Yoga systems are like exquisite gemstones strung on a common thread to create a web, a tapestry, of breathtaking beauty. This evolution of yogic understanding; that yoga systems are created as progeny of the yoga systems that have come before them, goes back for thousands of years. Today that tradition continues with such systems as Anusara yoga. Like a fine ruby or an ideal-cut diamond, Anusara stands on it’s own as a centerpiece of radiance and splendor, yet it’s inspired and informed by the individual mineral content that creates it’s particular luster, color and luminosity.

John Friend the founder of Anusara, started his yoga studies at the age of 8 when his mother read him stories of yogi’s and their mystical powers. By age 13, John was studying classical yogic texts and had begun a regular asana practice. Of his many teachers, the accomplishments of BKS Iyengar are incredibly influential in informing the principles of biomechanics used in Anusara Yoga. Anusara’s heart-felt approach of seeing divine beauty in all life is highly influenced by Gurumayi Chidvilasananda and her teachings of Siddha Yoga. John has combined these and other influences; his studies of Buddhism, Taoism, Sufism, Jewish Mysticism, Theosophy, Wicca, Freemasonry, as well as advanced studies in therapeutic massage, bodywork, anatomy, kinesiology and physiology to create this very unique and extraordinary gem that is now woven into the greater tapestry of yoga.

Anusara is the fastest growing form of hatha yoga in the world today. It is John’s dedicated and determined studies of such a variety of disciplines that has created this unique, yet universally applicable system of astounding intelligence. Anusara aspires to a Tantric philosophy of intrinsic goodness that recognizes and celebrates the divine heart in each student and reminds us to express ourselves from this divine place. This open-hearted attitude, coupled with, “Universal principles of Alignment”, a brilliant recognition of repeated patterns of structure within all bodies; young and old, slight and strong, fluid and tight, are the principle pillars on which Anusara rests its resounding success and popularity. When applied to yoga poses; standing, twisting, sitting, inversions, hip-openers and backbends, these alignment principles allow students to safely experience asana practice to a depth that you have never before realized.

Anusara teachers have to go through what is arguably the most highly demanding yoga certification process available today. Any class that calls itself “Ansuara” is going to be a deeply transformative experience with a teacher of the highest caliber. Anusara serves all levels and ages of students from any spiritual discipline while honoring students who currently study other yogic disciplines. In the Denver area, many yoga teachers who are certified in Bikram, Iyengar, Ashtanga, Core power or other systems are now turning their attention and training efforts to Anusara to expand their teaching.

Anusara classes are open to anyone who desires to enhance their health and happiness, anyone who believes that they can magnify the potential of their moment-to-moment experience, anyone that knows they have the capacity for greater vibrancy and joy in their lives.

We warmly welcome you to experience this dazzling and plenteous Jewel that we call Anusara, with new classes starting this fall at Springer Studios and Ya Ya Yoga in Denver. Anusara literally means; “to flow with grace.” Practitioners of this form certainly understand why. Please come and try a free class or two with no obligation. Although precious, the Anusara jewel is abundant and available now in Denver