View Our 2019 Teachers
Keith Mitchell
Teacher
Keith Mitchell is a former All-Pro NFL player turned Celebrity Yogi, a Motivational Mindfulness Coach, Holistic Health, Fitness and Wellness Advocate, Community Activist, Humanitarian and Founder of the Light it Up Foundation.
http://www.keithmitchell59.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keithmitchell59/
2019 Class Description:
On Saturday Keith will be featured as our Keynote Speaker, a free lecture from 1-2pm at Performing Arts Center. Come learn about his experience in the NFL, then reinventing and healing himself after devastating injury.
Special Post Festival Session with Keith on Sunday, October 6, 2019!
10:00am – 12:00pm – Keith Mitchell – Restorative Yoga & Mindfulness Workshop - Tickets on Sale Now!
Shannon Liebel
Teacher
Shannon started her career path as a Clinical Counselor after she received her MA in 2008. During her MA program, she was the team director of a competitive gymnastics program. In her youth, Shannon trained in artistic and acrobatic gymnastics. When she discovered yoga in 2005, it was the perfect balance of the mental work she enjoyed in Psychology and the physical movement of the body that she loved in gymnastics. Shannon completed her 200 Hour Teacher Training with Yax Yoga Concepts in Virginia Beach, VA in 2013 and has been teaching ever since. She received her 300 Hour Teacher Training with Beyond Bryce in Koh Samui, Thailand in 2018. Her teachers during her 300 hour training included Dice Iida-Klein, Briohny Smith, Honza Lafond, Claudine Lafond, and Mathieu Boldron. She strongly believes in the connection between mind, body, and soul, and this reflects in her Vinyasa style teaching. She loves the constant movement of the body in Vinyasa and feels that it helps us to find strength within and bring awareness into the present moment. Although arm balances and inversions are offered in her classes, modifications are always provided to make practitioners of every level comfortable during their practice.
www.stillwateryogalaketahoe.com
Instagram: @shannonlyoga
2019 Class Description:
On Saturday Shannon will offer two classes at Big Bear Yoga Festival 2019. Join her for Vinyasa – Open Heart Yoga at 11am for a heart expansive and opening practice. At 2:30pm Shannon will share a little taste of the Sunday morning follow-on workshop with a delightful Intro to Yoga Playground: Arm Balances & Inversions. This mostly intermediate class will be a Vinyasa flow structured around teaching arm balances and inversions. We will have a gentle warm up preparing us for multiple variations of different arm balances, and eventually end up upside down in inversions! Modifications are offered throughout the class so that practitioners of every level get the sense of flying, and get to enjoy this playful side of yoga!
Special Post Festival Session with Shannon on Sunday, October 6, 2019!
10:00am – 12noon – Shannon Liebel – Yoga Playground: Arm Balance & Inversion Workshop
Lemia Astarabadi & Joshua Bowser
Teachers & Musicians
Lemia is a passionate artist and teacher – sharing her love and devotion to oneness consciousness with the world in a field of unconditional gratitude. She brings a blend of soft vocals, groovy percussions, healing didgeridoo melodies, and bowls, gongs, and chimes to her yoga classes and live concerts. Lemia is dedicated to serving all life through music and Divine Spiritual Wisdom with compassion, grace, and an open heart.
Lemia Astarabadi is passionate about spreading the message of Love through Naam Yoga, Shakti Naam, Medicinal Essential Essences, Holistic Health, Live Music, and Kabbalistic Astrology. She is a Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, Harmonyum Practitioner, Birth Doula, Singer/Songwriter and Percussionist in “The Conscious Groove”, and is a Certified K-8 Teacher with a Master’s Degree in Education. Lemia utilizes her diverse background to bring a universal approach to self-healing in all of her classes, workshops, and trainings. Her deep connection to Mother Earth and love for music and sound therapy has been an inspiration for Naam Yoga & Shakti Naam set to live music with essential oils. In 2013, she co-created the first “Love Takes Flight Festival” in Irvine, California. As a member of the Naam Yoga Teacher Training Team, Lemia is committed to sharing this transformational and heart-opening practice with all who come to learn.
Joshua is a practical spiritual lover of music and yoga. He loves to share with all people the positive effects of sacred sound through guitar, drum, native flute, Tibetan bowls, and voice. His intention is simple: collective community consciousness of love via music and heart to heart communication.
Joshua Bowser is a Holistic Health Practitioner, a Nationally Certified Massage Therapist, and Naam Yoga 1, 2, & 3 Instructor, and a Harmonyum Healing Practitioner. Joshua graduated from Healing Hands School of Holistic Health in the spring of 2007, and has since been on the path of truth and healing through Naam Yoga, meditation, Harmonyum Healing, nutrition, plant medicine, massage therapy, and laughter. He is an enthusiastic teacher and is passionate about health, the environment, and the conscious evolution of all life, and he shares his passion for teaching as a member of the Naam Yoga Teacher Training Team. In 2013, he co-created the first “Love Takes Flight Festival” in Orange County, California. Joshua is a rhythm guitarist, singer, and songwriter in the band, “The Conscious Groove“, and believes that music is the greatest example of how to flow and find harmony and joy in life.
Connect with Lemia & Joshua: https://www.theconsciousgroove.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConsciousGroove/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/theconsciousgroove/
2019 Class Description:
Two classes at Big Bear Yoga Festival with Lemia Astarabadi & Joshua Bowser with LIVE music with "The Conscious Groove"
11am – 12noon – Front Hall at Performing Arts Center – Lemia Astarabadi & Joshua Bowser – Mystic Medicine Circle with "The Conscious Groove" - Please join soul and sacred sound musicians, Shakti Naam Yoga teachers, and advanced Aromatherapists, Joshua and Lemia, for a unique journey into the heart of the inner mystic. Experience nature through medicinal aromatherapy, connect two energies guiding your primary planet, vibrate the Naam with your own unique and healing voice, and receive vibrational healing through ancient indigenous sounds of the gong, crystal didgeridoo, crystal singing bowl, Tibetan singing bowls, and the Native American Flute. This sensory experience is a guided journey into remembering your strengths and empowering you to a line to the highest frequencies available for health, Love, abundance, and joy. This workshop include sacred plant and tree essence anointing, wisdom of the Laws of Nature, live music, sound bath, mantra meditation and so much LOVE!
