Tina Zook is more than a yoga teacher—she is a spiritual guide, environmental advocate, and community builder. With over two decades of experience, Tina has transformed her personal journey into a mission to heal others through yoga, plant-based living, and indigenous wisdom. Her work integrates physical practice with deep emotional and spiritual healing, making her a unique and impactful figure in the global yoga community.Loka Yoga+1Loka Yoga+1
Early Life: From Adventure to Awareness
Before dedicating herself to yoga, Tina led an adventurous life as a mountaineer, marathon runner, and competitive equestrian. She served on the Whistler ski patrol for eight years, during which she became a passionate advocate for wildlife, working with Bear Smart to protect bears in the region. These experiences instilled in her a profound respect for nature and a commitment to environmental stewardship.Loka Yoga+1Loka Yoga+1Loka Yoga+1Loka Yoga+1
Spiritual Awakening: Embracing Bhakti and Indigenous Teachings
Tina’s spiritual journey is deeply influenced by Bhakti yoga—the path of devotion—and indigenous ceremonies. She founded Loka Yoga, a community-centered studio that operated for 20 years in England and Canada, offering teachings steeped in Bhakti and indigenous traditions. Her Cree name, “Daybreak Woman,” and the Sanskrit name “Pashumati,” meaning “protector of animals,” reflect her dedication to honoring all living beings.Loka Yoga+1Loka Yoga+1Loka Yoga+1Loka Yoga+1
Healing Through Yoga: A Therapeutic Approach
As a cancer survivor, Tina brings a compassionate and therapeutic approach to her teaching. She works with individuals facing cancer, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and autoimmune diseases, using yoga as a tool for holistic healing. Her methods incorporate the use of a yoga wall and props to adapt practices to individual needs, emphasizing the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. Loka Yoga+1Loka Yoga+1
Shantiseva: Service as a Spiritual Practice
Tina embodies the principle of “Seva,” or selfless service, through her initiative called Shantiseva. This practice merges action with devotion, aiming to serve all beings—four-legged, feathered, finned, and human alike. Inspired by teachings from the Bhagavad Gita and her mentor Shyam Das, Tina views service as a path toward liberation and unity with the divine. Loka Yoga
Global Outreach: Teaching and Mentorship
Tina is an authorized Senior Ashtanga yoga teacher by Manju Jois and an advanced Jivamukti teacher. She conducts annual life programs in India at the eco-village Govardhan, offers 800-hour mentorships, and leads private retreats, sweat lodge ceremonies, and vision quests with her elders. Her teachings extend beyond the mat, encompassing breathwork, shamanic drumming, and end-of-life care as a Death Doula. Loka Yoga
Advocacy and Activism: A Voice for the Voiceless
A long-term vegan and animal rights activist, Tina uses her platform to advocate for a plant-based lifestyle and environmental consciousness. She believes that yoga is not only a personal practice but also a means to honor the earth and all its inhabitants. Her activism is deeply intertwined with her spiritual beliefs, emphasizing non-harming (Ahimsa) and compassion. Loka Yoga
Conclusion: Living the Mantra
Tina lives by the mantra: “Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu”—may all beings everywhere be happy and free. Through her integrative approach to yoga, commitment to service, and unwavering advocacy for the planet and its creatures, Tina Zook exemplifies how one individual’s journey can inspire collective healing and transformation.
