nancy Rogers & Manouso Manos.
Her class: Following the Iyengar method, students are taught a wide array of poses that develop stamina, flexibility, balance, and concentration. They become educated about the benefits of the poses and how to practice them correctly.
Due to the great attention to detail, students gain a sharpening of awareness that strengthens them physically, intellectually, and psycho-emotionally. They experience an increase in vitality as they develop methods for relieving stress.
Props are used to aid in correct structural alignment as well as safely modifying poses for students who have limited mobility due to injury or illness.
Beginning level students build an excellent foundation for years to come. Experienced practitioners appreciate the depth and comprehensiveness of every class.
Students of all levels and abilities are progressively challenged while gaining a personal understanding of how to continue on this path of lasting and therapeutic change.
When:
Iyengar Style Yoga: Tuesday, Thursday, & Sunday, 9:00-10:25 am
Level 2 & Teacher Training Modules
Bio: Anne Van de Water has been practicing yoga informally since she was four years old. Her dedicated, formal training began in 1992 and she has been a devoted practitioner ever since. Anne loves yoga so much that she became a teacher of this ancient art and science in 1994 so that she could be in the yoga zone all day long and share yoga’s gifts with the greater public. Anne has studied and practices Ashtanga, Iyengar, Flow, Sivananda, Yin, Restorative, Hatha, Partner, Therapeutic and Kundalini yoga and Buddhist, Transcendental and Sound meditation. She received her first yoga teacher’s training certification from the White Lotus in 1994 and continued her studies of Iyengar and Sivananda yoga in India. She received her Integrative Yoga teacher’s training certificate in 1996 and trained with Sarah Powers and Paul Grilley in 2002. In 2007 she was given Yoga Alliance's Experienced Registered Yoga teacher accredidation with nearly 10,000 hours of yoga taught as of 2010. Anne has traveled the world teaching yoga in California, Arizona, Hawaii, New York City, Indonesia, Thailand, India, London, Amsterdam, and Brazil. She has taught in yoga centers, gyms, hospitals, schools, offices, AIDS recovery homes, cancer centers, retreat centers and at yoga teacher trainings. In 2000 Anne created a yoga program for students and teachers in the public elementary and high schools of Santa Barbara called Yoganesha™ and has been teaching her Yoganesha Teaching Yoga to Children training since 2002. Anne holds a B.A. in Religious Studies from UCSB and has been a certified massage therapist since 1990 and incorporates hands on healing into her yoga classes. She currently lives in Santa Barbara, CA. where she teaches yoga classes to the public at Santa Barbara Yoga Center, private sessions at people’s homes, at the Cancer Center of Santa Barbara, and in the public and private schools of Santa Barbara.
Her class: As a certified Yoga Therapist, Anne’s approach to yoga and her classes is compassionate and loving. As an aspiring spiritual warrior, her approach is disciplined and focused. As a lover of life, her approach is fun and easy going. Her intention is to blend these elements into her classes so that each session is wholistically balanced. She has an “intuitively eclectic” style of teaching, drawing upon the many forms of yoga she has studied and practiced while tuning into the particular needs of the group she is working with. In each unique class, there is a strong emphasis on breath to invigorate the body and calm the mind. We rest in the stillness and peace of yin and restorative yoga poses while focusing on being rather than doing. We fluidly move with strength and flexibility through flow yoga poses where we focus on precision of alignment and self-empowerment. Kundalini Yoga, tai chi and chi gong are encorporated into classes to help move and harness life force energy. Time is spent in the silence of mediatation and oftentimes we chant mantras using the healing sound of our own voices to transform stagnant energy into vitally positive states of being. Anne is a singer and song writer and knows the power and healing effects of sound and sings soothing and uplifting mantras to her students to help relax the body and open the heart. Anne’s mission is to support her students in connecting to their natural state of present, open, wakefulness, and to live life in integrity with who they truly are so that what is practiced on the mat is carried out into their lives off the mat..
When:
Level 2 : Tue & Thu, 6:30 - 7:55 PM
Anne also Teaches Workshops and Teacher Training Modules.
Ashtanga Based Vinyasa Flow, $12
Bio:
Lisa fell in love with yoga as a young girl, while following her fathers morning sun salutations. The experience triggered a lifetime of spiritual inquiry within, and an insatiable study of the human potential. In 2004, she obtained her Ashtanga Yoga certification with Tim Miller. In the years that followed, Lisa has explored in great depth many facets of life, energy, and consciousness. In addition to teaching yoga, she is a Transformation Coach, Access Consciousness Facilitator, Regression Therapist, and Owner of 7 Steps of the Soul. She has a love of the ocean, and lives in the question…
Classes:
Ashtanga Based Vinyasa Flow Level 2-3, $12
When:
Ashtanga Based Vinyasa Flow Level 2-3, $12Thurs 6:45-8:15pm
Intuitive Flow, $12 & Power Core Flow (Donation)
Bio:
After years of studying dance and classical Pilates, Rachel turned to yoga to bring emotional, physical and spiritual balance into her life. Her personal practice has led her to see our embodiment as an expression of the self that needs compassion, joy, gratitude, expansiveness and stability. She is grateful for all of her inspiring teachers here in Santa Barbara, especially Ganga White, Tracey Rich and Sven Holcomb from the White Lotus Foundation, where she completed her first teacher training.Rachel received her BA in Philosophy from Goucher College in Baltimore and is a self taught jeweler and fine artist. Inspired by her studies in postmodern feminist philosophy, her art explores the bizarre, the beautiful and the monstrous, using whatever she can get to stick to a canvas. While not practicing and teaching yoga, or painting in her art studio, Rachel manages Drishti Yoga Essentials in Santa Barbara. Through her unique art and teaching style Rachel hopes to help guide and inspire other students? personal practice and exploration of embodiment.
Classes:
Drawing from her dance and Pilates background, Rachel brings an intuitive grace and lightness to her Vinyasa flow classes, with a focus on alignment, moving from and strengthening the core, while creating a space for freedom and play. She teaches what she loves to practice: a class that is balancing, opening, bringing you to your edge, while encouraging self exploration and honoring our own experience of body, mind and spirit. Breath, sweat, surrender and be free.
When:
Intuitive Flow, $12: Tues & Thurs 12:15-1:20pmPower Core Flow, By Donation: Fri 5:00-6:25pm
All downloadable fliers and brochures seen on this site are also available by mail upon request.
Santa Barbara Yoga Center
32 East Micheltorena Street — Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Tel: (805) 965-6045