3:00pm – 4:45pm – Front Hall at Performing Arts Center – Lemia Astarabadi & Joshua Bowser – Shakti Naam Yoga with Live Music from "The Conscious Groove" and Aromatherapy - Raise your voltage and turn into your Shakti vibration with this transformational experience. Naam is the frequency that connects us as One. Get ready to chant breathe dance and shift into your highest potential. With the guidance of the plants and the trees this experience will send you to a mystical and magic portal of the heart. Open and expand your entire Being with Shakti Naam Yoga set to the live rhythms of The Conscious Groove and anointed with the very powerful Wisdom of the Earth medicine. All levels are welcome!
Christa Smith
Teacher
Christa Smith is a lifestyle coach with a desire to help busy people achieve their health and fitness goals.
Though her full-time profession is in television and film production, she’s always had a passion for fitness. In 2012 she received her 200-hour yoga instructor certification, and has taught traditional Vinyasa yoga, Yoga sculpt, Cycling and Barre.
As most women Christa found herself at her heaviest weight after the birth of her son. It took her nearly 5 years, but on her 30th birthday she finally decided to refocus on herself and her fitness journey. She began to get involved with online fitness accountability groups and started to see results quickly.
She realized she could take her various experiences, both failures and successes, and pay them forward. By combining a balanced diet, Yoga, HIIT and cardio she believes people can obtain their healthiest physical body.
However, Christa doesn’t solely believe that a physical change is enough to reach and maintain a healthy lifestyle. She encourages individuals to find their "tribe" as well. Christa achieved her best fitness results after participating in an online challenge group. Since then she's hosted and facilitated many of her own.
By refocusing her mindset Christa has been able to shift her life towards a more positive and uplifting state of being. Through her work as a lifestyle coach she hopes to help others do the same for others.
Website: www.christajaninefit.com
Instagram: @christajanine
2019 Class Description:
1:00pm – 2:00pm – FREE CLASSES. Registration still required. Happy Trails Under the Trees – PAC – Vinyasa Power Yoga with Focus on 7 Chakras Connection. In this one hour power yoga class we will explore each of our bodies 7 chakras by building upon each throughout the flow. We will touch on the benefits of each chakra and how they effect your daily life both on and off your mat.
4:00pm – 5:00pm – FREE CLASSES. Registration still required. Eagle’s Nest – PAC – Advanced Vinyasa Flow. This advanced vinyasa flow with incorporate complex transitions and both arm balance and inversions in the flow. The flow will focus mainly on building core strength and incorporating breathe to further deepen poses and hold inversions for an extended amount of time.
The Conscious Groove
Musicians
We are thrilled to have The Conscious Groove back at Big Bear Yoga Festival! The Conscious Groove is a band of harmonious gypsies that travel around and spread loving vibrations through sound ancient mysticism rituals and prayers for individual and global healing. Vibrating positive lyrics and mantra from many different traditions and belief systems, The Conscious Groove serves to spread the frequency of love and devotion helping listeners connect to the creative life force that lives within the heart. Move & groove to fun and uplifting rhythms while chanting as one with commUNITY and raising your frequency to new heights with The Conscious Groove.
Connect with The Conscious Groove: https://www.theconsciousgroove.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheConsciousGroove/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/theconsciousgroove/
The Conscious Groove will be sharing their positive music and vibes during two classes at Big Bear Yoga Festival with Lemia Astarabadi & Joshua Bowser AND for our community sharing and dinner on Saturday night! Come dine with The Conscious Groove!
11am – 12noon – Front Hall at Performing Arts Center – Lemia Astarabadi & Joshua Bowser – Mystic Medicine Circle with "The Conscious Groove"
3:00pm – 4:45pm – Front Hall at Performing Arts Center – Lemia Astarabadi & Joshua Bowser – Shakti Naam Yoga with Live Music from "The Conscious Groove" and Aromatherapy
5:00pm – Dinner with The Conscious Groove – Guided Meditation, Live Music with Conscious Groove, and Vegetarian Meal Together in Lodge Gathering Hall – Advanced registration required! Very limited number of tickets available. Come join us and break bread together and share in community! Music and community starts at 5pm, dinner at 5:30pm.
Elizabeth Peregrina
Teacher
If you are lucky enough to count Elizabeth Peregrina as teacher and friend, you are lucky! She is a vibrant, passionate, energetic, intelligent, kind, and wise being. Big Bear, Big Bear Yoga and Big Bear Yoga Festival is VERY lucky to have her as volunteer, friend, supporter and yoga teacher!
Elizabeth is a Veda Yoga Teacher, an Ayurveda Wellness Counselor and Reiki Master Healer. She was the past Wellness Program Coordinator at Dancing Shiva Yoga and Ayurveda. She studied Ayurveda Wellness at Kerala Ayurveda Academy. She was a regular yoga teacher at Big Bear Yoga.
From Elizabeth, "My journey into yoga began through an injury, which lead me on a path to Hatha Yoga & Ayurveda. I've has studied two extensive programs that covered asana, Ayurveda, pranayama (breathing techniques), mantra, and yoga therapy. A unique style of teaching brings a light hearted variety of asana, pranayama, Ayurveda and meditation in every class. My intention is to integrate the sister sciences of Yoga & Ayurveda by guiding one in the process of healing, inner peace and balance. She began her yoga journey in 2005. Her devotion to yoga and the desire to share with and give back to the world are what motivates her. Her emphasis is on mindfulness-creating integrity within each pose that can be carried beyond the mat into daily life."
https://elizabethperegrina.blogspot.com/
Instagram at @queen_elisheba and @breathflowthrive
2019 Class Description:
Gathering Hall – Lodge – Fireside Community & Conversation – Elizabeth Peregrina – Women’s Empowerment
Karen Elaine
Teacher
Karen Elaine is an Acro Yoga Montréal Certified Instructor who teaches two INTRO TO ACRO YOGA sessions each week in Venice Beach and hosts an intensive immersion called the ACRO YOGA RETREATS ON CATALINA ISLAND several times a year. Emphasis in Karen's teaching focuses on all participants learning the three elements of acroyoga- spotting, basing, and flying.
