Rooted in Authenticity

Meet the YVIAM Community

At the Yoga Veda Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine (YVIAM), you are not just a student—you are part of a living, breathing community united by truth, purpose, and a shared calling. Every person here—students, alumni, teachers, and our team—has been drawn to Ayurveda for a reason. We are here to learn, grow, and carry this wisdom forward with integrity, devotion, and heart. This is more than an education; it’s a journey we walk together, honoring Ayurveda as both a path of healing and a way of life.

Our Educators: GUIDES IN AUTHENTIC AYURVEDA

Our faculty is a circle of deeply experienced practitioners, Ayurvedic doctors, and specialists who live and breathe the true essence of Ayurveda. With decades of wisdom in Ayurvedic medicine, yoga therapy, and integrative healing, they bring not only expertise but also heart to every course. Their mission is to share Ayurveda in a way that is accessible, meaningful, and profoundly transformative for all who feel called to this ancient tradition.

Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa, A.D.

Khalsa is President Emeritus of the American Herbalists Guild, Director Emeritus of the National Ayurvedic Medical Association and your mentor in Ayurvedic Herbalism for Self Healing.

Dr. Sheila Patel, M.D.

Dr. Sheila Patel, M.D., is renowned for her expertise in integrative medicine, blending the wisdom of Ayurveda, meditation, and yoga with modern medical practices. With years of experience and a dedication to holistic health, she offers a unique and personalized approach to healing.

Dr. Resmi V. Rajagopal

Dr. Resmi practices Ayurvedic Gynecology & Pregnancy Care and has published research papers in renowned journals. She specializes in Yoga & Naturopathy and is your mentor in Panchakarma & Ayurvedic Detoxification.

Dr. Scott Roos ED.D

Teacher Scott studied upper division Sanskrit at UC Berkeley and Ayurveda at the Wellpark College of Natural Therapies in New Zealand and the Ayurvedic Institute under Dr. Vasant Ladd. Teacher Scott is your mentor in Sanskrit and Mantra for Ayurvedic Practitioners.

DR. Pratibha Shah, BAMS

Pratibha Shah is an internationally renowned Ayurveda expert. Intensely trained in Traditional Health Sciences as well as Public Health, Pratibha Shah distils Eastern wisdom with an understanding of Western principles, for the best care of her clients.

Christine Devlin Eck

Christine is the Director Sacred Window Center founded by the late Ysha Oaks. She has a background as an Ayurvedic Practitioner, Educator, Group Facilitator and Birth and Postpartum Doula and is your mentor in Ayurvedic Pregnancy, Birth and the Sacred Window.

Burkhard Langemann

Sri B (aka Burkhard) is the founder of the Akasha Yoga Academy. He has dedicated three decades to the academic & practical research of the Art of Living. Having studied with the most profound sages & experts of our times, Sri B also holds a German Masters Degree in Psychology & Education.

Gia Lisa Krahne

Gia is a practitioner and professor of Āyurveda, jyotiṣa, Sanskrit, tantra and yogic philosophy at NYC Vedic Center. With a background in neuroscience and the performing arts– her primary research interests are consciousness, meditation, and sexuality.

Marek Sawicki

Marek Sawicki is a professional instructor and a highly trained and experienced clinician. His comprehensive education includes being a graduate of The Ayurvedic Institute of Albuquerque, N.M. under the guidance of Dr. Vasant Lad. Marek is your mentor in Ayurvedic Anatomy and Clinical Assessment.

Our Leadership: Stewarding the essence of ayurveda

Our leadership team is dedicated to fostering a space where authentic Ayurvedic wisdom flourishes and personal growth is deeply supported. Rooted in tradition and integrity, they are committed to ensuring that every student receives not just a high-quality education, but also the guidance, encouragement, and connection needed to truly embody Ayurveda.

Coach Andy

Co-founder of Yoga Veda, Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine

Andy Allen is the visionary Founder of YVIAM. Driven by the mission to make holistic education accessible, Andy established the institute to bridge ancient eastern teachings with modern western approaches. His strategic leadership and deep understanding of both traditional wisdom and contemporary health challenges have shaped YVIAM’s mission, attracting a global audience seeking quality education.

Jacky Rae

Co-founder of Yoga Veda, Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine

In 2015, Jacky co-founded Yoga Veda Institute alongside her husband, Andy Allen, with the mission to provide an inclusive and flexible Ayurvedic education to individuals who couldn’t attend traditional programs. They wanted to offer a learning platform that would welcome students from all walks of life, empowering them to pursue their passion for Ayurveda while balancing other responsibilities.

Brittany Woodard

Dean of Education

Brittany’s fever for the healing arts was ignited during her academic pursuit of Anthropology, where she unearthed the profound influence of spiritual well-being and the art of healing. This revelation propelled her towards her true calling, leading to her graduation from the Ayurvedic Practitioner Program at YVIAM. Today, she stands as a dedicated Ayurvedic Practitioner and holds certification as a Yoga Instructor.

Raine Beckett

Community Concierge

Raine is a passionate advocate for balanced, holistic health and wellness. Her journey into the realm of natural medicine commenced over two decades ago when she recognized the profound disconnect that has separated humanity from our innate essence and our interconnectedness with the universe. With her commitment to holistic well-being and deep-rooted wisdom, she endeavors to guide others toward a more profound understanding of their authentic selves and their connection to the universe.

Beatriz Oni

Administrator

Beatriz Oni is the Administrator and directly reporting to the Director, playing an integral role as the organizational glue that holds the institute together. With her commitment to excellence, Beatriz ensures that each department remains on track, adheres to established workflows, and meets operational standards. Her dedication to fostering seamless coordination across teams enhances efficiency and upholds the institute’s high standards of quality. Her oversight ensures that internal operations are productive and cohesive, embodying the essence of a true team player.

