PJ’s Yoga Shala

Larissa
Ashtanga yoga transforms, enriches and awakens me. I nurture the experience of this art so that my students can feel revived in a compassionate and motivating environment. Under the guidance of PJ, I have developed a strong personal practice maintaining the role as a life long student. In the fall of 2006, I completed a course with David Swenson covering the teaching techniques of Ashtanga yoga. As I continue Ashtanga's lineage, my passion guides me to Mysore, India this winter to study with Pattabhi Jois.

living. loving. laughing. breathing. beauty. being.

Amy
There are three reasons I love Ashtanga yoga: First is the jumping. Plato thought that play evolved from the desire of children and young animals to leap. I think there were some ancient yogis out there who understood that as well. Second is the routine that can forever be refined but also can become like second nature–so necessary and regular. And, finally, the breathing, which creates sound, which creates stamina, which creates rhythm, which creates concentration, which creates time. Okay, there is a fourth reason. There are some beautiful people out there doing it with me.

Lynn
Yoga began as exercise and has become a life practice for me. Slowly through this practice, small changes have become greater and life's journey in these past five years has become richer. This opportunity to study and practice with PJ has been enriching, and Ashtanga Yoga has added depth to the experience of yoga practice. I value the opportunity I have to lead classes and share yoga with others. This is a beauty and positive energy practiced at any level when done with mindful intention.

Sue
When I began practicing yoga about 5 years ago, I was very interested in mind and body connection. What I have discovered is that this a journey we undertake that is enlightening and enjoyable, and best of all is never ending. As we live our life and face the challenges be they big or small, incorporating the yogic experience is most helpful.

Gretchen
I had been practicing yoga for one year when I found PJ’s Shala. It was April 2002, and only the second day that he was open. I am a devoted yoga student and continue to study and grow in both the physical and philosophical aspects of yoga. I teach an instructive class where students are encouraged to explore and challenge their bodies while developing a true body-mind connection. I encourage students to have a daily practice which ultimately lead them to a fuller life.

Andrea
I have been practicing yoga since January 2003 and a Reiki Master Teacher since April 2007. My yoga journey began when I was graced with finding my teacher, PJ Heffernan. I began studying Iyengar Yoga, giving me a solid structural foundation to grow my practice. In the years that followed, I expanded my family from one child to three children and at times yoga waited in the wings. Coming home to yoga again, and transitioning to Ashtanga Yoga, has been a gift beyond words.

Pat
In June 2003, encouraged by another student and my chiropractor, I entered PJ’s Yoga Shala. With PJ’s patience, precise verbal instruction, and physical prompts, I discovered my growing strength and flexibility. Regular practice continues to reward me with steady improvement. I look forward to sharing that exhilarating sense of control and personal achievement with those who are just beginning their adventure in yoga.

Dan
Having studied yoga for three years, I’ve enriched my life both physically and emotionally. It is comforting to know that whenever I have a bad day, the yoga mat is not far away. Practicing yoga is my sanctuary from the stresses of life. Of course there are always days when I must motivate myself to get there, but once I reach the shala and begin practicing, I always feel complete.