2019 Class Description:
We are beyond excited to have Karen teaching TWO amazing classes at Big Bear Yoga Festival 2019! INTRO TO ACRO YOGA WORKSHOP with Karen Elaine will introduce the participants to the fundamentals of partner yoga stretching and lifting. Intermediate - Advanced. INTRO TO ACRO YOGA THERAPEUTICS WORKSHOP with Karen Elaine introduces the participants to partner stretch. Beginner.
Website: https://yogamusic.me/
Instagram: @acroyogamusic
Ren Rasa Yogamaya, E- RYT 500
Teacher
Ren Rasa Yogamaya is registered at the highest level with the Yoga Alliance as a 500 Hour established teacher has been teaching for over 20 years and is a continuing Yoga presenter with the Bhakti Fest. She is also a writer, a syndicated columnist and the author of Eat By Color: Foods, Colors And The Chakras. She has studied under masters including, Yogi Bhajan, Swami Satchidinanda, Swami Anand Tathagat and Drunvalo Melchizedek who imparted to Ren the eastern practices of Kundalini, Integral Hatha, Tantra, Kama Sutra, Tao, Zen, Tibetan Vajrayana and the ancient wisdom of The Flower of Life. Ren is one of a very few advanced Yoga teachers who practices and teaches from the lineage of T. Krishnamacharya, from The Yoga Korunta and is a natural channel for Universal Source.
Ren offers Private Sessions and Teacher Training for serious Yogis who wish to advance their practice and knowledge of Yoga. Her offerings include: Hatha, Ashtanga, Kundalini, Raja Vinyasa, Krama Vinyasa Yoga, Yoga Therapy and Chakra Life readings by scheduled appointment.
Class Description:
1:00pm - 2:30pm: Raja Vinyasa Yoga: Raja, aka The “royal” path of Yoga, Yoga mental mastery, also known as “Astanga prep”, and Intermediate practice. Within the practice, Ayruvedic principles are presented and experienced: The current Sun and Moon cycle, the coinciding Chakras, Sacred Geometry, the Tattva-Lokas (the dimensions) and Mantra. The class begins and ends with meditation and includes 4 vinyasa (flow) and the current Sun and Moon cycle, standing and floor postures.
www.renyogamaya.com
Brian Shaheen
Teacher
Brian Shaheen (E-RYT 500) has been practicing yoga and incorporating its philosophy into his life since 2010. He has studied with Leeza Villagomez, Saul David Ray, Janet Stone, as well as Shiva Rea and many more. Brian has traveled to India, Bali and has spent time at the Esalen Institute practicing this ancient science of balance (Yoga). He continues to practice and teach a blend of Bhakti Yoga and Vinyasa. Brian’s kind and gentle manner is well suited to leading students of all levels. When teaching he hopes for students to find balance mentally, physically, and spiritually providing them with a practice that they can embody in their daily lives off the mat. You can find Brian teaching all over Southern California, as well as assisting and leading teacher trainings through the Yoga Den Health Spa.
Instagram: @brianshaheenyoga
2019 Class Description:
Brian is sharing two amazing Bhakti Yoga inspiration classes with us at Big Bear Yoga Festival 2019. These classes share teachings and practices that awaken and strengthen the flow of prana (life energy), and open the gateway to the infinite within. All levels welcome. 9:00-10:30am - Theater (Stage) – PAC – Brian Shaheen – Bhakti Vinyasa & 11am-12noon - Chapel – Lodge – Brian Shaheen – Liquid Vinyasa Flow with LIVE MUSIC with Dru Ali.
www.renyogamaya.com
Ashley Yau
Teacher
Ashley Yau is a spiritual counselor, energy healer, and yoga practitioner. Her goal in life is to spread happiness, positive thinking, creativity, and loving energy. Ashley specializes in creating an inviting yoga practice to help every spirit follow their life purpose. She believes life is a beautiful journey guided by the universe learning to connect the body, mind, and spirit. Ashley has deep gratitude to yoga for guiding her exploration of herself toward inner peace.
Ashley's training is rooted in Ashtanga and has blossomed to include Aerial Yoga Certification, chakra balance, Hatha, Vinyasa Flow, Yin, and restorative yoga. She has been teaching various styles of yoga for 10 years after completing her training in Taiwan. Ashley also offers healing and guidance through Reiki, angel therapy, guided meditation, and breath work workshop. In the summer you can find Ashley teaching paddle board yoga on the lake!
Most importantly, beyond the physical discipline of yoga, Ashley offers Soul Counseling and Spiritual Guidance to everyone. Her passion and delight is guiding people along their inner journey to awaken their soul to their life’s dreams, challenge, and purpose. Using many resources Ashley provides support to connect with your Guiding Angels to discover your soul’s path.
2019 Class Description:
Ashley Yau will be teaching a Breathwork and Meditation Lecture at Backstage in Lights – PAC.
Instagram: instagram.com/Ashleybabys_wonderland
Raj Pritpal Singh
Teacher
Raj Pritpal Singh has been practicing Kundalini Yoga since May of 2013 and became a certified instructor in 2016. He has a passion for sharing knowledge about the breath and it's relationship to the physical and mental bodies. His love for teaching comes from his own personal experiences of healing and his love for people and their well being.