Casey Czuj

Financial Aid / Scholarships

Casey is an Ayurvedic Practitioner and Herbalist with a heartfelt mission to make Ayurvedic education accessible to all. As our dedicated Scholarship Director, she works tirelessly to remove financial barriers, ensuring that students from all walks of life have the opportunity to follow their calling.Her passion for making Ayurveda accessible goes beyond her role—Casey sees each student’s potential and is committed to helping them thrive. She is an inspiring advocate for accessible education and a true champion of the healing arts.

Our Vision

At the heart of YVIAM is a profound belief: Ayurveda belongs to everyone.

Our vision is to transform the landscape of mind-body medicine by making authentic, world-class Ayurvedic education accessible to seekers across the globe. We are dedicated to breaking down barriers and nurturing a diverse, inclusive community of learners from all walks of life—welcoming individuals of every faith, ethnicity, and socioeconomic background.

Guided by devoted and authentic Vidyas (instructors), we aim to democratize Ayurveda, sharing its timeless wisdom with those who are called to explore, live, and share its transformative power.

Our Mission

At the Yoga Veda Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine (YVIAM), we are driven by a mission to share the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with hearts and minds around the world. Our mission is to make authentic, high-quality Ayurvedic education accessible to everyone, everywhere—empowering individuals to transform their lives, uplift their communities, and embody the profound healing principles of Ayurveda in their careers and daily journeys. Together, we are creating a global movement of balance, vitality, and purpose.

Our Culture

At Yoga Veda Institute, our culture is rooted in the essence of the Ayurvedic Model of Care, deeply woven into every aspect of our teaching and development. We are committed to nurturing skilled, self-aware individuals who lead with authenticity and compassion. Our curriculum goes beyond knowledge, fostering meaningful connections, thoughtful dialogue, and relationships grounded in trust.

By inspiring a deep passion for Ayurveda, we aim to transform the personal journeys of our students, empowering them to become leaders who bring profound and lasting change to the world of holistic health and well-being.

Our Story

Founded in 2010 with a core belief in the transformative power of Ayurveda, Yoga Veda Institute has become a pioneer in accessible Ayurvedic and Yoga education. We believe these ancient practices hold the potential to revolutionize modern healthcare and should be available to seekers worldwide. Having served over 2,000 students, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing authentic, high-quality education that empowers individuals to integrate Ayurveda into their lives, inspiring meaningful change and creating a lasting impact on global well-being.

Since I began my journey, this school has always been so supportive of any and all of my questions, concerns and feedback. I don’t know how I would have come this far in the program without the support!

— Melissa Zegley

GRADUATE Testimonials

"Nothing Short of Exceptional"

“My experience with YVIAM has been nothing short of exceptional. Every aspect has exceeded my expectations. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this journey, and I look forward to continuing to apply and share the knowledge I’ve gained to make a positive impact on others’ lives.”

— Banala Sreedevi

"An Incredible Experience"

“Studying Ayurveda with Yoga Veda Institute has been an incredible experience, I cannot recommend their program enough for those who are fully committed to learning Ayurveda and sharing it with the world.  All teachers are fantastic, deeply committed to the student’s learning experience, and very generous in their teachings. Studying at Yoga Veda Institute has changed my life, career, and service to the world.”  Johanna.

"A True Hidden Gem"

Teachers and all staff are supportive throughout the entire learning journey, and strive to create an atmosphere of integrity, open mind and open heart. Their programs are engaging, diverse and encourage a deep understanding of Ayurvedic healing. They have gone above and beyond at every turn in my experience. A true hidden gem.”  Melanie

"I Am Amazed"

“Very grateful I chose Yoga Veda for my Ayurvedic education. As I travel to conventions and speak with students obtaining credentials from other institutions, I am amazed by how much I have learned.  Yoga Veda delivers with exceptional instruction and guidance empowering the student to supplement their education and make the most out of their experience.” Jessica Oker

"Absolutely Fascinating"

I loved every minute of the 3 years that I spent studying this beautiful healing philosophy and science with the wonderful Yoga Veda Team and teachers. The lectures were absolutely fascinating and gave me a very thorough understanding of the Science of Ayurveda by the time I was finished.” Kim Laubscher

"Beyond Any Expectations"

This course is very comprehensive and goes beyond any expectations in terms of curriculum and transmission of ancient therapies. What attracted me specifically to that school is the emphasize on Women’s health and the couple of classes entirely dedicated to these important transitions in women’s life presented through the Ayurvedic lenses. I highly recommend it for anyone willing to dive deeper into the wisdom of Ayurveda and connect more to their authentic empowered self.” Elia Dirand

"Incredible School"

“Love the experience I had here, relationships I built and knowledge I have learned from this incredible school.”  Roslyn Paige

"Amazing Staff & Teachers"

“Yoga Veda Institute has affordable pricing and Amazing Staff and Teachers that is very dedicated and extremely compassionate and wise in their field of interest. They pass down these age old teachings and practices in such a unique way to meet individualistic disposition nurturing ones mind, body and spirit with the sacraments of the wisdom of Ayurveda.”  White Pearly

"Top Notch Teachers"

The YVI provides freedom to balance Ayurvedic education with your life. Their program is well rounded and geard to serve the students. They provide top notch Ayurvedic teachers with years of experience in their field. YVI administration has been kind, loving and always helpful to tailor the program to your needs. Thank you!”  Bettina Jonsef

The First Step is a Conversation

Step into the Sacred with Clarity.