What drew you to yoga?
I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder in 2013 that limited my opportunities to move in the ways I wanted. Once I was cleared to participate in group fitness activities again, I found a little yoga studio close to my house. I took one class there and realized I was in the right place - I kept coming back day after day after day and then finally signed up for teacher training.  The physical side of yoga helped me realize how important it is for me to move my body to improve my overall quality of life and the stillness practice helped me realize how important it was to slow down and observe the fluctuations of my mind.

Why do you practice?
It keeps me grounded. I work hard to approach each experience I have with a beginner's mind (sometimes this is easier said than done but hey that's why it's called a practice right!?) With this lens I can stay curious about life and all it has to offer.  I also very much respect that I was given one body and I need to make the most of it and take care of it in any way I can. This includes moving in all the ways and my yoga practice just happens to be one of them!

(Life+) How does yoga change you off the mat?
I think it's made me more patient both with myself and with others. It sounds cliche but a few deep breaths can really help you take a pause to gain some perspective. I also think it has made me more willing to try new things and be bad at them

What is your style?
Playful, purposeful, and fluid.  I definitely think "outside the box" when it comes to sequencing and including things in my classes. I also really emphasize "finding the momentum" in flows - focusing on how we can transition between poses rather than just the poses themselves. When you come to class with me expect the unexpected and be ready to laugh and play while working hard.  Oh and I also really like getting upside down - like really like it! You don't have to like it as much as I do to practice with me - but I do ask you to keep an open mind. You are stronger than you think.

Where are you when you’re not teaching?

My husband and I have two kids. So in all honesty you would probably find me taking one of them somewhere or picking up their stuff they just walked past while going up the stairs in our house (other parents will understand this).

What Illuminates you?

My family and watching people's "learning light bulbs" go off - there is nothing better than seeing something make sense of something for the first time