Public Workshops
July 16, 2025
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July 15, 2026
200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Program Starting July 2025 with Lotus Pond
- Yoga Philosophy
- Alignment and modifications in yoga postures
- Physical and Energetic Anatomy
- Breathing Techniques
- Teaching Yoga / Teacher Ethics
- Meditation & Mindfulness
Our comprehensive program will deepen your yoga practice & prepare you to share these gifts with others. We help you draw upon your unique qualities to develop your teaching skills, find your authentic voice, and encourage your passion.
You can Apply here:
https://www.lotuspondyoga.com/ytt-200.html
Or call the studio at 813-961-3160
The information and content we share is not medical advice and is not meant to replace medical care. Please consult your healthcare provider to determine what is best for your unique healthcare needs.
Intro to Vedic Chanting: A 4-Part Series with Kranti Kalepally
Dates: Thursdays, 7/10, 7/17, 7/24, 7/31
Time: 5:30-6:30pm
Cost: $60 for the entire series
Join us for a profound journey into the ancient practice of Vedic Chanting, where sound, breath, and intention come together in a transformative experience of inner stillness. This 4-part series, led by kranti Kalepally, is an introduction to one of the oldest oral traditions in the world, passed down for thousands of years through meticulous pedagogy to preserve the purity and power of these sacred teachings.
What is Vedic Chanting?
The Vedas are the ancient body of knowledge essential for human existence. Vedic chanting, a practice recognized by UNESCO as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity, is not just about vocalizing words—it’s a practice of listening deeply and reproducing sound with precision. It brings the mind to a state of calm, stillness, and focused attention.
What to Expect in this Series:
- Learn the fundamentals of Vedic chanting, regardless of prior experience
- Explore the benefits of chanting, including improved focus, respiratory strength, and mind-body harmony
- Practice chanting with awareness of breath and sound vibration, fostering a sense of peace and calm
- Learn beginner chanting sounds and mantras
- Engage in exercises for svara (intonation) and chant "OM" with mindful breath awareness
Benefits of Vedic Chanting:
- Can provide deep relaxation and therapeutic effects for the mind and body
- May enhance focus and one-pointedness of mind (ekagrata)
- Helps to harmonize physiological functions through sound vibrations
- May strengthen respiratory capacity through varying speeds, pitches, and lengths
- Creation of new neural pathways, boosting overall learning ability
Eligibility:
This series is open to all—whether you are new to Vedic chanting or looking to refine your practice, a beautiful world of sound and self-discovery awaits. Chanting handouts will be provided. Discover how Vedic chanting can align your mind, body, and speech in this unique and accessible practice. No previous chanting or musical experience is required.
About Your Teacher:
In 2011, Kranti embarked on a one-year Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) program in the Shri T Krishnamacharya Lineage under the guidance of her teacher, Saraswathi Vasudevan of Yoga Vahini. Her intention was to deepen her well-being as she transitioned into new roles in life. Through this journey, she discovered the profound significance of yoga, realizing how it provided stability amidst life's constant changes, especially after relocating to a new place.
A turning point in Kranti’s path led her to Lotus Pond Yoga Center, where she reconnected with yoga from a fresh perspective. In 2021, she resumed her studies with her initial teacher, reigniting her passion for yoga, particularly in the areas of Vedic chanting and the study of the Yoga Sutras. Kranti is currently pursuing advanced training in yoga therapy in India under the guidance of Teacher Mrs. Saraswathi Vasudevan in Chennai. She is also a student of Mrs. Sheela Shankar for Vedic chanting in Chennai.
Kranti’s approach to yoga centers on focused attention and chanting. To her, chanting is a profound connection to the inner voice, a practice of self-expression with conviction. It aligns the mind (manas), body (kaya), and speech (vaca). The gentle awareness cultivated in pranayama through breath and in asana through movement brings the mind to stillness, further deepened through the process of Vedic chanting.
The practice she offers is simple: let go, listen, and engage with presence. To keep her practice alive and her curiosity thriving, Kranti regularly reflects on key questions:
Am I calm when I chant?
