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YOGA TEACHER

Bruna Augurusa

B run a has been practicing yoga for over 20 years. She is a Certified Yoga Instructor and Certified Chair Yoga Instructor.
Bruna is known for her thoughtful sequencing, for her clear and precise cuing and for her ability to challenge and motivate. Bruna also teaches at various yoga studios throughout the GTA, group private classes and has taught yoga on tropical beach resorts. Bruna’s classes begin and end with a meditation. The vinyasa flowing class synchronizes movement with breath, calming the mind while the body works up a sweat using the breath. She caters the classes to suit the needs of different students (from beginners to advanced), offering modifications or variations based on their experience level, injury or personal comfort. You will leave her classes with feelings of deep relaxation, peace and well-being and a healthy flow of energy.

ANDREA CARUSO

Certified pilates instructor, yoga instructor, breathwork facilitator

Brings over 20 years of teaching expertise and more than 40 years of movement experience and discipline to her offerings. 

She holds Certifications in STOTT Pilates, reformer, yoga, elemental breathwork, barre, reiki, Thai massage and personal training, with a special focus on Pilates pelvic floor therapy, rehabilitation and pre- and post-natal care. Andrea is also a professional belly dancer and instructor, voice alchemist.

In addition to her diverse qualifications and classes, Andrea also offers unique energetic bodywork sessions that blend Thai massage, energy work, and sound healing.
Her approach combines classical techniques and methodology with modern, intuitive insights, empowering her clients to achieve profound physical and energetic transformation. Beyond her teaching, Andrea is renowned for hosting women’s retreats, ceremonies, and unique gatherings in the wellness and holistic community, creating transformative spaces for healing and connection.

DAVID BRUNI

Yoga instructor & shiatsu massage therapist

David has been practising yoga for over 30 years. He is also a Shiatsu massage therapist, he has used this background to lead unique classes which focus on strength, mobility and tissue softening.

David also regularly leads workshops around the province and the United States including his popular Yoga Basics workshop, and more recently, an innovative Dowel and Self-Massage Workshop that teachers, students techniques to soften the muscles and tendons and sooth the superficial nervous system – a necessity for those with a regular yoga practice. David ensures that all of his classes are accessible and yet still challenging for all levels of practitioners.

IVANO STENTA

Yoga instructor

Ivano Stenta is a yoga teacher, movement specialist, and healing arts guide with over 20 years of experience and more than 1,000 hours of advanced training. Before finding yoga, he spent years immersed in the fast-paced nightlife industry, a lifestyle that left him searching for deeper meaning and purpose.  

Everything shifted the moment he stepped onto a yoga mat—an experience he often says saved his life. Since then, Ivano has trained in Ashtanga and Vinyasa in Toronto and Bali, later evolving his own style, FreeLove Yoga Flow. His journey has expanded into meditation, Qigong, breathwork, plant medicine, and alternative healing, with a special focus on mental health, addiction, and pain management.

Ivano believes that stepping onto the mat is the first step toward transforming how you think, how you treat yourself, and how you connect with the world. With warmth and compassion, he invites each student to explore their own path of discovery and see what unfolds.

JOVITA CHEUNG

Yoga instructor

Jovita has been practicing yoga for over 15 years, the last 10 years being devoted to a daily traditional ashtanga practice. Jovita completed her teacher training in 2009, and over the years she has completed two Ashtanga Immersions, and numerous workshops with esteemed teachers including Kino McGregor, Laura Glaser, Sarath Jois and David Robson.

Jovita also frequently leads workshops in the GTA with focus on different skills that will enhance your practice including arm balances, inversions, and the jump back and through for vinyasas.

MARINA BRYCE

Yoga instructor, thai yoga massage certified

Marina first explored yoga 18 years ago, as a way of balancing a busy family and work life, and has been practicing various forms of yoga ever since. She has been teaching since 2010, after having received her 200 Hour Certificate. She has also completed her Level 4 Thai Yoga Massage Certification, from the Thai Massage Toronto School.

