In this episode Holly Skodis interviews Stan Woodman, about his journey with yoga and why he became vegan.
Stan Woodman is a Level 2 Authorized Ashtanga Yoga teacher for the K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute (KPJAYI), in Mysore, India and owner of The Yoga Shala in Ridgefield, CT. He took his first yoga class in 1991 and began a dedicated Ashtanga practice in 1997. Having first met Sri K Pattabhi Jois in NYC 2001, Stan eventually went to the source in Mysore India in 2003 to study with Guruji. Since then, he has made several trips to the K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute, studying with its founder until his death in 2009 and eventually with Jois’ heir and grandson, Sharath Jois. Today, Stan continues his yearly pilgrimage to Mysore to study at the KPJAYI with Sharath and in the summer of 2016 completed a special two month teachers course in Mysore with Sharath. He is also the co-founder of Kaia Yoga from 2006-2018.
In addition to his work as a yoga teacher, Stan’s education includes intensive coursework with special needs children through the Son-Rise Program at The Autism Treatment Center of America. Formerly licensed as a massage therapist, he has extensive knowledge in eastern and western philosophies and practices in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, myology, and neurology. Stan has served on the board of directors of several not-for-profits including Odanadi and The Give Back Yoga Foundation for empowering individuals through the gift of yoga. He also works closely with Operation Shanti in Mysore to help raise funding for their programs.
An avid extreme sports enthusiast, Stan loves a good challenge, especially when snowboarding or skateboarding. Stan has been featured in numerous magazines including Fitness, More and Organic Spa.
Follow Stan on Instagram @theyogashalact. To learn more about his studio, The Yoga Shala visit theyogashalact.com.