Instructor/Team member 1 Description
Yoga Director at Nalanda Retreat Namaste! I am Priyanka Parihar, hailing from the vibrant city of Kolkata, born into a traditional Brahmin family deeply rooted in Bengali culture and Hindu traditions. Educational Background In pursuit of a different path, I chose to diverge from the conventional career trajectory, immersing myself in the transformative world of yoga. I completed my formal education in renowned schools and earned a master's degree in yoga and nutrition. This journey led me to explore the profound realms of yoga philosophy, history, techniques, and various styles. Teaching Journey With a 300-hour TTC in Hatha Yoga and a subsequent 500-hour TTC in transformative Hatha Yoga, I delved into a dedicated practice to deepen my expertise. For over nine years, I've passionately shared my knowledge, teaching in studios and conducting private classes across Delhi and various parts of India. Goa and Transformative Yoga My journey took a turn when I felt drawn to the vibrant yoga community in Goa. In 2021, I made the move, immersing myself in the coastal serenity of a beautiful seaside village. During this inspiring environment, I encountered diverse yoga teachers, healers, and therapists from around the world. This exposure enriched my perspective on modern yoga, prompting me to fuse traditional practices with contemporary insights. Spiritual Integration Devotion to Krishna and a deep connection to Bhakti Yoga have been integral to my journey. This spiritual foundation harmonizes the physical and spiritual dimensions of yoga, shaping my unique transformative yoga style. Life in Goa and Nalanda Retreat During my time in Goa, I not only honed my practice but also found my life partner, who owns a breathtaking seaside yoga retreat centre. Now, I live, learn, and teach at Nalanda Retreat, seamlessly blending traditional and modern yoga practices. Current Role As the Yoga Director at Nalanda Retreat, I continue to evolve my practice and guide others on their yoga journeys. I am dedicated to creating a harmonious space where individuals can experience the transformative power of yoga in its purest form. Join me on this holistic journey of self-discovery and well-being at Nalanda Retreat, where tradition meets modernity, and the essence of yoga unfolds in every practice. Namaste!
Instructor/Team member 2 Description
Akhilesh Bodhi, a seasoned Hatha Yoga teacher hailing from India, is a beacon of authenticity in the realm of yoga instruction. As the founder of Mahamukti Yoga, he brings forth a wealth of experience as a Reiki master and spiritual mentor. With a profound grasp and decades-long immersion in yoga practice, Akhilesh has cultivated an inclusive teaching approach that seamlessly blends traditional methods with the contemporary styles of BKS Iyengar and K. Pattabhi Jois, catering to a global audience. Drawing inspiration from the holistic traditions of Ashtanga Vinyasa, Hatha Yoga, and Raj Yoga, Akhilesh's method transcends geographical boundaries to offer a universally applicable technique. A true adherent of Swami Dayanand Saraswati, he delved into the philosophical depths of Vedanta at the Vedanta school and underwent yoga training at the Sivananda Ashram in Kerala and the Iyengar Institute in Pune. His tutelage includes esteemed teachers such as Geeta Iyengar, Prashant Iyengar, and Ramananda Patel from San Francisco, USA. Akhilesh's journey began in a large joint family, where he played an integral role in the family business alongside his brother. Despite facing challenges and punishments for tardiness while managing the family restaurant, his passion led him to pursue higher studies at Lucknow University. However, a transformative period awaited him at the Chinmaya Tapovan Ashram in Dharmsala, Himachal Pradesh, where he immersed himself for two years, disconnecting from his family. Despite family attempts to retain him after his mother fell ill, Akhilesh's commitment to his spiritual path prevailed. Following the ashram experience, he embarked on a pilgrimage to the Himalayan regions of Uttarkashi, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, adopting a mendicant lifestyle and exploring the nuances of Mother Nature's care. His encounters with diverse situations and life's unfolding events during this pilgrimage shaped his perspective and solidified his commitment to a path less traveled. Despite the initial guilt stemming from his parents' passing, Akhilesh's life had embarked on an irreversible trajectory, leading him to become a seasoned and experienced yoga teacher with a focus on authenticity and inclusivity.