2019 Class Description:
Kundalini Yoga Kriya & Meditation will be offered twice with variations at Big Bear Yoga Festival 2019. Topic: Kundalini Yoga stimulates the nervous and glandular systems of the body to create such a sensitivity that the brain can better interpret the signals being sent, ultimately granting a broader, deeper and more connected experience of the self and the world. The class will be great for beginners/advanced students alike.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_knowntruth/
Betsy Laban
Teacher
From Betsy, "A diagnosis of fibromyalgia gave me the incentive to come to yoga to help heal my body, mind and spirit. I was certified by my Guru through the Sajni Yoga Center in Bangalore, India. Other blessings along the way include co-founding Gita Yoga Learning Center where I have trained and certified several 200 and 500 hour yoga instructors, and provide continuing education units through Yoga Alliance. I was able to study with Dr. Larry Payne with whom I continued my education in POLY (Prime of Life Yoga) obtaining my POLY500 through SAMATA/LMU. I received my certification in Yoga Nidra with Dr. Marc Halpern (California College of Ayurveda) and most recently acquired my certification in Back Care Yoga (Vista Yoga Academy). My own body and health issues showed me that not only was I going to heal myself but that it was my Dharma to help others do the same. There is no greater joy than watching people leave our time together, with happy faces and lighter hearts. With that in mind I followed my calling even further obtaining my Reiki Master certification leading me to the world of energy healing.
I have been given the opportunity to study with some of the most amazing teachers. I have gathered wisdom from the masters to the ones who are not as well known. There is nothing quite as lovely as sharing everything they have given me to help others heal their bodies, their minds, their spirit by showing them the joys of finding and living their truth.It is a blessing to serve and to be a part of a community of loving, caring healers."
2019 Class Description:
Betsy will be offering Yoga for EveryBODY twice - definitely not to be missed! First, from 11am – 12noon in the Wagon Wheel Atrium at the PAC with Live Music. Yoga for EveryBODY is a Gentle Yoga class. Then, in the afternoon she is offering a more extended class from 3:00pm – 4:45pm in the Wagon Wheel Atrium. At this second class you can get CEUs Available ($40 for credit). (Please bring check or cash to pay Betsy for the CEU credits.)
www.betsyyoga.com
Sharon D. Chappelle, MSW, LCSW, Ph.D.
Teacher
Sharon received her Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Connecticut in 1979 and her Ph.D. in Social Work in June of 1999. She has worked in the prevention, general psychiatry and addiction fields. Sharon has been an adjunct faculty member at the University of Connecticut School of Social Work, Southern Connecticut State University School of Social Work; and a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Human Development Department at Connecticut College and currently an Associate Professor at Ashford University and The University of Phoenix. Sharon is also Certified Yoga, Meditation and Reiki Instructor.
She has expertise in the areas of training, facilitation, consultation, mediation, meditation, coaching, and psychotherapy and curriculum design. Sharon has provided services nationally and internationally in the areas of diversity, HIV/AIDS prevention, health disparities, co-occurring disorders, homelessness, military families/returning veterans, multicultural education, organizational management, counselor development, clinical supervision, conflict resolution, primary prevention and program development/evaluation, marketing, and networking, women in management and addiction issues.
In addition, she is the co-author of "Diversity in Action”, Simon & Schuster May 1998, and Nappy Journey: The Twisted Road to Natural Hair July 2002. Sharon hopes to begin a book soon on her experiences with SISTER - SPIRIT in the near future. Sharon is an avid yogi starting six years ago at the age of 60!
2019 Class Description:
9:00am – 10:30am – Outside in the Trees – Lodge – Sharon Chapelle, PhD. – Gentle Yin Yoga: Class starts with intention setting and brief meditation, following with a beautiful total body Hatha / Yin Yoga class, holding poses no longer than 3 minutes, ending with meditation and group connection.
3:00pm – 4:45pm – Backstage in Lights – PAC – Sharon Chapelle, PhD. – Inclusion & Diversity: Interactive learning experience.
Instagram: dr.eadrloxyogi &_zenqi
Michelle Scott-Soth
Teacher
Michelle Scott-Soth is a Reiki Master Teacher, Yoga Nidra Healer, and 200 HR (Yoga Alliance) certified Yoga Teacher located in beautiful San Diego, CA. She loves to spread the love and light that Reiki, meditation, and yoga have given her. When she's not doing yoga you can find her off on the trails getting lost in the mountains.
Yoga has been a pretty big part of her life since 2000. The joy and strength it has brought her has been life changing. She loves to share it with others. She was so blessed to receive her 200 HR, Yoga Alliance Certified Gentle, Hatha, and Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training in 2017 with the lovely Nita Mehta of Yoga Jai Ma in San Diego. The training opened her eyes and doors to a new way of living and a new way of thinking.
In 2017 she had the honor of studying Yoga Nidra under Katya Lovejoy of Lovejoy Wellness in San Diego. She is an Angel of light and the ability to carry on her teachings is an honor Michelle will always cherish. Yoga Nidra is such a beautiful "secret" and Michelle enjoys spreading the light it brings. Her classes offer strength, compassion, and fluidity of breathe and body. Shes uses Reiki for hands on adjustments that bring your Shavasana to true bliss.
2019 Class Description:
Hatha Flow Class Outdoors - A grounding Hatha class with flowing movement within poses to loosen the body and connect with nature. Beginner level and all levels welcome. 9-10:30am
Yoga Nidra Under the Trees - Outdoor Yoga Nidra class. Starting with a gentle yoga then a guided meditation Yoga Nidra journey to cultivate freedom and grounding with nature. (Dress in layers and warmly.) Beginner level and all levels welcome. 3-4:45pm.
Instagram: @msothyogi
Website: www.michellescott-soth.com
David Phears
Teacher
David has personally traveled the road from recovery to discovery successfully in the last 35 years using the same principles and techniques that he teaches. He has been teaching Kinetic Mindfulness (KM) f for the last 10 years in classrooms, yoga studios, local and international retreats, corporate venues as well as intimate family and private sessions.
