A woman practicing yoga on the beach during sunset, performing a side lunge with one arm raised towards the sky.

Heather Dana

Lila Within, Founder

Hi, I’m Heather — the heart behind Lila Within. I’m a New York State certified teacher and a 200-hour certified yoga instructor with a passion for creating spaces where people of all ages can learn, grow, and connect.

Off the mat and outside the classroom, I’m a mom to two little ones, Sam and Sofia. They are the reason I wanted to begin treating my physical, mental and spiritual health as a priority. I am a nature lover, and happiest when I’m paddle boarding on the Hudson, camping under the stars, or curled up with a good book.

Through Lila Within, I bring together my love for teaching, movement, and the outdoors to help others find balance, strength, and joy — both in stillness and in flow.

In Sanskrit, Lila means “divine play” —

the dance of life, creativity, and connection.

Lila Within is about finding that sense of play and presence inside ourselves, even in the middle of busy lives.

It’s about moving, breathing, and pausing with intention —

on the yoga mat, in nature, and in our everyday moments.

At Lila Within, we create space for balance, strength, and joy to unfold — reminding us that wellness is not just about exercise, but about living fully and with heart.