Reviews

Reviews are either Donnalynn’s YELP for coaching or AMAZON book reviews

Fern L. – Client, Venice, CA, 2016

Donnalynn Civello has been an incredible guide and friend in my life and I am ever so grateful for her light. She’s one of the most gifted spiritual life coaches on this planet – I feel blessed and honored to know her and work with her.

Kristina F. – Client, London, UK, 2016

My session with Donnalynn was mindblowing! I now have clarity and awareness of my life lessons and my purpose. I can’t describe the session in any other way than authentic and coming from the heart! Donnalynn thank you for being part of my journey and the beautiful, life changing life coaching session!!! I feel unstoppable!!! Thank you!!! Thank you!!! Thank you!!! xoxo

Vibeke S. – Client, Seattle, WA, 2016

I had an amazing life coaching session with Donnalynn Civello today! Thank you for shedding the light about who I am and helping me walk past resistance and doubt so I can better live my purpose in this world and complete the work I am here to do. This was so helpful and just what I needed to hear today.

Rahman B. – Client, Pittsburgh, PA, 2016

A highlight (of my trip to Alaska) was the life coaching guidance I received from Donnalynn Civello! She is highly intuitive. I feel an abundance of love and gratitude for her!

Dupe A. – Client, Manhattan, NY 2015

Donnalynn Civello’s philosophy and perspective has forever changed my life. This book is for anyone who wants to enrich his or her life with meaning and purpose. The lessons in this book are insightful and informed yet practical enough to make total sense in every day life. Donnalynn comes from a place of tough love, experience and best of all, insight. Advice for the real world 🙂

Annie O. – Student, Manhattan, NY 2015

I have been a big fan of Donnalynn’s blog. I’m sure I wasn’t the only one who wished she had published all her inspirational work from her blog. Her lessons are not only relatable but life changing. I am sure this book is the beginning of many more to come. Thank you Donnalynn for always encouraging people to stay positive and walk away from the ‘crazies’ as she calls them!

Chiyoko O. – Colleague, Manhattan, NY 2015

I have been following Donnalynn’s writing on her blog for years now. This book contains many of her best essays that speak to the soul – sharply insightful yet sweetly and beautiful written. Get ready for many ‘a-ha’ moments as you easily identify your own life situations with her writing. I often wonder how she says so much with such short essays. That’s a natural gift for sure!

Nancy E. – Client, Minnesota, NY 2015

A book every child, adolescent and adult should have in their pocket. A spiritual gift to each one of us as every excerpt has a message for someone’s soul. Donnalynn’s grace and essence have offered me guidance and truth, as does this marvelous collection. Rare to find this combination of authenticity and kindness that Donnalynn exudes in her sharing and efforts to propel us forward. Read the book…..hold close the messages and do the work. It is what our souls request and what is required as Donnalynn so bravely reminds us.

Christine D. – Client, Brooklyn, NY 2015

Donnalynn’s book is such an inspiration. It’s simple yet profound and truly speaks to your heart and what you are going through. She is a light and special soul and it comes through in this book. Her truth and advice have shifted my path and I am forever grateful for that. The beauty of the book is that you can go to whatever chapter speaks to your situation and soak in the goodness and light. She also gives you a glimpse into her life and how she applies her lessons to her own life. It’s just powerful. We are buying this book for our holistic wellness clients and will always have it on our bedside table for inspiration and wisdom.

Fern L. – Student, Manhattan, NY 2015

Donnalynn’s inspiration and light have changed my life. This book is a MUST read for anyone who is going through STUFF in their life and is seeking answers and guidance. Donnalynn has helped me personally – from leaving a full-time job and relationship that weren’t serving me, recovering from heart-break, and finding confidence on my path as a yoga teacher and healer. Her wisdom is authentic, honest, and candid. She provides TOUGH LOVE and answers from her own experience – and you can FEEL the passion in her writing. This book and her words have given me courage, strength, and hope. Simple messages, profound truth. You will find the answers you were looking for in this book — and so much more.

Lauren S. – Client, Manhattan, NY 2014

“Donnalynn is an unbelievably gifted life coach! She is truly a breath of fresh air and the most positive person I have ever met. She gives such wonderful guidance and advice that makes perfect sense (she also gives amazing writeups after each session that are wonderful to look over as a refresher in between sessions). Whether it is career, love, or life guidance she is the one to put you in the right direction and guide you every step of the way until you achieve your goals and ultimate happiness. She truly cares about each and everyone of her clients, and always goes above and beyond to make sure she checks in to see how they are doing. She has changed so many peoples lives in such a positive way including mine. Everyone needs a little Donnalynn in their life!”