David has also served on the board for the Orange County Dept. of Mental Health’s Center for Excellence. While there, he helped bring about the first and second annual ‘Spirituality in Wellness” for the Mental Health community where he created and facilitated breakout workshops on the practical application of mindfulness for successful living.
David has recently worked with two major Recovery Businesses teaching mindfulness and breathing techniques to combat addiction relapse and depression.
David is a self-published author of two books: ‘A Book of Weeks’, and ‘Slight Adjustments’ as well as the voice on the well-received CD series titled ‘Mindfulness Matters Now’, which can be found on the App ‘Insight Timer’.
2019 Class Description:
Saturday, October 5, 2019:
8:30-8:45am - Opening Ceremony & Blessing
4-5pm - Closing Festival Meditation & Blessing
Sunday, October 6, 2019:
9-9:45am - Yogatation
12-12:30pm - Shavasana Together - Closing Ceremony & Meditation
www.mindfulnessmattersnow.com
Arvindjeet Kaur and Dru Ali of Kintamani Moon
Teacher & Musician
Arvindjeet Kaur and Dru Ali come together as Kintamani Moon, a compassionate sound healing project, serving and co-creating with community earth by sharing natural wellness modalities such as Breathwork, Movement, Meditation, Kundalini Yoga & Universal Energy Healing, combined with nurturing sound frequencies to elevate the well-being of all.
Arvindjeet Kaur: Healing trauma, depression, anxiety and stress has been one of her biggest themes since childhood. Her conscious journey of self healing began in 2006 where she experienced an awakening which sparked her interest on going inward with intention to get to the root of what was causing an imbalance of her mind body and spirit. Weeks after her awakening, she was introduced to Universal Energy Healing which opened her up to various forms of holistic healing modalities in which she later on received formal training in, such as Reiki, Shamanic Healing, Kundalini Yoga and Sound Healing. Her intention is to share to tools elevate the wellbeing of all and co-create a safe space for community to gather, connect, learn, grow and be.
Dru Ali (DJ Hyphen Select): Known for his experimental instrumental production & atmospheric genre-bending mixes. Seeing past musical boundaries, he combines all styles of music, including hip hop, soul, drum & bass, dub, world, ambient and beyond. Using every environment as inspiration to interpret life through sound, his music mirrors his surroundings, giving him the space to come alive as an audio storyteller. He also intuitively creates guided soundtracks during yoga & meditation classes, to help practitioners voyage deeper into their journey of inner transformation. His latest curiosity has been experimenting with a device which senses the electrical conductivity of plants and translates the data into cosmic soundscapes. From yoga studios to music festivals, you can find him forever exploring the endless possibilities of sound.
2019 Class Description:
We are beyond tickled pink to have Arvindjeet Kaur and Dru Ali of Kintamani Moon offering TWO classes. Healing Ancestral Karma Meditation and Sound Bath from 9-10:30am. 11am-12noon Dru Ali will be joining Brian Shaheen for LIVE MUSIC at Liquid Vinyasa Flow. In the afternoon they will share Light Language Activation & Sound Bath with Cacao Ceremony. All of these enticing classes will be at a new space at Sa Ha Le Lodge in the Chapel area.
Healing Ancestral Karma Meditation & Sound Bath w/ Kintamani Moon (Arvindjeet Kaur & Dru Ali): For this workshop, we will set our intentions as a collective, to hold a safe and sacred space for all to release and receive the highest good. We will be sharing a Kundalini Meditation "Healing Ancestral Karma" to reprogram our DNA from unhealthy patterns as we heal ourselves and our ancestors. Yogi Bhajan taught us that when we are liberated, we also liberate 7 generations back and 7 generations forward. Instruments such as Planetary Tuned Gongs, Full Moon Tibetan Singing Bowls, Plant Frequencies and our voices will be used for deep relaxation.
Some of the Benefits Include: - Strengthening Nervous and Glandular System - Mental Clarity - Releases toxins from the cells of the body - Releases energetic and emotional blockages - Deep Relaxation - Deep inner peace - Chakra Balancing - Feeling of Unity...Oneness... - Amazing Beings including Humans - Clear out old patterns and blocks from your body enabling healing
Light Language Activation & Sound Bath w/ Kintamani Moon (Arvindjeet Kaur & Dru Ali): For this afternoon workshop, we will be joining together in circle for a call & response collaboration, expressing with our heart, whatever it is that wants to come out. Light Language adjusts to the resonance of each person’s vibrational needs in the moment; initiating clearing, balancing, activation, and alignment with a new vibration of Wellbeing. The song circle will be DJ'ed by Dru Ali (DJ Hyphen Select). Instruments such as Drums, Shakers, Planetary Tuned Gongs, Full Moon Tibetan Singing Bowls, Plant Frequencies and our voices will be used for full expression & deep relaxation.
Some of the Benefits Include: - Strengthening Nervous and Glandular System - Mental Clarity - Releases toxins from the cells of the body - Releases energetic and emotional blockages - Deep Relaxation - Deep inner peace - Chakra Balancing - Feeling of Unity...Oneness... - Amazing Beings including Humans - Clear out old patterns and blocks from your body enabling healing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kintamanimoon/
Angelina Ugalde
Teacher
Angelina Ugalde is a school counselor by day and yoga teacher on nights & weekends. Angelina teaches a Beginners & Yin Yoga class at Inner Evolution Yoga in Redlands and loves connecting deeper with her students through workshops and off the mat coaching. Angelina intends to empower her students with skills to use both on and off the yoga mat to support them in their own healing journeys. You can find out more about her current offerings at au-yoga.com.
