Yoga entered Chip's life in 2008 when a friend invited him to a Power Yoga class in Orlando, Florida. Instantly hooked by the end of that first class, Chip embarked on a passionate journey to delve deeper into this "mystical practice." He pursued extensive studies with seasoned teachers across Altamonte Springs, Florida, Goa, India, Chang Mai, Thailand, and New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Through these experiences, Chip earned his certification with Yoga Alliance, expanding his knowledge in various styles such as Hatha, Ashtanga, and Yin yoga. Today, his education continues as he explores Kundalini yoga and yoga for those in recovery. What started as a quest to master his own practice soon became a mission to share yoga with others. In 2022, Chip founded Longwood Yoga Shala with the vision of creating a safe and welcoming space where individuals can reconnect with themselves, find relief from attachment and isolation, and move their bodies. Step into Longwood Yoga Shala, where a warm, inviting community is here to support your journey.

Jennifer was drawn to practice Yoga during her “sabbatical” from teaching and performing dance…over 20 years ago. The yoga mat became the place she felt most at peace. She discovered, in small glimpses, the sheer JOY of connecting to the universal light within…something she previously experienced when performing. The Yoga asanas felt heart linked to her training as a dancer. After returning to teaching dance, and many life changes she found the opportunity to become a yoga teacher. She expresses gratitude to her many teachers in life and yoga.

Julia’s yoga journey began as a young girl in Moldova, mesmerized by the sight of someone practicing yoga on the banks of the Dniester River. Despite her curiosity, there were no resources or opportunities to explore yoga further in her hometown. Years later, after moving to the U.S. for college, Julia's fascination with yoga led her to self-study with a yoga book and eventually to the Milwaukee Yoga Center, where she experienced her first Iyengar yoga class.

The transformative calm and clarity she felt ignited her passion for sharing yoga with others. Julia began her teaching journey in 2004, mentored by senior Iyengar instructors, and deepened her knowledge through teacher training, massage therapy education, and years of dedicated study. She has taught specialized classes for conditions like Parkinson’s disease and women’s health, finding profound joy in helping others heal and grow.

In 2019, Julia earned her Level 1 Iyengar Yoga Certification and continues to study with her beloved mentor, Patricia Walden. Her classes combine philosophical depth, precise alignment, compassionate adjustments, and a touch of humor. Julia is committed to empowering her students to cultivate a home practice and embrace yoga as a transformative art, science, and way of life.

Makkenzze brings a deep passion for yoga and a commitment to creating an inclusive space for all. With experience teaching a variety of classes, including Vinyasa, Yin, and Yoga Nidra, she skillfully blends styles to create unique and meaningful sessions. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, Makkenzze ensures her classes are accessible, offering modifications and guidance tailored to individual needs.

Yoga is more than a practice for Makkenzze—it's a way of life that has profoundly transformed her own journey. She loves sharing this gift with others, helping them connect to their inner light, and cultivating a sense of peace, strength, and balance both on and off the mat.

Natalie May began teaching yoga in 1997 and mat Pilates in 2004. She holds certifications from The Aerobics and Fitness Association of America and The Pilates Institute of America. As a child and young adult, Natalie trained in ballet, tap, jazz, and modern dance. She is a dancer in the modern dance company Still-Moving, Dance. Natalie works as a Pre-K special education teacher for Seminole County Public Schools. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders from Florida State University and a master’s degree in the same field from the University of Central Florida. She is a certified Speech Language Pathologist. Most importantly she is a mom to her beautiful daughter Makayla and active son Brandon. Natalie loves teaching both Pilates and yoga.

Patrick is a dedicated Sound Alchemist and Meditation Teacher at Longwood Yoga Shala, bringing years of experience and a deep passion for guiding others on their journey to inner peace and self-discovery. His unique approach integrates sound healing with mindful meditation, creating a transformative experience that resonates with both beginners and seasoned practitioners. Through his thoughtfully crafted classes, Patrick invites participants to explore their inner stillness, cultivate a sense of worthiness, and embrace relaxation. Join Patrick for meditative sessions that blend sound practices and mindfulness to foster balance and tranquility in both mind and body.