Pattabhi Jois method firmly establishes the strong health necessary for sadhana (spiritual practice toward stilling the mind) through an elegantly designed sequence of breath-initiated postures. In the Mysore style practice room, there is a quiet, meditative serenity that encourages inner reflection. As students learn and internalize the sequence, mastering challenges, they are taught new postures individually. The teacher compliments the student's deepening self-awareness and independence by observing the students breathing and comfort level to ascertain the appropriate pace of progress, and offering sensitive hands-on adjustments. Regular, consistent practice is essential, yet the potency can be felt in a single practice.
Although the sequence is universal, the approach may vary according to specific needs. This creates the opportunity for a tailored practice typically offered through private lessons, with the benefit of the energy, community, and shared cost of a group class.
Lori Brungard has been practicing yoga for over 20 years. Since 1996, she has spent over one year in India studying Ashtanga Yoga with her teacher Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, who has authorized her to teach. She also completed a yearlong teacher training with Sharon Gannon and David Life at the Jivamukti Yoga School in 1999.
A professional modern dancer for more than ten years, Lori learned a deep awareness of human anatomy. Her skills as teacher lie both in her sensitive hands on adjustments and her ability to see underlying causes of challenges and how to create change.
After running the yoga program at Soho Sanctuary, a women-only spa, she co-directed Ashtanga Yoga Shala or five years, and developed a 200 hr course in Ashtanga in accordance with the Yoga Alliance guidelines. She is an Adjunct Lecturer in Yoga at Hunter College, and teaches adjustments to teacher trainees in the Yoga to the People program.
