As one of the most popular styles of yoga today, many studios in Northern California now offer Anusara or Anusara-inspired Yoga classes.

To find a class or teacher near you, please check our studios and teachers pages.
To learn more about specific Anusara trainings or events in your area, please visit the events page.

What is Anusara Yoga?

Anusara (a-nu-sar-a), means “flowing with Grace,” “flowing with Nature,” “following your heart.”

Founded by John Friend in 1997, the Anusara style of yoga is a system of hatha yoga that brings together an uplifting approach that celebrates our intrinsic beauty with what are known as the Universal Principles of Alignment. These principles, developed by John out of his study of biomechanics, are sophisticated but simple principles of aligning the body so that a deep experience of wholeness, joy and integrity can be accessed in every pose, regardless of an individual’s flexibility or strength.

Anusara Yoga now has a presence on every continent, excluding Antarctica.
 Eleven years later, there are hundreds of thousands of students worldwide, and at last count, 250 certified teachers, 750 licensed Anusara-Inspired yoga teachers, and thousands of teachers in training.

Anusara yoga's remarkable growth is largely due to its philosophical foundations in a life-affirming Tantric vision, epitomized by a "celebration of the heart," that looks for the good in all people and all things. Students of all levels of ability and yoga experience are honored for their unique differences, limitations, and talents.

This celebratory vision sets the basis for a tightly-knit community or kula of learning that enjoys the closeness of a family, yet preserves the fluidity of a merry band of bohemian artists: highly trained, joyful and serious about fun.