2019 Class Description:
Intro to the Chakras Workshop: An in depth discussion & lecture of the 7 chakra system. This workshop will address; What is a chakra? What does it mean for a chakra to be balanced or unbalanced? What causes deficiencies or excesses? What are practical on and off the mat methods to balance chakras? Yoga poses, essential oils, crystals, etc. will be recommended for each chakra. This workshop is 3-4:45pm at the new festival space, Sa Ha Le Ledge in the Outside in the Trees.
https://www.au-yoga.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/au.yoga/
Samuel Odiakosa
Teacher & Event Management
Samuel is a returning yoga teacher to Big Bear Yoga Festival 2019. He is a long time supporter, volunteer and friend. Passion and fun lead Samuel.
2019 Class Description:
1-2pm join Samuel for a FREE class at the Eagle’s Nest (outside the PAC) for Sun Salutations for Beginners, a popular returning yoga class at Big Bear Yoga Festival.
Michelle Lopez
Teacher
Michelle wears many hats. She is an elementary school teacher, a children's yoga and mindfulness coach, as well as a Reiki Master Teacher/Crystal Healing Practitioner. She is the creator of a mindfulness and yoga training program for teachers to utilize in the classroom called The Heart Centered Classroom. She offers training to teachers on how to create a classroom that is heart centered through the practice of intention setting, mindfulness, cohesion practices, and yoga in the classroom. Her program encourages integration of all of these principles so that children will feel safe and nurtured in their school environment. Her hope is that students will learn life long skills to enhance their well being, leading them to connect with their own authenticity and enhance their learning. She is also the founder of Heart Centered Yoga For Kids in Yucaipa, which is a community based after school yoga club. In addition, Michelle is a Reiki Master Teacher, Crystal Healing Practitioner, Astrology Coach, Wellness Adviser, Energy Artist and Ayurvedic Yoga Practitioner. When she is not teaching, she is busy being mom to two growing teenagers. Michelle started her yoga healing journey several years ago after some challenging life circumstances. Yoga has been a a method for self healing that Michelle is now happy to share with others.
2019 Class Description:
Michelle Lopez is returning to Big Bear Yoga Festival this year to join us in offering a great line-up for kids! She will be teaching two yoga classes, "Kid's Yoga Playshop" (School aged Children) at 11am and 4pm. Meet at the giant bear located near the picnic table area and behind the Vendor Village near the PAC.
theheartcenteredclassroom.com
Reina Prado
Teacher
Reina Prado (she/they pronouns) identifies as a Xicana feminista who brings a bi-lingual and bi-cultural approach to the various modalities and protocols she engages. Her practice began with a desire to help her community, which is mostly Spanish speaking, immigrant, and workers like her mother. What has developed is a practice in service to people who seek to a deeper connection with their true self. Prado established her practice professionally in 2015 in the Los Angeles area. She has shared this work at festivals and community events. She currently holds sessions at Kosha Wellness Center in Pasadena and presents workshops Finding Self, Finding Love; Activating Love; It’s Elemental at various locations throughout Southern California. Prado is a certified Cranial Sacral Practitioner and Registered Polarity Practitioner through the Life Energy Institute. She earned her 200YT certificate with Susanna Barkataki and Frankie Meyerhofer through Find Your Freedom Yoga Alliance registered Yoga Teacher Training with Cloud Nine Yoga. You can find her most Fridays teaching yoga in East Los Angeles with Doñas y Comadres Yoga Club leading them in Hatha Yoga.
2019 Class Description:
9-10:30am in the Theater Lounge at the PAC, join Reina for Finding Self, Finding Love with Asana.
Instagram: @healingqueen_ & Healing Queen on soundcloud and youtube.
Website: http://www.healingqueen.abmp.com
Elaine Slivka
Teacher
Elaine is a certified Yoga instructor and a fitness fanatic. Her passion is teaching Hatha Yoga and Vinyasa flow Yoga. She loves to share Yoga with beginners and veterans. She teaches Yoga all over Mexico and the Caribbean. Her classes are for all levels and infused with fun.
Elaine Slivka began her Yoga practice 48 years ago on the recommendation of her Doctor. The practice inspired her to teach and began her interest in all aspects of healthy living. She teaches Yoga in Yucaipa at Reps for Life 5 classes per week and loves to travel. She has formally taught at LA Fitness, YMCA and Senior Centers. Her experience has given her the opportunity to do 3 or 4 teaching vacations a year.
From Elaine, “Yoga is a magic pill it just takes an hour a day to take the pill. Over three ears ago I started hiking with one of my students that leads hikes with the Sierra Club and I love it. I am a senior Yogi and my inspiration is the Worlds oldest Yoga Teacher Tao Porchon Lynch. It I was blessed to teach with and spend some time with her in Jamaica. Proof that we can enjoy strength and flexibility for the entire length of our lives.”
2019 Class Description:
Elaine will be teaching a morning Hike and Yoga / Outside Yoga class perfect for all levels. Bring your walking shoes and yoga mat and come explore the mountains of Big Bear with Elaine!
Yogaelaine.wordpress.com
Find Elaine on Facebook at YogaElaine and Healthy Eating Cooking Classes.
Michael Garrity
Teacher & Musician
Michael Garrity (Swami Turiyananda) has been teaching yoga since 1981. He studied at the Bihar School of Yoga in Munger Bihar India as well as with teachers in the U.S. He has also studied psychology and has a master’s degree with a thesis focused on East/West psychology. Although he has taught and still teaches classes in asana, the physical posturesof yoga, his main emphasis is on dhyana yoga or meditation. He also leads group kirtan, devotional singing.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kirtan-Yoga-for-Health-and-Wellness-%20199735700237144/
2019 Class Description:
11am-12pm - Gathering Hall – Lodge – Fireside Community & Conversation – Michael Garrity – Reincarnation and the Soul’s Evolution
3-4:45pm - Theater (Stage) – PAC – Michael Garrity – Mindfulness Meditation with Tibetan Bowls and Lotus Drum – Bring a drum if you have one to share in a drum circle. Come bliss out in the morning and enjoy the ancient sounds of relaxation and awaken the spirit!
