Uma Macfarlane
Minister, Counselor & Raja Yoga Teacher
Uma Macfarlane is a Minister, Counselor and Raja Yoga Teacher who is one of the founding members of Ananda Village. An astute counselor and teacher, Uma offers a number of classes on Raja Yoga at the Expanding Light including The Art of Intuitive Guidance.
A student and teacher of yogic philosophy and spiritual science for 30 years, Uma helps people to understand that yoga is much more than a set of postures – it is a lifestyle teaching that, if applied sincerely and diligently, will help you in every aspect of life. Uma has taught at Ananda communities in Seattle and Palo Alto, as well as lectured in India and throughout the United States. A native of the United Kingdom, she brings wonderful wit and charming warmth to her classes as well as obvious depth of experience.
About her experiences as a teacher she says:
"People everywhere are searching for the same things in life – peace of mind, happiness, a sense of meaning and fulfillment. People hope and pray that it’s possible to find these things. The teachings of yoga help us understand ourselves better and give us tools and techniques to use in our daily life. Yoga is much more than a set of yoga postures – it is a lifestyle teaching that, if applied sincerely and diligently, will help you in every aspect of your life: in relationships, dealing with emotions, coping with change, and responding appropriately when life throws a curve ball.
There is no area of life that can’t be changed for the better with this ancient science of life. With this self-awareness and understanding, people begin to feel better about themselves, and then their attitudes and perceptions change. Because of these internal changes, all of life changes in new and wonderful ways. It’s a privilege and a joy to share these teachings with the many hundreds of people that come here seeking and finding rest, relaxation and renewal.”
From one of her students:
“Speaking as someone with 15 years experience in education, the last 5 of these hiring teachers for an excellent college prep academy, I was quite impressed with Uma – her sparkling smile, and warmth of welcome. How someone so lovable to be with can at the same time be a very serious and conscientious teacher is a blessing to us all. She has a way of making you feel completely comfortable, yet at the same time, the knowledge and experience she shares is deep and meaningful. One can absorb her lessons and wisdom because she has a way of opening comfort zones, making students' minds think and share without any uneasy feelings.”
– Stephen Edwards, San Clemente, CA
