Delve into the heart of yoga philosophy with this immersive workshop dedicated to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. This ancient text, composed of 196 sutras (threads of wisdom), offers profound insights into the nature of the mind and the path to self-realization.

In this 2-hour session, we will:

• Explore the History and Context: Uncover the origins of the Yoga Sutras and understand their significance in the broader context of yoga philosophy.

• Deconstruct Key Concepts: Break down essential sutras related to the eight limbs of yoga (Ashtanga Yoga):

  • Yamas: Ethical restraints (non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, continence, non-possessiveness)

  • Niyamas: Observances (purity, contentment, self-discipline, self-study, surrender)

  • Asana: Physical postures

  • Pranayama: Breath control

  • Pratyahara: Withdrawal of the senses

  • Dharana: Concentration

  • Dhyana: Meditation

  • Samadhi: Absorption

• Analyze and Reflect: Engage in group discussions to analyze the meaning and relevance of few key  sutras in our modern lives.

• Integrate into Daily Life: Discover practical ways to apply the wisdom of the sutras to your daily practices, cultivating greater self-awareness, inner peace, and mindful living.

This workshop is ideal for:

• Yoga practitioners of all levels who wish to deepen their understanding of yoga philosophy.

• Those seeking to connect with the deeper meaning and purpose of yoga beyond the physical practice.

• Anyone interested in exploring ancient wisdom for personal growth and transformation.

What to bring:

• A notebook and pen for taking notes

• An open mind and a willingness to learn and reflect

Embark on an exploration of yoga's diverse landscape in this introductory workshop. We'll begin with a brief overview of yoga's rich history and its core principles, including the four paths of yoga. Then, we'll delve into the unique characteristics of various classic styles, including:

• Hatha: The foundation of physical yoga practice, emphasizing balance and harmony.   

• Iyengar: Known for its precision and use of props to achieve perfect alignment.  

• Vinyasa: A dynamic and flowing style that synchronizes breath and movement. 

• Ashtanga Vinyasa: A more structured and vigorous form of Vinyasa with a set sequence of poses.  

• Restorative: Deeply relaxing practice using props to support the body in long-held poses.  

• Yin: Targets deep connective tissues with passive poses held for several minutes.  

• Prenatal: A gentle approach with modifications to accommodate pregnancy.   

• Yoga Kurunta: Utilizes ropes to refine alignment and deepen the practice.

• Chair Yoga: Accessible practice for those with limited mobility.   

Through short practice sessions, you'll get a taste of each style, helping you discover which ones resonate with you most. Leave with a deeper understanding of the diverse world of yoga and the tools to continue your exploration!

This workshop is perfect for:

• Beginners curious about different yoga styles

• Experienced practitioners wanting to expand their knowledge

• Anyone seeking a well-rounded introduction to the world of yoga

What to bring:

• Comfortable clothing

• Yoga mat

• Water bottle

• An open mind and a willingness to explore!

KARUNA's Advanced Studies Open House is your chance to explore our 200-hr and 300-hr programs and discover a whole new level of practice.

Whether you dream of teaching or simply crave a deeper understanding of yoga philosophy, anatomy, and diverse styles, this program is for you.

Here's the deal:

• Unleash your inner yogi: Explore the depths of yoga philosophy, anatomy, and teaching methodologies.

• Find your path: Whether you're destined to teach or simply seeking profound self-discovery, this program will illuminate your way.

• Community vibes: Connect with like-minded souls and experienced instructors in a supportive and inspiring environment.

• Once-a-year opportunity: Don't miss out on this exclusive offering from KARUNA!

Still unsure? No problem! Take the leap, get certified, and let your heart guide you on this incredible journey of self-discovery through yoga.

Don't just practice yoga, live it. ‍‍

Shine Bright, Yogis!

Celebrating the First Batch of 200-hr YTT Graduates and 1st year since Studio opened its doors to everyone!

Prepare for a Night of:

• Zenful Grooves: A mix of uplifting world music and feel-good beats to get you moving and grooving.

• Global Feast: Enjoy a delicious spread of food. We'll have something for everyone, from savory samosas to vibrant salads and decadent desserts.

• Community Connection: Connect with fellow yogis, friends, and family. Share stories, laughter, and celebrate this incredible milestone together.

• Illuminating the Future: Raise a toast to the graduating class and their bright futures as yoga teachers.

