Anna Simi

I went to my first class ever almost twenty years ago! It was an Ashtanga class at Inner Bliss in Rocky River.

We began by chanting the Ashtanga invocation at the top of the mat followed by a challenging flow that lasted a whole hour and twenty minutes! Looking back this was probably a bit ambitious of me but none the less I was hooked. The practice changed my life so much that I've decided to devote my life to teaching. Yoga has become part of who I am.

After several years of practice I longed for more knowledge. I went on to complete teacher training with the amazing Marni Task at The Yoga Room in Little Italy. I am certified in 'Jivasara' Yoga, (Jivamukti + Anusara Yoga). These days my practice and teaching is inspired by many styles of Yoga including Ashtanga, Jivamukti, Anusara & Iyengar. I am forever inspired by my beloved teachers that I’ve been lucky enough to learn from directly including Sharon Gannon, David Life, Jules Febre, John Friend, Krishna Das, Janet Stone and many more.

As my practice has evolved over the years I've developed a deep connection to my inner self and to my physical body. The beautiful thing about Yoga is there is something for everyone. Whether it's pranayama, asana, meditation or bhakti. All tools that lead to the same intention. The intention to be free and to transcend the mind! I don’t believe you can be good or bad at yoga. All practice is progress.

Outside of yoga I am passionate about music, spending time with family & friends, immersing myself in nature, traveling to new places and connecting with beautiful people. I have a soft spot for beginner’s and love to mentor new Yoga teachers! Fun fact, I am an advanced Thai Massage practitioner.

A quote that continues to inspire me, "The ultimate act of power is surrender." - Krishna Das

My teaching style is genuine and intuitive from the heart. I lead an accessible class for students of all levels seeking a spiritual experience.

I hope students feel supported and seen. With an open mind and a kind heart I hope they can learn to trust their intuition and deepen the relationship they have with themselves.. I hope they want to show up for the pure act of doing Yoga unattached to the end result and in time can learn to surrender their ego and experience true bliss.

I practice yoga because... of the way it makes me feel. Mentally, physically and spiritually.

I teach yoga because… it's a healing practice I've grown to love and trust. Plus the health benefits are endless!

I find peace… silently walking in the woods.

I have been most influenced by… my students.

Some of my favorite snacks are… almond butter filled pretzels.

I am happiest when… on my Yoga mat.

I couldn’t live without… my harmonium (my Yoga boombox).

When I’m not at Inner Bliss, you might find me… walking in the metroparks with Leroy.

My favorite mantra is… Hari Om.

Every day I… take time for myself.