Purna Yoga East

Larisa began her study of yoga in 2003 as a way to heal the body after multiple “Weekend Warrior” injuries and the physical demands being part owner of a local plant nursery where she tended acres of plants. Most recently she began studying the deep mind-body-heart and soul connection that Purna Yoga fosters.  It was through this exploration that Larisa pursued her Purna Yoga teaching certificate and is excited to share the gift of yoga with you as a Purna Yoga 200-hour graduate from The Purna Yoga College and as a Yoga Alliance 200 hour registered yoga teacher, RYT-200. Once a classroom teacher in Johnston County Public School System, Larisa is excited to flex that teaching muscle once again.

By day, Larisa is the People and Operations Generalist at the Triangle Community Foundation; supporting her colleagues and their space, so they, in turn, can take care of our community at-large!

Larisa has one grown son who lives abroad so she often spends vacations exporing the world with him. 

Megan was introduced to yoga on the recommendation of a physical therapist to help alleviate pain caused by ice skating. Megan loved yoga from her very first class. She practiced yoga off and on for many years before finding a home-base studio. After finding Purna Yoga East in September 2017, she began a regular practice. Megan graduated from the Purna Yoga College 200 hour teacher training in August 2018. In her free time, Megan enjoys going on adventures with her husband and their two fur babies.

Cortney began her study of yoga as part of her journey into natural wellness. After working as a stylist and salon owner, the physical demands and stress on her body resulted in numerous surgeries and an unhealthy lifestyle.  As a massage client of Catharine's, she was introduced to Purna Yoga.  Enrolling in the 200-hour teacher training, Cortney learned and grew in more ways than she could have imagined.  Practicing yoga has provided physical relief while Heartful meditation has given stress relief.  “All life is Yoga” is the realization that her journey has just begun.

Originally from western Pennsylvania, Cortney moved to North Carolina and met her husband in a computer lab at NCSU.  You may see Erik in the studio on the weekends.  Cortney has two grown daughters and a son-in-law who she loves to visit.  She also has two fur babies, her cats Scarlett and Lucy.  Cortney enjoys being out in nature biking, swimming or golfing. In the winter months, she will be found inside crafting with paint, paper or essential oils.  As a Clayton resident and business owner, you may see Cortney out and about in town or at the Clayton Farmers Market.

Caring and teaching people has always been Cortney’s passion.  In her youth, she was a CNA and continues to use this experience today in caring for family and friends.  Also, as a product educator, Cortney traveled to share her knowledge with salons around North Carolina.  After Purna Yoga teacher training, Cortney is now excited to share her personal yoga experience and knowledge to care and teach others.