Instructor/Team member 3 Description
Yoga Maestro Unveiling the Tranquil Realms of Goa & Mumbai Energetic Vibes Await You Step into the invigorating world of yoga, curated by Iona Dudley-Ward, a dynamic Yoga Teacher weaving her magic amidst the enchanting landscapes of Goa and the bustling vibes of Mumbai. Known for my prowess in Ashtanga-Vinyasa Yoga, I bring a potent mix of strength, inclusivity, and an uplifting atmosphere to my classes, embracing practitioners of all levels. Beyond the conventional, my yoga journey encompasses hosting unique "Pop-up Yoga & Live DJ" events, where I merge the power of yoga with the pulsating beats of uplifting music. These events have graced venues like "Soho House Mumbai," music hubs such as "Antisocial," and various bespoke well-being destinations, creating an immersive fusion of movement, music, and emotions. Educational Odyssey in Movement My love affair with movement commenced in my early 20s, pursuing a BA Honours Degree in Dance and Performing Arts at The University of Brighton. The revelation of the profound connection between breath and movement transpired during my studies. A pivotal moment occurred at 'Laban Dance School' in London, where I discovered Ashtanga yoga and was captivated by its seamless integration of flowing postures, meditative breath, and unbridled joy. Practicing Ashtanga yoga and its dynamic variations since the age of 19, I witnessed its transformative impact on focus during my stint as a comedy actress in my twenties. Eventually, I transitioned from considering it a practice to embracing it as a holistic lifestyle. This journey led me to formalize my expertise as an Ashtanga Vinyasa (primary series) teacher in India in 2013, under the tutelage of the inspirational Yogi Kamal at the 'Tattva Yoga Shala' in Rishikesh. Retreats: A Sojourn of Wellness For the past eight years, I have orchestrated international retreats, initially in Sardinia, Italy, and subsequently in the tranquil realms of Goa, India, and the idyllic landscapes of Cyprus. On home ground, I've conducted Wellness Retreat Days in the vibrant city of Mumbai and the serene English Countryside. This year marks the fourth edition of my retreat at Nalanda in February, promising an immersive experience. Guiding Light in Renowned Studios My decade-long journey as an international teacher has unfolded between the harmonious shores of Goa and the vibrant heartbeat of Mumbai for the past five years. Originating from the U.K., I've cultivated a dedicated yoga following. In the vibrant city of Mumbai, my teachings grace esteemed yoga schools and establishments, including "Soho House Mumbai," "The Moon Village," and the welcoming embrace of "Yoga House." In the U.K., I've held the position of a resident teacher at prestigious locations like "The South Kensington Club," "Yoga Loft," "Third Space London," and "More Yoga" London. Sardinia, Italy, has been a canvas for my yoga training, offering my expertise as a personal yoga trainer at luxurious havens like "The Caledvolpe," "The Cervo" (Porto Cervo), and "The Romanzino" in the captivating Costa Smeralda. In the scenic landscapes of Goa, I extend my teachings to "Ashiyana Yoga Center," "Nalanda" - Yoga & wellness retreat centres, "Riva Beach Resort" for AKA MMA Association, the rejuvenating "Mojigao eco wellness resort," and the harmonious enclave of Palmorama.Goa. Embark on a Journey with Iona Dudley-Ward As you embark on this transformative yoga odyssey with me, let's breathe, move, and transform together. Join my classes in the vibrant locales of Goa and Mumbai, and let the yoga magic unfold.
Instructor/Team member 4 Description
Yoga Teacher on a Journey of Self-Discovery Meet Anne-Laure, a yoga enthusiast originally hailing from France, whose journey from a professional dancer to a passionate yoga teacher is nothing short of a profound self-discovery. With both feet firmly grounded in reality yet soaring with dreams, Anne-Laure has become a dedicated Hatha Yoga instructor, sharing her knowledge and love for yoga across Belgium, France, and her new home in India, particularly in the vibrant yoga scene of Goa. Journey of Rediscovery As a former professional dancer, Anne-Laure found a new lease on life and a deep sense of purpose through the transformative practice of yoga. Her journey led her to rediscover herself and fueled her passion for teaching, ultimately becoming a beacon of yogic wisdom in multiple countries. Teaching Across Borders Anne-Laure's teachings have left imprints in various corners of the world. From Belgium to her native France and now the serene landscapes of India, she has shared her expertise in Hatha Yoga. Anne-Laure's instructional footprint extends to Teacher Training, Home Ashram, The Yoga Nidra Advanced Course, and the Antastha Yatra retreat for Yogalife, marking her commitment to the holistic growth of her students. Yoga Nidra Enthusiast An addict when it comes to Yoga Nidra, Anne-Laure deeply cherishes, teaches, and practices this transformative yogic tool daily. Her soft yet strong voice serves as a guide, allowing her students to embark on a profound journey within themselves during their practice. Teaching Philosophy In her classes, Anne-Laure gracefully imparts the wisdom of Hatha Yoga, the classical form that prioritizes comfort, steadiness, and heightened awareness in each posture. Her teachings include a meticulous blend of Asanas and Pranayama, fostering holistic well-being. Yoga Nidra, another facet of her teachings, is a powerful tool for deep relaxation, impacting positive change with just 30 minutes of practice. Regular practitioners experience a shift in habits, stress reduction, improved sleep, and enhanced overall health. Present Endeavors Having recently relocated to India, Anne-Laure now shares her teachings in various retreat centres in the picturesque landscapes of Goa. Her spontaneous and playful soul infuses joy into her classes, creating an atmosphere where students can delve into the practice with a sense of ease and exploration. Embark on a transformative journey with Anne-Laure, the yoga teacher with a unique blend of grace, wisdom, and playfulness. Join her classes in Goa and experience the magic of self-discovery through the lens of yoga.
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