About 21 years ago Claude Griffin opened Lifework Yoga Studio, the first in the area for the development of a spiritual environment to support and stimulate personal growth. Located on the main street of Clearwater about 15 minutes from Clearwater Beach, the yoga center has become a sanctuary where the combined energy of those who come for health and healing has created an unmistakable atmosphere of warmth and serenity. Lifework Yoga Studio is essentially a wellness center. The class is a quiet time to look inward, to "yoke" body, and mind, with spirit. As your body becomes used to yoga postures you will experience more flexibility in mind and body.
We will guide you in learning meditation, deep relaxation, body awareness--how your mind and body work together--and how they can be trained to interact in harmony without creating stress that results in disease, and other self destructive symptoms.
Our classes use yoga postures, or stretches that will make your body more flexible, and stronger. The postures have therapeutic effects to help overcome the symptoms of many illnesses and injuries.
We stress eating natural, vegetarian meals. We will encourage you to avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and other addictive substances, and we will support you in breaking these destructive habits.
In areas of religion and philosophy, we try to maintain a position of neutrality. We encourage individual quests for understanding, and respect your right to your own personal beliefs. We believe your understanding will deepen as a result of your practice at the Yoga Studio.
At the yoga studio you will find several warm, friendly people who have joined our journey toward more love and life. Their love, and devoted effort is the priceless ingredient that has made Lifework Yoga Studio a serene and gentle haven in the midst of this busy area.
Claude has over 36 years experience in the study, and teaching of yoga. His interest in yoga began while he was a student at Detroit College of Law in the late 50's.
Claude's search took him to several cities, churches, and other organizations. A man by the name of Dr. Baghat Sing Thind from Amritsar, India became his first spiritual guide. This man initiated him in the tradition of Shabad yoga.
After Dr. Thind's death, Claude was drawn to Baba Muktananda. Muktananda left an enduring influence in the lives of most everyone he touched.
Claude no longer travels from teacher to teacher, but has a deep devotion to Mr. Iyengar's teachings. Claude believes, as many do, that Mr. Iyengar will be remembered as one of the world's foremost teachers.
Claude is also influenced by Eknath Easwaran, the founder of Blue Mountain Center of Meditation, and urges his students to study Easwaran's writings.
Claude is a trained psychotherapist, and worked as a professional in treatment centers for many kinds of dysfunctional behavior. He is a graduate of University of Michigan. His wife, Martha left her 35 year career and joined him to make a teaching team. Her excellence as a teacher is well known.
The SUNCOAST YOGA TEACHER'S ASSOCIATION made their home at LIFEWORK YOGA STUDIO for several years. They have brought several expert teachers to this area. People like Rodney Yee, John Friend, Angela Farmer and Ramanand Patal.
David Swenson, an astanga, or power yoga master has taught at our studio.
LIFEWORK YOGA STUDIO has trained and certified many yoga teachers. Some are teaching now at the studio. Some teach at other yoga centers. Others opened their own yoga centers. Our teacher training program is one of the best in the country.
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