Marla is a second-generation Indian American whose family comes from the state of Punjab in Northeast India. Despite growing up around mantras and Hinduism, it wasn’t until her Hatha & Raja yoga teacher training in 2006 (Yoga Indea, Mysore, India) that she really began to understand Sanskrit, mantras, and the power of transformation through the sound current. 

In 2021 she completed a 500 hour Sanskrit, mantra & sound yoga teacher training (Heart of Sound YTTC). Since beginning her yoga practice in 2003, it is her strong belief that mantra is one of the best ways to release emotional tension, transmute samskaras, and cleanse the mental and subtle bodies. In turn this can lead to deeper meditation, a clearer mind, less chatter, and more physical ease. Her goal is to help us transmute the sticky stress that holds us back in order to fully and authentically express ourselves in the world.

Now, she leads groups in kirtan, nada yoga, and teaches Sanskrit classes for the chant lover regularly in Rochester, Buffalo & the Finger Lakes area. 

Additionally, she runs the workplace wellness company, Inward Office, delivering stress management workshops throughout Western and upstate NY. She has over 1500 hours of training in mindfulness meditation, MBSR, yoga’s application in real life, Yoga Nidra, mindful eating, and more. She lives in Rochester, NY with her five children on a small family farm. 

Follow Marla on IG @soundandsilenceyoga or in the Rochester NY Kirtan and mantra chanting Facebook page to learn more about local upcoming events.