Chaya's Bio

Chaya's Bio

Chaya~Sharon Heller, BA, IYT, LMT, has been working as a teacher and healer since 1978. As a Yoga Therapist, Massage Therapist, and Workshop Leader, she works with groups and individuals to facilitate health and well-being.

Chaya has taught Yoga and Workshops to specific populations, such as people with Multiple Sclerosis, Scoliosis, postural asymmetries, and teenagers at local high schools, as well as Kripalu Center, Yoga Studios, Fitness and Community Centers, and Spas and has been invited to teach throughout the country. She is currently featured on the cover of Yoga International Magazine, as well as Kripalu Yoga; A Guide to Practice On and Off the Mat, to be released by Bantam in the not-too-distant future.

Chaya’s Yoga classes incorporate breath within flowing sequences of asanas that create the space for moving in and out of postures, as well as longer holdings to deepen focus, concentration and explore the flow of energy within the body and mind. She specializes in modifications for alignment, strength, flexibility, relaxation, and movement without pain, and integrates breathing, meditation, Ayurveda and Yogic Philosophy as a framework for holistic health. A home practice can be created that suits the personal needs and goals of each individual. You may learn how to prevent and deal with all types of injuries, manage stress and promote health and healing, as well as develop a deeper understanding of yourself, lifestyle and environment, and the ability to make clear decisions about your health.

Chaya has studied in India, Thailand, and the United States, where she has been certified in Integrative Yoga Therapy, Viniyoga, Professional Level Kripalu Yoga, and Holistic Health Education. She is a licensed Massage Therapist, offering Swedish, Deep Tissue, Ayurvedic, Sports Massage and Reiki, holds a BA in Food and Nutrition, and is studying to be an Ayurvedic Practitioner. Chaya is registered with Yoga Alliance, and is affiliated with the International Association of Yoga Therapists, EcoYoga, Kripalu Yoga Teachers Association, and Kripalu Bodywork and Therapeutic Massage Association.

Chaya’s passion for the art and healing power of herbs and tea, have inspired the creation of Chaya Herb Tea; her own unique blends of organic herbs to serve your body, mind and spirit.

Sharon grew up dancing and for many years danced professionally. She appeared with such masters as Gregory Hines, Savion Glover, Jimmy Slyde, and Buster Brown. She partnered Jan Minkens in “Sophisticated Ladies”, choreographed by Mercedes Ellington and was a member of The American Tap Dance Orchestra under the direction of Brenda Bufalino. She had many outstanding opportunities to work with Broadway choreographers and directors, and created a tap dance education video while teaching in New York City dance studios and for CAP-21 at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. Sharon is a member of The International Tap Dance Association.

Sharon has danced, taught, adjudicated and choreographed in New York City and throughout the world, and her integration of the healing arts an essential part of her training and a natural progression for her gifts to continue to nurture and heal. She is a vehicle for spirit and devoted to share her passion for life. All of Chaya’s healing work encourages the integration of body, mind and spirit, to move forward in life peacefully, with grace and ease.