Jenise Stout Fryatt
Teacher
Trained by Big Bear Yoga Festival organizers, Lisa Ann Gold and Annalisa Berns, Jenise has been teaching yoga for four years. She had the honor of teaching her first yoga class (the very first class in the Big Bear City studio) at Big Bear Yoga.
Her passions include singing, dancing, acting, improv, homesteading and permaculture - all pursued with an eye toward helping herself and others ride and make the most of the energies now transforming our planet into the New Earth.
She co-hosted The Sustainable Living Podcast for three years with her friend and fellow yoga-instructor, Marianne West.
Jenise believes that raising our individual vibrational frequency is the most important work anyone can do at this time. Facing, healing and integrating our inner wounds through meditation, journaling and inner work is what makes this possible. But gratitude, staying present-oriented and following one's bliss are all just as important.
Jenise teaches an easy flow class each Saturday and Big Bear Yoga. She taught Laughter Yoga with Lisa Ann at the Big Bear Yoga Festival last year. This year she will join Lisa Ann to teach the class again, but this time adding a little twist from her background in improv.
To connect with Jenise and catch her podcast, go to: sustainablelivingpodcast.com
2019 Class Description:
Jenise and Lisa Ann are back by popular demand and are offering Laughter Yoga! Get a good giggle out in the mountains of Big Bear.
Lanita Varshell
Teacher
Lanita Varshell is the owner of A Gentle Way Yoga Center, and founder-creator of both of our trademarked styles of yoga: MIMSY Meditation in Movement Style Yoga®, and Aalamba – Yoga with Support. She has taught over 10,000 classes, and has certified yoga teachers since 2000. Lanita Varshell holds designations with the Yoga Alliance as an E-RYT 500 and a Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider® (YACEP®). She is also a certified IAYT Certified Yoga Therapist, and has taught over 750 private therapy sessions.
She is a Gentle-Traditional Hatha Yoga teacher, stress management expert, former missionary, and inspiring motivational speaker. She is known fondly as the “queen of relaxation” for her Yoga Therapy work with the very stressed and those in chronic pain, and for bringing students into yoga who never imagined they could ever do yoga.
She co-hosted The Sustainable Living Podcast for three years with her friend and fellow yoga-instructor, Marianne West.
Traditional students of yoga will experience deep stretch with intimate body connection, and will learn how to practice traditional poses safely in her Meditation in Movement and Aalamba Yoga Classes. Don’t be deceived by the slowness of Lanita’s classes; this may be some of the deepest yoga work you have ever done!
Lanita Varshell began teaching yoga in 1996, after being diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia. She has evolved from a very sick “couch potato,” who could not work, to a busy studio owner and teacher. Still challenged daily with body pain and limitations, Lanita is living proof that the many benefits of yoga can be experienced by anyone, any size, with almost any challenge.
She has been interviewed by several yoga publications including L.A. Yoga and Yoga Journal. She leads our Teacher Training and Yoga Therapy Workshops in San Diego, and guest teaches at other Studios throughout the United States.
https://agentleway.com/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/agentlewayyogasandiego/
2019 Class Description:
1-2:30pm - Finding Your Perfect Fit Yoga - From Lanita; "After teaching for over 23 years now, and over 12,000+ classes, I would love for the focus of my workshop to be on teaching teachers and helping new students "fit into" this wonderful world of yoga, and find the best yoga styles, teachers, and classes that are best for them. This is not only for plus size women like me, but for anyone intimidated by active yoga or challenged with body limitations or chronic health conditions."
Melissa Das Akal
Teacher
Melissa Dass Akal Kaur is a Kundalini Yoga (As Taught By Yogi Bhajan) Teacher. She obtained her KYT Level 1/200HR RYT certification at Krishna Kaur's 10th Gate Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training. Kundalini Yoga is the Yoga of Awareness. It is a Raj Yoga and incorporates all of the eight limbs of yoga. Kundalini combines breathing techniques, kriyas, meditation and mantra to develop the neutral mind and balance the nervous, and glandular systems. Dass Akal' classes are gentle and grounding, she facilitates a space where Yogi's of all levels can come and enjoy!
Instagram: www.instagram.com/golden_vibrations
2019 Class Description:
12:15pm – 12:45pm – Mini Sessions to Introduce You to an Idea or Experience – FREE CLASSES – Registration still required. Happy Trails Under the Trees – Intro to Kundalini Yoga
1:00pm – 2:30pm - Patio at the Lodge – Melissa Dass Akal – Kundalini Yoga
Jessica Frank Kalyani
Teacher
Jessica Frank is a 500-RYT Deaf yoga teacher certified in the Sivananda lineage. She is based in Southern California and has been teaching yoga in American Sign Language since 2011. She has long been an advocate for access to yoga for Deaf people and is a co-facilitator of the nonprofit, DeafYoga Foundation, an organization focused on sharing yoga in sign language. She holds a Masters’ degree in Cultural Studies and currently teaches Deaf Studies at the California State University, Northridge.
Website: http://deafyoga.org
Instagram: www.instagram.com/jesheather/
2019 Class Description:
Jessica in bring TWO amazing classes to Big Bear Yoga Festival 2019!
Yoga in American Sign Language - This class will integrate a mix of hatha and vinyasa yoga styles, in which students are guided through sign language, visual and tactile cues instead of sound. This session will incorporate asana, meditation and breathwork. Beginner and Intermediate level students.
Silent Asana - This class will be a silent asana and yoga movement class, giving students the opportunity to put the fifth limb of yoga, Pratyahara (withdrawing from the senses) into practice. This allows students to de-attach from sound, and dive into a deep, introspective state of being. Intermediate and Advanced practice.
These classes will be very popular, and the instructor requested a smaller, intimate space - so it will be FULL - arrive early to reserve your spot!
Margaret Rubin
Teacher
Margaret has lived many lives within this one, from teen mom to hotel operator, accountant to teacher. Aside from employment she has enjoyed crocheting preemie clothes for infants in need and volunteer work for various organizations dear to her heart. Her love of children has always been forefront, from raising her 5 kids to taking in a few extras over the years as well, spending time with her grand-kids is one of her current favorite past-times.
