Stories

I just wanted to take a moment with every ounce of my soul to thank you so much for Sunday's class. I don't believe in coincidences but I truly believe that that class was created for me. I know you had mentioned not liking being called "Yoga Preacher" but I clearly understand how you got that name (real talk). I have hung onto every word since Sunday & it has helped me to push on and place "meat on my bones." I know I'm an incredibly strong and driven woman but thank you for reminding me of that. God has blessed you with multiple gifts & thank you for sharing them with me.

- Stacy Sullivan Kirby, Nashua, NH

More Testimonials

- Stacy Sullivan Kirby, Nashua, NH

Darlene, thank you! Thank you for being so inspiring! The way you reach out to all your yogis and connect with each and everyone of us is over-the-top. You're so encouraging, accepting, uplifting, positive and energetic. It's contagious! I love that you can teach to any level Yogi while bringing out the best in us. You really have a unique gift. I really love coming to your class and I feel blessed to have you as my instructor. What makes you the best is how much you truly care and how much joy you get from helping others!!! Thank you again for all that you do. It is very much appreciated by me.

- Marla Quadri, Westford, MA

Thank you!!!! Xoxoxo I absolutely loved every moment of it! You are magic and I will slowly lose these 30 lbs I put on in 6 months - but, more importantly, I gain strength, perspective and feel love when I'm in your class.

- Lena Zerbinopoulos, Manchester, NH

Darlene your yoga class yesterday was amazing! I'm looking forward to my next yoga class w/YOU. Your spirit, energy and truthfulness was so inspiring. I'll see you again soon. Thank you

- April Brower, Hudson, NH

I'm the girl who hugged you after class last night ;-) I just wanted to thank you so much for such a beautiful class. It has been quite some time since I've done anything but Bikram and I fell back in love with vinyasa movement and am totally obsessed again. I was very, very moved with the direction my practice took me last night, especially through my knee and shoulder pain.

- Tara Quigley, Nashua, NH

I have to thank you again for your guidance in your teaching today. Thank you for pushing us to our limit and being loving and accepting when we needed rest. My skin tingled with love and healing energy. I hope to be your student again soon too! Your teaching style is very refreshing. I'm a teacher as well, and I appreciate your spirit and love - it is feisty but I can tell you are just so passionate and desire for your message and heart to be heard! My first boot camp was with you, of course, my dear Darlene...3 beautiful hours of steady breath and listening to my body which had not practiced in over a year. My advice: maintain that fire and excitement for the class but honor your body. There's no need to push PAST the limit just to "prove" you can hold the pose or take the next modification. Yoga is love, yoga is community. This boot camp embodies that exponentially!!

- Krystie Chapman, Nashua, NH

Darlene each journey is more profound than the one before. I am so so grateful and blessed to be able to share in any time with you teaching. I look forward to the next and also another biking journey this spring, I’m also so grateful Mike got to see you in action. He’s heard so much over the years. He loved it and he’s flying high. Love You!!

- Mariette Aubut, Merrimack, NH

I enjoyed your bootcamp, it was intense yet fun at the same time.

- Apon Sayaseng, Chelmsford, MA

A great big "Thank You" to both Darlene and Renee. Darlene, as always you rock and Renee, thanks so much for the help, hopefully I will be able to keep the correct posture even without you there ! I had an amazing time and feel very blessed to be a part of this experience.

- Debbie Lasorsa, Lowell, MA

Ok.. took me a while to digest my first Yoga bootcamp experience. First off I am humbled and thankful for the Support Taylor Deas (my son) received. I gained much perspective in those very intense 3 hours. I am now open to adding aspects of Yoga to my personal fitness lifestyle and would attend any class (bootcamp or otherwise) that Darla is teaching. Again, I am so very thankful to all who attended for whatever reason and more so to those who stayed well after they realized they had bitten off much more than they expected but also learned not more than they could handle! Please stay intouch and follow Taylor's story and feel free to reach out and become part of our circle! Thanks Darla for ur continued love and support and for sharing ur passion with us! XOXO!! Shalom...

