Donnalynn Civello has changed my life. She is a spectactular yoga instructor, holistic health coach, and friend! I've been practicing yoga with Donnalynn for over a year now and it has completely revolutionized my practice, my strength, my patience. I cannot thank her enough for sharing her knowledge, her energy, and her dedication. She is so nurturing, I always walk out of her class glowing with an aura of happiness and bliss. Her aromatherapy and inspirational talks at the start and close of each class makes each practice so special. I've taken several nutritional seminars with Donnalynn at Jivamuktea Cafe and I am thrilled to say that not only has she revolutionized my yoga practice, she has revolutionized the way I eat and the nutrients I put into my body. Over a year ago, I was popping allergy pills, over the counter cold and headache medicine, warming up chicken from Omaha Steaks for dinner in the microwave and eating plenty of junk food, not really knowing what the culprit of my digestive fire and headaches could be. Fast forward to a year later, after learning from DL, I have been able to determine the triggers of the headaches, colds, inflammation in my body, and have stopped consuming things that are not good for my body. I am thrilled to say that in just one year, I have become quite the vegan chef, preparing recipes learned in her seminars and making my own recipe book. Knowing my Dosha (body type) thanks to her, I know what food isn't good for me when I'm feeling off, and what food can ground me and help me heal. Donnalynn is a tremendous coach and friend. When I am not feeling well, if something is ailing me, and I just don't know what to do, I can email her and she's there for me with plenty of wisdom. I can count on her for solid advice and I feel a sense of love and hope from her, which in turn gives me strength to push on through! She's one in a million!! read more

I've known Donnalynn for years as my yoga teacher. She is a kindred soul and inspiring person. Her life is truly dedicated to helping other people believe in their self worth and finding happiness. Not only does Donnalynn talk the talk, but she lives and breathes everything that she preaches. I completed a yoga teacher training last fall with Donnalynn as the lead instructor. After covering so many topics with her concerning nutrition, ayurveda and the subtle body, I realized how indepth her knowledge was and decided it was time for me to get some specific advice related to my health and life path. We met at the cafe of my yoga studio for our wellness session and went over the detailed form she had given me prior to our appointment. She took her time with me going over each topic (topics included, recent health problems, family health history, diet, medications, mental health, life goals...etc). She took time to consider each response I gave and took notes as we talked. After our session she typed up a summary of all of the points we hit on, what I should be focusing my energy one, what I habits I should avoid, and what supplements I should be taking. The summary was very helpful to have, as you can talk about many things in a hour. For time to time I refer back to it, to make sure I am staying on track. If you book an appointment with Donnalynn, you will not be disappointed. read more

Words can't describe how much I adore Donnalynn Civello. Before meeting her, I was totally anti-yoga (I'm not very flexible, and I previously associated a good workout with shin splints and ugly running gear). Donnalynn's classes are not only my favorite way to exercise now, they're also a form of therapy. She has a holistic approach to yoga, combining her expert knowledge of the practice with aromatherapy, awesome music (yes, Lady Gaga and vinyasa can co-exist) and motivating talks. I always feel like she says exactly what I need to hear. Donnalynn is also one of those teachers who legitimately cares about her students. She knows all of them by name, and ALWAYS makes time to chat with her legion of followers before and after class, and via email. She knows when you're up for a challenge and when you need support in your movements, and has definitely kicked my butt into shape in an inspiring, never judgmental way. Sometimes I'm amazed how Donnalynn can pick up on my energy so instantly and impart a world of wisdom by saying something so small. Besides helping me master my Down Dog, her classes have kept me sane through stressful times and pushed me beyond my own self-imposed limitations. There's nobody like her. read more

