All our teachers live and breathe the Spirit of Aloha and are dedicated to supporting
you during this transformative process.
NADIA TORAMAN
The training is led by Maui Yoga Shala owner Nadia Toraman, voted as Maui Times Best Yoga Teacher on Maui in 2009, 2010, and 2011. She has been training Yoga teachers and living on Maui for 25 years, and many of her students have gone on to become highly acclaimed teachers in their hometowns or out in the world. Nadia combines a passionate love for the liberating heart of Yoga with a keen intellectual understanding of its underlying philosophy to offer a truly transformative training.
As much as she is a teacher she always remains a student and has studied with the world’s prominent yoga teacher’s –
Pattabhi Jois, Sharat Jois, Leslie Kaminoff, Carrie Owerko, Aadil Palkhivala , Maty Ezraty, Chuck Miller, Kofi Busia, Lisa Walford. She has taught alongside Shiva Rae, Sean Corn, Bryan Kest, Vinnie Marino. In the 25 years she has taught to Olympic athletes, professional surfers and other water athletes, Hollywood stars and many from all over the world and helped aspiring yogis to become world class teachers. Most of all, Nadia believes yoga is for everybody!
Follow Nadia on Instagram @alohayogini
“Yoga has been life-changing for me. Since the first day, I have always kept with it. And what better place to practice then on the island where the spirit of yoga and the soul of Hawaii have so much in common. The raw, organic feel of nature, the connection between prana and mana, namaste and aloha, all contribute to finding the true self while healing and rejuvenating, and guiding us to deeper levels of awareness.”
SHAKTA
Shakta teaches the philosophy of yoga and its practical application along with basic Sanskrit, chanting, meditation, yoga methodology, asana and devotional and spiritual practices. Shakta integrates his practice into a whole lifestyle which included gardening, farming, and nature as well as serving, chanting, and singing with a local satsang. Drawing on the ancient teachings of yoga through Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, the philosophy and practice of the 8 limbs (ashtanga yoga), and Sanskrit verses, the students will learn to apply these universal principles to their own lives as well as how to weave yoga philosophy into their classes. Shakta credits these influential teachers: Mātā Amṛtānandamayī Devī (Amma), Nadia Toraman, Kalyani Russell, Swami Dayamrita Chaitanya, David Williams, and Barney Chapman. |
JENNIFER BONADIO
Trained and certified as a yoga teacher by the American Viniyoga Institute, Jennifer began teaching movement, yoga and meditation 32 years ago, but it was not initiated into its true depth until she was led to Viniyoga after a yoga injury 22 years ago. The guidance and training she received for her own rehabilitation and strengthening inspired her to continue to deepen her practice and explore the healing and creative potential of the Yoga tradition through the direct lineage of Krishnamacharya.
The long and winding path of personal healing and practice have given Jennifer a deep trust and enthusiasm for our amazing human potential. Her decades of experience in the Healing Arts both informs and inspires her teaching, and her clarity, compassion, and wisdom come through in the unique transmission of her Yoga Lineage. Her passion is bringing current Neuroscience and contemporary trends to our trainees in a way that inspires their lives and prepares them to share and teach Yoga in many different ways in their communities.
SAGE SIMPSON
Sage is a spiritual embodiment guide and ReWilding facilitator. She facilitates 200 hour and 300 hour Yoga Teacher Trainings, Sacred Rituals and Ceremonies, and Transformational ReWilding Retreats. Sage also teaches creative performance, poetry, and dance as a means to integrate shadow and traumatic experiences so individuals can heal and expand.
Sage gives each person the heartfelt attention and direct facilitation that cultivates ecstatic, healing and magical experiences. As a teacher, she sees each of her classes as an opportunity to hold sacred ceremonial space.
Integrating her diverse teachings and passions, Sage has developed a system of intentional-based healing that draws on the philosophy that we are all a part of a collective life force that is driving us towards greater consciousness. By exploring our gifts and expanding our relationship with higher Self, we come into alignment with our inner purpose of Awakening. Through our collaborative efforts and unified intentions, we magnify the richness of this life’s experience. She believes that as we heal ourselves, we heal the Earth. As we heal the Earth, the Earth heals us.
Sage has studied and participated in ceremonies, rituals and embodiment and spiritual practices (including Yoga, Qigong, Sweat lodge, Women’s circles, pilgrimage, and visioning). Sage has studied and participated in ritual, performance, and embodiment practices around the world: throughout Central and South America and in Ghana, West Africa. She also loves backpacking and wild swimming. Sage graduated from Lewis & Clark College with a Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Theater and Hispanic studies, then continued her education at UC Irvine where she earned her Masters of Fine Arts in Acting and Performance. She has taught Moment, Performance & Poetry, and other Embodiment practices for the past 15 years in Southern California, and now resides in Maui, HI.
She trusts that we are each here to expand into the greatness of who we are and who we came here to be. She believes that as we more deeply connect to our inner essence, our True Nature and our Integrity, we connect to the wholeness of All That Is. And it is from this place of truth and joy we can serve all beings from our highest capacity.