Richie H. – Client, Manhattan, NY 2014

“Donnalynn’s coaching has been instrumental in the development of my career. Her insights and intuition are spot on and helped me navigate some very tough situations and great opportunities. I’m grateful for working with her. She was also inspiration in helping to transform other areas of my life. I came to her for suggestions on nutrition and came out with what felt like a masters degre in keeping my body healthy and clean.”

Dupe A. – Client, Manhattan, NY 2014

“I’ve been a client of Donnalynn’s for about 4 months and I can honestly say she has changed my life.  I came to know Donnalynn through her amazing yoga classes and when a move to Brooklyn meant giving up that coveted part of my week, I was pretty bummed out.  Because of the new distance, I decided to try a consultation session with her and I have never looked back.  Donnalynn is insightful and intuitive, yet pragmatic and extremely knowledgeable.  She is very dedicated to her clients and truly wants them to be happy and successful.  I have struggled with shyness my entire life, which had a direct effect on my relationships, certain aspects of my career and most importantly, my self-esteem.  I tried everything – from self help books to therapy and nothing truly worked. Donnalynn takes a unique approach which includes her spiritual knowledge, natural intelligence and her own life experiences, to help you navigate through this thing called ‘life’ while being your best self. I feel very fortunate to have Donnalynn in my life.”

Deborah L. – Client, Manhattan, NY 2014

“Donnalynn has been my Wellness coach for a few months now and I cannot say enough good things about this lady!  She gives me clarity and strength to sort through any issues I have.  No matter how trivial or extreme they are, she sits across from me with her energy and positive spirit.  Not only is she a naturally gifted in what she does, she also puts a lot of time into her work.  She is very knowledgeable about holistic and Ayurvedic principles of health, plus she even sends out notes after every session to give you something to soak in until the next meeting.  She genuinely cares about the people she works with and I feel so lucky to have found her!”

Tracy T. Client, Brooklyn, NY 2014

Donnalynn is an amazing coach. I have gone to her several times and she brings instant clarity to my situations. She is highly intuitive and has excellent discernment. She is optimistic and her words seem to have a healing power. She is truly an evolved spiritual being. She makes it known that she is t”there” for you as you go through your transformation. For several hours after leaving her sessions I am flying high.

Vanessa F. – Client, Brooklyn, NY 2013

“I have always been into holistic healthcare but have never received any guidance from an expert. I have to say that is exactly what Donnalynn is, an expert. She sat and listened to EVERYTHING I had to say, not something any doctor of mine takes the time to do.  It was not just about my physical health but emotional health too. She took all of the information I had given her and made some really profound connections and recommendations. Donnalynn is truly gifted and has a real talent for seeing things in people that others do not.”

Silvana D. –  Client, Manhattan, NY, 2013

“Donnalynn is not only an excellent source of life guidance and support but an excellent yoga teacher as well. Her one on one sessions and “life teachings” are well worth it and have helped me
gain, through her guidance, things that are invaluable to me!  I have achieved some goals that one cannot put a price on!  She was really born to do this and has a true gift.   I will continue with her as she has done more for me through her sessions than any therapist ever has.  You will learn so much about yourself and others around you in one meeting with her.”

Joseph C. – Client, Manhattan, NY 2014

“Within a month of working with Donnalynn, I lost 15 lbs and I feel the best I have in 10 years.  Donnalynn’s approach is a no nonsense, no gimmick weight loss program steeped in good nutrition.  I don’t have to count calories or buy anyone’s food.  However, a commitment to healthy provisioning and eating is essential.  Numbers don’t lie (unless it’s the government J):  my cholesterol decreased from 280 to 240 and my tryglycerides plummeted to 188 from 433. You could say she saved my life. I really appreciate Donnalynn’s professionalism.   She promptly provides individual session notes and menu support handouts that are immediately useful and are great ongoing reference materials.  Donnalynn is also a great listener who tailors her advice versus some canned program.  After Obamacare, I hope we get to DonnalynnCare!

Nicole R. –  Client, Brooklyn, NY, 2013

“I’ve known Donnalynn for years as my yoga teacher. She is a kindred soul and inspiring person. Her life is truly dedicated to helping other people believe in their self worth and finding happiness. Not only does Donnalynn talk the talk, but she lives and breathes everything that she preaches.

I completed a yoga teacher training last fall with Donnalynn as the lead instructor. After covering so many topics with her concerning nutrition, ayurveda and the subtle body, I realized how indepth her knowledge was and decided it was time for me to get some specific advice related to my health and life path.

