“The moment you walk through those doors, you can feel the energy in this studio — and it feels like home.”
I’ve heard Bella Prana students say something like this countless times, and it never surprises me — because it’s true. Bella Prana is a special place unlike any other yoga studio I’ve visited, and it’s where I completed my 200-hour training here in Tampa.
Four years ago, I walked through the studio doors for the very first time, unsure of what to expect. By the end of that first day, I knew I was exactly where I needed to be. Beginning this chapter at Bella Prana felt like the start of something much bigger than a certification.
I first decided I wanted to become a yoga teacher when I was 15 years old. But between school, finances, and the time commitment, I couldn’t commit to a 200-hour program.
That changed when I moved to Tampa in 2022. I had just started a new job and wasn’t planning on enrolling in a training at all. I always imagined I’d travel to India or Bali for an intensive experience someday.
Then a co-worker mentioned a program right around the corner from our office. I looked into it out of curiosity — and something clicked. After doing some research, I took a leap of faith and signed up that same day.
Looking back, a few things really mattered to me in making that decision.
Flexibility – At the time, I was working full-time and adjusting to life in a new city. The structure of the program allowed me to keep my job and maintain balance in my personal life while still committing fully to the experience. That flexibility made it feel possible.
Affordability – Cost had always been a barrier for me. As a recent college graduate, I needed something realistic and sustainable. Knowing there were payment options available made the decision feel responsible, not reckless.
Depth of Learning – What surprised me most was how comprehensive the experience felt. We didn’t just move through poses. We explored philosophy, anatomy, cueing, meditation, and even the business side of teaching. It gave me a much fuller understanding of what it means to guide others.
The People – The teachers and guest instructors brought such varied backgrounds and wisdom to the room. Their experience — and their humanity — made every weekend meaningful. And the other students quickly became more than classmates. They became friends.
Over the eight months I spent in the program, I:
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Built lifelong friendships
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Developed a deeper spiritual connection to my practice
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Discovered my own teaching voice
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Gained clarity about how I wanted to move forward
The community was welcoming, knowledgeable, and supportive every step of the way.
This is simply my experience, but it changed me in ways I didn’t expect. What began as a long-held dream of becoming a teacher turned into a season of growth, connection, and self-discovery.
If you’re curious about whether this path might be right for you, I encourage you to learn more and explore the details for yourself.
For full program information, upcoming dates, and FAQs, visit the Yoga Teacher Training page.
Questions can be sent to [email protected]. The team is always happy to connect and answer anything you’re wondering about.
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My experience at Bella Prāṇa was written by Tara Schulman, graduate of Bella Prāṇa Collective in Tampa, Florida.