mya Teachers
SAVA
studio owner & kpjayi authorized teacher
Originating from the Republic of Georgia in Eastern Europe, Sava’s early engagement with competitive gymnastics laid the groundwork for his future in yoga. The discipline, devotion, and persistence learned from grueling training sessions translated seamlessly into his yoga practice, contributing to his success as both a practitioner and a teacher.
Sava’s teaching philosophy is characterized by confidence, gentleness, and compassion. Understanding the unique challenges that individuals face, he offers personalized guidance, adapting yoga practices to meet each student’s specific needs. His extensive knowledge of anatomy, kinesiology, and physiology enables him to create a supportive and effective learning environment for all.
In 2009, Sava faced severe back pain due to his demanding work in production. This led to a diagnosis of collapsed lumbar vertebrae, bulging discs, and nerve compression, confining him to bed for a year. However, through spinal traction, an inversion table, and discovering yoga, particularly Ashtanga yoga, he began to find relief and regain his health. This journey was not just about physical recovery but also a deep dive into the mental and spiritual benefits of yoga.
Sava’s commitment to Ashtanga Yoga took him to Mysore, India, where he immersed himself in the practice under the guidance of Sharath Jois. Beyond physical poses, he delved into philosophy, pranayama, and meditation, enriching his understanding and approach to yoga. In 2017, his dedication was recognized when he received authorization to teach Ashtanga Yoga, making him one of the few in Georgia to hold this honor.
Sharing The Gift of Yoga
“My life’s purpose is to share the ancient wisdom of Ashtanga yoga and empower individuals to reach their fullest potential.”
Sava’s dedication to his students and his passion for Ashtanga yoga shines through in the testimonials of those he has taught. Each student’s journey is a testament to Sava’s sincere desire to improve lives through the practice of yoga. Appreciation for Sava’s dedication and approach is evident in the feedback from his students:
“I appreciate that you aren’t just another yoga teacher showing up to do their ‘job.’ You genuinely want to help people through the Ashtanga practice.” ~ David A.
“No two students are adjusted the same by Sava. He has a sincere desire for his students to improve and have a happier life with a daily yoga practice.” ~ Anna Refai
“Sava sees Ashtanga as a path to an elevated human experience. And he is devoted to sharing that with his students.” ~ Jennifer Kumnick
SUSAN
Susan is certified with Yoga Alliance as an Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT) and Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider (YACEP). She is also trained in the Primary Series of Ashtanga Yoga under Tim Miller. She has studied extensively with Sava for eight years, in addition to training with David Keil and Tim Miller. With a background in fitness, Susan holds certifications in Personal Training, Group Exercise, and Pilates apparatus. She specializes in working with injured and special populations, helping clients restore function and reduce pain through yoga and strength-training modalities.
Additionally, she trained under Dr. Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa and the Yoga Veda Institute, earning certification as an Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor. Her areas of focus include women’s health, digestive health, nutrition, and supporting optimal metabolic balance.
IRI
Eclectic Performance Artist & Yoga Teacher
iri is an eclectic performance artist with a variety of modalities of expression in her arsenal. She is classically trained in piano and dance, and holds a B.A. degree in Fine Arts Painting from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. iri has trained in dance for over 20 years and has had opportunities to teach, choreograph, and perform across a spectrum of styles and levels. She is a 200 E-RYT certified yoga teacher with over 7 years of experience in teaching and developing her own practice. Ashtanga yoga is her soul’s medicine, and her enchantment for fantasy reading and writing is her divine oasis. iri aspires to continue her lifelong mission to convey and dissect the mystical yet tangible human experience in infinitely iridescent ways.
In addition, iri has completed an apprenticeship program with Sava and Marsha, gaining profound knowledge in individualized adjustments, assessment of students’ needs, and implementing injury prevention strategies for safe, gradual progression. She continues to practice and study diligently to hold space in the Mysore room, always striving to be more effective and present for her students.