Am I truly listening, ensuring accurate repetition?
How do I listen to myself?
What is my relationship with my body and breath?
In doing what I am doing, what am I really doing?
Kranti is passionate about helping her students explore and enliven the connection between body, mind, and breath. She invites others to join her on this journey of self-discovery through the profound practice of yoga with chanting.
Learn the Surya Mantra / Vedic Chanting with Kranti Kalepally
Time: 2:00-4:00 PM
Cost: $40
Join us for a profound experience through the ancient practice of Vedic Chanting, where sound, breath, and intention come together in a transformative experience of inner stillness. This 2 hr experience will also include some asana practice along with the chanting.
What is Vedic Chanting?
The Vedas are the ancient body of knowledge essential for human existence. Vedic chanting, a practice recognized by UNESCO as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity, is not just about vocalizing words—it’s a practice of listening deeply and reproducing sound with precision. It brings the mind to a state of calm, stillness, and focused attention.
What to Expect in this 2 hour experience:
- Learn the fundamentals of Vedic chanting, regardless of prior experience
- Explore the benefits of chanting, including improved focus, respiratory strength, and mind-body harmony
- Practice chanting with awareness of breath and sound vibration, fostering a sense of peace and calm
- Learn more about the Surya Mantra, a way to connect to your inner Sun or light
- Explore Asana practice with chanting
- Engage in exercises for svara (intonation) and chant "OM" with mindful breath awareness
Benefits of Vedic Chanting:
- Can provide deep relaxation and therapeutic effects for the mind and body
- May enhance focus and one-pointedness of mind (ekagrata)
- Helps to harmonize physiological functions through sound vibrations
- May strengthen respiratory capacity through varying speeds, pitches, and lengths
- Creation of new neural pathways, boosting overall learning ability
Eligibility:
This session is open to all—whether you are new to Vedic chanting or looking to refine your practice, a beautiful world of sound and self-discovery awaits. Chanting handouts will be provided. Discover how Vedic chanting can align your mind, body, and speech in this unique and accessible practice. No previous chanting or musical experience is required.
About Your Teacher:
In 2011, Kranti embarked on a one-year Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) program in the Shri T Krishnamacharya Lineage under the guidance of her teacher, Saraswathi Vasudevan of Yoga Vahini. Her intention was to deepen her well-being as she transitioned into new roles in life. Through this journey, she discovered the profound significance of yoga, realizing how it provided stability amidst life's constant changes, especially after relocating to a new place.
A turning point in Kranti’s path led her to Lotus Pond Yoga Center, where she reconnected with yoga from a fresh perspective. In 2021, she resumed her studies with her initial teacher, reigniting her passion for yoga, particularly in the areas of Vedic chanting and the study of the Yoga Sutras. Kranti is currently pursuing advanced training in yoga therapy in India under the guidance of Teacher Mrs. Saraswathi Vasudevan in Chennai. She is also a student of Mrs. Sheela Shankar for Vedic chanting in Chennai.
Kranti’s approach to yoga centers on focused attention and chanting. To her, chanting is a profound connection to the inner voice, a practice of self-expression with conviction. It aligns the mind (manas), body (kaya), and speech (vaca). The gentle awareness cultivated in pranayama through breath and in asana through movement brings the mind to stillness, further deepened through the process of Vedic chanting.
The practice she offers is simple: let go, listen, and engage with presence. To keep her practice alive and her curiosity thriving, Kranti regularly reflects on key questions:
Am I calm when I chant?
Am I truly listening, ensuring accurate repetition?
How do I listen to myself?
What is my relationship with my body and breath?
In doing what I am doing, what am I really doing?
Kranti is passionate about helping her students explore and enliven the connection between body, mind, and breath. She invites others to join her on this journey of self-discovery through the profound practice of yoga with chanting.