We met at the cafe of my yoga studio for our wellness session and went over the detailed form she had given me prior to our appointment. She took her time with me going over each topic (topics included, recent health problems, family health history, diet, medications, mental health, life goals…etc). She took time to consider each response I gave and took notes as we talked. After our session she typed up a summary of all of the points we hit on, what I should be focusing my energy one, what I habits I should avoid, and what supplements I should be taking. The summary was very helpful to have, as you can talk about many things in a hour. For time to time I refer back to it, to make sure I am staying on track. If you book an appointment with Donnalynn, you will not be disappointed.”

Larissa – Yoga Teacher Trainee, Brooklyn, NY, 2012

“Donnalynn is an amazing inspiring Hollistic Health Coach and Yoga Teacher who empowers you to become a more powerful person in all areas of your self. She has inspired me to become more present in my life which has allowed me to become a better mother, daughter, and overall better person. Her Dharma talk in the beginning of class is inspiring, real and motivating and really connects you to practice. Her practice is powerful, pushing each student to their own capability and inspiring you to reach for more but also honoring where you are. Her insight and knowledge  of nutrition is resourceful and life changing.

I was Teacher Trainee Yoga student of  Donnalynn’s, I have learned so much from her teachings. They  have made positive impact onmy yoga practice, my teaching and also my overall life!

She is a great individual and I highly recommend her! If you want  to be inspired and awakened  and live the life you always wanted; Donnalynn will show you the way!”

Ruby – Client, Manhattan, NY, 2012

“Jivamuki has an on-site nutritionist: Donnalynn Civello. She meets with her clients in the Jivamukti cafe and she is AWESOME. First she gathers your info (current state of health + goals) and then creates a custom solution based on a combination of modern nutrition theory and Ayervedic nutrition–and she incorporates a whole bunch of other schools of thought, too. She’s also a yoga teacher and well versed on the chakra stuff that also effects various areas of your life/health. She’s very knowledgeable, focused and emotionally tuned-in.

Also: she’s a SUPER DUPER kind person (very sparkly) and really passionate about what she does so she definitely goes the extra mile for her clients: brings extensive write-ups that focus on YOUR goals (she takes you through the write-ups and they’re yours to keep), plus she sends follow-up notes on additional topics discussed during your session, including recipes and products you might like to try (stuff she’s tried and likes (she doesn’t actually sell anything)).

$160 per ONE HOUR private session, and it’s totally worth it since all the stuff she’s telling  you is specifically geared toward whatever you’re trying to fix. She does a lot of prep work for the session, too. WORTH IT. She books up two weeks in advance.

She and the head chef at the Jivamukti cafe host food workshops there in the cafe every so often.”

Claire C. – Client, Brooklyn, NY, 2012

“I stumbled into Donnalynn’s yoga class one cold, wet Saturday afternoon and left feeling warmed, nourished, and like I’d stumbled upon a real NYC gem. I later learned that Donnalynn is also an incredibly knowledgeable and talented holistic health counselor, who can offer expert advice on everything from ayurvedic nutrion to pranayama breathing to chakra balancing. Best of all, she genuinely cares. She doesn’t just talk the talk, she’s a walking, talking, breathing yogi in the very purest sense of the word.”

Caroline N. – Client, Manhattan, NY, 2012

“Donnalynn is a wonderful person. I met her through attending some of Jivamukti’s nutrition workshops. I was intrigued and inspired by her passion for health and her desire to share her wealth of knowledge with others. I also met with her for a private coaching session, which I am very grateful for. She was very inspiring and I thank her kindly for her patience and caring nature for others. The world needs more people like Donalynn :)”

Tamar S. – Client, Manhattan, NY, 2012

“I recently sat down with Donnalynn Civello for a nutritional consultation, which she offers free to first time clients. I’ve been a long time vegan and vegetarian and I tend to think that I know quite a bit about healthy eating and nutrition. Yet I learned so much in that first meeting with Donnalynn!
Donnalynn really impressed me with her thorough knowledge of nutrition and health from both Eastern and Western perspectives. A week before we met, she had asked me to fill out a multi-page questionnaire. When we met, it was clear she had studied my responses attentively and  had come prepared with specific information to answer the questions and conditions I had listed. In our meeting, Donnalynn showered me with nutritional information that was tailored to my needs. I found it very generous that she offered this information at no charge. Donnalynn’s manner is friendly and kind. She can set anyone at ease. I highly recommend seeing her for a consultation.”