Dress Code: Festive and fun! Think sparkly attire, colorful accents, and anything that makes you feel radiant.

P.S. Get ready for a night of joyful celebration and community connection as we illuminate the path ahead!

Embark on a transformative journey towards holistic well-being with Jamie Coleman, a Southern California native whose path led him from the halls of Yale to the profound depths of Yoga, Meditation, and Ayurveda. Jamie's passion lies in guiding individuals to discover their unique path to wellness and purpose, seamlessly weaving ancient wisdom with modern practicality.

Kundalini Yoga: Activating & Harnessing The Vital Force of Life

 A Deep Understanding Of:

• The Chakras & Energy Locks

• Mantra & The Potency of Sound

• Pranayama

• Your Subconscious Mind

A Direct Experience Of:

• An Extended Kundalini Yoga Warm-Up

• Activating Kriya Practice

• Deep Meditation

• Your Own Psych

Embark on a transformative journey towards holistic well-being with Jamie Coleman, a Southern California native whose path led him from the halls of Yale to the profound depths of Yoga, Meditation, and Ayurveda. Jamie's passion lies in guiding individuals to discover their unique path to wellness and purpose, seamlessly weaving ancient wisdom with modern practicality.

A Deeper Understanding Of:

• Daily, Seasonal, and Lifelong Energetic Tendencies

• The Six Tastes

• Food & The Mind

• The Major Herbs of Ayurveda

Practical Applications to Incorporate Immediately:

• Your Ideal Food Sadhana

• Guidelines for Optimum Digestion

• Customized Herbal Formulas

• Fall and Winter Rejuvenation Practices

Bonus: Foundations of Ayurveda Home Course ($97 Value)

A Deep Understanding Of:

• Yoga and Ayurveda as Twin Sciences & Art

• The Root Cause of All Disease

• Relationship of Mind, Body, and Consciousness 

• The 5 Elements & 3 Doshas

Practical Applications to Incorporate Immediately:

• You Unique Elemental Constitution

• Your Present Doshic Imbalances

• A Daily Ayurvedic Routine 

• Numerous Ayurvedic Treatment Home Remedies

Bonus: 15 Minute Personalized Dosha Assessment ($45 Value)

We're excited to invite you to a special Diwali potluck celebration at our Studio- KARUNA YOGA WITH COMPASSION on November 8th at 6:00PM!

Join us as we celebrate the festival of lights with delicious food and good company!

Please bring a dish to share that represents your favorite Diwali tradition or simply something you love to eat. Looking forward to a diverse and delicious spread.

In this soothing workshop, we'll explore the gentle practice of restorative yoga, designed to calm your nervous system, release tension, and promote deep relaxation. Through a series of supported poses held for extended periods, you'll gently stretch your body, quiet your mind, and cultivate a profound sense of inner peace. This workshop is perfect for anyone seeking to reduce stress, improve sleep, and find a greater sense of ease and well-being.

All levels are welcome, no prior yoga experience necessary.

Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the redwoods. This one-day retreat offers a rej7:30 AM: Departure

• 9:00 AM: Arrival at the retreat location

• Morning: Revitalizing yoga practice amidst the redwoods

• 12:20 PM: Nourishing satvik lunch

• Afternoon: Guided forest walk, connecting with nature's peace and Mindfulness practices for inner calm

• 3:30PM: Mindfulness and Meditation techniques led by member of Land of Medicine Buddha Monastery

• 5:00 PM: Departure

Embrace the serenity of the forest, deepen your yoga practice, and cultivate mindfulness in this idyllic setting. Limited spots available, register now!

In this invigorating workshop, we'll explore the ancient practices of pranayama (breath control) and mudras (hand gestures) to harmonize your energy, cultivate inner peace, and awaken your vital life force. Through guided breathwork techniques and the practice of specific mudras, you'll learn how to:

• Reduce stress and anxiety

• Increase energy and vitality

• Improve focus and concentration

• Enhance your overall well-being

No prior experience is necessary. This workshop is open to all levels and abilities. Join us on a journey of self-discovery and transformation through the power of breath and gesture.

In this transformative workshop, we'll delve into the ancient wisdom of chakras and bandhas, exploring their profound connection to your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Through a blend of theory and practice, you'll:

• Discover: The seven major chakras and their corresponding bandhas.

