“Brenna is truly a breath of fresh air. I have been doing yoga off and on for about 13 years. Once I found Brenna, my practice evolved into something much more than a good stretch or strength-building. It’s hard to describe how I feel after one of Brenna’s classes but I will attempt to… Brenna radiates positive energy. Not only is she down-to-earth and approachable, but she has a peacefulness about her that is tangible. I started going to Brenna’s classes in Chicago during the Winter of 2008/2009 when I was a 3rd year medical student. I had tried various instructors and liked many of them, but once I discovered Brenna’s class I knew I had found a true inspiration and teacher, someone I could relate to and wanted to emulate. You can tell she has a zest for life and realizes the connection between body, mind and spirit. She encourages her students to take things at their own pace and I never felt that her class was about going deeper into a pose or achieving some next level. The practice taught me to be present, know my intention, and respect my body’s limits. Having fun was also an important component, and we often did hand stands and other challenging asanas with much trial and laughter. I left her classes with a clear head and an open heart. I am so happy that Brenna is experiencing the amazing city of San Francisco, but I was quite sad to lose her as my teacher here in Chicago. Hopefully our paths will soon cross again and I can continue practicing yoga with her! Susan A., Miami,FL
“Brenna began teaching at the studio where I regularly practice, and on a lark, I decided to give her class a try. What a fortuitous choice! I am a singer by profession, and the mother of three sons. In addition, I have been a dedicated yogi for eleven years, and have my teacher certification as well. Now in my mid-50′s, I still enjoy the physical challenges of asana, but am drawn to the more spiritual aspects of the practice as well. In every class, Brenna manages to integrate pranayama and meditation, while encouraging a mindfulness in the poses beyond an awareness of alignment. Her classes flow so beautifully and smoothly. And her guided meditations during savasana have a profound calming effect. Brenna’s lovely spirit comes through in her teaching.”
Judy S., 50, Chicago
“Brenna has been my teacher for 5 years, which has also included my first pregnancy for the last 9 months! She has helped me to make all the necessary adjustments so that I could enjoy her classes from my first to my third trimester. Because of this, I have avoided any back and sacral pain and remained very mobile and comfortable throughout all stages of my pregnancy.”
Emily Russell, 33, Highschool Teacher, Chicago
“I always found Brenna’s classes to be perfectly paced. This was one of my favorite aspects of her teaching. I like being able to feel energy moving to specific parts of my body. I felt this in Brenna’s classes and I attributed it to a moderate pacing and a sequence of poses that progressively coaxed open a certain area of the body. Sometimes class was energizing, sometimes soothing, but always thoughtful and authentic. Brenna frequently shared stories from her life as a yogi, and I appreciated understanding a little bit of how she lived out her yoga on a daily basis. It’s always nice when a teacher reveals that they too are a life-long learner.” Jen May, 30, Biology Teacher, Chicago
“Brenna is a wonderful instructor. Having studied in the same lineage it’s an honor to have to a mentor that embodies the practical aspects of the tradition and provides a class that holds true to the teachings of Swami Rama and those that have followed. She is inspiring as a teacher and as a true yogini on the path.” Cynthia L., Yoga Teacher, Chicago
“Brenna is one of the most influential teachers I have practiced with. Her spirit, deep knowledge, great love and understanding come through in each class you take with her. I feel supported and independent at the same time in her classes. She is approachable and honest, caring and real. Her understanding of the tantric tradition inspired me to follow in a similar path – first as a practitioner and then as a teacher. She makes esoteric ideas accessible and tangible through an experiential class. She leads the most wonderful meditations and has inspired me to lead a life of fulfillment, greatness, and grace. Her authentic style pays homage to the traditions of this wonderful practice, while infusing it with her own experience. I am honored to have Brenna as a friend, teacher, and fellow practitioner.
I have studied with her mentor, Rod Styker, as well – I have done three modules of his ParaYoga Master Training over the past two years. He is a powerful teacher and guide, passing on time tested techniques and practices to his students. He is one of the smartest people I have encountered – his knowledge of the tradition is vast- it baffles me and humbles me. This is the practice that speaks to me most as an individual. ParaYoga and Tantra have changed my life – I have more energy, awareness, patience, love, strength, and clarity in my life because of these practices.” Fannie H., 30, Theater Artist, Choreographer, and Yoga Teacher, Chicago