- Ralpheal Deas, Brockton, MA

Recently, I have taken many different types of Yoga classes from many different instructors. The first Yoga class that "found me" was 3 years ago with Darlene. During a recent class with her, I was able to connect with what makes her classes different from the others. She truly teaches to your soul, and teaches in a way that allows us to all be connected at a soul level but also in the sense that we are all human. In each class, she also shares that "human" side of herself. Be with where you are and who you are now on the mat - is the message that I take with me after every class. Namaste Darlene!

- Dee Dee Thurber, Nashua, NH

Hi Darlene, I wanted to say thank you again for a great class! It has been quite awhile since I've taken a yoga class and your class was awesome! Even though my body reminded me of how out of shape I am and out of touch I am with my power, I struggled through it, got past feeling sick and wanting to quit. I admit I do feel better for it this morning.

This was the kick start I needed to lose weight and get strong again. : ) Thank you for being a truly gifted teacher. Your motivation and love was truly felt and appreciated.

- Judy Prieur, Merrimack, NH

I had an amazing first experience. I realized at the beginning I take care of so many other things and little persons in my life ... I was a stranger to myself and my limitations (which wasn't much). You've reintroduced me to myself and for that I'm thankful. I can't wait for the next one. My body is 'zinging' and I am calm and at peace.

- Love, Nikki Deas, Brockton, MA

Thank you so much for holding the space for us it was an intense and wonderful experience.

- Amy Lee, NH

Thank you so so much for such an amazing experience!! Can't wait for the next one :)

- Carissa Traill, Nashua, NH

Hot yoga was the best decision I could have made! I've never sweat so much!!!

- Taylor Andre, Massachusetts

Thank you for the amazing journey today! I will definitely be coming to your classes...thank you!!!

- Melissa Zender, New Hampshire

Thank you Darlene. 3 hour yoga journey was refreshing and enlightening for me. It was enlightening in other ways not just pertaining to yoga.

- Michael Siopes, New Hampshire

Unbelievably (did I spell that right) great experience, can't wait for the next one!!! Thank you Darlene, you're the best!

- Debbie Lasorsa, Chelmsford, MA

You know you're a great instructor when your students follow you out of state. LOL Great class as always. Thank you Darlene for an Omm-Mazing Yoga Journey today! It was a memorable experience as ALL of your journeys have been and this one definitely didn't disappoint! I am honored and proud to be one of your yogi babies. You are truly the best of the best! Namaste

- Tiffany Hanson, Nashua, NH

Yoga has given me back the range of motion in my back and neck I had slowly lost over the last 10 years due to arthritis. It has made a 15 degree difference in how high I can raise my arms and I can fully turn my neck to see behind me. Before yoga I would spend my time in physical therapy, on pain medications, and limiting some activities. This has all changed with yoga and Darlene! Besides arthritis I have asthma. Breathing deeply in yoga has helped increase my lung capacity as measured by my doctor. The type of breathing we do in yoga specifically helps to relax the muscles used to breathe and open the airways. This also was confirmed by my respiratory doctor. Our lives are stressful and mine is no different. Since I have been going to yoga I have better handled my stress and look forward to leaving it all on the mat. I also sleep better which helps me handle stress better. Yoga is part of my life forever. I won't always have Darlene as my teacher but I will always have her words and encouragement in my head to replay when I need them.

- JoAnne Rollins, Lowell, MA

You are such an inspirational teacher. I am thankful I was able to experience your yoga class. You have such a talent which you bring to class, you are able to guide everyone to experience the advantages of yoga and helped us to reach new levels in our practice. Thank you for sharing your talents with us.

- Dot Hartnett, Medford, MA

Thanks for another Wonderful experience with the 3 hour yoga Darlene. It was the hardest, most fulfilling workout I have had in a long time. Thanks again.

- Tony Campus, Nashua, NH

Yesterday was an indescribable emotional high. I feel so honored that you referred to me during the session. It was a privilege to practice next to your sister and sister-in law. Both of these women share your passion for spirituality and life.....and i can't stop eating!!!