Yoga has given Marina its physical benefits of endurance, focus and flexibility, but more importantly, it has provided her with inner strength and self-awareness. She teaches yoga because she wants to share her passion for it, and believes that we can all take our yogic experiences off the mat and into our daily lives.
In her classes, Marina encourages her students to do their best, listen to their bodies and respect their abilities, as well as to focus on their breath while they work in proper alignment. Her classes are well balanced and flow with ease from pose to pose, and her passion for helping others inspires her to hold space for fun, creative and safe practices that accommodate every practitioner.

NANCY SALERNO

yoga instructor, lawyer, Previous yoga light studio owner,

Nancy has been practicing yoga for over 15 years. In order to expand her knowledge and grow her practice, she completed over 500 hours of training and a number of specialized workshops and training. Nancy is now a RYT 500 Hours

Nancy is also a lawyer, and she practiced various types of law for over 20 years before taking a leave of absence to focus her energy on Yoga Light Studio and its growing yoga community.  She now focuses on teaching private yoga classes.

SHELDON SHANNON

Yoga instructor

Sheldon is one of Toronto’s most sought after instructors, known for his challenging classes, creativity and commitment to both the practice and teaching of yoga.

A natural born athlete, Sheldon came to the practice with a rebellious and playful energy. With a passion for cycling and a childhood of competitive gymnastics, Sheldon was immediately drawn to the powerful Ashtanga yoga method and began a committed practice in 2007.

Ashtanga’s rhythmic breathing, challenging vinyasa and meditative quality had a powerful effect on Sheldon and the practice allowed/encouraged him to focus and connect to a deeper place within himself. He maintains his daily practice in the tradition of Sri K Pattabhi Jois, R Sharath Jois and R Saraswati Jois.

​Sheldon teaches vigorous and dynamic Vinyasa classes that focus on building strength, increasing flexibility and he encourages his students to push the boundaries of their own limitations. Known for running a tight ship and holding students to the same standard he sets for himself, his classes are powerful, fun and challenging.

SHERI BUTERA

Yoga instructor

Sheri has been practicing yoga for 10 years and in 2019 she completed her 200 Hours teaching certification. She has since learned additional meditation techniques to help round out her practice. Sheri enjoys teaching yoga to beginners and those seeking to improve their mind, body connection. Sheri shares that she is happy to be on this lifelong journey of evolution and experience.

DEBBIE GAGLIARDI

Yoga & Pilates instructor Life Coach

I completed my Mat and Reformer Certification by Stott Pilates in Toronto, 15+ years ago. In June of 2018, I received my 200-hr Yoga Teacher Training Certification by BlissOm.

I am passionate about bringing physical fitness into my life and into the lives of my students to achieve balance and well-being both on and off the mat. Yoga and Pilates will bring an awareness of mind and body connection, as well as improve core and overall strength for balance, better posture, and less risk of injury.

 It brings me joy to help people achieve a connection with their physical bodies. It is essential that we give our bodies movement and challenge. Through controlled movements and proper function and form, along with strength and flexibility work is how one achieves balance and well-being!

MARY PANNONE

Yoga instructor

I have been practicing yoga for over 25 years and am a certified 500-hour yoga teacher as well as a certified life coach. I have been dedicated to my practice ever since I began my journey with yoga and decided to become a teacher so I could share my love and passion with others.

I studied anatomy, psychology, and philosophy of yoga to deepen my understanding of its meaning. I am currently teaching many levels of yoga as well as pranayama, meditation, and Pilates. I strongly believe in keeping the authenticity of the yoga lineage alive, as this is a fundamental component.

Yoga has transformed my life, and I know the amazing benefits of yoga and how important it is to implement it into the lives of others. I am here to empower and inspire individuals on their own journey of life.

NADIA TOMASELLI

Vinyasa Yoga Instructor

Began her yoga practice over 30 years ago. Nadia worked as a social worker for seniors with Alzheimer’s. Working with these seniors really affected her health emotionally and physically and her yoga practice really helped her cope with taking care of these seniors.  

