John Donaghy

Background

About John Donaghy

Hailing from Derry, Northern Ireland, and currently residing in Las Palmas, my transition from a notable career in management and consultancy, including a role as a Special Adviser in the Northern Ireland Government, to a life devoted to yoga and spirituality has been a journey of transformation. My initiation into yoga began in 1993, laying the foundation for a lifelong pursuit of spiritual and physical harmony. My practice and teaching methodology were initially shaped by the dynamic and engaging style of Himalayan Master Keshav Rupakheti, under whom I began my yoga journey in 2004. This experience, combined with the wisdom gained from various esteemed yoga masters in India—including Dr. Gaurav Agrawal, Yogi Kamal Singh, and Usha Devi—has allowed me to explore and teach a range of disciplines such as Ashtanga, Hatha, Yoga Nidra, and Iyengar, with a deep dive into philosophy and pranayama. In recent years, Vinay Kumar has been a transformative influence, particularly in refining my pranayama practice and enhancing my proficiency in Prana Vashya and backbend postures. This evolution has further enriched my teachings, blending Hatha with the dynamic Prana Vashya yoga style, all infused with a profound spiritual depth. My journey also includes a dedicated meditation practice that began in 1989 under the guidance of Tibetan Buddhist nun Kelsang Drolkar, which remains a cornerstone of my daily life. This spiritual grounding is a critical element of my teaching, ensuring my classes offer not just physical engagement but also an opportunity for deep, personal transformation. As an instructor, my goal is to deliver classes that are both dynamic and enjoyable, fostering an environment where students can embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and spiritual growth. My aim is to inspire others to delve deeper into their yoga practice, meditation, and spiritual pursuits, facilitating a path toward greater awareness and enlightenment.