What drew you to yoga?
Yoga landed in my life in the form of an iPad app and honestly, I had no idea what the heck I was getting myself into! I was pretty active growing up, played some sports in high school, but after that I really didn’t have a fitness routine at all. I wanted to start working out so I decided that it might be a good idea to learn how to stretch out my body! I originally thought that was all that yoga was - just stretching. I quickly realized just after a few weeks of following these classes on the app, that yoga was absolutely more than just stretching!! I was motivated to practice every single day, my body was changing and becoming so much stronger, and I was finally starting to feel confident with myself! Once I felt ready to head into a studio to take class with other humans and an actual teacher, my entire view of yoga changed! Having a community to flow + breathe with, learning about meditation and pranayama, setting intentions + learning to love myself just the way I am changed my entire life. Yoga has helped me become more myself, authentically and unapologetically, and it has become one of the most important parts of my daily life.

Why do you practice?
I practice yoga because I know it makes me feel better when I do. I feel more clear headed, stronger, balanced, grounded and present. I practice to remind myself of my strength and courage, and to notice what it feels like to be me in each passing moment!

(Life+) How does yoga change you off the mat?

Off my mat, yoga has taught me how to settle myself in times of stress and chaos, just by focusing on my breath. It’s taught me to be mindful of not just myself and my happiness, but to also be mindful of others and the environment around me.

What is your style?
No expectations, no judgements, less seriousness, MORE FUN! I believe it’s important for us each to meet ourselves exactly where we are, with love and compassion, no matter what. Teaching creative sequences that are both accessible and challenging for all students while flowing to one of my specially curated playlist is my absolute happy place!

Where are you when you’re not teaching?
When I am not teaching, you can find me hanging with my husband and our little doggo, Ricky Bobby. We all like to adventure out for family walks as often as we can - Hocking Hills is one of our favorite spots! I also find tons of joy creating art and personalized gemstone jewelry for my Etsy shop. I am in love with crystals and gems, so I have fun searching for those!

What illuminates you?
Connecting with our breath and our movements while moving and grooving to some funky tunes, acting like no one is watching, having fun just being ourselves….that lights me right up!!