In 2003 Nadia was certified in Thai Yoga Massage. In 2006 she received her YTT certification to better understand her practice as she became obsessed with adjustments and alignment. Nadia has been part of the teacher training since conception in 2015. Over 10 years of being part of the faculty in the 200hr Ytt Program, Nadia is now offering Yoga Thai Massage Certification.

REBECCA PITTAM

Yoga and Fitness Enthusiast

I have been a Yoga and fitness enthusiast since the days of leg warmers. If you were not around then, that would be around the mid-1970s. The concept of a Holistic lifestyle became a strong motivating force and guided my journey toward the awareness of the benefits of achieving a healthy, balanced physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual state of well-being.  

In the late nineties, I decided to get the necessary education to become a fitness leader and completed a 2-year Fitness Leadership Program at Humber College. That only fueled my confidence and desire to explore the world of fitness and its’many facets. I went on to receive my 1st and 2nd Degree Black Belts in Shotokan Karate and taught a Women’s Kickboxing program for approximately 15 years. I introduced a Pilates and Yoga practice to balance the program and have been teaching these forms of discipline ever since. My passion and overall experience, allow me to offer a unique and effective practice that I love to share with others. The benefits of a consistent practice soon reflect on the many aspects of our lives. Allowing each and every one of us the opportunity to contribute towards a happier and healthier world, one posture at a time.

MARIANNA P.

Meet Miriana (Mimi)

V inyasa + Kundalini + Yoga Nidra + Ashtanga + Restorative + Hatha + Himalayan + Fusion Teacher  

Breathwork &  Meditation Facilitator

Mimi has always been a very active person. Her joy of movement from walking to hiking to running as well as her participation in sports has and is a big part of her life

Then Yoga entered into her world. She discovered that it was not only a physical practice which she loved but was inspired to dig deeper as she was intrigued by the many facets of the Yoga tradition.

Along with Asana, Medtation. Mantra, Pranayama, and Kriyas, a profound shift occurred. You could say like headstand her world turned upside down. Through Mimi’s dedication and passion for the practice it has facilitated a wonderful,  transformative, and  impactful change that has influenced every aspect of her life.

Her passion and purpose is to share these sacred teachings from Hatha Yoga, to Ashtanga,to Kundalini to the Himalayan lineages and beyond so that people can truly feel alive, live a fuller life, experience happiest, be joyous, and live a purposeful life.

Yoga for Mimi is dancing with Divinity within and without.

TAYLOR FERRI

Yoga Instructor

Taylor (she/her) has been inspired by yoga, meditation, and self-growth as part of her life’s journey for many years.  

A graduate of BlissOm’s Yoga Teacher Training program, Taylor is honoured to share the practice of breath and movement with others and aims to create a safe, inclusive, and open space for all to enjoy and share.

Her classes aim to complement her personal purpose which is to build inspiring spaces, programs, and communities that help people find direction, gain confidence, and feel beautiful from the inside out.

Join Taylor on the mat to flow with energy, intention, gratitude, and self-love.

Natalie Marnica

Yoga Therapist- E-RYT 500

Natalie is a Certified Yoga Therapist, movement coach, and highly experienced teacher with over 1,000 hours of training. She specializes in functional movement and mobility practices that are safe, accessible, and designed to help you move with confidence at any stage of life.  

Her own healing journey began after a traumatic car accident, where she rebuilt her strength, mobility, and peace of mind through yoga and mindful movement. That experience fuels her passion today: helping midlife adults release pain, improve mobility, and restore balance in both body and mind.

Natalie offers 1:1 holistic coaching, where she creates customized programs that meet you exactly where you are, supporting you in building strength and mobility without stepping into a gym. She is also the creator of the Chair Yoga & Mobility Teacher Training, a program that equips teachers with tools to guide others safely through accessible, therapeutic yoga practices.

Whether in a group class, private coaching, or teacher training, students describe Natalie as warm, compassionate, and deeply supportive. She creates a safe, welcoming space where you’ll feel guided and encouraged—empowering you to move with more ease, build strength, and improve your overall well-being.