Yoga Nidra Meditation with Pam Velez (1.5 credits) with Pam Velez
with Pam Velez
Date: Friday, August 1, 2025
Cost: $30
*All sales are final
Workshop Description:
Experience profound levels of inner relaxation through Yoga Nidra, a powerful guided meditation practice designed to bring deep rest and rejuvenation. Give yourself the opportunity to rest, find balance, and restore your energy. This practice allows your mind and body to reach a state of conscious relaxation, where true restoration can occur. There is nothing required of you but to lie down and listen.
Yoga Nidra is accessible to anyone seeking greater inner peace, mental clarity, and a connection with their authentic self. In this 1.5-hour session, you'll begin with 30 minutes of gentle, mindful movement to prepare the body, followed by a calming 45-minute Yoga Nidra session. As you rest in stillness, either lying down in savasana or seated comfortably, you’ll be guided through various stages of relaxation, effortlessly moving into a deep meditative state.
Yoga Nidra is a systematic practice that has been scientifically shown to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the "rest and digest" response, which supports the body in its natural ability to restore and recover. This practice has been found to help in the management of stress and may provide relief for symptoms related to insomnia, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, chronic pain, and other conditions.
Pam Velez, certified in Divine Sleep® Yoga Nidra, will guide you through this deeply restful practice. Whether you are new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, this class offers the space to disconnect from daily stress and reconnect with your inner calm and clarity.
About Your Teacher:
Pam Velez has been teaching yoga for the past 9 years. She began taking yoga classes at a gym with the intention of getting a good workout. What began as part of an exercise routine has become so much more. Pam credits yoga for helping her to become a better person: more patient, compassionate and less judgmental. She has over 700 hours of yoga training and earned her E-RYT 500. Pam loves to laugh and brings this element of lightheartedness to each class. Her classes incorporate alignment, flow, humor and a bit of yoga philosophy. Pam received her Divine Sleep Yoga Nidra® certification at the Lotus Pond with Jennifer Reis.
The information and content we share is not medical advice and is not meant to replace medical care. Please consult your healthcare provider to determine what is best for your unique healthcare needs.
YACEP Hours:
Yoga teachers and yoga teacher training students enrolled at Lotus Pond can receive 2 credits for attending this course in addition to completing an accompanying assignment that will be emailed to you after registration.
Techniques, Training & Practice
How to do (practice) yoga (1hr)
Yoga Philosophy, Lifestyle & Ethics
History, philosophy, ethics and lifestyle practices of yoga (0.5)
Total: 1.5 credit hours
The Quiet Way: A Sound Journey of Presence and Peace with EarthRoots Music and Sound Healing
Time: 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Price: $30 per Student
EarthRoots Music and Sound Healing offers therapeutic sound baths, evocative soundscapes, and music for energetic wellness. Multi-instrumentalists Jenny and Mark Robertson-Tessi will guide you on a sonic journey of relaxation, release, and transformation, using the soothing sounds of voice, harp, flute, guitar, singing bowls, handpan, percussion, harmonium, and more. Jenny has a Master of Music degree, having performed as a harpist internationally with numerous orchestras and ensembles. This music training is complemented by a certification in integrative sound healing. She is also a 200-hour Yoga Alliance certified yoga instructor and is continuing with her 300-hour training. Mark is an award-winning mandolin and guitar player who has performed with many groups across the country. Having studied acoustics, he also builds instruments for sound therapy. He has a Bachelor of Music degree, as well as a PhD that he applies in oncology, developing new patient-centered care approaches. The music and sounds of EarthRoots are inspired by many different traditions, including Celtic, Native American, Folk, and Indian music, but ultimately come from the heart.
The information and content we share is not medical advice and is not meant to replace medical care. Please consult your healthcare provider to determine what is best for your unique healthcare needs.
Yoga for Pain Relief (5.5 Credits) with Lee Albert
with Lee Albert
Date: Saturday September 6th, 2025
Time: 9:00am-4:00pm (1.5 hour lunch)
5.5 Credit Hours
Cost: $115
*All Workshops Are Non-Refundable
Description:
Do you or your students struggle with back pain, sciatica, tight hamstrings, sore knees, or chronic pain? Fortunately, it is possible to live without pain.