KARIN KUHN
Karin has been teaching yoga full time since 2004. She sees herself as a wellness entrepreneur living and loving the good life, passionate about the conscious entrepreneurial journey, yoga, health and wellness and personal growth.
Her approach to sharing the practice has been influenced by her teachers, evolved over almost 20 years of teaching and energized by her personal commitment to meet her students where they are in their practice and lives.
She is known for her unique teaching style and methodology (MAHA Yoga) which is informed by her additional certifications in Personal Training and Corrective Exercise, Nutrition & Health Coaching.
She blends the ancient wisdom and practices of Yoga, Ayurveda & Mindfulness with the science of nutrition and functional movement and the art of coaching for mindset, behavior, and lifestyle change.
Her classes offer a strong focus on intelligent sequencing and the use of props, variations and suitable progressions so that students may take ownership of their personal practice and progress safely at their own pace.
Teaching, rather than merely instructing, she offers precise verbal instruction and gentle adjustments while still encouraging deeper exploration of the practice beyond physical poses.
She believes in creating a class environment that supports a balance between serious studentship as well as lots of hugs and laughter.
Her greatest joy comes from helping others level up their health, lifestyle and performance habits so they can show up with energy, clarity and confidence and thrive in work-love-play!
MADELYN RYAN
Madelyn was born and raised in Denver, Colorado and is a lover of all things adventure, especially the adventure of self-discovery and magic through yoga.
MICHAEL KEOLAMAU TENGAN
What is the fullest expression of our Self? Whether you define this by completing triathlons, deepening your personal journey, or being able to live pain-free in life – Michael is inspired to support you in realizing your greatest potential.
DAWN DELEONARDIS
Dawn’s intention as a yoga instructor is to create a safe space for students to explore deeper versions of themselves through mindfulness, breath work, meditation and movement. Since 2012 she has been guiding yoga classes in NY, and integrating her perspective as a Reiki Master and Holistic Health Coach. Now a Maui resident, the practices that she guides in her classes are an invitation for students to become present through the five senses, to become the observer of their thoughts and emotions, and to find the true Self ready to emerge under the layers of life.
Yoga has been one of the greatest healing forces on Dawn’s journey. She has been exposed to many different lineages and teachers through the years and enjoys the fusion of styles and philosophies, and integrate movement based on the energetic chakra system and cosmic activity. You can find touches of kundalini, buti, vinyasa, hatha and shakti in her sessions.
Other certifications she holds are SUP Yoga, Reiki Master, prenatal yoga and Sound Healing Therapist Level I. She also has her own coaching business Wela’vate, frequents the south side beaches, and adventures around the magical land of Maui.
RIANNE VESTUTO
Rianne’s soulful classes are a result of her own embodiment journey, and nearly a decade of education and experience in the healing arts.
JACQUELINE ASHLEY
Jacqueline is a 500 hour graduate from the Maui Yoga Shala and found her passion for yoga throughout her healing process. Having danced at her family’s studio and continuing to pursue it, she has a great awareness of the importance of the arts. Her desire is to keep broadening her knowledge and is also a certified 250 hour Aerial Yoga Teacher as well. One of her goals is to share the support she received with others who are struggling with their mental health and assist them in discovering more growth with self love. There is great emphasis on getting deeper in touch with yourself and the divinity, while gently listening to the body’s current needs. She intends to always create a safe space and judgement free zone. All levels are embraced and modifications will be suggested, as well as props being available. Jacqueline aims to have you leave her class feeling more grounded, present, and aligned with your purpose and the beautiful light you offer to the world.
CARINE CAMBOULIVES
Carine is an ocean athlete living on Maui. As a pro windsurfer, kitesurfer and standup paddler, she travels the world with her family to produce documentaries for TV and magazines.
She learned, practiced and taught yoga all over the world; from Paris to Paia, India to South America. Also a reiki master, she mixes the art of yoga with her energy healing techniques and meditations for an ultimate therapeutic and restorative practice. We will use very powerful meditations to release tensions due to stress, negative energies, emotional charges, belief systems and teach how to fill yourself up with specific restorative energies.
LAUREN URSCH
Lauren Ursch M.S. is an E-RYT 500 hour international yoga and meditation teacher who specializes in Eastern philosophy, reiki touch, mindful movement, guided visualization and restorative yin practices. Lauren is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness coach and a trauma-informed expressive arts therapist. Lauren holds her BFA degree in Expressive Arts Therapy and Masters of Science degree in Counseling Psychology. Lauren has devoted the past 13 plus years to studying and practicing holistic healing modalities with the intention of offering an array of mind-body-spirit tools for supporting those she serves.
JANET CORVINO
Janet is a yoga instructor and Leadership & Life Alignment coach. She created Soul City Yoga Retreats to create travel and yoga experiences for her students. As a result, Janet has been travelling the world and teaching internationally. Yoga and Life Alignment Coaching are tools to get you to live a life of purpose and passion through aligning your core values with your actions.
Janet as a yoga instructor offers a playful, sweaty, deep practice with soul-searching teachings. Janet teaches “real life yoga for everyday living” by encouraging her students to explore yoga philosophy through themed classes and take their awareness into their life.
