Colleen Saidman Yee

Colleen Saidman Yee began her yoga journey in 1984 in New York City, initially hesitant but deeply impacted by her first class. After years of pursuing other athletic disciplines, a back surgery in 1994 led her to fully commit to yoga. She completed Jivamukti’s teacher training in 1998 and went on to found Yoga Shanti in Sag Harbor in 1999. Over the years, she has become one of the most recognized figures in modern yoga, earning the title “First Lady of Yoga” from The New York Times and appearing widely across major publications and media. Her 2015 bestselling book, Yoga for Life: A Journey to Inner Peace and Freedom, reflects her ability to weave personal story with practical guidance.Her work extends beyond the studio into education, media, and integrative wellness. She co-created initiatives blending yoga with healing modalities through UZIT and helped develop Urban Zen’s Integrative Yoga Therapist Program, bringing yoga into healthcare settings worldwide. Alongside her husband, Rodney Yee, she leads teacher trainings and workshops globally, while also contributing to major yoga platforms and wellness programs. Based in Sag Harbor, she continues to teach, write, and evolve her practice, drawing inspiration from her students, her teachers, and most meaningfully, her four children.

Upcoming Programs by Colleen Saidman Yee

Into the Depths of Yoga

Oct 30 - Nov 01, 2026

Immerse yourself in a transformative weekend of yoga led by Colleen Saidman Yee and Rodney Yee, where you’ll explore how a consistent practice can help you listen more deeply, pause with intention, and respond to life with clarity and wisdom. Whether your days feel steady or full of unexpected highs and lows, this experience offers […]

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845-688-6897

“Loved Menla and all the experiences they offer… I attended morning yoga with different instructors who were excellent and fully over indulged with the veggie buffet with gluten-free and vegan options. Many fresh greens from the organic on-site garden. Delicious!”

Robert B.

“I spent the week in a yoga and meditation retreat. What a beautiful place! High in the Catskills mountains, where you can see the stars at night, and the trees are as high as the sky. The accommodations aren’t luxury, but they were perfect. Everybody is so kind and nice. We got to practice different kinds of yoga, and went to a couple of hikes. I felt happy and relaxed. They also have an amazing spa. How have I never heard of this place before? Now I can not wait to go again!”

Diana R.

“My favorite retreat center in the East coast. A real abode of the Dharma.”

Nitzan Blouin

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