Donnalynn is amazing. I started sessions with her because I had attended 1 of her workshops on juice cleansing and I was drawn in by her energy and her approach. When I first started with her, I would say I was very sick. I had terrible eating habits and have gone through lots of diets. Through working with Donnalynn, I was able to work through what's behind those habits and everything else that's going on in my life. She is so supportive, has your back and roots for you when you feel like you can't do it for yourself. I've since become primarily vegetarian, exercise about 5-6 times a week and have lost about 20 lbs. All of that not by counting calories and depriving myself but learning to accept and nourish myself with clean food, yoga and exercise. The weight was just a result of tending to my primary foods and being more conscious in my life. She has been an invaluable part of my life and I am eternally grateful. Also do yourself a favor and go to her yoga classes. Her weekly lessons always resonate with me and as she's said to me before you get what you need when you need it. That's exactly how I feel when I'm in her classes. I get what I need. read more

I am a yoga skeptic. Or rather, I was. Before my first class about two years ago, I wasn't sure about the whole scene. I'm not flexible, and besides: the yoga community can seem kind of hippy dippy; even cult-y. Enter Donnalynn. Her class is great for enough reasons to have transformed me into a believer. Let me count the ways: 1. She knows her shit. I think she's been teaching for at least ten years, and it shows in the way she demonstrates postures and gives helpful adjustments. 2. She challenges you to push yourself, but isn't jerky about it. So you can grow in a supportive atmosphere. I owe all my upper-arm strength to her, as well as the ability to do two different types of headstands! (Well, on a good day.) 3. She goes out of her way to create a special relaxing vibe in every class. You get soothing music, candles, and a mini neck massage with lavender oil during savasana. Plus, she's just a genuinely warm person. You can usually tell when someone is faking it ("I'm a yoga teacher. Must.come.across.zen.") and DL simply isn't like that. I think she actually, like ... cares. read more

Donnalynn is an amazing inspiring Hollistic Health Coach and Yoga Teacher who empowers you to become a more powerful person in all areas of your self. She has inspired me to become more present in my life which has allowed me to become a better mother, daughter, and overall better person. Her Dharma talk in the beginning of class is inspiring, real and motivating and really connects you to practice. Her practice is powerful, pushing each student to their own capability and inspiring you to reach for more but also honoring where you are. Her insight and knowledge of nutrition is resourceful and life changing. I was Teacher Trainee Yoga student of Donnalynn's, I have learned so much from her teachings. They have made positive impact onmy yoga practice, my teaching and also my overall life! She is a great individual and I highly recommend her! If you want to be inspired and awakened and live the life you always wanted; Donnalynn will show you the way! read more

Within a month I lost 15 lbs and I feel the best I have in 10 years. Donnalynn's approach is a no nonsense, no gimmick weight loss program steeped in good nutrition. I don't have to count calories or buy anyone's food. However, a commitment to healthy provisioning and eating is essential. Numbers don't lie (unless it's the government J): my cholesterol decreased from 280 to 240 and my tryglycerides plummeted to 188 from 433. You could say she saved my life. I really appreciate Donnalynn's professionalism. She promptly provides individual session notes and menu support handouts that are immediately useful and are great ongoing reference materials. Donnalynn is also a great listener who tailors her advice versus some canned program. After Obamacare, I hope we get to DonnalynnCare! read more

DonnaLynn is an extraordinary yoga teacher and nutrition health coach. The opening talks in her yoga classes are always inspiring and set the tone for our practice. She gently pushes students to reach the next level in their practice and adjust their poses during class which I think is really important to get the full benefit out of yoga. Her aromatherapy is divine and help you to relax and let go of your busy day. She has an abundant knowledge as a nutrition and health therapist. But most importantly, DonnaLynn's heart is always with her students and clients! She is one of these rare selfless human beings who lives life to give, help and inspire others. read more

Donnalynn has been my Wellness coach for a few months now and I cannot say enough good things about this lady! She gives me clarity and strength to sort through any issues I have. No matter how trivial or extreme they are, she sits across from me with her energy and positive spirit. Not only is she a naturally gifted in what she does, she also puts a lot of time into her work. She is very knowledgeable about holistic and Ayurvedic principles of health, plus she even sends out notes after every session to give you something to soak in until the next meeting. She genuinely cares about the people she works with and I feel so lucky to have found her! read more