Anja S. – Yoga Student, Brooklyn, NY, 2012

“DonnaLynn is an extraordinary yoga teacher and nutrition health coach.  The opening talks in her yoga classes are always inspiring and set the tone for our practice. She gently pushes students to reach the next level in their practice and adjust their poses during class which I think is really important to get the full benefit out of yoga. Her aromatherapy is divine and help you to relax and let go of your busy day. She has an abundant knowledge as a nutrition and health therapist. But most importantly, DonnaLynn’s heart is always with her students and clients! She is one of these rare selfless human beings who lives life to give, help and inspire others.”

Fern L. – Yoga Student, Brooklyn, NY, 2012

“Donnalynn Civello has changed my life. She is a spectactular yoga instructor, holistic health coach, and friend! I’ve been practicing yoga with Donnalynn for over a year now and it has completely revolutionized my practice, my strength, my patience. I cannot thank her enough for sharing her knowledge, her energy, and her dedication. She is so nurturing, I always walk out of her class glowing with an aura of happiness and bliss. Her aromatherapy and inspirational talks at the start and close of each class makes each practice so special. 

I’ve taken several nutritional seminars with Donnalynn at Jivamuktea Cafe and I am thrilled to say that not only has she revolutionized my yoga practice, she has revolutionized the way I eat and the nutrients I put into my body. Over a year ago, I was popping allergy pills, over the counter cold and headache medicine, warming up chicken from Omaha Steaks for dinner in the microwave and eating plenty of junk food, not really knowing what the culprit of my digestive fire and headaches could be. Fast forward to a year later, after learning from DL, I have been able to determine the triggers of the headaches, colds, inflammation in my body, and have stopped consuming things that are not good for my body. I am thrilled to say that in just one year, I have become quite the vegan chef, preparing recipes learned in her seminars and making my own recipe book. Knowing my Dosha (body type) thanks to her, I know what food isn’t good for me when I’m feeling off, and what food can ground me and help me heal. 

Donnalynn is a tremendous coach and friend. When I am not feeling well, if something is ailing me, and I just don’t know what to do, I can email her and she’s there for me with plenty of wisdom. I can count on her for solid advice and I feel a sense of love and hope from her, which in turn gives me strength to push on through! She’s one in a million!!”

Beth S. – Yoga Student, Manhattan, NY

“I only have wonderful things to say about my favorite yoga instructor, Donnalynn. 
Her talks are inspirational, her flow is challenging and fun and her aromatherapy  and massages are awesome. Love the music that she plays during class and that she never gives up on helping me stretch out my tight hamstrings.
 Also, have taken one of her nutrition workshops and learned a great deal about making delicious juices and vegan meals.”

Amanda W. –  Yoga Student, Manhattan, NY

“Donnalynn’s yoga class is amazing! I practically plan my life around it. I always feel relaxed and blessed afterwards. I take little pearls of wisdom from her talks and the shavasana with aromatherapy & massage is amazing! My tired, stressed tight tense ironman triathlete body thanks her for teaching yoga! My mind is peaceful and my heart is happy – thanks Donnalynn!”

Valerie N. – Yoga Student, Brooklyn, NY

“Donnalynn is one of the best yoga teachers I’ve come across.  I leave her class at Yoga People feeling energized, strong and grounded.  Her classes start and end with aromatherapy and therapeutic touch, meant to enhance the workout and resting period afterwards.  It’s a perfect workout for body and spirit.  Plus, she is super nice and always happy to see her students!

I’ve also taken one of her tasting workshops at Jivamukti and they’re fantastic.  Fun and tasty way to learn about superfoods.  Her knowledge of the topic really shines through.

So, try one of her yoga classes or a nutrition session.  I highly recommend it!”

Emily T. – Yoga Student, Brooklyn, NY

“Donnalynn is one of those yoga teachers who motivates you to attend class even when you are exhausted and beat.  Her inspirational talks, her incredible talent in her field, her true desire to improve others and to support those nutritionally and emotionally is truly inspiring.  I cannot recommend her enough!”

Maura K. – Yoga Student, Brooklyn, BY

“Words can’t describe how much I adore Donnalynn Civello. Before meeting her, I was totally anti-yoga (I’m not very flexible, and I previously associated a good workout with shin splints and ugly running gear). Donnalynn’s classes are not only my favorite way to exercise now, they’re also a form of therapy. 

She has a holistic approach to yoga, combining her expert knowledge of the practice with aromatherapy, awesome music (yes, Lady Gaga and vinyasa can co-exist) and motivating talks. I always feel like she says exactly what I need to hear. 

