Instructors

Our instructors have a dedication to practice, research, and share the Ashtanga method in an authentic way. They have experience working with a wide variety of students of diverse abilities, ages, and backgrounds. They maintain daily classes for those interested in developing a personal practice. There is a firm belief that the method is actually the "teacher" and the best instructor is one that inspires students to "practice, practice, practice."

*Beginning Nov.16, 2010, Katie Prys will direct the classes and studio at Ashtanga Palo Alto. Over the next two years Adarsh & Heleen will be livng and teaching in Taipei, Taiwan. You can keep in touch at their blog

Adarsh Williams

Adarsh teaches a contemplative style of yoga that embraces both modern innovation and traditional wisdom. Since 1995, Adarsh has been engaged in the field of natural healing and has received certifications in therapeutic massage and active isolated stretching. He continues as a student of Ashtanga Yoga and it's sister sciences of Sanskrit, Ayurveda, and Bhakti. Adarsh has continuously traveled to Asia since 2001 for study and pilgrimage and has received teaching Authorization by his late Guruji Shri. K Pattabhi Jois of Mysore, India. Adarsh directs the Ashtanga Yoga Shala in Palo Alto, CA specializing in progressive instruction for beginner through advanced levels.

Through in depth study of human anatomy and physiology and formal training as a massage therapist, Adarsh is highly regarded for his sensitive yet deep adjusting style. He has experience working with a wide variety of students of diverse abilities, ages, and backgrounds. With a deeply held belief that anyone can develop a personal yoga practice, Adarsh is an energetic teacher who infuses his enthusiasm for practice and hard work in his students.

Heleen Zondag-Williams

Heleen started practicing yoga in 1992 during college in the Netherlands. For 8 years she practiced Sivananda Yoga and eventually completed the TTC (teacher training course) at the ashram in upstate New York.

Shortly after, Heleen moved to London to pursue life as a yoga teacher which in turn led her to a position of General Manager at one of London's best known dance and holistic centres. During this time 2000-04, she studied Ashtanga Yoga with Liz Lark and John Scott. John inspired her to go to Mysore and study with Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. After meeting Guruji on his world tour in 2001 she traveled to India the following year to study at the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute.

Katie Prys

Katie Prys is a certified Yoga Instructor, licensed Massage Therapist, and Healing Arts Practitioner. After developing an Ashtanga practice with David Miliotis in Santa Barbara, California, she advanced under Sri K. Pattabhi Jois and grandson Sharath in Mysore, India. With continued study under Steve Dwelley, Richard Freeman, and Chad Herst, she received yoga instruction certification from It's Yoga in San Fransisco. Katie has dedicated herself to the practice and looks to progress others in the movement and passion of yoga.

Our shala provides daily instruction where students will gain a foundation in traditional yoga, which is practical and non-dogmatic. Our instructors are skilled in verbal and manual adjustments and have the ability to convey the essence of the practice whether it be grounded in the physical or subtle realms.