About us
The Universal Peace Foundation of North America (UPFNA) has been serving the Omaha community since 1999 and was formally registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 2005.
Vision: Inner Peace for 1% of the World’s Population
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We envision a world where everyone can access transformative practices that foster peace, health, and personal growth. Our goal is to inspire 1% of the global population to experience the profound benefits of inner peace. When an individual is at peace within, a ripple effect is created: their family becomes happier; as families grow happier, society, the nation, and ultimately the world becomes peaceful and blissful.
Mission: Universal Peace through Individual (Inner) Peace
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We aim/strive to spread "universal peace through individual (inner) peace" by guiding individuals toward self-realization and inner happiness through simplified Kundalini meditation and yoga practices that transcend religious boundaries, promoting global peace and human connection
Our Guiding Philosophy​
UPFNA carries forth the lineage and teachings of our revered Kundalini Yoga Guru, Gurumahan, under the divine guidance of our parent organization in India. Our holistic approach to well-being integrates three key elements:
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Physical Health: Achieved through simple Hatha Yoga postures
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Mental Focus: Cultivated using breathing techniques to calm the mind
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Connecting with the Self: Accomplished through meditation practices
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Our Services
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UPFNA operates solely on donations and offers a wide range of services to the community, including:
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Weekly Kids' Yoga Classes: Classes at three levels based on age groups, focusing on physical well-being, inner strength, personality development, and shaping well-rounded citizens.
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Volunteering Opportunities for Teens: Providing leadership development and training future yoga instructors.
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Kundalini Yoga Classes: Available for adults in-person and online at the UPFNA Center and community centers.
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Specialized Yoga Classes: Private sessions for individuals with special needs, therapy yoga, and prenatal yoga.
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Community Outreach: Introduction to Yoga and Meditation classes at community centers and public libraries.
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Health Services: Yoga and meditation programs at adult correctional facilities and youth centers in partnership with Douglas County.
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Advanced Workshops: Annual yoga workshops led by our esteemed yoga Guru Gurumahan from India, benefiting over 150 attendees.
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200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training: Certification programs for those looking to deepen their practice or pursue a career as a yoga instructor.
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Corporate Wellness:Workshops and stress management sessions are conducted at offices and special events.
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Celebration Events: Special programs such as International Day of Yoga and Global Peace Day.
Join Us
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We invite you to join us, whether you’re interested in attending a class, volunteering, or learning more. Together, we can continue to build a community rooted in peace, health, and connection. Feel free to reach out to us by clicking here.
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We look forward to connecting with you.
Locations
Omaha
Communications@upfna.org
402-218-2054
http://upfna.org
San Francisco, CA
info@upfcal.org
408-758-1303
http://upfcal.org
Dallas, TX
Communications@upfna.org
732-910-6812
http://upfna.org
Austin Tx
Communications@upfna.org
425-753-1727
http://upfna.org
Louisville, KY
Communications@upfna.org
317-752-9595
http://upfna.org
Our Yoga Instructors/Volunteers
Our Team, Our dedicated team of instructors, volunteers, and leaders brings together a wealth of knowledge and passion for the organization’s mission. Each team member is deeply committed to making a difference in the lives of those we serve and creating an inclusive, supportive environment for all.
Sasirekha Rathinam:
Began her Kundalini Yoga journey in 1992 under Guru Gurumahan, which shaped her life’s purpose. As a Wisdom Yoga Teacher and Yoga Instructor, she has deepened her practice through advanced training and studies in Yoga, Naturopathy, Acupuncture, and Therapy techniques. For over 25 years, Sasi has taught yoga and Kundalini meditation to children and adults in Omaha, including specialized Prenatal and Therapy Yoga classes. Her passion, extensive knowledge, and commitment to Guru’s vision reflect her dedication to sharing the transformative power of yoga and enriching the community.
Balakrishnan Palanisamy:
Spiritual quest began during college, leading him to meet Guru Gurumahan in 1995. This profound encounter marked the start of his Kundalini meditation journey. Under Gurumahan's guidance, Balakrishnan dedicated himself to mastering the practice and serving as a Wisdom Yoga Teacher. His commitment to spiritual growth and teaching embodies his devotion to sharing the transformative power of Kundalini meditation with others.
Jayaram Nagarajan:
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Has been a dedicated Kundalini Meditation practitioner for over 20 years, a Yoga Instructor, and a volunteer since 2014. He currently teaches at the Correction Center and Youth Center in Omaha, NE, and leads community classes and stress management sessions for corporate clients. His extensive experience and commitment to yoga and wellness reflect his dedication to making a positive impact in diverse settings
Kaitlin Heaven:
Kaitlin Heavin is a seasoned yoga practitioner and instructor based in Omaha, Nebraska, with two decades of personal practice and 16 years of teaching experience. She holds a 500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) certification with Yoga Alliance and is a certified yoga therapist. Her extensive training includes 1,000 hours in Ayurveda, 300 hours in meditation, and specialization as an integrative breathwork specialist. Kaitlin is also trauma-informed and focuses on pain management.
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In addition to her primary certifications, Kaitlin has pursued secondary training in various areas, including kids yoga, chair yoga, women’s health, senior yoga, pranayama, and yoga nidra.​​
Jitendra Chintamadaka:
With over 15 years of YOGA practice and teaching experience, is a testament to the power of dedication. His classes, which primarily focus on Hatha and Raja Yoga, reflect his unwavering commitment to the practice.
Namasivayam:
Yoga Instructor/volunteer since 2018 and practitioner for over 10 years, currently teaching at Youth Center, Omaha, NE, in addition to community classes.
Ravi Pillai:
Yoga Instructor/volunteer since 2018 and practitioner for over 14 years, currently teaching at Correction Center, Omaha, NE, in addition to community classes.