- Jessica Spinazola Muller, Chelmsford, MA

Thank you for the brightest Saturday! Namaste

- Maria Papodopoulous, Nashua, NH

What an amazing journey I had yesterday. I smiled, I cried, I sweat. I never knew 3 hours could feel so good. You are an amazing instructor. I felt (and still feel) so wonderful. You made me feel like a super Yogi yesterday! Also your assistant (Maria) was an amazing spirit yesterday. Thank you again for allowing me to be a part of that experience. I love you!

- Crystal Deas, Milton, MA

I am so glad that I found my way to your class today! It was fabulous! I had no idea my body could do the things that it did today, thank you!

- Deborah E. Gray , Haverhill, MA

Can't wait for the next one! ;)

- Melissa Donahue, Chelmsford, MA

I just came from the most amazing journey! My first yoga experience was FANTASTIC! Darla thanks again, you are great at what you do!

- Geri Deas, Brockton, MA

Awesome workshop Darla ... thanks for pushing me. Can't wait to see you again!

- Karen Maschio Maull, Marshfield, MA

There is NO PLACE like home. If I can't be in my space, then I am SURE rocking YOURS! This is YOUR ministry from one lightworker to see that CLEARLY in another. I love you and I am so proud to know you on so many levels.

- Aimee DeRoehn, Plymouth, NH

IT WAS AWESOME Darlene!! You are THE best yoga instructor around!!! Its pretty amazing when one can do a 3 hour power yoga class and not feel like it was 3 hours! Thank YOU for sharing your gift.

- Lisa Hayes Tebo, Gardner, MA

"When I did a 3 hour class with Darlene I was scared I wasn’t going to be able to make it. Darlene said if you can do 1.5 hours you can make it. It was an uplift in my goals she was right.

- Charles Lanni, Mason, NH

Before the three hour class Darlene would say to me that this will be a great experience that you will always remember. Well during her 3 hour class I had a powerful feeling of mental and physical release and it was my best one yet. I practiced deep breathing, stretching, sweating and feeling one with my soul. So I thank you Darlene for letting the LORD use you as a vessel to shine your light in the 3 hour class that I sooooo richly experienced and will never forget!!!

- Zoe Brodie, Merrimack, NH

You are a gifted teacher and I love your classes no matter how long or where they are! I feel so energized and strong when I leave your class. Looking forward to more...

- Diane Lang- Rufo, Salem, NH

Again, I cannot say enough about the 3 hour journey, as you call it. I was afraid that 3 hours was going to to be way to long for me, I have done 90 min and 75 mins but 3 hours! It did not seem like 3 hours at all. By the time we got warmed up and going the time seemed to fly by. It was nice to take that time for ourselves, to slow down and relax and enjoy the moment for a change.

- Dot Hartnett, Medford, MA

I love your style, attitude and positive energy that you bring to yoga and had I started with anyone else I am not sure I would have loved it half as much as I do.

- Gail Simonds-Bennett, Windham, MA

Thank you for teaching this "old dog" he can still lift his hind paws toward the sky.

- Perry McDonough, Lowell, MA

I just wanted to say a big Thank you for today's class at Stepping Stones Life Resource Center in Lowell, MA. I wasn't sure what I was going to be able to do but I know my body was guided to be there today. I am a bit sore but I feel wonderful. I was having a bit of emotions come up because I think I have not done anything for my body in a long time and like you spoke today, it's all about body, mind and spirit. I cannot just focus on one or two of the things and forget about the body. I guess what hit home is how you explained yoga and everything else you said during class just connected with me on some new level. Thank you and looking forward to the next class.

- Carol McDermott, Lowell, MA

Darlene Pina is a yoga teacher of the heart. Taking a class from Darlene is an experience of the whole of yoga, an integration of body, mind and spirit. Her attention to detail, her huge enthusiasm for all things yoga and teaching , her inspiration and her belief in the average person to find their inner lion/lioness, is always present . She is a true spark of love and compassion in the world. No-one leaves her classes without some kind of inner transformation. Take a class from Darlene if you want your spirit ignited and your possibilities expanded.

