About Dhan

Letter from the Founder & Director

Namaste!

Nearly five years ago, I began to create Dhanwantari Center for Yoga & Well-Being. From its conception, Dhanwantari Yoga's mission has been HEALING. A space that helps you to feel better, body, mind and SOUL! The Sanskrit word YOGA, actually means "union." Each of us experiences the nature of duality, we often feel pulled in several different directions. The mind is constantly set to 'chatter' mode. Yoga, or union, makes you feel whole and complete by joining your day-to-day mundane nature with your TRUE nature, your higher self. This is why YOGA is the ultimate healing modality. You can't do Yoga, as yoga is a state of mind that you are trying to reach. What is this state of mind? HAPPINESS. True Happiness!  

In the West, there are many misconceptions about Yoga. One is that yoga is primarily a study of the physical body. Yoga is a science of the mind, not the body. When we practice yoga asanas (postures), we begin to awaken the life of the body and relieve tension from the body, so there is a sense of ease when you take your life 'off the mat.' When we focus on our breath and begin to practice a slow, steady breathing pattern, we calm the mind. When we open the mind and the body to the practice of yoga, life FLOWS.

Yoga is not about standing on your head. Remember, that the ultimate goal is not about mastering or perfecting a pose. The goal is union and happiness. Though you move your body through postures, stand on one foot, and twist yourself into a pretzel, the practice is working on a more subtle level. The level of your Soul.  

At Dhanwantari, you will find a supportive, non-competitive environment with no judgements. There are no glorified  teachers or teachers that consider themselves "masters". Each of our skilled teachers, brings with them their own experience and  the influence of the great yogis that passed their knowledge on to them. Our teachers at Dhanwantari are guides, not to be placed on a pedestals. As yoga is practice to connect to your true self, that part of you not associated with the body, there are no mirrors and no concern if someone is practicing 'better' than you. There is no such thing as a perfect posture.  There is no dress code or accessories that are necessary. Just come to Dhanwantari with an open heart and open mind and discover the power of this ancient practice!

We offer several classes throughout the week, find one that fits your schedule and JOIN US! If you prefer, we are happy to work with you one-on-one, so that you can develop your own personal practice. 

Be at Peace!

Om Shanti!

Brooke E. Cannoot, MS OTR, CYT