The Rama Lotus Yoga Centre an organization that designs and delivers yoga classes, teacher training programs, workshops and products for living a healthy, happy, and holistic life. Please see our Mission Statement for more information.

Rama Lotus Yoga Centre was founded in 1994 in Ottawa, Canada by Robert Hay. The centre began with a few Kundalini yoga classes each week and has grown to become one of the largest yoga centres in Canada, with over 10 styles of yoga to choose from and almost 100 classes offered each week.  After fulfilling his vision for the centre over the past 14 years, Robert decided to focus his energy and expertise on a new Yoga resource for the Ottawa community - the creation of an outdoor Yoga retreat called the Yoga Garden Retreat Centre.

In May 2008, Tara Cartland became the new owner and director of The Rama Lotus Yoga Centre. A certified Kundalini yoga instructor, long time yogi, and a Manager of the centre for over 6 years, Tara's transition to this new role was a smooth and natural next step for the Rama Lotus. Both Robert and Tara are committed to ensuring that this transition in leadership continues to be seamless. 


The overall operations at the Centre are handled by a group of fabulous people:

  • Abe Cartland - Financial Officer and Centre Support
  • Tara Cartland (Tera Kaur)- Director and Kundalini Teacher
  • Tara Porter - Receptionist Team Leader
  • Veronique Paradis - Product and Purchasing Supervisor

The first people to greet you warmly at the centre will be one of our Receptionists: Ananda, Anna, Bronwyn, Janerae, Piper, Tara and Veronique. 

The centre is being cared for and cleaned by Matt.

our teachers

Rama Lotus’ instructors are among the best and most respected in Ottawa. All teachers are certified, experienced and chosen for their ability to create a great experience for students. About our teachers




Located in the heart of downtown Ottawa at 340 Gladstone Avenue, between Bank and O’Connor, Rama Lotus is one of the largest yoga centres in North America.



The Centre operates as a provider of yoga classes, Wellness services and is Ottawa’s only full supply retailer of yoga accessories.

Rama Lotus offers almost 100 weekly open and ongoing classes. Classes are open so that students of all levels of experience may attend. Qualified teachers ensure enough direction for beginner students and enough challenge for advanced students.

Classes are ongoing so that students can participate in any of the classes offered anytime! Ongoing classes attract a great many people who need time flexibility due to hectic schedules.




First time students are welcome to enjoy an introductory class for $7. Drop-in classes are $14.00. Flexible payment options are offered such as frequent user packages.

Yoga packages can be used for any of the various classes offered: Ashtanga Yoga, Bikram Yoga, Hot Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Power Yoga and Prenatal Yoga,and Yin Yoga. Exploring the different yoga styles is fun and allows people to experiment and to find their personal preference.

Yoga is a complement to other fitness practices such as aerobics, dancing and athletics. Many people today are turning to yoga for their complete workout routine as it helps keep the body strong, mind clear and heart open.