Donnalynn is also one of those teachers who legitimately cares about her students. She knows all of them by name, and ALWAYS makes time to chat with her legion of followers before and after class, and via email. She knows when you’re up for a challenge and when you need support in your movements, and has definitely kicked my butt into shape in an inspiring, never judgmental way. 

Sometimes I’m amazed how Donnalynn can pick up on my energy so instantly and impart a world of wisdom by saying something so small. Besides helping me master my Down Dog, her classes have kept me sane through stressful times and pushed me beyond my own self-imposed limitations. 

There’s nobody like her.”

Helaina B. – Yoga Student, Manhattan, NY

“Like others here have mentioned, Donnalynn is the reason I LOVE yoga. I can only imagine how amazing she is as a Nutritional Health Coach. Besides being incredibly passionate and inspiring in her profession, like many have already mentioned, she is one of the warmest, kindest, most genuine people that I have ever met. I can not say enough good things about Donnalynn.”

C.T.C . – Yoga Student, Brooklyn, NY

“Donnalynn provides the reason to make time for yoga out of ones busy schedule.  Her classes flow naturally, with meticulous attention to proper form and breathing, while adding in various life lessons and motivations throughout (a previous post mentioned connecting mind and body, and that’s clearly one of her many fortes).  I frequently go out of my way to make sure I take as many of her classes as I can.  Additionally, I attended one of her workshops on the chakras, and plan to seek out more as they are scheduled!

I cannot recommend Donnalynn enough!”

Lisa S. – Yoga Student, Brooklyn, NY

“Donnylynn’s generosity in class is overwhelming – she makes everyone feel special and encouraged. Her enthusiasm for sharing her vast knowledge about everything from yoga to nutrition to astrology is infectious and inspires you to live a more conscious and joyful life.”

Anne R. – Yoga Student, Baltimore, MD

“Donnalynn is a dedicated, talented, motivating and supportive yoga teacher, adviser and friend. It is an inspiration and a blessing to know her!”

Kelsey R. – Yoga Student, Manhattan, NY

“I have been practicing yoga with Donnalynn for over a year.  To say she is fantastic is an understatement.  I am a runner and extremely type A — so yoga can be a bit of a struggle for me.  

Donnalynn’s classes are challenging, fun and good for the head and the heart.  I look forward to her classes and recommend them to everyone. It doesn’t matter if you have practiced for years or are a yoga newbie.  

You will love her and her classes!  It is impossible to leave without smiling. Sign up immediately!”

Jessica A. – Yoga Student, Brooklyn, NY

“I am a yoga skeptic. Or rather, I was. 

Before my first class about two years ago, I wasn’t sure about the whole scene. I’m not flexible, and besides: the yoga community can seem kind of hippy dippy; even cult-y.

Enter Donnalynn. Her class is great for enough reasons to have transformed me into a believer. Let me count the ways:

1. She knows her shit. I think she’s been teaching for at least ten years, and it shows in the way she demonstrates postures and gives helpful adjustments.

2. She challenges you to push yourself, but isn’t jerky about it. So you can grow in a supportive atmosphere. I owe all my upper-arm strength to her, as well as the ability to do two different types of headstands! (Well, on a good day.)

3. She goes out of her way to create a special relaxing vibe in every class. You get soothing music, candles, and a mini neck massage with lavender oil during savasana.

Plus, she’s just a genuinely warm person. You can usually tell when someone is faking it (“I’m a yoga teacher. Must.come.across.zen.”) and DL simply isn’t like that. I think she actually, like … cares.”

Melissa A. – Yoga Teacher Trainee, Manhattan, NY

“Donnalynn Civello is one of my most cherished teachers and guides.  She was the lead teacher of my 200 hr yoga teacher training certification and can’t imagine the beautiful experience without her.  She is a fountain of loving knowledge and compassion to holistic health and wellness.  She is truly an inspirational and supportive, strong balanced woman whom provides endless guidance on maintaing your center throughout our crazy journey down the path of life in the most chaotic wonderful city in the world!”

Hillary G. – Yoga Student, Manhattan, NY

“Donnalynn is the reason I went from liking yoga to loving yoga. 

She seems to have that effect on people. 

Maybe it’s the way she so very gently guides her students down the path that connects mind and body through her insightful spiritual talks and challenging yet nurturing flows. 

Maybe it’s the wow factor she inspires every time she demonstrates an acrobatic asana with ease. 

Maybe it’s because she’s one of the most caring people you’ll ever meet. 

Or maybe it’s her amazing savasana massages. I mean, really, who else in your life gives you an aromatherapy massage every single time you see them? 

…Exactly.”