About
“Our divine birthright is Joy.”
Johnna Smith teaches locally in Charlotte, NC and internationally connecting people to the powerful and sweet teaching of Yoga.
She roots this ancient and holy message within her classes, workshops, yoga studies programs and mentorship. Years of panic attacks and searching for something deeper within led Johnna to the yoga mat. Beginning in 1995, with Ashtanga yoga practices, she found more joy and less fear.
In 2000 Johnna realized it was important to share what was given to her and began a lifelong study of yoga with teachers who could take her deeper. Including Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Sharath Jois and ParaYoga founder Rod Stryker. The powerful influence of Ashtanga Yoga and Tantra from the lineage of the Himalayan Masters and Sri Vidya Tantra informs her teaching.
While practicing yogic methods were profound, something was missing. In 2008 Johnna began a deep dive into the mother healing practices of Ayurveda and has graduated from the California College of Ayurveda as well as Katie Silcox’s The Shakti School. Ayurveda is the beautiful science of balance, nourishment and connection. The two combined, Yoga and Ayurveda, create a profound platform to deeply love, connect and heal. Yoga practices, rooted in non-attachment, require Ayurveda. As Ayurveda teaches how to care for the body, tend to the psyche and emotions and all other relationships.
Seeing other women just like her with anxiety, feelings of doubt, frustration… or more likely repressed anger or shame brought her to create her mentoring program. Curated methods and practices that have both worked for her and many others. These practices are time tested through thousands of years of lineage and practitioners plus a healthy dose of modern somatic sciences. Johnna’s approach to health and connection to your joy is holistic with the understanding that all aspects of our being seek harmony. Begin now.
What People Are Saying
“
Johnna beautifully arrived at the most perfect time that I needed from a teacher. She provides me with opportunities to dive deeper than asana, through pranayama, meditations, and Ayurvedic insights. I truly believe on days when I show up on my mat, a hot emotional, physical, and mental mess, she only sees presence and love. I am grateful for her dedication to the practice, and her unwavering love for her students. She is more than I could have ever asked for along my journey.”
— Christina P.
“
Not only does she have an entrancing focus on the areas that needed my attention but she sticks around to help guide you through to the other side. She is the perfect balance of gentleness and strength. Johnna is a deeply studied teacher who helps bring any tight, unattended parts of you on a rich journey to get to know yourself, allowing the space for brilliant healing and peace.
”
— Jennifer F..
“
All the needs met - head to toe and body to spirit. Thanks J
”
— Joy F.
“
For too long anxiety has had control. Now I have the tools and strength to control my emotions.
”
— Diane G.
Motivation comes from within — and I’m here to help you activate it.
Chat with me
Want to explore ways to deepen your yoga? Are you looking to light that spark of passion and enthusiasm? Through tantra, yoga and Ayurveda, claim your sacred spirit, and return to the holy and estatic being that you are. Now is the time, and you are worth it!