Niema Lightseed
Yoga Teacher, Performing Artist, Beautifier...
I knew from a young age that I wanted to be an actor. To tell stories, to act and sing and dance. To that end I went to college for theatre at Roosevelt University (BFA Theatre Performance).
Part of our movement training included Yoga. I felt transformed. Through yoga and a shift in diet and exercise habits, I let go of nearly 100 pounds, and gained confidence, a sense of self love, and a deep current of joy. I was called to share this amazing practice with the world.
I have had many amazing teachers along the path. I received my training from the Temple of Kriya Yoga in the Summer of 2004, and am now certified and insured. I have studied with teachers in many styles, including Anusara, Forrest, Iyengar, Ashtanga, Yin with Dina Amsterdam and Maya Yoga with Eddie Modestini and Nicki Doane, but my focus is classic Hatha Yoga - with some yum. I am currently continuing my studies with acclaimed Shadow Yoga and Ayurveda teacher, Scott Blossom, deepening my understanding of the flow of energy and the natural rhythms of the body.
I maintain a deep connection to spirit in daily life and activities, striving to live each moment as a grateful prayer. I practice Reiki energy healing, Shamanic drumming, Buddhist meditation, Goddess Spiritual rituals, and ecstatic dancing and singing to sustain my joy and peace.
I also court the Muse by creating and sharing poetry and ritual theatre dance performances. I honor my on-going love of food by studying Nutrition and preparing Living Foods feasts, and working in gardens.
As a Yoga teacher, I bring all of these elements together to offer classes that are honorable of the authentic Yoga tradition, other sacred spiritual practices, and the improvisational Rainbow Dream we are creating in this moment. I blends classic, detailed Hatha Yoga alignment, Tantric philosophy, (which promotes love of the body as an immanent expression of the Divine) and Archetype awareness, Shamanic journeying work, and contemporary culture to create a ‘Hero’s Quest’ experience that is profoundly healing. 
I have found that life is as magical as we allow it to be. I feel that telling stories with this amazing gift we call a body to be one of the singular joys of life. Burning Man changed my perception of what art is - art can be everywhere, in every moment. Being in Hawai'i has allowed me to move even deeper in this amazing practice, coming into my power as a gentle and strong channel for these teachings.
I am glad for every opportunity I have to express, to share, to teach. I feel it is very important to share our stories and create with our bodies and voices.
I encourage my students to explore, to embrace and even love their bodies, as they let go of what is blocking them and invite in joy and light. All of my classes include intention, meditation, and chanting, and I often chant during Savasana to hold the space. My classes are open to all practitioners.
We are blessed to live in such an amazing time. As we grow into a global family, as we ascend to a unified state of collective consciousness, as we learn to play in harmony, may we dance in this sacred hoop with joy and grace.
I hope you will dance with me...
