Christa Mastrangelo Joyce: Bridging Ancient Traditions with Modern Wisdom
E-RYT500 Certified Yoga Teacher | Founder of Jala Yoga | Retreat Leader
Christa Mastrangelo Joyce brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for yoga to every class and retreat she leads. With her E-RYT500 certification earned through Kim Manfredi and over 1000 additional hours of training from esteemed teachers such as Sianna Sherman, Bernie Clark, Maria Garre, Shiva Rea, Desiree Rumbaugh, Tiffany Cruikshank, and Andrew McCaulay, Christa is a seasoned guide in the world of yoga. 
Journey to Jala Yoga:
In 2009, Christa founded Jala Yoga, a space that has since become a haven for yoga enthusiasts seeking a holistic and transformative experience. Her dedication to yoga training started in 2012, and she has been sharing her passion through numerous yoga retreats.
A Tapestry of Yoga Styles:
Christa’s yoga journey is diverse, encompassing Ashtanga, Hatha, Ayurveda, Yin Yoga, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Her extensive training in anatomy, particularly the nervous system, allows her to tailor classes that promote adaptability, curiosity, and engagement. Christa seamlessly weaves breath work, meditation, and yoga philosophy into her teachings, creating an immersive and holistic practice.
Honoring Tradition in a Modern Context:
Christa is committed to honoring the ancient traditions of yoga while adapting them to the needs of the modern world. She recognizes and addresses barriers to accessibility in yoga, working to create inclusive classes that embrace diversity and cater to practitioners of all levels. Her love for storytelling and mythology adds a unique and enriching dimension to her classes.
Jen Rolston: Embracing Yoga as a Path to Joyful Living
200HR Certified Yoga Teacher | Morning Dharma Instructor | Devotee of Yoga Philosophy
Jen Rolston’s journey with yoga began in 2005, marking the culmination of a lifelong exploration of religions and philosophies. Drawn to the first yoga studio in Shepherdstown, she fell in love with yoga philosophy, meditation, and the transformative power of asanas, as taught by Shanti Saagar founders Judy Jenner & JiJi Beckett.
A Self-Practice Journey:
Maintaining a self-practice since her initial introduction to yoga, Jen found a consistent practice under the guidance of Christa Mastrangelo Joyce in 2010. In 2018, she completed Jala Yoga’s 200HR Teacher Training with Christa, deepening her understanding of yoga philosophy and refining her teaching skills.
Morning Dharma with Jen:
As a dedicated Morning Dharma instructor since completing her training, Jen brings her unique blend of teachings inspired by Yogrishi Vishvketu, Jack Kornfield, Ram Dass, and Buddhist dharma. She firmly believes that the combination of yoga, meditation, and a connection with nature offers the simplest path to a joyful life—acknowledging that it might not always be the easiest, but unquestionably the simplest.
The Joy of Teaching and Connecting:
Jen’s classes reflect her genuine belief in the transformative power of yoga and meditation. Through her teachings, she aims to inspire others on their journey toward a joyful life, fostering connections with both the self and the surrounding world.
As integral members of the yoga community, Christa Mastrangelo Joyce and Jen Rolston bring their unique perspectives, expertise, and genuine passion for yoga to every retreat. Together, they create an enriching and inclusive environment that invites practitioners to explore, learn, and connect on their yoga journey. Join them on a retreat to experience the profound impact of their teachings firsthand. September 21027, 2025 in the Algarve Coast, Portugal