- Marsha Therese Danzig, Founder Eashoa Yoga and Color Me Yoga for Children.

I LOVE class days - I just have such a better attitude for the rest of the week. You are a FANTASTIC teacher.

- Carissa Traill, Nashua, NH

I really love your classes and the safe environment you create.

- Laurie DuBois, Chelmsford, MA

Darlene, you are one of the best yoga instructors I’ve experienced throughout the country (even as far as CA). Your unique teaching style makes a 90min class go by without thinking. You guide your class through the proper breathing, perfecting our form, while learning new techniques. You provide over and beyond services with your personal assistance during and after class, maximizing our yoga experience. Thanks so much for your great spirit. Namaste!

- Cathy Faucher, Nashua, NH

You have made a difference in my yoga practice. Your energy is class is like nothing else and has helped me to become the yogi I am today. I have came to enough of your classes that I hear your voice even though someone else is giving the instructions.

- Karen Wilson, Merrimack, NH

I took your class last night for the first time at WOW in Nashua. I just wanted to let you know it was a great class and I thought you were an incredible instructor. I was really nervous because I had never taken a Yoga class before and really had no idea what to expect. You made me feel very comfortable and I thank you for all the tips and time you gave me to get through the class. A lot of times when you take a class for the 1st time you don't really get any individual attention because there is a time limit, etc... I will definitely take your class again - even though I am sore today :) I guess that means I really had a workout. I never thought I would sweat and work so hard taking Yoga. Long story short _ I loved the class and you really made my introduction to Yoga a pleasant one. There were actually moments of relaxation even though I was working hard. Thank you. Keep up the good work.

- Rochelle, Nashua, NH

Thank you Darlene. I have progressed in my practice and I owe a lot of it to you! I know you always say something to the effect of, "it's not about me, it's about you..." in class, but that's not entirely true. I don't know how dedicated I would have been (initially) if you didn't set a spark in me. In class I feel your passion and "truth", you know, like Darlene in the raw. LOL... I am sure everyone else does, too -NOW THAT IS INSPIRATION!

Anyway, now I'm hooked and enjoying where the journey takes me.

- Julie Gatheral, Nashua, NH

I met Darlene when I was about 24 years of age (I'm now 39)..... Wow!!! We both worked on the trading floor at Fidelity Investments, and one day we got into a deep discussion about our spiritual beliefs. Well little did I know that in that moment, I would discover something that would change my life completely. Needless to say, at that time, I was quit taken back at what you said; however, it did cause me to start researching my own beliefs and to start to dive deeper into my own personal relationship with God. I started to hear and feel God directly (not through what & how others were dictating my relationship should be). That moment truly changed my life and helped give me the strength to move in a different direction spiritually. For that I will always be thankful.

- Monique Howard, Atlanta, GA

I have taken yoga with other instructors and with the exception of one other instructor (Brian) I have never been able to fully reach the meditative state I have in this class. I have become a stronger person both physically and mentally due to the high level of instruction I have received from attending Darlene's class. She works very hard to create an atmosphere that fosters positive well-being, affirmation, self-acceptance, & self-reflection. Darlene is an advanced practitioner whose experience has helped me reflect on my practice and well as how I approach obstacles within and outside of the gym. I also enjoy being part of a class where most of my peers have been practicing for years. I benefit from their expertise and the non-competitive atmosphere they create. These students range from no experience to several years of experience. Darlene makes everyone feel welcomed. She has a unique style which encourages her students to be proud of their current level of practice, while encouraging students to always work towards becoming better. A cardio class or weight training just cannot offer the same effect no matter how long you engage yourself in it. This is a unique experience that can only be obtained through the total mind body experience.

