Photo: of Brynn Major by Nikki McFadden

PARK CITY, Utah — Brynn Major is known for blending self-compassion with a strong focus on anatomy and alignment in her classes at Park City Yoga Collective.

Initially Major, who was raised in Salt Lake City, said she found yoga challenging. “I got into yoga several years ago and hated it. The first class I took was out of my comfort zone. But the more I did it, the more I enjoyed it. I saw the benefits in my body and mind,” Major said. “Now, I teach the way I like to practice, focusing on breaking down poses from the ground up. Alignment is really important to me, and I teach three different types of classes.”

Major began her yoga training at Tadasana Yoga Studio, now known as the Yoga Mastery Institute, before continuing her studies in California. “I pursued further education with Lara Heimann a physical therapist who combines yoga with physical therapy. The training was deeply rooted in proper and healthy alignment,” she explained. Major continues to refine her practice with Jenn Solomon at Park City Yoga Collective.

At the Collective, Major leads classes suited to all experience levels, including a gentle, non-heated class, a heated power class, and a non-heated flow class. She has a special affinity for her gentle class, which focuses on slow, mindful movements. “I like the gentle class because we can slow down and be compassionate with ourselves. It’s important to take that time to be mindful, not just powerful. Gentle is about being compassionate and loving,” she said.

Major’s emphasis on alignment is key to her teaching philosophy. “Alignment is everything. It ensures that students protect themselves while progressing at a sustainable pace,” she said.

The supportive environment at Park City Yoga Collective plays a significant role in Major’s teaching. “The studio is a welcoming place for both teachers and students. It’s a space where everyone can feel supported, and that connection really enhances the experience,” she said.

Major encourages her students to disconnect from the outside world and focus inward during their practice. “I encourage people to close their eyes, connect with their body, and slow down. In today’s world, with technology and social media, it’s easy to disconnect from your body and authentic self,” she said.

Outside the studio, Major channels her commitment to sustainability into Cabin Candle Park City, a small business dedicated to producing eco-friendly, Park City-inspired candles. Each candle is handcrafted from scratch in her cabin using coconut wax, and soon, locally sourced beeswax. “Coconut and beeswax are among the cleanest burning and most sustainable options, and I wanted to create candles that are not only beautiful but also safe for my family and others,” she said.

Major’s candles are more than just a studio offering—they’re available at various locations around town, including Park City Gardens, Park City Gift and Gourmet, Knifeworks on Main, Atticus Coffee and Tea, Montage, and Made in Park City. Her dedication to quality and the environment is reflected in every step of the process, from sourcing materials to composting and reusing shipping materials. Cabin Candle’s signature “Burn and Grow” candle, a nearly zero-waste product, embodies her ethos of sustainability.

In her free time, Major enjoys exploring Park City’s trails with her dog and continues to focus on her practice, both on and off the mat.

For those new to yoga, Major offers advice: “Don’t give up if you feel uncomfortable in your first class. Try different classes and teachers. Starting with a gentle flow class is a great way to build confidence.”