John Marino began his study and practice of yoga in 1975 as a response to the crippling effects of rheumatoid arthritis and began teaching yoga in 1992. Because of his personal history, his classes are therapeutic and designed to encourage those who feel they are too “tight” or otherwise not suited to the practice of yoga. He guides students of all ages, levels of skill, and flexibility to approach the asanas to the extent of their personal ability without compromising the integrity of their bodies. His classes are fun, informative, and productive, and his style is gentle and witty.

While John's work is largely inspired by the style of BKS Iyengar, his students are his greatest inspiration. Another influence is the massage therapy practice he began in 1981. He is a disciple of Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati, the founder of the Yoga Society of San Francisco, where he has served several terms on the board of directors. He teaches at various health clubs in the San Francisco Bay Area, most recently at Fitness West and at the Heritage, a life care community where he pioneered an approach to teaching seniors.