- Jessica Spinazola, Tewksbury, MA

I might be your eldest student of 69 years old. My body has many tied up knots - from child & sexual abuse, accidents, broken bones & etc. Every time I go to a new level of releasing knots, tension & muscles I know exactly when I stored it in my body. Little by little I am experiencing so much release that my life works around my Yoga Classes. I feel so much release that I'm looking forward to the next class I attend. Thank you for all your encouragement & for being in my life because my life is better with yoga.

Namaste,

- Pat Wymore, Lowell, MA

I practice yoga to forget the world around me and focus on being present. Every practice with Darlene is a journey to that point of presence (however brief for me!) and inner peace and power. Darlene understands the importance and necessity of being present and offers a supportive, nurturing yet challenging environment to get me there. During the practice, Darlene's words are directed to me and resonate with me, whether she knows it or not. She understands me and guides me. Darlene is a powerful yet gentle teacher who should not be missed. Thank you Darlene! I appreciate what you have done for me and look forward to growing more with you.

- Renee Nichols, Nashua, NH

My experience in Darlene's class was invigorating and well instructed. I recommend Darlene's yoga class for beginners and advanced yoga enthusiastic.

- Sharron Rowlett, Nashua, NH

For me, yoga is more than a great physical workout, that tones and strengthens my body - it is a mental one as well. Each and every time I step on the mat I face my toughest competition, my greatest tormentor and biggest critic. I face myself. My greatest challenge in class is blocking out the competitor, tormentor and critic. I, like many, have a hard time accepting who I am. When I am focused on my breathing I can block out the negative thoughts I may have about myself or the memories of a tough day. Taking Darlene's class pushes me to try things that, in the past, I would have balked at. A tripod? A headstand? The pre-yoga me would never have thought about trying those. Now I feel like I can try things - and it does not matter if I succeed or fail. It isn't going to haunt me for the rest of my life if I fall out of a pose. When you are on the mat, it is only you, the poses and the breathing. To excel in yoga you need not be the strongest or most flexible, you need only to breath and be true to yourself. Do what works for your body, for that day, and focus on yourself - not what someone else in class can or can not do. There are days I struggle through class and days I float - but either way I walk away feeling lighter in spirit.

- Melissa Donahue, Chelmsford, MA

If you’re into spin, kickboxing and any other aerobic class and are looking for a HIGH-energy workout with non-stop emphasis on strength and personal growth for body, mind and soul then try one of Darlene’s yoga classes. I’m grateful for the tools and encouragement provided to us. Besides the great workout you may gain a renewed self-image and find a sense of community and develop some long-lasting friendships! Namaste.

- Jim Burke, Chelmsford, MA

You have changed my life. That does not begin to express my gratitude.

- Paulie Miller, Nashua, NH

Every time I leave Darlene's class, I feel a sense of calmness - like a weight has been lifted off of me. She pushes the worries and fears of the day out of my head.

- Sarah Brown, Chelmsford, MA

Darlene is one of the finest yoga instructors that I’ve had the pleasure of working with. She has a unique and special ability to combine all aspects of yoga – the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual together – achieving what yoga is meant to do – bringing Union (yoga – to yoke together), balance, beauty and joy into the practice of life both on and off the mat. Her joy, spontaneity and genuine passion for her teaching and for yoga make taking a class with Darlene an energizing and illuminating experience. When you leave her classroom you will truly glow inside and out! Thanks for being an integral part of my own journey to Union. In gratitude

- Amethyst Wyldfyre, Nashua, NH

You push me to find my edge - Thanks!

- Emily Strong, Nashua, NH

You the woman who bares her soul to reveal her amazing energy...

The woman who trustingly raises her arms towards the heavens and with unwavering faith brings them back to her heart in prayer...

The woman who cares enough to touch, to help, to support, to feed the need...

The woman who seeks up and compassionately sends out acceptance, without judgment...

The woman whose soul shines in her face.

Gratefully acknowledge the gift that you are.

- Cindy Maloof, Nashua, NH

Darlene's classes are awesome.....simply awesome. There are no other words to describe her class.

