Nancy McCaochan, M.A., E-RYT 200 began yoga and meditation a second time in 1995 when a divorce left her reeling. In order to deepen her understanding of these disciplines, she traveled extensively to workshops and training sessions, exploring the field of yoga from Kripalu to Kundalini. While in her 20's she had been influenced by B.K.S. Iyengar, whose Light on Yoga, had been her constant companion and guide during a daily practice. Because of Iyengar's teaching, Nancy naturally gravitated to practices in the lineage of Krishnamacharya, Iyengar's teacher. In 2001, she moved to metro-Detroit to study Ashtanga with Jonny Kest. Since that time she has immersed herself in Vinyasa, become familiar with Anusara alignment principles, and initiated a healing style that reflects the work of T.K.V. Desikachar.

In 1991, a long-time interest in the paranormal and the occult resulted in spontaneous shamanic experiences. Nancy's subsequent formal training comes through the Foundation for Shamanic Studies' Basic Workshop and from advanced sessions with Foundation-trained teachers Sandra Ingerman and Tracey and Emery Forrest.

Until 2005, Shamanism and Yoga were two separate paths. Then, during a concert by Deva Premal, Green Tara, a Tibetan incarnation of the compassionate Buddha, asked Nancy to take her home. Since that time, this deity of enlightened activity has guided Nancy in her synthesis of shamanism and yoga. The result is Shamanasana.

In addition to Shamanasana, Nancy practices Vipassana, a type of Buddhist mindfulness meditation. She feels a kinship with the western United States, Tibet, Peru, and the faerie realm. Although her primary spirit guide is the Green Tara, she also works closely with hawk, bear, butterfly, and jaguar energies.

Nancy teaches asana, does chakra-based shamanic counseling, facilitates workshops, and writes. Located in metro-Detroit, she has presented in Norway, Peru, and Vancouver and can be contacted at nancy@shamanasana.com