Practice with Natalie online or in person at Bliss Om Studio. Visit our website for her full schedule, or email info@blissom to learn more about her upcoming trainings.

KELLY LIU

YOGA TEACHER

Kelly began her yoga journey in 2021, drawn to the beauty and challenge of the practice. Through dedication, she discovered a deeper connection with her inner self, building confidence and deepening her connection with herself.    

For her, yoga is more than physical movement, it is dynamic meditation. On the mat, she embraces challenges with calm and focus, which naturally extends into daily life.

Her classes are creative and thoughtfully sequenced, gradually strengthening the body, opening the heart, and preparing students for challenging postures and smooth transitions. Each flow is playful and mindful, reminding students that the reward is found in the process.

Angie Triumbari

Yoga Teacher 200RYT, Fitness Trainer, Canfit, Diet and Wellness, Ideal Protein Weight Loss

Angie has 10 years experience in the health and wellness industry. Presently, as a yoga teacher, including past positions as a fitness trainer in addition a diet and wellness coach with a reputable nutrition program.    

Angie’s specialty is teaching students movement that improves strength and flexibility in body mind and spirit.  Her techniques aid in body awareness, acceptances and overall sense of well being.  

Angie has studied with many highly qualified teachers including yoga philosopher and Sanskrit expert from India.  She continues to learn through her own personal practice with other yoga mentorship programs.  Believing in giving back, she volunteered at community school library, food bank and cancer charities.  

Angie believes your health is your wealth and encourages everyone to exercise, eat well, connect with people and seek spirituality daily.

LORA LISI

Founder, Director, Life Coach, and RYT 500 Yoga Teacher

With over 20 years of dedicated practice, Lora has become a true pillar of the yoga and wellness community. As a registered yoga teacher (RYT 500), she has completed over 500 hours of advanced training, along with numerous specialized workshops and courses that have broadened her expertise in both yoga and life coaching.    
In 2012, Lora brought her vision to life by founding BlissOm Yoga and Wellness Centre, a sanctuary created to inspire calm, connection, and personal transformation. In 2024, she expanded her impact by acquiring The Yoga Light Studio in Vaughan, and is now in the process of merging both communities to offer an even more expansive space for healing and growth.

Her passion for cultivating personal growth and inner peace has led her to create a unique blend of yoga, life coaching, and community building. Her Teacher Training Program at BlissOm Yoga Light is designed to nurture aspiring yoga teachers, offering them the tools to guide others toward transformation and self-awareness.

As a certified Life Coach, Lora works with individuals to navigate life transitions and uncover their inner light. Her approach integrates mindfulness, yoga philosophy, and practical coaching techniques to help people feel more connected to themselves and to each other.

Beyond the studio, Lora travels internationally, leading transformative retreats that encourage deep personal reflection, inner peace, and lasting change. Whether in the classroom or on retreat, Lora is deeply committed to creating spaces where individuals can thrive, grow, and experience their own transformations.

ANGIE TRIUMBARI

Yoga Teacher 200RYT, Fitness Trainer, Canfit, Diet and Wellness, Ideal Protein Weight Loss

Angie has 10 years experience in the health and wellness industry. Presently, as a yoga teacher, including past positions as a fitness trainer in addition to a diet and wellness coach with a reputable nutrition program. Angie’s specialty is teaching students movement that improves strength and flexibility in body mind and spirit. Her techniques aid in body awareness, acceptances and overall sense of well being.    

Angie has studied with many highly qualified teachers including yoga philosopher and Sanskrit expert from India. She continues to learn through her own personal practice with other yoga mentorship programs. Believing in giving back, she volunteered at community school library, food bank and cancer charities.

Angie believes your health is your wealth and encourages everyone to exercise, eat well, connect with people and seek spirituality daily.

EVA LAM

Yoga Instructor

Eva began her yoga journey in 2015 and was drawn to yoga as a way of active meditation, building strength and developing body awareness. She hopes to share the benefits of yoga that she has experienced with others. In her class, you can expect a focus on proper alignment with challenging and fun poses to flow through.  

