About Dharma
Dharma Richards, ERYT-500, is a devotee of the Divine, an eternal student and teacher of the Holy Science of Yoga, gracious householder, modern mom, raw foodie, hot tea drinker, closet fashionista, urban priestess, seeker of ancient wisdom for the modern woman, and hard to find when the moon is new.
Born and raised in the beautiful mountains of Asheville, in Western North Carolina, Dharma has been in the RDU/Triangle area for the over 30 years. With a B.A. in business marketing from University of North Carolina at Greensboro, her professional background consists of a decade in the computer industry and just as many years in the fashion world. Dharma’s yogic journey began as a physical practice after leaving the ballet scene, leading to her first teacher training just a few years later. Dharma’s first payment for teaching a yoga class was an Asian pear picked fresh from a student’s fruit tree, and she’s been teaching ever since.
Founder, owner and Senior Teacher of Yoga Garden Apex, co-founder and director of teacher training at Yoga Garden PBO, owner of Yoga Warriors International, and being a Yoga Alliance Advanced Registered Yoga Teacher, Dharma is both an instructor of the Classical Hatha-Raja style as well as tantric Kundalini Yoga. She encourages organic movement and an open heart as she routinely leads students through nurturing practices of pranayama/breathwork, asana/physical postures, and dhyana/meditation. Dharma’s studies originated with her beloved teachers Chadra Om and HarDarshan Kaur Khalsa, and is immersed in continual studies and practices in feminine earth wisdom.
Portfolio:
Certifications:
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Yoga Alliance Advanced Registered Yoga Teacher
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Kundalini, Core Strength Vinyasa, Prenatal, Children’s, and Yin Certifications
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Relax & Renew Restorative Instructor certified by Judith Lasater.
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Yoga Warriors International (for PTSD)
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Interfaith Minister and Celebrant
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Reiki Master
Did you know that our natural state is to be happy, healthy and spiritual? But many times something happens along the way through this amazing journey we call life. Imperative Note to Self: We can return to our own true essence, our mindful muse and master within. While a solid spiritual practice certainly takes time and dedication, not everyone has extra hours in each and every day to pursue a strict regimen. I understand that! Dedication is pertinent, but in today’s chaotic world we have to learn to adjust, update, evolve and elevate in each moment. A proper physical practice is vital to our well being, but it is what we take away from the whole practice of the true Science of Yoga that summarizes our entire experience… physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. We are so accustomed to looking for happiness outside of ourselves… it’s time to look within… where it has always been and will always continue to be. We just need the right tools, knowledge and experiences to return to our own true nature.
When you learn to live in the present, you are no longer influenced by our past and future. Pain and loss remain only as a memory and no longer define who you are. When you honor the wisdom of the earth and live in harmony with her through the changing of the seasons, and when you can tap into infinity you are able to heal yourself and shatter the illusion of death, disease and old age. Healing takes place on a physical and emotional level at a rapid pace through a healthy and unrestrained immune system. You begin to notice the miracles of every day life.
It is my mission to pass on what I have experienced and discovered in my own practices, and present it in a way to you that brings you joy, peace, child-like wonderment, and good health. Even with a little lightheartedness that I didn’t know was even possible. But it is! Through deep inward exploration you will find your own insights and awakenings, practices and schedules, and creative bursts that will feed your soul… that ever-present and über powerful bliss within.
You can also sprinkle with delight a variety of complimentary healing modalities including yogic practices, Reiki, flower essences, and rituals as well as mentoring and coaching for teachers and students. These authentic practices are provided for all levels, ages and abilities in a safe and nurturing environment.
Whether it’s wanting to delve into an advanced yoga practice or teaching method, live your creative life with more authenticity and zeal, chat entrepreneurship, or simply to reduce stress, I will help you tap into that sacred spark within by showing you how to infuse spiritual tools and divine grace and guidance into your everyday life.
My Philosphy