Donnalynn is one of the best yoga teachers I've come across. I leave her class at Yoga People feeling energized, strong and grounded. Her classes start and end with aromatherapy and therapeutic touch, meant to enhance the workout and resting period afterwards. It's a perfect workout for body and spirit. Plus, she is super nice and always happy to see her students! I've also taken one of her tasting workshops at Jivamukti and they're fantastic. Fun and tasty way to learn about superfoods. Her knowledge of the topic really shines through. So, try one of her yoga classes or a nutrition session. I highly recommend it! read more

Donnalynn is the reason I went from liking yoga to loving yoga. She seems to have that effect on people. Maybe it's the way she so very gently guides her students down the path that connects mind and body through her insightful spiritual talks and challenging yet nurturing flows. Maybe it's the wow factor she inspires every time she demonstrates an acrobatic asana with ease. Maybe it's because she's one of the most caring people you'll ever meet. Or maybe it's her amazing savasana massages. I mean, really, who else in your life gives you an aromatherapy massage every single time you see them? ...Exactly. read more

Donnalynn is not only an excellent source of life guidance and support but an excellent yoga teacher as well. Her one on one sessions and "life teachings" are well worth it and have helped me gain, through her guidance, things that are invaluable to me! I have achieved some goals that one cannot put a price on! She was really born to do this and has a true gift. I will continue with her as she has done more for me through her sessions than any therapist ever has. You will learn so much about yourself and others around you in one meeting with her. read more

Donnalynn provides the reason to make time for yoga out of ones busy schedule. Her classes flow naturally, with meticulous attention to proper form and breathing, while adding in various life lessons and motivations throughout (a previous post mentioned connecting mind and body, and that's clearly one of her many fortes). I frequently go out of my way to make sure I take as many of her classes as I can. Additionally, I attended one of her workshops on the chakras, and plan to seek out more as they are scheduled! I cannot recommend Donnalynn enough! read more

I have always been into holistic healthcare but have never received any guidance from an expert. I have to say that is exactly what Donnalynn is, an expert. She sat and listened to EVERYTHING I had to say, not something any doctor of mine takes the time to do. It was not just about my physical health but emotional health too. She took all of the information I had given her and made some really profound connections and recommendations. Donnalynn is truly gifted and has a real talent for seeing things in people that others do not. read more

I stumbled into Donnalynn's yoga class one cold, wet Saturday afternoon and left feeling warmed, nourished, and like I'd stumbled upon a real NYC gem. I later learned that Donnalynn is also an incredibly knowledgeable and talented holistic health counselor, who can offer expert advice on everything from ayurvedic nutrion to pranayama breathing to chakra balancing. Best of all, she genuinely cares. She doesn't just talk the talk, she's a walking, talking, breathing yogi in the very purest sense of the word. read more

Donnalynn Civello is one of my most cherished teachers and guides. She was the lead teacher of my 200 hr yoga teacher training certification and can't imagine the beautiful experience without her. She is a fountain of loving knowledge and compassion to holistic health and wellness. She is truly an inspirational and supportive, strong balanced woman whom provides endless guidance on maintaing your center throughout our crazy journey down the path of life in the most chaotic wonderful city in the world! read more

I have been practicing yoga with Donnalynn for over a year. To say she is fantastic is an understatement. I am a runner and extremely type A -- so yoga can be a bit of a struggle for me. Donnalynn's classes are challenging, fun and good for the head and the heart. I look forward to her classes and recommend them to everyone. It doesn't matter if you have practiced for years or are a yoga newbie. You will love her and her classes! It is impossible to leave without smiling. Sign up immediately! read more

Donnalynn is a wonderful person. I met her through attending some of Jivamukti's nutrition workshops. I was intrigued and inspired by her passion for health and her desire to share her wealth of knowledge with others. I also met with her for a private coaching session, which I am very grateful for. She was very inspiring and I thank her kindly for her patience and caring nature for others. The world needs more people like Donalynn :) read more

I only have wonderful things to say about my favorite yoga instructor, Donnalynn. Her talks are inspirational, her flow is challenging and fun and her aromatherapy and massages are awesome. Love the music that she plays during class and that she never gives up on helping me stretch out my tight hamstrings. Also, have taken one of her nutrition workshops and learned a great deal about making delicious juices and vegan meals. read more