This past October 4-9th, 2017 our beautiful town of Essex, NY was bustling with over 40 Yoga students from far and wide (California to Denmark) taking part in 6 days of training for the first of four modules of Ashaya Yoga® 200-Hour teacher training hosted by Lake Champlain Yoga & Wellness and led by Ashaya Yoga® founder and world renowned Yoga Teacher, Todd Norian.

Sessions are held in the Old Stone Church in downtown Essex. Its recent renovation has brought to fruition LCY&W owner Michelle Maron’s vision for a large, bright space open to the community for such events. Students benefit from the peaceful setting and central location. During each module, students stay at the Essex Inn, Cupola House, and other local lodgings. They can enjoy a healthy lunch at the Essex Inn each day, and many newcomers to the area were delighted to discover local spots such as the Essex Ice Cream Cafe, Hub on the Hill & Pink Pig.

Michelle’s encouragement, combined with Todd’s renown as a prominent international figure in the yoga community, drew participants to this unique opportunity within the North Country. Previous workshops led by Todd at LCY&W have gathered together yogis of all experience levels to expand their practice.

Ashaya Yoga®, meaning “abode of the heart”, aims to open participants to their true selves through expansion of consciousness and an awareness of one’s connection to a greater energy. Each day is rewarding, as students learn to apply and expand upon the foundations of Ashaya® from Todd and his staff members.

Whether intending to teach or simply to deepen their practice, each student is exposed to the many layers of yoga. Focus is placed on tantra study, chanting, meditation, breathwork, anatomy, and posture-work. Sessions provide a supportive community environment as the many benefits of the intensive training are revealed.

Within the cozy atmosphere and through close-knit daily interactions, students formed strong bonds as a group and enjoyed collaborating with each other. The training is means of increasing positive energy and compassion, beginning within the North Country and extending around the world.

The next three modules will take place from November 28th – December 3rd, 2017, March 6-11th, 2018, and May 15-20th, 2018.

For more information please visit www.lakechamplainyogaandwellness.com or www.ashayayoga.com.

Written by Nora Nadire