The director of the School of Sanskrit Studies in NYC, Manorama leads workshops here in the U.S, as well as internationally, on the Path of Luminous Shabda, a path that combines Sanskrit, Meditation and Yoga philosophy. Manorama's mix of earthy charm, deep scholarship and humorous teaching style were born from years of close study with her Guru, Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati. She is a graduate of Columbia University. In 2005, Sanskrit Studies released the acclaimed Learn to Pronounce Yoga Poses an invaluable tool for yoga teachers & students.  Manorama is committed to affecting the world in a positive way through Sanskrit, language of awareness and love.

For more info on Manorama, visit www.sanskritstudies.org.

Jai Uttal is a pioneer in the world music community. His eclectic east meets-west sound has put his music at the forefront of the world fusion movement. Jai Uttal's musical roots embrace a rich variety of cultures and traditions that span the globe and the centuries. From the hillbilly music of the Appalachian Mountains to the passionate strains of Bengali street singers, from the haunting rhythms and melodies of ancient India to contemporary electric rock sounds, Jai's music distills the essence of diverse musical forms.

visit www.jaiuttal.com

Magic and synchronicity led me to find the practice of Kirtan. Once upon a time I was captivated by the music of Jai Uttal, and went on a chanting retreat with him. I wasn't consciously looking for such a practice, yet my spirit was certainly dying to find it. That weekend of chanting in the snowy woods of Breitenbush was the very threshold of my dreams and longing—a sort of spiritual homecoming. It was also the end of a twelve year long singing block. The practice of devotional singing blasted the block wide open, I've been singing ever since.
 
About 5 years ago I felt compelled to share and lead Kirtans. I did not want to be singing in front of people, yet I felt drawn or pushed to do so. Once again, Jai Uttal magically came to my assistance. I went to his Kirtan Camp in California in hopes of breaking through my fear and insecurity, and I also wanted to learn more about playing the harmonium. It worked! Joyfully I found the love and bliss of sharing the practice of Kirtan and in helping others find their voices and music. To sing freely and wildly opens the heart and plugs right into the Divine. I'm grateful and delighted at how this path began by following my own internal sounds.
 
Ultimately, my lifelong fascination with the colors, sounds and stories of India came into play, showing me I had found the true path of my own colorful heart. I'd regarded it previously as a fantasyland, and through sound and music suddenly it all became very real and present within me. Sharing the art and practice of Devotion, of Bhakti Yoga, is something I take seriously playfully! Through my other practices of devotional gardening and sharing my flowers and sacred art collection, I also create devotional altars for special occasions.

I believe we are all on our own special journey of self-discovery and personal truth.  We all want to be happy, healthy, and loved, as well as feel balanced and whole.  The all-encompassing path of Ayurveda will help guide you along your road to optimal health.  The ancient wisdom and philosophy of India’s folk medicine will enhance your awareness on a physical, mental, and spiritual level, ultimately reaching the essence of your true original nature. 

My Ayurvedic studies formally began in 2006, but my quest for a healthy balanced lifestyle started long before that, with over a decade of yoga, meditation and nutrition exploration and practice. Finally, I found a holistic system of healthcare that resonates with my body and spirit, connecting me to myself, the universe, and All that exists.   Each day my life continues to be both humbled and graced by the wondrous healing wisdom of Ayurveda.

My academic studies and training include 400+ hrs. at The Kerala Academy of Ayurveda in Seattle, as well as the invaluable 200+hrs. of clinical experience in Pune, India through the International Academy of Ayurveda.  Currently, I am practicing as a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner in NE Portland and continue to be a delighted student of life. I am also studying to become a certified Vedic Astrologer, studying with NW Vedic Sciences in Seattle.   My consultations are an integration of Ayurvedic principles with modern practicality, all suited to your individual constitution and specific imbalances.  Through a detailed diagnosis we can treat the root of the disharmony and not merely the symptoms, and empower you to take charge of your own health.   My treatments may include Indian herbal supplements, nutrition recommendations specific to your dosha, yoga asana, pranayam or breathwork, mantra practice, vastu shastra, oil massage suggestions, jyotish astrology and meditation. The ancient Ayurvedic text of Charak Samhita says, “We are all in this vast ocean of Ayurveda, and it is up to each us to learn how to swim.”

Jasmine and Dana are known for their soulful, playful, and creative classes, designed to uncover, explore, and celebrate each person’s beauty and greatness. They teach from their own practice, inspired by the divine blessings of daily living in which spirit is revealed.