Nayaswami Uma Ann Macfarlane, a long-time member of Ananda, lived for many years at Ananda Village in California as secretary to Swami Kriyananda. She is now a Kriyacharya, counselor, and teacher of Raja Yoga, on which she holds courses here at Ananda Assisi.

A student and teacher of yogic philosophy and spiritual science for 40 years, Uma has taught in Ananda communities in the United States, India, and many European countries. Born in England, she brings to her lessons rich content drawn from her long experience, a touch of insight, and a pleasant charm. To date, she teaches at the center in Assisi, Italy.

Uma's testimony about her experience as a teacher:

"Everyone, everywhere, seeks the same thing in life: a sense of peace, happiness, meaning in their existence, and fulfillment. Sometimes we wonder if it is really possible to reach these states. The teachings of yoga help us realize that we can achieve the deepest dreams and hopes of our heart. With techniques applicable to daily life, we can change and grow. If these life teachings are applied with sincerity and diligence, they are useful in all aspects of life: relationships, emotions, and response to changes and the continuous ups and downs of life.

Awareness and understanding bring joy and peace, and life transforms in new and wonderful ways. È a privilege and an honor to share these teachings with the many hundreds of people who come here to find rest, relaxation, renewal, and transformation.”

One of her students:

“I have 15 years of experience in the education sector, and for 5 years my job has been to hire teachers for a respected college preparatory academy, and I must say that Uma impressed me greatly, with her radiant smile and warm welcome. The fact that such a kind person can also be a serious and conscientious teacher is a blessing for everyone. She manages to make everyone completely at ease while sharing deep and meaningful emotions and experiences. It is so easy to absorb the content and wisdom of her lessons because she manages to open a path in people and remove any feeling of discomfort from their minds.” S. E. - San Clemente, CA, USA

Shivani Lucki, founder of the European School of Ananda Raja Yoga, is one of the founding members of the Ananda World Brotherhood Village in California, USA, where she lived from 1969 until 1985 when, with her husband Arjuna, she moved to Italy to assist in the opening of Ananda Europe.

She studied with Swami Kriyananda who awarded her the diploma of yoga and meditation teacher in 1973, the title of Ananda Minister in 1982, that of Yogacharya in 1993, and authorized her to give initiation into Kriya Yoga (Kriyacharya) in 2005.

In 1979 Shivani started the yoga preparation programs at Ananda World Brotherhood Expanding Light in California, USA and was coordinator of Ananda teachers and ministers in the United States. Since her arrival in Italy she has been involved in creating courses for guests at Ananda Assisi and training meditation teachers throughout Europe. She often travels worldwide giving lectures and seminars on Self-realization and Kriya Yoga.

He is the executive producer of the film Finding Happiness (Vivere la felicità), released in 2014 in the United States, Europe, and India.