Mara’s personal yoga practice began in India over a decade ago.  Since then, Yoga has been the most poignant, transformative, and informative force in her life.  Mara received her yoga certification through Trinity Yoga and continues to be inspired by her long-term teacher and friend, Mary-Jo Fetterly. Her teaching practice draws from several traditions: Ashtanga Vinyasa Flow, Hatha, Iyengar, and Anusara Yoga. Mara’s sense of artistry contributes to the design of her class through dynamic flow, grace, strength, and vitality.  She encourages her students to move “from the inside out” drawing upon true awareness of body alignment, breath work, and commitment on the mat.  Mara’s vision is to make yoga accessible to all students, from beginners to advanced, designing a class that contributes to the awareness of each student’s unique form of expression.

Rise Yoga

Mara runs her own company “Rise Yoga” where she offers corporate yoga, private yoga consultation, yoga retreats and yoga events at conferences or parties. Mara currently teaches at Flow Yoga, The Steve Nash Club, Bowen Island Yoga Studio, Lululemon, INform Interiors, and Molson Canadian.  She has taught yoga on film sets, at corporate events, to professional athletes, and has years of experience offering private yoga sessions.

Rise Yoga Retreat - January 3rd to 10th, 2009

Join Mara for 7 days of yoga bliss in the wonderland of Haramara, known as a Mecca for personal rejuvenation and a sanctuary for the soul. Click here for more info on yoga retreat. Also see Rise Yoga Retreat feature on Sweetspot.ca here.

For more information on yoga classes or upcoming retreats please email: riseyoga@gmail.com

"Yoga" which translates to union, is an ancient technique of exercise and healing. Throughout a yoga class, a series of exercises linking breath with movement is performed to increase strength and flexibility in the body while creating a sense of calm in the mind.  The history of yoga dates back to 5000 years ago.

Why do Corporate Yoga?

  • reduces stress and anxiety and lower back pain
  • draws awareness to mental clarity, peaceful thinking, and overall well being
  • improves flexibility, posture, and core strength
  • corporate yoga enhances team-building, boosts employee morale, and increases work efficiency and focus

Rise Yoga Testimonials

“Yoga is definitely a stress reliever”………after I practice I feel both relaxed and alert.” (Roy Speers)

 “When I practice I am less stressed, more energized…“what I love about Mara’s class is that she recognizes people’s abilities and restrictions, she’ll find a way to challenge you in a way that is professional, pleasant, and encouraging." (Nancy Nesbitt)

“Yoga practice is the one place where I am able to focus 100% on what I am doing without thinking about any other issues, work related or personal.  That in itself is a wonderful stress reliever.”(Al Archibald)

“I can confidently say that Yoga has made a positive impact in our workplace from a wellness and cultural point of view…I believe there is substantial positive return on investment by offering Yoga instruction in our company.” (Jody Sawchuk, Human Resources Manager at Molson Vancouver)

Above: photographs by Cowie and Fox
Copyright of Mara Branscombe 2008. designed by anywidjaja.com