Niema Lightseed
Yoga Teacher, Performing Artist, Beautifier...
I knew from a young age that I wanted to be an actor. To tell stories, to act and sing and dance. To that end I went to college for theatre at Roosevelt University (BFA Theatre Performance).
Part of our movement training included Yoga. I felt transformed. Through yoga and a shift in diet and exercise habits, I let go of nearly 100 pounds, and gained confidence, a sense of self love, and a deep current of joy. I was called to share this amazing practice with the world.
I have had many amazing teachers along the path. I received my training from the Temple of Kriya Yoga in the Summer of 2004, and am now certified and insured. I have studied with teachers in many styles, including Anusara, Forrest, Iyengar, Ashtanga, and most recently with Eddie Modestini and Nicki Doane, but my focus is classic Hatha Yoga - with some juicy flow. I emphasize detailed safe alignment, breath awareness, root connection and moving from the core, strength and surrender, joy full ness, and radical self-acceptance.
photo © Victoria Yee, Cruz Bay Publishing, Inc.
I approach Yoga as both a physical discipline and a spiritual practice. Yoga means 'yoke' or union - bringing our minds, bodies and spirits into harmony. The Universe is conspiring to shower us with blessings. Yoga is how we let go of the umbrella.
I encourage my students to explore, to embrace and even love their bodies, as they let go of what is blocking them and invite in joy and light. All of my classes include intention, and I often chant during Savasana to hold the space. My classes are open to all practitioners.
I have recently become certified as a Theta Healing Practitioner, and I am delighted to be able to offer this amazing modality in concert with Yoga.
As a storyteller, performance artist, and sacred space creator, I have found that life is as magical as we allow it to be. I feel that telling stories with this amazing gift we call a body to be one of the singular joys of life. Burning Man changed my perception of what art is - art can be everywhere, in every moment. Being in Hawai'i allowed me to move even deeper in this amazing practice, coming into my power as a gentle and strong channel for these teachings. And now, living in the Bay Area, I am delighted to share this gift with you.
I am glad for every opportunity I have to express, to share, to teach. I feel it is very important to share our stories and create with our bodies and voices.
We are blessed to live in such an amazing time. As we grow into a global family, as we ascend to a unified state of collective consciousness, as we learn to play in harmony, may we dance in this sacred hoop with joy and grace.
I hope you will dance with me...
