Joan is an extraordinary yoga teacher and teacher trainer whose depth of knowledge and experience truly sets her apart. Her teaching reflects a deep understanding of, and respect for, the eight limbs of yoga. Rooted in the traditions of Ashtanga and Iyengar, she carries these lineages forward with great integrity, honouring her teachers while sharing their wisdom, along with her own, with genuine humility and passion. She is deeply committed to preserving the authenticity of the practice while making it accessible and meaningful for her students. Joan truly lives and breathes the principles of yoga, and I feel incredibly grateful to have completed my 200-hour YTT with her. She is, without question, exceptional! Training in Nepal at Purna Yoga Retreat was an unforgettable and deeply spiritual experience. Beyond the peaceful setting and immaculate, well-managed centre, there is a beautiful energy throughout the retreat. With stunning views and convenient access to central Pokhara, the centre offers the perfect balance of serenity and accessibility. Under the guidance of the talented Ayurvedic chef Julianna, the vegetarian and vegan meals were flavourful, creative, and nourishing. Mealtimes were always exciting, as we looked forward to the delicious dishes that helped re-energise us after long days of physical practice and study. Joan’s skilful teaching, combined with the spiritual depth of the retreat setting and the wonderful group of people in the training, gave me far more than I ever expected from this experience. It was truly transformative, and I am already planning to continue my 300-hour YTT journey with Joan.

I honestly don't know how to sum up my feelings about this experience as I'm still in awe. Prana Vista Travel managed the trek exceptionally well, including handling a number of individuals in our group who became ill from altitude sickness with great care and sympathy (thankfully, I remained healthy throughout the trek but I highly recommend everyone take altitude sickness medication!). They selected a phenomenal group of guides and porters who we connected with instantly - we all felt like family from Day 1 and tears were shed as we went our separate ways on our last day. Accommodations at tea houses vary along the journey and you need to be prepared to have limited resources, no heat, and (sometimes) no running water (and likely no warm/hot water - bring body wipes!) but that's what makes it a true adventure and deepens your appreciation of the 'creature comforts' of home. Joan offered thoughtful yoga classes in the mornings and evenings that matched our trekking efforts for each day, whether we needed more stretching, hip openers, breath work, or meditation. Daily yoga/breath/meditation practice made the trek all the more pleasurable. While you don't need to train for it, Mardi Himal is a challenging trek that will test both your physical and mental fortitude. This experience opened me up to a new hobby I didn't know I'd fall in love with instantly and I'm already planning my next trek in Nepal to Everest Base Camp with Prana Vista Travel within the next two years. I haven't felt this powerful, capable, and alive in a long time. It was truly transformational.

Joan is an exceptional yoga guru and teacher trainer. She has a wealth of experience and extremely deep knowledge and respect for the physical practice of yoga (asana), yoga science/philosophy, and anatomy. She is a true yogi in every manner of her being and I am so glad to have completed my 200-Hour YTT under her expert guidance. Joan is by far one of the best! Training in Nepal at Purna Yoga Retreat was a dream. The center is serene, clean, and well-managed, offering all the comforts of a home-away-from-home, with a beautiful view and easy access to the center of Pokhara. The meals were delicious and healthy Ayurvedic vegetarian dishes which kept me fueled and full for busy days of physical and mental practice, though I'm not a regular vegetarian/vegan. Joan's skillful teaching style coupled with the spiritual nature of Nepal taught me so much more than I expected to get out of this training. I'm already planning to join Joan again for upcoming retreats and 300-Hour YTT in the near future. After this experience, I wouldn't trust my continued training with anyone else!

The trip was enlightening, transformational and the exact experience I was seeking. Joan was knowledgeable, reliable and quick to respond to any inquiries. She made suggestions that would likely ensure smooth travel; I followed them and it worked. She is great at what she does; a true guru! The accommodations were comfortable and the food was delicious. I am grateful to have found Joan 🙏

Joan Hyman is amazing! Just spent 2 weeks learning more about Yoga and really kicking my own practice into high gear. Great training, great group of people, and an amazing teacher. We've already booked an upcoming retreat with Joan later in the year.