• Learn: How to activate and balance each chakra through specific bandha techniques.

• Experience: Guided meditations, breathwork, and gentle movement to awaken your energy centers.

Whether you're new to chakras and bandhas or seeking to deepen your existing practice, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to unlock your full potential and cultivate a harmonious flow of energy throughout your being.

Tired of feeling stiff and inflexible? Our "Yoga for Tight Bodies" workshop is designed to help you release tension, build strength, and get your body moving better. No yoga experience necessary!

Our master teacher, Jim Coughlin has been teaching yoga for over 20 years, has taught well over 10,000 classes and has a personal practice that he loves sharing with like-minded practitioners

Find your inner oasis in this 2-hour restorative yoga and Tune Up Therapy Ball Workshop. We'll combine supported yoga poses with targeted rolling techniques to soothe the nervous system, release physical tension, and melt away stress. Perfect for anyone needing to cultivate deep relaxation and resilience.

Tighter fitting clothing is recommended. Loose clothing tends to get caught while rolling. Some yoga experience will be helpful. Class is for anyone

Class includes TuneUp toted set of therapy balls $35+15=50. Class only $35 if you have a set of TuneUp therapy balls. MUST have a set of Tune Up therapy balls. Two tennis balls in a sock will not work for this workshop

 Patricia is a retired dental hygienist who started taking yoga classes in 2000. She never intended to teach yoga once receiving her certifications. After subbing classes, she discovered the enjoy of teaching. Her certification are: 200- and 300-hour alignment yoga, therapy balls, yin yoga, restorative yoga and FeetUp inversion trainer.

This 2-hour workshop is your perfect introduction. Learn the foundations of this slow-paced, meditative style of yoga. We'll explore how long-held poses gently target deep connective tissues, promoting flexibility, reducing stress, and cultivating inner stillness. Ideal for those seeking a calming practice to balance our busy lives.

Patricia is a retired dental hygienist who started taking yoga classes in 2000. She never intended to teach yoga once receiving her certifications. After subbing classes, she discovered the enjoy of teaching. Her certification are: 200- and 300-hour alignment yoga, therapy balls, yin yoga, restorative yoga and FeetUp inversion trainer.

Find your inner oasis in this 2-hour restorative yoga and Tune Up Therapy Ball Workshop. We'll combine supported yoga poses with targeted rolling techniques to soothe the nervous system, release physical tension, and melt away stress. Perfect for anyone needing to cultivate deep relaxation and resilience.

Tighter fitting clothing is recommended. Loose clothing tends to get caught while rolling.

Some yoga experience will be helpful. Class is for anyone

Class includes TuneUp toted set of therapy balls $35+15=50. Class only $35 if you have a set of TuneUp therapy balls. MUST have a set of Tune Up therapy balls. Two tennis balls in a sock will not work for this workshop

 Patricia is a retired dental hygienist who started taking yoga classes in 2000. She never intended to teach yoga once receiving her certifications. After subbing classes, she discovered the enjoy of teaching. Her certification are: 200- and 300-hour alignment yoga, therapy balls, yin yoga, restorative yoga and FeetUp inversion trainer.

Sangati...is an intimate baithak-style Kathak performance featuring a series of solo and duet dance performances.

Ravija Desai began her Kathak journey at the age of 7 under the tutelage of Padma Bhushan Smt. Kumudini Lakhiya at Kadamb School of Dance and Music. Upon moving to the United States, she continued her dance education at Chhandam School of Kathak under the guidance of the Late Pandit Chitrash Das and Aarat Dance Academy led by Guru Deepali Vichare. Currently, she receives training and mentorship from acclaimed Kathak guru Smt. Vaishali Trivedi, a disciple of Smt. Kumudini Lakhia.

Recently, Ravija inaugurated her own Kathak dance school, Aavartan Performing Arts, in the Bay Area, aiming to impart her knowledge and passion for dance to others.

Preya Patel is the Artistic and Executive Director of Vivarta Arts Inc. She teaches regular dance classes at her studios in NYC, Queens, and Long Island. She also promotes cultural awareness through Indian dance residencies and workshops at various public schools and universities in NYC and Nassau County. Collaborating with interdisciplinary organizations in the NY metro area, she actively engages in community outreach programs to foster global connectivity as part of her mission.

