Tracy Caracciolo, Owner of Yoga For You, Frankfort, IL
Nancy Wedemeyer, Geneva, IL
“I received everything I had hoped to gain from the Prairie Yoga Teacher Training. I am learning to pay more attention to what brings peace and joy in my life, as well as learning better ways to care for my body and my spirit.”
Dr. Judith Kuiper, Licensed psychologist; Ordained Christian Minister
Rachel Johanek, Denver, CO
“I am so appreciative of the training and the mentoring I have had the chance to experience through Prairie Yoga and Cascade Yoga Studio.”
Evy Hazenberg, Ada, MI
Cyndi Karges, Joliet, IL
Amy Massat, Geneva, IL
Cara Chang Mutert, Owner, The Yoga Lounge, Woodstock, IL
Jo Meszaros, Wilmington, IL
April Berta, Naperville, IL
Margaret O’Mullan, Hinsdale, IL
“This is the Harvard of Yoga Teacher Training.”
Hollis Woodard
Ph.D. Candidate, University of Illinois, Champaign, IL
“I loved the asana instruction, and it gave me the foundation and confidence to safely and effectively teach yoga classes. What I love the most about my training is that it helped put me on a path to personal growth. I am fascinated with how rich the discipline of yoga is, and about how my studies have helped me to develop as an individual. With the help of my wonderful teachers at Prairie Yoga, I see myself continuing on this yoga path for a long, long time to come.”
Lynda Carr, 200 hour and 500 hour graduate, Aurora, IL
”Both Lori and April are such amazing teachers. The program taught me alignment and the skills to be a teacher. But I think most importantly, it taught me the spirit and intention of yoga that I can apply on and off the mat. And it has been so great to be a part of a community. All of the trainees have been very close and supportive of each other. I really can’t say enough.”
Alexandra Alcaraz, Grand Rapids, MI
“One of the strengths of the program is the mentors–our group was wonderful! I liked the weekly pacing of the classes and the use of the props in our practice, as I don’t get that much at my home studio. Lori teaches what she loves, it’s so apparent. I appreciate her high expectations, not only of herself but also of the trainees. It’s important that trainees be supported and she does that very well.”
Becky Carlson, Marseilles, IL
“I feel so fortunate to have found Prairie Yoga’s teacher training program. When I signed up, I didn’t even realize what great training and teachers I would be introduced to. Funny how things work out at the right time in our lives! The group of trainees were wonderful, too…I think there will be many long-time connections between us.”
Cyndi Karges, Joliet, IL
“I highly recommend this training. Lori is very knowledgeable and exacting. Her love of yoga is inspiring. Also, she treats her students with respect and maturity. She wasn’t afraid to tell it like it is. I also like the fact that she has an advanced degree. That gives her program credibility.”
Cathy Mackenzie, Grand Rapids, MI
“I wanted to let you know that I am absolutely enjoying the Prairie Yoga teacher training program. Looking back at the past few months, I have grown so much and have met so many fantastic people. Although my yoga journey has just begun, I can’t wait to actually teach yoga. I am passionate about health and wellness, and I want to share with others the physical, emotional, spiritual and mental power yoga brings.”
Julie Liotine, Lisle, IL
“My experience as a trainee in Prairie Yoga Teacher Training was one of the best investments I have ever made. The program was incredibly organized and thorough, and I really appreciated the balance between learning hands-on techniques and exploring the history and ethics involved with yoga. But above all, one of the most influential teaching aspects this program instilled in me was the importance of the safety of my students.”
Anna Raphael, Owner, Laketown Healing Arts, Holland, MI
“I was intrigued by the idea of enrolling in the teacher training offered at CYS, but was unsure if someone my age and upper-50’s-body could do it. I’m glad I accepted the encouragement of the other teachers at CYS and did it! The training helped me immeasurably in my own practice, including helping me manage arthritis that I have had for many years. The opportunity to teach others who have sporadically, or never, practiced yoga has been a real joy and has really enriched my life.
Linda Ketterer, Grand Rapids, MI
“I am so thankful that I chose Prairie Yoga to take my 200-hour teacher training. Lori taught us an incredible amount of information in a very organized, thoughtful, and respectful way. This teacher training has brought depth and ability to my yoga practice as well as my life. I am forever grateful for what this opportunity has given to me. “
Jamie Kozlowicz, Grand Rapids, MI
“I couldn’t have asked for a better program and mentors.”
Carrie Davis, Lisle, IL
Marinda’s Anatomy Class– WOW THAT WAS GREAT. I was so worried that it was going to be over my head and that I was just not going to get anything from it. But she was wonderful and most important she didn’t dumb it down. She put everything into regular words and matched it up with stuff that I will use it for when teaching. Hats off to you and Marinda for a great set of classes.
