Jim Jamila
Jim Jamila discovered yoga in 2004 while training for a marathon, initially drawn to the practice as a complement to his running. Over time, what began as a physical pursuit evolved into a dedicated daily Ashtanga practice, leading him to the traditional Mysore method.
He learned the Ashtanga Vinyasa system one posture at a time, studying under Andrew Hillam and David Miliotis at Jois Yoga Encinitas and later with Aliya Weise at Ashtanga San Diego. Believing in the slow, transformative power of yoga, Jim is a testament to how even the stiffest runner can develop strength, flexibility, and mindfulness through consistent practice.
In January 2013, Jim made his first trip to Mysore, India, to study with Sharath Jois at the Sri K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute, and thereafter at the Sharath Yoga Centre. He received Sharath’s blessing to teach in 2015 and is a Level II Authorized teacher, a testament to his commitment to preserving and sharing the tradition.
Jim continues to approach teaching with patience and dedication, helping students build a solid foundation in Ashtanga while embracing the depth of the practice beyond the mat.
Blake O’Connor
Blake found Ashtanga Yoga in the Mysore style through his original teacher, Johnna Smith, while completing his 200-hour teacher training in 2016. He has been shaped by a variety of teachers, including Sharathji, and is particularly grateful for his studies with Mary Taylor and Richard Freeman.
Blake is nearing completion of a Master of Education focused on social-emotional learning, mindfulness, and yoga, and is also completing his 500-hour yoga teacher certification. He is a human potential coach, nervous system aficionado and is a member of the Denver Gay & Lesbian Flag Football League.
Blake teaches at Denver Mysore in Colorado and is an Authorized Level II teacher at the Sharath Yoga Centre.
Natalie Farra
Natalie Farra grew up between cultures, countries, and communities, constantly adapting to new environments. Amidst this movement, she discovered Ashtanga Yoga in college, a practice that quickly became a grounding force in her life.
Her journey led her to study with the late Paramaguru R. Sharath Jois, first through his international tours and later at the source in Mysore, India. For well over a decade, Natalie has maintained a dedicated and disciplined practice, finding that beyond asana, yoga serves as a path for self-study, growth, stability, and community.
Off the mat, Ashtanga continues to inform and sustain her work, both as an ICU nurse and as an advocate for animal welfare. She believes deeply in the transformative power of yoga—not just in physical discipline but in its ability to cultivate resilience, compassion, and purpose.
In the wake of Sharathji’s passing, Natalie remains devoted to honoring his teachings and legacy. She is committed to supporting his family’s ongoing efforts and contributing to the global Ashtanga community, ensuring that his wisdom continues to guide practitioners for generations to come.