- Patti Schippani, Merrimack, NH

Playing baseball as a 40-something requires the same skills as playing as a youth. However, reaching the physical condition to have those skills is something new. Working mostly at a desk all week means limited body movement. Playing baseball requires sudden quick body movements in sometimes unexpected directions. Tight muscles result in either inability to move as you are intended or a strained muscle. Yoga is a great cross training exercise to strengthen muscles unused for too many years and stretch muscles that will be tested during weekend competition. I have found specific benefit in the full body movement required in batting. Yoga feels as if it has loosened my lower back and leg muscles to allow the quick turning of my torso necessary when batting. In the 2007 season I batted .515- the second best batting average in New Hampshire’s 38plus men’s league

- Dennis Hogan, Nashua, NH

WOW...What an experience Darlene's class is. I have been engaged in transformational work myself for many years but never transformation at the level of the body and listening to my body's communication and I want to thank you for leading me through it. I am hooked no doubt. I have done lots of cardio and weight training over the years, but taking my FIRST Yoga class ever with Darlene was a real breakthrough for me. Darlene's gentle - yet very intentional and clearly committed coaching - had me reaching for my best in no time. Sixty minutes with her and now I'm hooked on Yoga for life. Through Yoga, I have a path to completely transforming my relationship with my own body.

This is powerful stuff... and Darlene is a master motivator.

Thank you Darlene!!

- Chuck Smith, Chelmsford, MA

I recently have taken up yoga and have found the benefits to both mind and body are enormous. I had the pleasure of attending a class taught by Darlene and while I am definitely

a beginner, she put me completely at ease. Her help with learning various poses and stretches,

along with her words of encouragement and inspiration all throughout the class made it a totally wonderful experience. To say I left the class refreshed and rejuventated would be a huge understatement! Thanks Darlene!

- Jack Swan, Nashua, NH

In football, a hard hitting player is said to "bring it". In yoga, Darlene "brings it".

So if you are looking to get leveled, try her class. Your spirit will rise.

- Joaquin Otazo, Chelmsford MA

I attended your 90 minute class with my twin sister Susan Noel on Saturday afternoon. The experience was more than I expected. I went at my own pace, seeing I was a newbie and didn't know the poses, and never felt out of place. I kept hearing your voice saying "child pose is a powerful thing" so that's what I did never feeling embarrassed doing so and it is indeed a powerful relaxing pose. Having you there to make adjustments was reassuring. There

were many times when you put your hands on my back while in childs pose and I was so relaxed that I got a great chiropractic adjustment! I felt things let go. It was great. This was something I've never done before and I feel that the older I get I want to try new things and have powerful experiences. Life is too short not to do so. So, thank you so very much. I'm hoping that I will be able to attend your Tuesday and Thursday classes at Fitcorp with my sister during the summer.

- Sandy Beaulieu, Lowell, MA

Run, don’t walk to find miss Darlene, tell her I sent you, she is located lots of places. Darlene is a force not to be reckoned with on and off your mat.. Darlene is always looking to raise the bar in and out of a yoga studio..and she will guide you to raise the bar. For yourself without you even becoming aware.. In Darlene’s classes, one gets the feeling they could be wiped out, but want to keep going because you don’t want to miss the journey , and the places, this yoga sherpa will take you...

- Aimee DeRoehn, Yoga Teacher, Road Home Power Yoga Studio, Plymouth, NH

- Dot Hartnett, Medford, MA

Darlene, thanks so much for such a great class! It felt so good to be back at the studio for the physical and spiritual experience that I have missed so much! Definitely worth the drive from Portsmouth!

- Tonya Boyle, Portsmouth, NH

Thanks for another Wonderful experience with the 3 hour yoga Darlene. It was the hardest, most fulfilling workout I have had in a long time. Thanks again.

- Tony Campus, Nashua, NH

I just came from the most amazing journey! My first yoga experience was FANTASTIC! Darla thanks again, you are great at what you do!

- Geri Deas, Brockton, MA

Awesome workshop Darla ... thanks for pushing me. Can't wait to see you again!

- Karen Maschio Maull, Marshfield, MA