Kathleen Hall, Lisle, IL
“I LOVED the teacher training in Fort Wayne last year. I still refer to the beautiful training manual for the classes I lead. The class made such a difference in not only my career as a therapist, but throughout my entire life. I hope everyone in Indiana felt as lucky as I did to have such great training, and all the master workshops that Prairie Yoga was able to help provide. Thank you again.”
Christine Nifong, Ft. Wayne, IN
“I can understand why your studio and your teaching is so well known and acknowledged. You are truly remarkable and yet, so down to earth! I love your passion for the teaching and sharing of yoga. My experience the past 8 months has been rich and rewarding. Thank you so much for offering such a privileged learning experience.”
Colleen Fasbender, Geneva, IL
“Thank you for such a wonderful program! I learned a lot from the training and I loved all of the teachers. Great inspirations! I also love the manual. I use it all of the time for making sequences and re-reading things.”
Jessica Burkett, Columbia City, IN
I have truly loved being part of this program. I am so happy that I decided to sign up for it! I am thrilled that I’ll soon be able to say I’m a Prairie Yoga Certified Yoga Instructor!
Linda Ritter, Ft. Wayne, IN
“I am so grateful for this training. It has truly deepened my practice and it came at a time when I needed it the most. The last 2 years have been filled with tremendous challenges and many highs & lows. My yoga has kept me focused, grounded, and level-headed. So thank you for launching me on this journey!”
Sharon Schmuker, Rockford, MI
“I love your teaching style and think you are a compassionate yet challenging teacher – a great balance and I really enjoy being your student. My path has been uber-challenging and your teaching and your acceptance AND your high expectations have all been really good for me. Just wanted to let you know how much you have touched my life and what a lifeline and amazing learning experience this training is. It really is a great class and I really love all the fellow students.”
J.B., Lisle, IL
“Marinda was absolutely amazing! She made a tough subject [anatomy] interesting. I learned so much and a lot that will benefit me in my yoga practice.”
200 Hour Yoga Teacher Trainee, Ft. Wayne, IN
“I cannot say enough good things about Prairie Yoga’s Teacher Training Program. Lori Gaspar is not only a fantastic yoga teacher, but she directs the program with heart and the students best interest in mind. She encourages every prospective teacher to find their strengths and nurture them. The new facility in Lisle is outstanding and will support the awesome learning that takes place in the program. Her staff of co-teachers in the program, Tricia Fiske and April Storms are top notch – they are both compassionate and passionate about teaching yoga.”
Reeny Linstrom, 500 CYT, Glen Ellyn, IL
“My workshop [for my Advanced Training Thesis] is going great. I am learning so much by taking the information I studied and applying it to the needs of the students. Working with Gabriel has also been a significant influence on expanding my knowledge and confidence. I am very grateful to have met him through your program. Before I started your program, I never would have thought that I could teach such a specialized workshop. Thank you for all your efforts to build a training program that prepares a teacher to become much more than just another person who teaches yoga.”
Tracy Caracciolo, 500 CYT, Owner, Yoga For You, Frankfort, IL
“We had a great weekend in Fort Wayne with April and Paula. I just wanted to again thank you for putting together such a comprehensive teacher training. I have been doing yoga for over 15 years and have been teaching several years already and was very concerned that I would not get my time and money’s worth if I did a 200 hr program BUT your program is so detailed and so full of ALL the limbs of yoga that there is always so much for me to learn and grow. You have such a well trained AND heartfelt group of teachers and we have such an open and ready to learn group in Fort Wayne. Its just been fantastic– true synchronicity.”
Tina Tazian, Ft. Wayne, IN
“I received the greatest compliment the other day and I wanted to share it with you because I feel that you are directly responsible for this. I taught our annual “Om for the Holidays” class. Several teachers came, including one whom I ‘ve known since I started teaching. She came up to me afterward and said, “You have grown so much as a teacher.” That made my day because I certainly have intended that and I feel that I have. To have a colleague acknowledge that made me glow. And, Lori, it was your training that put it all together for me and continues to help me find my voice as a teacher and as a yogini. It illumined my path in ways that prior to your training were unclear at best. So, thank you again. I’m so grateful for your presence in my life.”
Paula Gardner, 500 CYT, Orland Park, IL
“I love this program and feel so blessed to be a part of it. What I love the most is the philosophy. Exploring the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads and looking at the prana vayus on a deeper level have been my favorite. Lori has a wonderful way of explaining challenging concepts in a clear and concise way. She is ALWAYS available to answer all my questions and has given me a safe place to explore and find my path.”
April Storms, 500 CYT, Plainfield, IL
“Lori is an amazing teacher/facilitator and creates a wonderful environment for learning and for connecting with the other teachers in the group. The outside workshops and assisting teachers are top quality as well. It is a commitment– there is homework and reading assignments, but all very worthwhile. This program has deepened my knowledge so much, freshened my teaching greatly and I’ve made some new friends! I feel so thankful that I have done it.”
