Welcome to your yoga transformation!

So you want to become fit, strong, flexible, and vital? There's no need to wait for perfect weather, purchase special equipment, or find the right gym. You don't even need to leave your house. It's actually very simple—all you need is intention! I'll coach you through the rest.

Starting tomorrow, you can be on your way to becoming a better, healthier version of yourself.

Whether you're a total beginner or an experienced yogi, together we'll build a strong practice to help you develop a resilient, balanced body, enjoy stiffness-free joints, and maintain a pain-free, flexible back using traditional Hatha Yoga techniques.

We'll also work on breathing techniques to improve focus and concentration, reduce anxiety and stress, and use the power of synchronized breath with movement to induce a deep sense of calm.

Maria Zotov - a professional Yoga teacher in Oakland

My Story

I'm focused on finding movement that actually works—real solutions for real bodies. Aging joints, limited mobility, old injuries, back pain, hernias, stiff necks, sensitive knees, wrists, shoulders, arthritis, anxiety. My classes are built to meet bodies where they are and help them move forward safely, intelligently, and with confidence.

I fell in love with yoga in 2007, when it helped me recover from a shin splint injury from competitive running on my college track team. What started as physical rehabilitation became something much bigger: steadiness during exams, sharper focus, confidence, and a sense of lightness in everyday life. Yoga became my full-time dedication and my full time path and the lens through which I understand the body and the nervous system.

I'm a 550-hour RYT yoga teacher, trained in India, with years of experience teaching Hatha, Ashtanga-based Vinyasa, Power Yoga, and Pranayama. I teach in studios, private sessions, group classes, corporate settings, and retreats in the Bay Area, and previously in Tel Aviv. I work with beginners through advanced practitioners, seniors, dancers, athletes, and people recovering from or adapting to injury.

My classes are tailored. I regularly work with people who have back pain, hernias, high blood pressure, neck and wrist injuries, shoulder limitations, knee sensitivity, arthritis, and anxiety. I also enjoy supporting dancers and movers who want to build strength, balance, and flexibility without compromising their joints.

I'm meticulous about safe, efficient alignment and functional movement. The focus is on intelligent strength, joint health, and sustainable mobility, rather than pushing or performing. Pranayama is woven into the practice to support energy regulation, focus, emotional steadiness, anxiety reduction, and better sleep.

With a background as a civil engineer, I teach structured, logical, and creative classes grounded in anatomy and science-backed principles. I adapt my language to the student. Sometimes precise and technical, sometimes simple and intuitive, so the practice makes sense in the body, not just in theory.

What to expect:
– Enjoyable, intelligent movement synchronized with breath
– Strength and flexibility built with minimal strain
– Joint-friendly sequencing and functional mobility
– Clear alignment cues for posture and injury prevention
– Pranayama techniques for energy, focus, calm, and sleep

I continue to update my knowledge through advanced workshops with leading teachers in the US, India, Israel, Italy, and Thailand. I hold current CPR/AED certification and a valid US work visa.

Book a Class

In-Person Classes in Oakland/Alameda/Berkeley

At payment, you'll be asked to provide your contact information. After payment, you will be contacted by phone or email to schedule your class at a convenient time and location—either at your place or at Maria's studio.

For more information or questions, please use the contact form below.

Choose your perfect yoga experience

Yoga Class

  • 120 minutes per session
  • Focused practice tailored to your personal goals
  • Mobility, strength & balance with mindful transitions
  • Nervous system regulation, leaving you centered & refreshed
Book 1 Class - $150 Book 5 Classes - $600

Traditional Yoga Practice

  • 180 minutes per session
  • Classical postures with precise alignment & breath work
  • Deep tension release & sustainable strength building
  • Extended pranayama, relaxation & meditation
Book 1 Class - $220 Book 5 Classes - $1000

My Students

I welcome students of all levels, offering my guidance at Tribe Fitness Yoga & Coaching, RAE Studios, UN Plaza, and at retreats. I provide group and corporate classes as well as private classes in the comfort of your home.

What my students say

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