Testimonials

Even students with serious injuries or physical limitations have amazed themselves with what they’re able to accomplish and how empowered it makes them feel. As John Friend, founder of Anusara puts it so beautifully: “I want each student to leave feeling better about themselves and feeling better in their bodies.” I can’t think of a sweeter intention myself.

“Thank you so much for helping me out on a handstand today!!! I felt a big accomplishment with lots of joy (does it make sense?) I tell all my friends about Bright Heart Yoga, I really love it there. You are a great person and a great yoga instructor. Every year in summer time I go to Turkey and visit my family for 26 years and this summer is the first that I am spending my July and August here and I love it because I come to your studio and do yoga daily. You put a smile on my face every day. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”
Gamze, age 49, Preschool Director - Rockaway, NJ

“The Anusara 101 course was so heart-shifting the first time that I signed up to repeat the course. And it has not failed to continue to provide valuable instruction that drives me to dig deeper in my practice, myself and my life. I love the progressive nature of the art of yoga. It is poetry in motion (one of the earliest Greek translations of "poetry" is "the breath of life"). Every asana is a beginning and an ending. Every asana is a new challenge for the heart, mind, body and spirit. Every asana touches and builds on what came before, exists in the beauty of the moment (a pose), and opens to wonders of the future unknowns waiting to be discovered. Anusara yoga is the word (tantric theme) in action (universal priciples of alignment) within community (kula).”
Kathy, Anusara 101 participant, fall 2010 and winter 2011

"More than a year ago, I had chronic back and hip pain. I was about to escalate my treatment from frequent chiropractic visits to orthopedic care. Yoga has drastically reduced my pain and now I only see the chiropractor for regular maintenance. As an added bonus, I thoroughly enjoy learning with my teachers. Their sessions have a beautiful balance of exercise, information, relaxation and fun. They’re responsive to my individual needs and always ready to accommodate them." Shannon, age 39 - Randolph, NJ

”After completing the Anusara 101 winter session, I have a much better understanding and appreciation of Anusara yoga "behind-the-scenes". Now I know why we open to grace, hug the shins in, push the hands down into the earth, etc. You will love learning the Principles of Alignment. But it doesn't stop there! In our session, our kula studied Tantric Philosophy and the Anusara Invocation. Kessiah's energy and passion for yoga is contagious, and I am so thankful to her for inspiring me to deepen my practice.”
Margaret, Anusara 101 participant, winter 2011

”Anusara 101 has enriched and deepened my understanding of the principles of alignment in Anusara yoga. Each week is devoted to an aspect of the methodology. We learn a Universal Principle of Alignment™ and then have the opportunity to really experience it in our practice. The course has challenged, surprised and stretched me into areas I've never been. It's helped me understand the instructions we hear during class. As a result, my practice is unfolding in a more profound and meaningful way. Even though the participants are at different levels (I was a beginner), the atmosphere in the class is one of friendship, openness and acceptance - we are all there to learn what we need to learn. I highly recommend Anusara 101 to anyone wishing to enrich and enliven their practice and to fall, even more deeply, in love with yoga.”
Janel, Anusara 101 participant, winter 2011

”I'm a 22 year old male who is studying to become a Phys Ed teacher and personal trainer and I took a yoga class as an elective at college and fell in love with it because it brought joy and happiness into my life. At first I thought it would be a joke but when i actually started the poses I felt the amazing energy flow through my body and my body never felt so good! After I'm finished with my practice, i feel on top of the world because Kessiah (my instructor) did such a fantastic job relaxing my mind and releasing all the bad vibes of my daily life and replenished them with great new vibes. I would definitely recommend yoga to any outsider that thinks it is a joke. I lost weight from doing yoga and i was more flexible so those are two great pluses too! P.S. if you love great life stories this is where it's at! Yoga will be apart of my life forever now that the kula got me!”
Mike, age 22, Phys Ed major - Jefferson, NJ

"Kessiah's workshops are such a treat. When she comes to our studio in Newport, TN we are filled to capacity! She brings vitality, beautifully intertwined philosophy, and fun to an exemplary yoga class. Our only wish is that we could keep her! We can't wait for her next trip." Julie, Certified Iyengar Yoga Instructor - Newport, TN

”I decided to take up yoga as an adult to build my physical strength and balance as well as to add an element of relaxation to an otherwise hectic life. Kessiah has been superb in listening to my goals and helping me meet them. In a gentle and non-judgmental way she challenges and inspires. She is always prepared with a carefully considered lesson plan that is focused on my particular goals while building on her own expertise and experience. All the while there is her smile and her commitment. I can't imagine a better teacher!”
Lynne, age 54 - Mendham, NJ

"Dear Kessiah, Your yoga classes are very special, you inspire people to be the best that they can be! Your classes reflect your very special and wonderful personality. Your light shines so strong, it is contagious! Your dedication and love for your students is very real. We are very blessed to have you as our teacher. You are such a gift! Thank you so much for being who you are. Namasté!" Ana, Personal Chef - Long Valley, NJ

"Kessiah is an inspiration for me to embrace yoga more fully in my life. She challenges the class while still accommodating those whose range of physical movement is restricted. She is also a lot of fun to be around and provides a relaxing, uplifting environment to practice and enjoy yoga." Peter, Engineer - Mendham, NJ

"I went to yoga. My teacher lit a candle. I liked that. We introduced ourselves and I liked that too. My teacher said she had two cats. We did yoga. I had fun. A lot!" Lynn, first grader - Mendham, NJ