John was inspired to begin his yoga journey in 1995 after reading Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananada. His step-father, Dave Oliver, had been practicing the Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga system for some time and mentored John into becoming the teacher he is today. Having a very active background in athletics and movement, John knows it takes discipline and determination to realize one’s Self and potential. Having traveled to study Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga in India and having enjoyed the culture of our generation, he has a refreshing outlook between old-world tradition and new-world inspiration. John has traveled all over Arizona and the U.S. to share his spirit for yoga. His classes focus on deepening the student’s attention physically, inspiring with dynamic verbal cueing, while staying rooted to the breath and enjoying the experience as it unfolds. John is a master vinyasa teacher and teaches with undeniable technique, clear language, and warm laughter. He has been teaching Vinyasa Yoga since 2000, in which he has helped open multiple yoga studios, participated in several teacher-training programs, and currently teaches workshops throughout the country. His current teaching residence is in Scottsdale, Arizona with the LifePower Yoga studios.
He has taught at the Scottsdale Anti-Aging Wellness & Yoga Festival, the Flagstaff Yoga Festival, EMPOWER! Fusion master classes, co-taught at the Yoga Journal Conference and Miami’s Art of Vinyasa Conference. John’s most influential teachers include Tim Miller, Dave Oliver, David Swenson, Maty Ezraty, and Lino Miele. Also, Matthew Sweeney, Dharma Mittra, and Anthony “Prem” Carlisi.
John is E-RYT 500 certified. He also holds a B.A. in Theatre from ASU.
Presentations
Hips, Twists & Arm Balances
Friday, March 1: 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Energy can be dense and energy can be light. Burning up and opening the hips can bring a sense of steadiness that will translate into lightness. There needs to be strength and flexibility, as well as proper understanding of alignment and engagement. We will focus on poses that specifically detail the hips and twists for standing and floor postures. Pearls, such as anatomical positioning and body mechanics, will help the student grasp the building blocks necessary for fearless determination during practice that will eventually lead to the blossoming of arm-balancing. Exilaration can be experienced through the practice of these asanas once proper understanding is realized. Come play! There will be something for everyone, whether you are beginner or advanced student.
Devotion in Motion – Float to Devote!
Saturday, March 2: 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
A fun, thrilling Vinaysa Flow class full of dynamic sequences, grounded in foundation and yoga truth. Accompanied by intelligent and precise cueing that will penetrate your body-being to its core. Musical configuration from chill to deep-house, mainstream hits and yoga-bomb drops. But let’s not forget to educate while we gyrate. We will discuss, practice, and assist each other into jumping, floating, and flying asana. Don’t miss out on this evolved form of yoga-fun, grown from the roots of tradition, and set free for the modern yogi.





