About Me

Yoga came into my life out of curiosity — but stayed out of passion.
— Ira, founder of Durga Yoga.

My journey

I was born in Russia and have lived in Germany, New Zealand, France, and now Switzerland. Experiencing life in different countries and cultures has shaped the way I see the world and enriched my personal and professional journey. Along the way, I discovered yoga — and it has been part of my life ever since.

My academic background is in environmental sciences and human geography, fields that deepened my connection to balance, harmony, and nature — values that are closely linked to the philosophy of yoga.

I first encountered yoga in the early 2000s during my university years. What began as curiosity soon became a long-term passion. Over the years, I explored different styles and learned to appreciate yoga not only as a physical practice but also as a powerful tool for mental focus and inner calm.

In 2021, I completed my formal teacher training at the Sivananda Yoga School and obtained my Yoga Alliance certification in traditional Hatha Yoga. Since then, I have continued to expand my knowledge with specialized training in prenatal yoga, children’s yoga, and yoga for seniors.
Today, alongside other professional activities, I teach yoga with the intention of making it accessible and supportive for people at all stages of life.