About
Naga is a rare find for a martial arts and self defense school in Oregon. Our art is traditional and authentic. Our community is like none other, where you'll find equal parts focus, compassion and grit.
Step through the doorway and onto the mats at Naga and the first thing you notice is the "vibe".
Our training room is chock-full of sweaty faces, sparkling eyes and wide smiles. You'll meet people of all ages, body shapes and ability levels inspired to step beyond self-imposed limits. From the resounding kiais of students finding the power of their voices to the calm hushed stillness of our quiet meditations, you'll quickly discover that you feel right at home here regardless of your desired outcome. But that's not all, you'll be gifted with instructors who are compassionate, caring and rely upon positive reinforcement in their guidance. In this rich container, everyone can flourish - and that includes you.
Moments that Take my Breath Away:
· When a woman is shocked and amazed as she looks down at the big guy she has just flipped over her body for the first time. "I did it!"
· When a big guy sees the incredulity on the face of the woman who just flipped him and realizes what a big deal it really is. "You did it!"
· When a skinny gangly teen smashes through a concrete block on the first try and looks up in disbelief.
· When a student is honored with a hard earned promotion in front of the whole school and feels truly seen and admired.
· The excitement when a five year-old is meditating and really notices, really feels his breath filling his lungs for the first time.
· When a father sees the look of pride on his twelve-year-old's face after she kicks a pad held by someone twice her size and they stumble backward from the force.
· When a mom sees her son go outside his comfort zone to welcome a new shy student into class.
· When moms and dads find a space of their own to train on the mat, feed their soul and connect with other moms and dads.
· When our newest student is surprised by an enthusiastic and warm welcome into class and the message, "we are so glad you are here."
Reviews
Rebecca K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Learning self-defense skills and mastering martial arts begins with you.
Want to become more fit? Feel safer or protect those who you love? Looking to discover your own spiritual path?
At Naga we have something for everyone, and this includes YOU!
You will be welcomed into the school and onto the mat. We take you right where you are and guide you every step of the way.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Silvia's Street Creds
- 6th degree Black Belt - over three decades of teaching and training
- Master's Degree in Education with a focus on special needs
- Certified Self Defense Teacher
- FBI Oregon CAAA Board and Human Trafficking Committee
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
For ongoing martial arts training, there is no contract, just a month-to-month agreement. Memberships range from $75 - $119/month.
For Women's Self Defense workshops, the investment is $30 for one woman or $50 for two.
For Kids' Self Defense workshops, the investment is $15 per child and the parents are invited to participate.
How did you get started teaching?
My journey into martial arts began in my mid 20s. After kicking a few addictions that had held a tight grip on me for far too long, I remained lost in my ways. In search of a plan to get my life on track, I decided to explore martial arts. I needed structure, but I also wanted a pathway that would make my heart sing.
Two years later, and after searching the entire continent, I discovered Poekoelan. With its authentic and fierce fighting tradition, rich spiritual practice, and culture of valuing all people, men and women as both students and teachers, I felt right at home.
Sure enough, my heart sang, my soul soared and I finally began to feel right in my own skin.
From my first sweaty class, I flipped big guys over my back, kicked pads with a strength I didn't know I possessed and yes, I started to believe in myself.
I thought, "If only I can stick with this thing for three months, I'll know I can keep a commitment." And here I am, 30+ years later, on a journey that has led me to places I never even imagined.
From the beginning holds, I learned body mechanics and gained muscle memory to defend myself against attackers who are bigger than me. Through practicing forms, I learned precision and the importance of breath control. While fighting, I learned that I can hold my own with a fierceness that no one can take away.
From my long two- and three-day tests, I discovered that when I feel I have nothing left, I can call on reserves and resources I didn't know were there. Untold hours of meditation have helped me find the clarity, peace and focus that come from a quiet mind.
By virtue of countless thousands of hours of teaching, I know that the most meaningful gifts come when we give of ourselves to others. With every thread of my being, I have learned that standing in my own power allows me to open up my heart, to be fully present in the moment and to be fearlessly, unequivocally exactly who I am.
What types of students have you worked with?
Our students come from all walks of life and range in age from 4-84+. They are moms, dads & grandparents, elementary, middle, high school & college students as well as young adults. We have musicians, baristas, professionals, cooks, artists, IT & development experts, law enforcement personnel, librarians, retailers, teachers, you name it.
Some people start training with us to get in shape, while others want something new and different in their workout. Naga is a safe and loving place where students are included and accepted.
We come together to challenge and support one another to be our best and highest selves.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I absolutely loved going to the Women's March on Washington DC in January 2017 with both of my teenagers. My daughter drove down from her University with her friends, and my son and I flew out from Portland. We met up with my sister from Mexico and my 90 year old Dad. It was amazing to be in a sea of pink hats all focussed on human dignity, equality, respect and justice. So far, it is my favorite event of the year!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Try out a class or two. Get to know the people you'll be training with. Get a feel for the teachers. You'll know in your gut if you are in the right place. Don't settle for less than a perfect fit. When you find the right art and the right school, it can impact your life in many wonderful ways! Don't sell yourself short.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Know what you want and don't be afraid to ask.
Look at the black belts and leaders in the school. See if they embody the qualities that you want to be guided by.
Ask specifically about where the training leads you. See if that is where you want to go.
Use your gut. You will know when you've found the right place. My journey to find the right martial art took me years and lots of travel. Don't settle for less than what you really want. Don't let sales jobs and egos sway you. You deserve to find the place that is right for you.