The World Yoga Center History

We call the World Yoga Center a school

Decades after we opened our doors in 1972, we are still here at our original address. Only Yoga has been practiced in our beautiful space and the atmosphere here is unusually pristine and serene.

LONG BEFORE THERE WERE YOGA STUDIOS

The 70's

The World Yoga Center was born at a time of cultural revolution, filled with the younger generation's visionary dreams of inner spiritual growth.

1972

Impacted by the tutelage of teachers of the mystical traditions of the East and extraordinary Western teachers of the consciousness-raising generation of the seventies, Rudrani opened the school with Hatha classes, meditation courses and retreats in the style of Integral Yoga.

1974

In 1974, Rudrani met her spiritual teacher whose teachings and practices revolutionized her outlook and impacted the very core of her life bringing new inner experiences that transformed the school’s curriculum, deepened its intention, and created a lasting relationship with the spiritual power of the Siddha lineage. The extraordinary and ancient path of inner awakening enriched the school and brought the community to new levels of awareness.

1976

The World Yoga Center launched its first successful teacher training. The school continues to train spiritually dedicated teachers known for their comprehensive background and superlative ability. Our teacher trainings include transformational work on the ego, rigorous practices and powerful transmission of the wisdom of Yoga, inspiring graduates to offer heartfelt service to the world.

2001

The World Yoga Center chose Anusara Yoga as its method of Hatha Yoga as it includes a strong foundation in the Tantric philosophy of unity awareness and fosters an inner opening to infinite energies within oneself. Teachings emanating from Anusara Yoga are based on the ancient philosophies of the Shaivite tradition of Kashmir. This method of hatha yoga circulates refined energy through the inner body with clear, natural alignment, attention to anatomical detail and an integration of the whole self.

2002

The World Yoga Center became a Yoga Alliance registered teacher training school.

2004

Rudrani created a dynamic and creative teaching team with Jacalyn Prete, Certified Anusara Yoga Instructor, establishing the World Yoga Center Special Programs. These programs include teacher trainings, immersions, workshops, retreats, and Kirtans. Read more about Jacalyn and Rudrani. These programs carry the vision and practices that illuminate the heart of the World Yoga Center.

2007

Julia Pearring joined the World Yoga Center staff, first as an administrative assistant. Her role expanded over the years in support of the growth of the school into the 21st century. She has been part of the teacher training team since 2015 and the managing director since 2020.

2023

The WYC became a nonprofit organization in order to fully align with our true purpose and spirit.

Nonprofit status has allowed us to:

  • protect the school’s visionary roots and independence.
  • ensure that our community—not any single person or company—cares for and sustains this sacred space.
  • support our teachers and appreciate their skills and commitment.
  • welcome practitioners of every background, ability, and financial status with openness and respect.


World Yoga Center today

Rudrani and Julia, WYC co-directors, shine as a team in shared service to an ever evolving school of Yoga.


The World Yoga Center has always been a place dedicated to serving the highest within people with the intention of spreading compassion in the world. The school offers students a rich array of hatha yoga classes, complimentary daily morning meditations, workshops, courses and trainings, plus mentoring and individual counseling.

TEACHING TEAM

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WELCOME STAFF

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Meet our non-profit

Give to sustain the heart of our shared practice.


As a community-owned and community-supported nonprofit, the World Yoga Center thrives through the generosity of those who love and value it.


Your donation—whether a one-time gift or an ongoing tithing-style contribution—helps preserve this sacred space, support our teachers, and ensure that the transformative energy of Yoga continues to serve all who enter our doors.