Janet as a Life Alignment Coach is soulful in her approach using yoga philosophy and Leadership teachings to evoke deep insights. Janet’s candor, confidence and humour creates a playful, supportive environment to dive into action. You will be inspired to live deeply rich life filled with possibility.
Janet is ERYT 500 hr Yoga Alliance certified and a Co-Active certifies Life and Leadership Coach, CPCC and ACC certified. In addition, Janet has a graduate degree in Interdisciplinary Education. Janet is a veteran teacher who was a Studio Director and Teacher Trainer for YYoga Canada.
CARINE CAMBOULIVES
Carine is an ocean athlete living on Maui. As a pro windsurfer, kitesurfer and standup paddler, she travels the world with her family to produce documentaries for TV and magazines.
She learned, practiced and taught yoga all over the world; from Paris to Paia, India to South America. Also a reiki master, she mixes the art of yoga with her energy healing techniques and meditations for an ultimate therapeutic and restorative practice. We will use very powerful meditations to release tensions due to stress, negative energies, emotional charges, belief systems and teach how to fill yourself up with specific restorative energies.
CHELSEA BOBOWICZ
Chelsea brings over 13 years of dedicated yoga practice and study, 17 years of Classical ballet training, and 5 years of Pilates teaching that influence her teaching style and technique. Her cues always begin with the breath, as her intention is to open the muscles mindfully through breath, intention and movement. Because of her Pilates Teaching background she has special tips and tricks to build strength in every muscle in the body. She pairs her knowledge of body strengthening with yoga asana to release, open and heal the muscles through intentional sequencing; which sets her apart from the average yoga teacher. Her philosophy is as is “As is within so is without” your body and mind is a reflection of the world around you, and visa-versa. To her keeping the body and mind in optimal health, is also a way to influence the earth and all the creatures and plants that live on this miraculous planet. She has a special respect for Vipassana meditation, and completed a 10 day sit in 2014, the same year she received her 200hr RYT Yoga Alliance Teaching Certification. With Chelsea, it is much more than meets the eye, the subtle cues and adjustments she offers are the gems of her teaching. Most importantly she invites yogis of all levels, age and shape into her classroom.
LEE RADEN
Iyengar yoga teacher Lee Raden has been practicing yoga for more than two decades. He taught yoga and practiced as a Registered Nurse until he underwent a lifesaving bone marrow transplant for leukemia in 2010. He credits the integrity of the Iyengar Method and the skill of his teachers for restoring his courage, strength, flexibility, balance and stamina in the years that followed. Lee infuses humor, compassion, and honest encouragement into his teaching, balancing action with reflection. He is certified at the Introductory 2 Level and continues to study with his teachers Holly Walck Kostura, Kay Huckabee and Randy Just. He has also studied with Senior Teachers Patricia Walden, Eddy Marks, Mary Obendorfer and Carrie Owerko.
A certified Iyengar Yoga teacher can guide students of all ages and physical conditions to an experience of yoga, which is safe, accessible and rewarding. The Iyengar instructors are held to an unusually rigorous standard. Teachers modify the classic asanas (yoga postures) for individual students with the use of props — such as blocks, blankets and belts. Props allow for a deeper penetration into the posture, as well as a longer stay. Class moves slowly and deeply and focuses on the fundamental asanas from all the asana groups: standings, foreword extensions, seated postures, twists, backward extensions, inversions and restoratives.
Graduates of Nadia Toraman & the Maui Yoga Shala who have become successful teachers & studio owners
Eion Finn / Vancouver, Canada
Silke Markmann / Hamburg, Germany
Karina Wagner / Munchen, Germany
Swantje Nielsen / Hamburg, Germany
Asami Asami Suzuki / Tokyo, Japan
Tamami Kanaya / Tokyo, Japan
Angela Maria Firewalker / El Paso, Texas
Ali Szarzynski / Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Leilani Messer / Stevens Point, Wisconsin
Kevin Paris Wisconsin / Los Angeles
Ariel Mann Jackson / Wyoming
Hollon Beasley/ Mississippi
Nina Heiberg Joyeux Norway / Tahiti
Tanya McLaughlin / Whistler, Canada
Michelle Wilson / Calgary, Canada
Samantha O’Neal &
Tricia Bresson / Zen Den Yoga Shala, Ohio
Brynja Bjarnadóttir/ Iceland
Marthe Mageroy / Norway
Anthony Salem / Miami
Sammy Seriani / Maui, Hawaii
Sarah Callaham / Maui, Hawaii
Regina Padilla / Maui, Hawaii
Tani Toprakci / Maui, Hawaii
Alexa Ibarra / New York
Heather Kramer / Maui, Hawaii
Emilia De Castro / Maui, Hawaii
Klancy Brown / Maui, Hawaii
Gail Rice / Maui, Hawaii
Shannon Eyre / Seattle
Tanya Dawe / Montreal, Canada
Tim Reichenbach / Biel, Switzerland
Megan Newmans / Miami
Jnae Williamson / Houston, Texas
Krystina Lorance / Sphinx Yoga Studio, Oregon
Catherine Baines / Apana Yoga Studio,
Uxbridge, Canada