Coming to yoga and meditation several years ago when her father became terminally ill, looking for comfort beyond what she found in friends and prayer, she began her journey to wholeness.
Always having a passion for healthy choices she has since sought out the reasons why people don't make healthy choices (it's deeper than you think.) Through teaching yoga, leading destination retreats, and one-on-one personal development she helps people to connect with themselves and God/Universe so that they can live a right life full of abundance and so that they can be truly healthy inside and out.
Margaret is also a graduate of Big Bear Yoga Teacher Training!
https://www.7renew.com/
2019 Class Description:
Margaret will be hosting Aireal Yoga Demos in the Picnic area at Big Bear Yoga Festival 2019! Come check out Aireal Yoga!
Aminah Teachout
Teacher
Aminah Teachout joins us from Skyforest,CA where she teaches yoga to ages 0 to 100. Aminah has been practicing yoga since the age of 12 and is now in her sixth year teaching professionally. She brings an eclectic and playful approach to all ages, all levels and all mindsets from her studio in Skyforest, CA. Aminah's training includes classic fitness credentials as well as BoomerPlus and Cosmic Kids training. She is a Contributing Teacher to Open Door's RYT200 this year in Pomona, CA. Aminah is the creator of EmpathiKIDS, a yoga method to empower young people and their families towards sustainable wellness and mindbody fitness. She also writes extensively on the pursuit of longevity and shares macroeconomic perspectives on depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic growth.
Website: www.skyforestyoga.us
Facebook: @skyforestyogi
Instagram: @skyforestyogini
2019 Class Description:
TWO Classes with Aminah Teachout!
12:15-12:45pm – Mini Sessions to Introduce You to an Idea or Experience – FREE CLASSES – Registration still required.
Meet in the Picnic Area at the Performing Arts Center – Empathi Kids Yoga for Families
2:30-3:30pm - Meet at the Picnic Area at the Performing Arts Center – Empati Kids Yoga for Families & Face Painting & Parachute Play
Krystal DeSouza
Teacher
From Krystal, "My name is Krystal! I am a mother to a wonderful spunky 4 year old. I have been practicing yoga for a little over 10 years, through various styles and forms. My firm belief that I practice throughout all of my classes is that anyone can do Yoga. It doesn't matter your size, flexibility, age, Yoga is for all. I am extremely big on positivity and self love, and I cannot wait to connect with all of you! <3 It is such a pleasure to be able to teach at this years Big Bear Yoga Festival."
www.instagram.com/california_yogi/
2019 Class Description:
9:30am – 10:30am – FREE CLASS – Registration still required. Happy Trails Under the Trees at Performing Arts Center – Krystal DeSouza – Yoga Flow - From Krystal: "My classes tailor to everyone from beginners to more advanced students. I offer variations on poses, as well as help adjusting."
Edith Arias
Teacher
From Edith: "I'm a first generation Latina that discovered yoga at the age of 15 and fell in love with how I felt in my body with yoga. I'm passionate about the collective well-being of each individual. I integrate modalities that heals and strengthens the mind, body, and spirit. My approach to treatment is community oriented, wellness-centered, and strength-based focused. As a wellness practitioner, I understand the challenges we face and want to support you towards a positive and wholehearted living. I now share yoga in the community I grew up in southeast Los Angeles and I am excited to continue to share with children and adults in my community."
Website: https://www.grow-wellness.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growwellness/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grow_wellness_practice/
2019 Class Description:
9-10:30am: Gathering Hall – Lodge – Fireside Community & Conversation – Edith Arias – The Importance of the Mind Body Connection: A workshop combining the importance of the mind-body connection. An introduction of how the mind and body are linked with our emotional and physical well-being. Beginner and Intermediate level class.
1-2:30pm: Backstage in Lights – PAC – Edith Arias – Mindfulness Yoga for Kids & Adults: Mindfulness yoga class for children or adults. This includes brief opportunities for both adults and children to engage in mindfulness exercise and movement. It could be a bilingual class for to have everyone participating. Beginner level.
Tina Makris – Sat Ardas Kaur
Teacher & Musician
Tina has been teaching Yoga for over 15 years and has been in the health and fitness industry for over 25 years. She is an Ayurvedic Practitioner, graduating from the San Diego College of Ayurveda, an E-RYT 500 through the Yoga Alliance, has an Advanced Yoga Therapy Certification through Loyola Marymount University. Tina directs Anahata Yoga and Wellness' 200 & 500 Hour Yoga Teacher Training. She has been facilitating Rejuvenation and Healing Retreats since 2003 and offers Private Reiki and Pranic Vibrational Healing session; helping people remove their blocks, raise their vibration and move into their Grace. Her teaching styles include Classical Hatha, Vinyasa, Restorative, Yin Yoga, Kids, Pre-Natal and Kundalini Yogas. She also holds a 1st Degree Black Belt in Chinese Kenpo Karate. Her studies of over 14 years in the Martial Arts combined with her love and knowledge for Yoga and Ayurveda brings a well-rounded open view in her teachings of the mind, body, and soul. She is a loving mother and wife who deeply enjoys nature and animals.
Connect with Tina: http://www.anahatayogaandwellness.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnahataYogaAndWellness
2019 Class Description:
11am-12noon at the Patio – Lodge – Tina Makris with Anahata 432 Sound Squad – Kundalini Yoga & Meditation - Kriya for Intuition & Soul Listening: Nourish yourself in this unique healing energy and sound immersion of Reiki, Crystal Singing Bowls, Planetary Chiron Gong, Shamanic Drum, Ocean Drum, Rain Stick & more. Benefits include: Increased clarity & concentration, releases emotional blocks, induces relaxation, relieves pain, and promotes deep meditation.
1-2:30pm in the Theater Lounge – PAC – Tina