Reeny Linstrom, 500 CYT, Glen Ellyn, IL
“Thanks for providing such a rich and varied curriculum Your dedication and enthusiasm for yoga is a source of inspiration for us aspirants! The more I learn, the more I am aware of how much more there is to learn. Is there a 1,000 hour teacher training?”
Libby Scanlan, 500 CYT, Sugar Grove, IL
“I’m really enjoying the program. Tricia is a great teacher, as are all of you. You each have your own style, but yet seem to play off each other very well. I’ve met some great people. I’m learning so much and I always look forward to Fridays. I see great things happening with this program and all who have the privilege of taking part in it.”
Debra Zielke, Evergreen Park, IL
“The 200 hour Teacher Training has been almost life-changing for me. I have met so many interesting people in our class. It is filled with a very diversified group of men and women of all ages. That is one of the most amazing things about it because you can begin practicing yoga at any age. And the mentoring aspect of it is extremely beneficial… I just love the training!”
Kristin Malone, Glen Ellyn, IL
“Thank you, Lori… Once again, I am reminded of what a gift it continues to be that I found your Prairie Yoga ad in that issue of Yoga Chicago. For the first time in my 10 years of physical yoga and 25 years of emotional yoga/meditation, I feel part of a community with lots and lots of room to grow on as many different levels as I can sustain. You truly do embody the essence of the thread that yoga moves through us to others. You work hard for this to happen and I want to tell you how beautifully you succeed.”
Paula Gardner, 500 CYT, Orland Park, IL
“Great 500 hour classes! The round robin last week was fun and educational and I appreciate the feedback. The senior information is helpful too; at my Hatha 1-2 classes, I’m seeing a good number of 60+ women coming in who have never done yoga before. While I’m certainly not teaching with a brahmacharya focus, it’s been a challenge to introduce them while also meeting the needs of 30-somethings. The info in the manual and the discussion yesterday helped me better understand the challenges these students may have.”
Rebecca Russell, 500 CYT, Glen Ellyn, IL
“Through the teacher training program and the expertise of the teachers and mentors, I have learned that yoga is so much more! It has been a very rewarding experience and has enriched my life. I realize that Yoga can be for everyone, whether you are 3 or 93. I look forward to the opportunity to teach children, as well as seniors. My hope is to be even a fraction as good as the teachers that I have encountered.”
Patti Steffensen, Bensenville, IL
“I’ve enjoyed the depth of instruction from both Lori and Tricia during the teacher training. Their knowledge has allowed me to grow as a person as well as a teacher.”
Magy Rehayem, Hoffman Estates, IL
“Although it’s early days, I have already received so much from the program: the cueing of the koshas has been a highlight!!! It opened a whole new world to my teaching: how to access the subtle bodies, how to cue it, how to guide students (that are ready) to delve a little deeper, without scaring the pants off them. Enriching my own practice and giving me the tools to teach better.”
Marinda Stopforth, 500 CYT, Lisle, IL
“This is an excellent training. It has challenged me to hone my teaching skills. It has also enabled me to delve into the spiritual aspect of yoga. I feel grateful that I was able to participate in a training of this caliber.”
Linda Troutman, 500 CYT, Lombard, IL
“I joined the program entirely to learn what Lori has to teach. Her strengths cut across the breadth of yoga: from focus on alignment and clear cues in postures, to deep knowledge of the historical and spiritual context of yoga. The non-classroom requirements are also very valuable, including Anatomy with Tias Little and Therapeutics with Gabriel Halpern. The program gives me an opportunity to expand my knowledge of yoga and develop new relationships in the teaching community.”
“I feel blessed to be in classes with you and Laura Jane. It’s been so long since I’ve experienced a teacher or teachers that resonate with my needs and desires of yoga practice and to feel this way with two at once is a wondrous thing. I feel deeply grateful for the opportunity and for the resonance!”
“What a great group we have! I love our discussions and the comraderie.”
“i love that you encourage people to try a variety of things and explore on their own. This allows them to develop a very personal practice that speaks to them. Although the basics are in there as well, Its just great that it is so much more than that. I think that is what I am enthusiastic about– I get to explore.”
Tina Tazian
“I am so impressed with your ability to organize and explain these sometimes esoteric concepts in such a way that they are so INTERESTING and UNDERSTOOD. On top of that my love of yoga is increasing TEN-FOLD as I read it. Thank you so, so much. I am so happy to be in possession of this body of knowledge in the form of your manual. TRUE FOOD.”
“I am just gobbling up the information you are passing along. Cueing for the koshas–I can’t tell you how much I love that. This is exactly stuff I want to know. Secondly, I appreciate so much the safety of the environment you have created for our group.”
“Thanks, Lori, for being who you are and for all your hard work in putting this training together. The loving care and kindness that you have poured into it are deeply felt and deeply appreciated.”
“I am getting so much out of the Teacher Training. The group energy is awesome!”









