Lakes Area Yoga Association was founded in 1995 as a not-for-profit organization dedicated to bringing yoga to the Lakes area. LAYA, and the late Healing Center, were the first organizations offering yoga in the Brainerd area at that time. As yoga has grown in popularity, so have the number of places to find yoga in the area. We remain dedicated to what we are doing and teaching, providing an authentic and sincere slate of classes rather than a "fitness-model-one-size-fits-all" style of yoga.
We offer an eclectic blend of classes that vary with each teacher’s background. Our teachers respect each individual’s abilities and needs, and offer appropriate variations and props for the asanas (poses) when needed. We make yoga accessible, regardless of age, gender, size or abilities. We are REAL YOGA for REAL PEOPLE.
A note of gratitude...
We are forever grateful for the founders, teachers, and students who have been a part of our rich history over the past 25+ years. YOU are the reason we are still here. YOU are forever woven into fabric of this beautiful community and establishment. To all the founders, supporters, and donors - Thank you!
We would like to offer a variety of classes and styles at our studio. We are open to new or experienced teachers. Flexible schedule and the perk to join other teachers' classes for free.
This position works with the LAYA board with all operations for the studio. There is our app, Mindbody, email blasts, website updates, scheduling updates/changes for teachers, and other duties including cleaning the studio, student assistance, and other needs as they arise. Work a flexible schedule of around 8-12 hours a month. This is a rewarding position with a lot of support from a knowledgeable and kind board.
I was born in Minsk, Belarus and moved to the US as a student in 2003. Growing up I was involved in folk dancing and that is definitely the place and the time where my passion for movement was born.
In 2017 I earned my 200hr training through Yoga Fit and during this time I became interested in meditation. While homeschooling my two boys, I studied
with Mindful Schools teaching Mindfulness in education. I’m deeply passionate about living in the present moment and with all my heart would like to share the gift of Mindfulness with others. - Galina
Jessica trained at Sun Moon yoga school in Mankato MN and received her certification in 2015. She has been teaching in the Brainerd Lakes area ever since. Born and raised in Brainerd, Jessica values the connections she’s able to make within the yoga community and loves to share her passion for yoga with others. Sharing fun and different ways to stretch and strengthen comes natural to her, as a former dancer and dance instructor. You will love her all levels approach while she offers a variety of options in your asanas. You can count on Jessicas classes to feel accessible, while also inspiring you to challenge yourself, as well as friendly and inviting to all.
I have been teaching yoga for six years. I specialize in Iyengar yoga and embrace Dianne Bondy’s Yoga for All practice and (body positive/empowerment) philosophy. Like Ms. Bondy I know that yoga benefits all bodies, regardless of their shape, size, age, ethnicity, or ability. “The divine resides in all of us”. I aspire to be the instructor that connects with you in a way that works for you as we practice yoga together. - Sandra
My yoga journey began over ten years ago. Working to be a better person both in mind and body through yoga has helped me grow as a mother, daughter, friend and teacher. My practice includes a variety of styles of yoga with a focus on vinyasa, slow flow yoga and yoga philosophy. My teaching journey has been one of following the path laid before me by the amazing teachers I have been blessed to learn from. The personal journey of yoga is what I want to share by teaching and helping others find their path. And to be able to offer yoga to all. - Colleen
Rob taught with Lakes Area Yoga Association for 26 years! Rob began his training in the Iyengar method in the early 90’s. He attended multiple teacher trainings in Estes Park Colorado sponsored by Yoga Journal Magazine and was exposed to a variety of advanced teachers and styles from all over the world. Eventually, he gravitating towards a more therapeutic approach to Yoga. He was an instructor at various yoga teacher trainings. The majority of his teaching was done at the Nisswa School, supported by LAYA. Most recently, he taught multiple weekly classes at LAYA's present location in the Franklin Arts Building in Brainerd. Rob's class, Yoga as Therapy, was enjoyed by many! Rob retired from his earthly journey in October of 2021. We will forever miss him and his love and passion for the practice of Yoga.
His legacy lives on through his many students.
Yoga is for everyone. If you can breath, you can do Yoga!
We offer a variety of classes for every level and style and each class offers variations to suit your level of ability.
To have the best experience, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing that is easy to move in. Be prepared to be barefoot (not required, but optimal). Bring your own mat if you have one; if not, we have plenty at the studio for you to use. Along with mats, we have many props, Props, PROPS! Props help expand our physical yoga practice. Our teachers are committed to helping you find your version of the pose, safely and confidently.
Please use the WEST door to enter the Franklin Arts building. We are located straight up the stairs and to the right - in Studio #228.
"I used to be stiffened up in the morning after sleeping in a tent. In 2006 a friend who was teaching yoga at LAYA suggested that I attend a Yoga Open House in January. I started a class with Martha and in March I started attending Rob’s Class. Yoga made me more flexible for kayaking and other outdoor activities, it slows the normal aging process. Aging without pain and stiffness greatly improves the quality of life and it's so important to stay active and fit. It keeps the aches and pains away!"
- Darrel Johnson
"I've been attending classes at LAYA for the last year and a half. I especially enjoy Jess McMullen's "Exploring Yoga" class. She is a phenomenal yoga instructor who makes everyone feel valued and welcomed. Each class in varied and fun - not the same old routines over and over. Jess and her students have developed a real camaraderie. I love practicing yoga at LAYA and my body loves it too!"
- Nancy Huckstead
"I have been doing different types of yoga for several years. I have finally found the perfect fit with this studio and instructors. The LAYA instructors guide you for proper alignment for your body and proper breathing.
What a different when appropriate props and adjustments are shown and explained.
Your body will thank you!"
- Yvonne Wilske
"Yoga has helped me so much this past year to find the calm in the chaos of my world. It has provided me with a sense of peace as well as a new appreciation for my body. It has helped me build flexibility, strength and balance which have been crucial for dealing with chronic conditions and healing from my bilateral knee replacement. I enjoy my own space or practicing with my husband and friends too. The LAYA instructors are the best!"
- Kelli Weaver