Get To Know The Instructor
Anne Avant began attending Iyengar hatha yoga classes while living in the San Francisco area in 1978 where she studied with many senior teachers. After studying several different styles of yoga, she knew Iyengar was the choice for her with its emphasis on alignment and therapeutic benefits. She continued her studies after returning to Little Rock in 1984, attending numerous workshops around the country and in Ireland, and studying privately with senior Iyengar teachers. She began teaching in 1987, and was the first teacher in Arkansas to receive her Iyengar certification (CIYT) in 1991.
Now in her 70’s, Anne loves and is very grateful for the many benefits of practice, with modifications for aging bodies. “We are constantly looking for ways to accommodate the needs and requirements necessary to provide safe and healthy methods for an enjoyable and beneficial experience."
Anne received her "Yoga for Scoliosis" certification in 2018 from Elise Browning Miller, a senior Iyengar certified teacher from California. The training provided detailed knowledge on working with different types of scoliosis to help stretch and strengthen chronic tight and weak areas due to the abnormal curvature of the spine.
Therapeutic Benefits of Each Asana
Good alignment of the bones and muscles is essential for the therapeutic benefits of each asana (pose) to be obtained. The nervous system, circulatory system, glands, and organs can then optimally function. Many times, muscular aches and discomforts are remedied through the asanas, and strength is gained in weaker areas. The body is brought back into balance with more stability and a calmer nervous system. A calmer nervous system enhances the immune system.
When everyday activities become difficult, yoga helps us remain mobile and regain the ability to function well.
As we age, loss of muscle mass and strength is a common occurrence. Muscles must be used to stay strong, and the first to go are the major muscles of movement in the legs. Weak back muscles and tight chest muscles lead to poor posture and breathing impairment.
It's vital to take the time to do something for yourself!
About Cedar Rock
Anne and her husband, Hans van der Werff, designed and built Cedar Rock Yoga Studio in 1998. “It was one of the most joyful times of my life to begin teaching in a space we had created."
Classes Are Suitable for Beginners
Classes are small enough to provide individual attention necessary to observe correct alignment and promote therapeutic benefits.
Classes proceed at a slow pace with the support of props, which help ensure safety, conserves energy and is more harmonious for our bodies and minds. Instructions are clear and easy to understand.
As always, remember it is important to enjoy what you are doing and to maintain a sense of humor.
What Some Students Say:
Can't say enough about Cedar Rock Yoga Studio. The atmosphere is truly welcoming and is a comfortable space for all shapes, sizes and skill levels. The instructor is knowledgeable, caring and supportive. What stands out most is how personalized each session feels. Even in a group setting, individual attention is always given to each participant resulting in a practice that is safe, effective and appropriately challenging. It is always an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
Joe S. 4/10/26
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I first visited Cedar Rock Yoga at age 55 out of curiosity. I am now 71.Of course my body has aged but through Anne's anatomical knowledge and use of physical supports and props, her instruction physically challenges and stretches my body in ways complementary to my individual abilities and limitations. The instructions have also increased my mental connections with the way I use my body, helping prevent injuries and promoting good body awareness. My physician was even impressed with my range of motion.
Randy G. 4/9/26