Our Instructors
STUDIO CO-OWNER | RYT 500
My yoga journey began years ago, when I was looking for a way to both stretch and strengthen my body, while also attempting to find that calm within.
I did not start practicing yoga until I was in my thirties. At first I found it difficult to find that stillness, and go at such a slow pace, as I am someone that is constantly on the go. As a long distance runner, I recognized that diversifying my training, my body as a whole would benefit. I started to practice more regularly in 2018 and by early 2020, after my running journey had ended for health reasons, I decided that I would love to broaden my horizons in the world of yoga.
It may have taken awhile to get to where I am today, but yoga has helped me to get there. Yoga is so much more than just the physical practice, helping to maintain balance and prevent injury in my day to day life, it has also helped a great deal with my mental health. I cannot wait to share it with you!
Crystal Sawatzky
INSTRUCTOR | RYT 200 working towards RYT 500
I started practicing yoga almost 30 years ago. During that time I have found I love all styles as each supports us in it’s own way. I really connect to Vinyasa Flow as I love the continuous movement with breath to keep my mind calm and my body strong. Yoga has brought balance to my body, mind and spirit as an Indigenous dance artist, a business owner and as a mother.
I have kept my own practice fresh over the years through other training, workshops and conferences. I bring what I learn into my classes to share with our community. The classes I offer are energetic and grounding. I truly believe I am only here to guide our students on their yoga journey. As this beautiful ancient practice is different for everyone.
Tobie Wick
INSTRUCTOR | RYT 500
Mandy Lawson has been teaching yoga for over 12 years and has worked in the fitness industry for over 20 years. She recently moved back to Prince Rupert after several years in Costa Rica where she started her yoga school, Costa Yoga. She leads yoga teacher trainings as well as Yin and Restorative Yoga classes. Mandy welcomes everyone to yoga, no matter their experience or ability, she loves working with beginners and sharing the life-changing gift of yoga with anyone who wants to try it!
Mandy Lawson
INSTRUCTOR | RYT 200 | Working towards 500 RYT
I first fell in love with Yoga in 2014 when my best friend brought me to my first class. I was nervous to go because I felt like I needed to be this super flexible, ultra Zen person who knew what they were actually doing…
All of my cares flew out the window once I got to class because I realized we were all there for the same purpose, self care, body mind connection and wellness, and everyone was working at their own level. I will forever remember my first blissful Savasana <3
Moving forward to 2023, I completed the Costa Yoga 200 RYT hour teacher training taught by Mandy Lawson and it was life changing. Although I am still new to the yoga teaching world, I am excited to share beautiful yoga experiences with you all.
Starlyn vanWyn
INSTRUCTOR | RYT 200
Cori’s yoga journey began in 2005, and she developed a love for teaching as a swimming and Aquafit instructor from 2011 to 2017. In January, 2019 she fulfilled a dream by travelling to Goa, India to study and complete her 200hr RYT in Ashtanga Yoga at Himalaya Yoga Valley International Training Centre. She is very excited to share the knowledge through her teaching.
Cori believes that yoga inhabits all parts of our lives, with a focus on uniting the body, mind and spirit to understand our true selves and to spread love, acceptance and peace to others.
Her classes focus on the Ashtanga Primary Series sequence of standing, seated and supine asanas with attention paid to mantras, pranayama and opening and closing Savasana. This class is suitable for all levels.
Cori O’Connor
INSTRUCTOR | 200 hr RYT
Come do yoga with me!
It is more than a motto: it’s an open invitation to embark on a journey of self-discovery, laughter, and maybe a few wobbly downward dogs.
I’m Vitala, once a crewmember navigating the high tides of cruise ship life, I encountered a myriad of souls witnessing the spectrum of human experiences.
In 2020 yoga became my lighthouse, guiding me back to calm waters and inner peace. Yoga practice captivated my heart and soul.
With a past in ballet, for me it is not just about striking poses, I am all about understanding the intricacies of body movement and ensuring a safe and enriching practice for all.
In 2023, I ventured to Indonesia to immerse myself in the sacred art of yoga, emerging as a certified teacher. Best decision ever!
Join my yoga adventures on Instagram @Vitala_Yarkova and become part of the fun! From inspiring poses to hilarious mishaps, it’s all part of the journey.
Together we can make this life a better place one asana at a time.
I will see you on the mat.
Vitala Yarkova
INSTRUCTOR | 200 hr RYT
Nikki is a 200Hr Certified Yoga Teacher, born and raised in Alberta. She first discovered yoga while backpacking in Australia in 2012, and her journey has since led her here to Prince Rupert.
Nikki’s passion for yoga and wellness stems from her nursing career and has expanded into a heart-centered and holistic approach to health and wellbeing. As her passion grew, so did her practice. And now Nikki is studying to obtain her 300Hr Advanced Teacher of Therapeutic Yoga Certificate. She is thrilled to offer unique classes that are accessible, functional and revitalizing, here at Zikhara!
Nikki currently offers Hatha and Flow-styles of yoga. She values the sacredness in community, connection and compassion and intends to bring an attitude of self-discovery, playfulness and consciousness into every class.
Nikki Cairns
Yoga Instructor | 200 RYT
Rebecca is a Registered Nurse who recently relocated from Vancouver Island. She is passionate about health and wellness, and excited to continue her yoga journey in Prince Rupert.
After her first yoga class in 2004 she was hooked and began practicing Ashtanga Yoga regularly in Calgary by 2008. This led her to explore various styles of yoga such as hatha, yin, restorative, vinyasa, hot yoga, kundalini, and meditation. Recognizing the physical and mental benefits of yoga, she believes there is a practice suitable for everyone’s needs. As a lifelong learner, Rebecca is committed to expanding her knowledge and sharing the transformative power of yoga with her students.
Join Rebecca’s Restorative yoga class for relaxation and rejuvenation or come to her Vinyasa class for an accessible dynamic flow to increase your strength and flexibility.
