Daiva and Gangamata

Daiva Glazzard

Founder and Director of Ananda Center at Laurelwood and Spiritual Director of Ananda Portland.

Seeking inspiration from a young age led Daiva to read Autobiography of a Yogi in 1982, and he subsequently discovered Ananda. Daiva moved to Ananda Village in 1985 and served there until January 2004 when he and Gangamata relocated to Portland to serve as spiritual directors.

Ananda Center at Laurelwood was born in May of 2011 from the realization that “environment is stronger than will-power,” and that spiritual seekers are helped enormously by supportive surroundings.

The purpose of Ananda Center at Laurelwood is to provide a positive environment for those who seek insight and growth in understanding the philosophies that bring true fulfillment, and how to apply those philosophies to every aspect of daily life.

Daiva is actively involved in guiding the direction of Ananda Laurelwood and supporting the staff who provide the classes and environment that make Ananda Center at Laurelwood such a rewarding place to spend time.

Gangamata Glazzard

Co-founder and Director of Ananda Center at Laurelwood and Spiritual Director of Ananda Portland.

Gangamata has been serving with Daiva in Portland since January 2004. From 1991 through 2003 Gangamata lived at Ananda Village and served in many roles – retail store management in downtown Nevada City, Guest Services Manager at The Expanding Light, and Human Resources Director of Ananda Village.

Gangamata currently helps develop programs and retreats at Laurelwood, along with teaching Raja Yoga, meditation, yoga, and other programs based on universal yogic traditions.