Join Lee Albert, Kripalu teacher, author, and Neuromuscular Therapist, for this training where you will:
•Learn How To Relieve Chronic Pain for Yourself and Your Students
•Recognize The Muscle Imbalances That Are Causing Pain
•Practice The Specific Postures That Correct Those Imbalances
•Identify Postures That Can Aggravate Pain
The postures in this class are suitable for all levels.
About your teacher:
Lee Albert, NMT created Structural Yoga Remedies to eliminate or reduce chronic pain associated with many neuromuscular conditions. He is trained in Neuromuscular Therapy and has been practicing yoga for 20 years and leads workshops at the Kripalu Center. Lee is the author of “Live Pain-Free without Drugs or Surgery.”. PBS recently showcased Lee's knowledge with "3 Steps to Pain-Free Living" check your local listing for days and showtimes. Click the link to watch a preview:
https://youtu.be/BQYMuoMaZEU
The information and content we share is not medical advice and is not meant to replace medical care. Please consult your healthcare provider to determine what is best for your unique healthcare needs.
Pause & Play: A Day of Mindfulness, Movement, and Fun! (6 CEUs) with Katie Beene
Form and Function in Asana: Advanced Alignment Principles with Karin Stephan (10 credits) with Karin Stephan
Full weekend: $200
Saturday only $100
In this workshop, we will explore the practice of intelligent sequencing based on the fundamental principles of Iyengar Yoga combined with Karin's deep understanding of The Asymmetric Body. We will closely examine the various groups of asanas - standing poses, forward bends, twisting poses, backbends and inversions - with adaptations for each individual body. This workshop will also focus on a higher degree of integration of the neuromuscular/skeletal system which will help promote a profound sense of relaxation throughout the body and mind. You may leave feeling focused, balanced, steady and strong.
About Your Teacher:
Learn more at: http://www.yogamacro.com
Awaken The Power Of Your True Voice - 2 Part Workshop with Pam Kaplan
1:00 - 3:00 PM
Open to All | 2 Hours
Reconnect with the strength, clarity, and resonance of your natural voice. Through guided movement, breath, sound, and self-reflection, you’ll awaken your authentic voice—confident, grounded, and expressive.
Part 1 Cost: $40
*all sales final
Part 2 — Empower Your Voice for Yoga Teaching
3:00 - 5:00 PM
For Yoga Teachers | 2 Hours
Deepen your vocal presence as a teacher. This session focuses on asanas, vocal health, projection, and cultivating a vocal style that reflects your personality and supports your class.
Cost for Part 1 & 2: $80
*all sales final
*must complete part 1 & 2 to offer 4 credits for YTT / YACEP
This workshop is for finding your voice! Geared toward helping you improve the quality, tone and strength of your voice.
* Gain an understanding of how the voice works by learning the anatomy and physiology of how the breath and voice work together
* Interact and play with the energy of the voice
* Articulation exercises for clarity of speech
* Dive into creative expression with exercises to increase volume, vary the tone and color the words
* Become a more confident speaker by discovering your voiceprint
* Learn how to use the voice safely to avoid vocal injury
Items you will need:
comfortable clothes, small hand mirror and your yoga mat (journal if you’d like)
Your voice is your inner light, let it shine!
About Your Teacher:
Pam Kaplan E-RYT 200/RYT 500, YACEP, has been studying the craft of yoga since the 80's in NYC where she also studied acting, voice, and dance. Pam is a former actress and vocal coach and currently practices as a speech-language pathologist. She has worked with both television, radio and stage actors to assist them reach their vocal potential. Some of Pam's clients have been ESPN2, NewsChannel 8, WMNF and American Stage. She has worked for Eckerd College, USF, Ruth Eckerd Hall, HSN and performed a one-woman show in Tampa.
The information and content we share is not medical advice and is not meant to replace medical care. Please consult your healthcare provider to determine what is best for your unique healthcare needs.
