As a mom of young children looking for purpose and meaning, I began teaching yoga in 1998 in Chestnut Ridge, NY renting space at a local Tae Kwon Do studio. I’d done a long and intensive yoga teacher training in India several years before and was ready to honor and offer what I’d learned there to people here in the US.
After seven years teaching in Chestnut Ridge we were ready for a place we could call our own. After much hunting, and one or two disappointments, a perfect place finally appeared; it faced the Saddle River around a peaceful courtyard, and I recognized that it could be a place of peace and harmony. After a puja, or Indian blessing ceremony, I opened the doors to Shree Yoga with a ribbon cutting, a weekend of free classes and door prizes on January 8, 2005.
Photo: January 8, 2005—Ribbon cutting with Saddle River Councilwoman Carole Fitzpatrick and Liz Calabrese, who warmly welcomed us to the community.
Over the past 20 plus years, our journey has been both challenging and deeply rewarding. While other yoga studios have come and gone, Shree Yoga has remained steadfast. When the economy faltered in 2008, we provided discounted classes to those in need. During the trials of the pandemic, we pivoted to online classes, ensuring continuity for our students. And when the time came to reopen for in-person practice, we welcomed our community back with open arms. Many of our students have been with us since the beginning, and our teachers have dedicated decades to teaching at Shree. Together, we’ve built a sanctuary of support, guidance, and connection for hundreds.
Why do people stick with us? Our students tell us it’s because we’re the real deal. We’re not a glitzy corporate box studio. We offer yoga classes that embody the wisdom, heart and authenticity of yoga as taught in India honoring the culture and teachings from its point of origin. For us, yoga is about much more than exercise and fitness. We embrace the spirituality at yoga’s core and weave that into our classes. It is these teachings that have helped so many find healing and transformation at Shree.
While we honor yoga’s ancient roots, we also embrace the evolving science of movement and biomechanics, creating a balanced approach that blends tradition with innovation. Our classes range from gentle to vigorous, with specialized offerings for those with limited mobility or other needs. Our workshops, courses, trainings and retreats—particularly our mountain yoga retreats—are beloved by our community.
At Shree Yoga, every individual is met with care and respect. We strive to create an inclusive, welcoming space where all feel safe and supported. Guided by transparency and integrity, we donate 10% of our profits to charity, ensuring that our success benefits the broader community.
Personally, Shree Yoga has been a source of strength and solace through life’s challenges. It has given me purpose, hope, and fulfillment. I am deeply grateful to our students, our devoted teachers, and my husband, William, for his unwavering support. Most of all, I am grateful for the gift of yoga itself.
As we celebrate 20 years in Saddle River, plus another seven years before that in Chestnut Ridge, I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of this journey. Here’s to many more years of breathing, practicing, and connecting together.
