My Background
My work is shaped by both cultural discipline and real-world experience.
I was born and raised in Tokyo in a traditional Japanese household, immersed in classical arts such as Nihon-buyō (traditional dance), Koto, Shamisen, and Ikebana. These disciplines cultivated precision, patience, and deep respect for structure—principles that continue to inform my approach to alignment and movement today.
Before dedicating myself fully to yoga and somatic education, I worked for over a decade as a fashion and celebrity photographer. This experience trained me to observe the body closely, understand nonverbal communication, and recognize subtle patterns of stress, imbalance, and resilience.
Today, I integrate this cultural foundation with anatomical training, alignment-based methods, and holistic health principles. My approach is grounded, observant, and responsive—supporting clients not only in how they move, but in how they sustain strength, clarity, and balance over time.

From Celebrity Photographer to MAKI ALIGN: My Bold Journey Interview
Ironically, I found my purpose through one of the most painful chapters of my life.Early…
Alignment Initiation Session
A 60-minute somatic coaching experience with Maki Kawakita Somatic Yoga & Alignment Coach What is…
MAKI ALIGN has moved to North Park
MAKI ALIGN – North Park, San Diego2441 University Avenue, Suite 100 • San Diego, CA…
MAKI ALIGN is featured in Canvas Rebel Online magazine!
Please read to click…
MAKI ALIGN Semi-Private Alignment Yoga
Great news! We are starting Semi-Private Alignment Yoga sessions in March! Yoga therapy and alignment-focused…
Professional Credentials
Maki Kawakita
Somatic Yoga & Alignment Coach
Yoga & Teaching Certifications
☑️ Yoga Alliance E-RYT-500
☑️ YACEP (Continuing Education Provider)
☑️ RCYT (Registered Children’s Yoga Teacher)
☑️Lead Trainer, RYT200 Yoga Alliance Teacher Training
Structural & Therapeutic Training
☑️ Anatomy Train® in Structure & Function
☑️ Pelviswork® First degree
☑️ Wellness Care Pelvic adjustment
yoga
Ayurveda & Holistic Health
☑️ AAPNA500hr Ayurveda health counselor Digestion and nutrition
☑️ Yoga & Ayurveda–based stress and nervous system regulation
☑️ Reiki Second degree
Professional Experience
☑️ Founder & Director, Paramanadaoga (Kanagawa, Japan)
☑️ Corporate wellness and stress resilience programs
☑️ Anatomically informed alignment & movement education

Ready For Your Journey?
Your journey officially begins now.