Having trained in Kathak for more than 25 years under Guru Smt. Jamuna Mitcham and achieving Kathak Rang Pravesh, Preya continues her journey with acclaimed Kathak Guru Smt. Vaishali Trivedi, a disciple of Padma Bhushan Smt. Kumudini Lakhia. Preya has performed at renowned events and venues across the US, UK, Canada, and India.

Twists are an essential part of a well-balanced yoga practice.

In this two-hour workshop, you will learn how to safely twist the different sections of your spine, abdomen, rib cage, hips, shoulders, arms, and legs.

The benefits of twisting include:

• Increased blood circulation

• Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system (making you calmer aka zen)

• Improved alignment and balance

• Greater range of motion

This workshop is for all levels and side-effects may or may not include:

• Increased emotional and physical wellbeing

• A heightened sense of community and belonging

• Spontaneous emotional release

• Improved digestive functioning

Natascha Thomson is a registered yoga teacher (200hrs) and has been teaching yoga for over 10 years. She’s passionate about making yoga accessible and fun for anybody.

Learn how “striking the pose” with power, precise form and determined effort releases a sense of ease and grace in the mind. This workshop will focus on helping YOU get the alignment “pristine” so that you feel the ease, comfort and peace of mind yoga promises.

Our master teacher, Jim Coughlin has been teaching yoga for over 20 years, has taught well over 10,000 classes and has a personal practice that he loves sharing with like-minded practitioners

Join Master teacher Kate Coughlin in an active yoga practice focused on awakening the core body. All levels welcome. Come ready to listen, explore and fully engage in the powerful and transitional practice of an alignment based class.

Kate is an inspired and dedicated yoga practitioner, master teacher, director, and co-owner of Downtown Yoga. Her dynamic background includes creating and sustaining Downtown Yoga in Pleasanton CA for 20 years, offering both 200 and 300 hour Advanced Studies Programs for a 15 year period, creating and teaching the Yoga program at Stanford University from 1989-2001, and nurturing yoga students in their journey towards developing lifelong personal yoga practices and onto teaching and sharing their yoga with their communities and beyond.

In the 'Refining the Sun Salutations' workshop, we will delve into the fundamental building block of flow-style yoga - Surya Namaskara. Through a detailed exploration of individual poses (asanas) and smooth transitions, you will learn to refine your Sun Salutation practice. We'll focus on proper alignment, energetic actions, and modifications, enabling you to create a simpler, deeper, and sustainable practice. Whether you are a yoga student seeking to enhance your personal practice or a teacher aiming to guide others effectively, this workshop offers valuable insights and techniques to elevate your Sun Salutation experience.

Creating a dedicated yoga practice takes time, proper instruction and a willingness to explore new things.   In this 2.5 hour workshop we will delve into the basics and the more challenging poses in order to create a feeling of wholeness and happiness. Anyone with even limited yoga experience will benefit. Experienced practitioners (those with a few years under their belts) will benefit greatly.  This workshop will give the student ample time to explore and ask questions in order to gain insight in their practices.  

Jim Coughlin was first introduced to yoga at 10 years of age.  He has practiced extensively since 1990.  Jim and his wife operated Downtown Yoga in Pleasanton for 20 years. He has taught over 10,000 classes.  

Location - KARUNA- Yoga With Compassion, 1991 Suite I, Pleasanton CA 94566

Creating a dedicated yoga practice takes time, proper instruction and a willingness to explore new things.   In this 2.5 hour workshop we will delve into the basics and the more challenging poses in order to create a feeling of wholeness and happiness. Anyone with even limited yoga experience will benefit. Experienced practitioners (those with a few years under their belts) will benefit greatly.  This workshop will give the student ample time to explore and ask questions in order to gain insight in their practices.  

Jim Coughlin was first introduced to yoga at 10 years of age.  He has practiced extensively since 1990.  Jim and his wife operated Downtown Yoga in Pleasanton for 20 years. He has taught over 10,000 classes.  

Location - KARUNA- Yoga With Compassion, 1991 Suite I, Pleasanton CA 94566

In anticipation of the grand opening of my studio in January, I'm excited to invite you to join me for daily personal practice sessions starting December 17th. Offering limited classes to warm for the year to come.

Register on website for derails, and in the meantime, start preparing your mats and get ready for some fun yoga sessions!