DORA KOSENKOV

Yoga Instructor

Dora has been a student of yoga for 7 years. She got her Mat and Yoga Pilates certification in 2023. Dora believes that yoga is not just a physical practice, but also a mental and spiritual one.  

Dora believes that by incorporating both yoga and Pilates into your practice creates a well-rounded fitness routine that balances flexibility, core strength, and mindfulness, leading to a more rounded. Through her teachings, Dora hopes to inspire others to discover the transformative power of both yoga and pilates and embrace a healthier, more mindful lifestyle.

HOLISTIC PRACTITIONERS

RAM VAKKALANKA

Sanskrit Expert, Yoga Philosopher, Sitar Artist, Kirtan Singer and Meditation Instructor

Ram Vakkalanka was born and brought up in India, in a family dedicated to Yogic style of living. He grew up studying Sanskrit language, BhagavadGita, Upanishads and chanting Mantras as a lifestyle.  

In his teens, Ram started studying music through the Sitar, eventually leading to Nada Yoga. Simultaneous to Yogic education, Ram also pursued mundane education, amassed a few qualifications in Finance, worked in upper echelons of Management in the corporate world in Singapore, Africa, USA and Canada.

It was in Canada Ram met his spiritual Guru and that meeting changed his life completely. In 2010, Ram quit the corporate world and dedicated his life to spreading the sublime philosophy of Veda and Vedic sciences such as Astrology and Ayurveda.

Ram travels around the world sharing his deep knowledge of Yogic philosophy, Sanskrit, Nada Yoga as well as Vedic sciences such as Ayurveda and Astrology. His teachings are simple but profound, filled with current examples and humor.

So far 22 CDs in three languages, one DVD and an online course about the origin and evolution of Yoga of Ram’s works have been published in three languages. He appeared on the TV as well as Radio on numerous occasions.

For more about Ram, visit www.ramvakkalanka.com or connect on Instagram ram_vakkalanka.

TIFFANY NICHOLSON-SMITH

International Teacher

Tiffany Nicholson-Smith is an International Teacher, Ayurvedic Naturopath, and Lover of Life who shares the gifts of Meditation, Yoga & Ayurveda with students across the globe. With over 20 years of immersion, Tiffany brings not only deep wisdom but also more than 5,000+ hours of formal training in Classical Hatha Yoga, Ayurveda, Advaita Vedanta, and Tantra.  

Her journey has included years of residential study, mentorship, and silent retreat with revered teachers in India and around the world. She is currently completing her Doctorate of Ayurveda.
Born and raised in the quiet solitude of the Canadian countryside, Tiffany was drawn early to the spiritual traditions of the East. In her early 20s, she moved to India and Southeast Asia, where she lived for many years, steeping in the teachings of non-duality and yogic science. She was deeply touched by the presence of Sri Ramana Maharishi and the sacred mountain of Arunachala in Tiruvannamalai, which catalyzed a lifelong devotion to Self-inquiry and the path of Advaita Vedanta.

Tiffany’s life has been shaped by extended periods of Silent Retreats, Immersive study, as well as extensive years devoted to Yoga + Ayurveda Training under the guidance of various master teachers. These decades of commitment to inward turning—combined with her own insights and direct realizations—form the foundation of the transmission she now shares. Her offerings are known for their authenticity, clarity, and capacity to spark deep self-seeing.

She is the founder of Vichara Yoga, a unique expression of Classical Yoga that integrates meditative presence, Self-inquiry, and the complete path of Hatha Yoga. She is also the founder of RASA Ayurveda, a school, clinical practice, and apothecary dedicated to preserving and sharing the traditional healing wisdom of Ayurveda.
Today, Tiffany lives in the forested hills of Quebec, where she teaches, and also travels internationally, offering Retreats, Trainings, Immersions, and one-on-one healing sessions both in-person and online.
Tiffany bows in deep gratitude to the many teachers, lineages, and living truths that have shaped her path—and that continue to live through her offerings of the Heart.