My Journey...
In 2002 after years of dance, sports and a “go for the burn” fitness
mentality, my body started to
talk back to me in the form of hip, knee and
back pain. Not only was I looking for something a little more soothing for
my 40 something year old body, I was in search of something that would calm
my restless mind. Always intrigued by alternative methods of healing, I
decided to attend my first yoga class. I soon found that yoga not only
helped my physical issues but I began to feel a “shift” emotionally. I felt
calmer, more accepting of life - the trials AND the tribulations. I felt so blessed to have found
yoga that I wanted to share its wonderful benefits with others. In 2004, I
began my first yoga training program. I continued to practice yoga, attend
workshops and teacher trainings whenever possible. It was also in 2004 that
I had my first encounter with the Anusara style of yoga. I was very
fortunate to have a wonderful teacher, Tracy, who graciously shared her
knowledge and passion of yoga with me. The world of yoga opened her arms to
me and again I was fortunate to have experienced the embrace of many
wonderful teachers from various styles of yoga who so lovingly shared their
passion on this yogic path.
As I continue my study and practice of yoga I understand now more than
ever what it means to take my yoga off the mat and into the world. Yoga brings me
clarity, opens my heart, teaches me flexible thinking,
encourages compassion and instills gratitude. I am so grateful to have found
yoga. I feel blessed to continue to guide and be guided; inspired by
students and teachers alike.
Whatever your story or reason for taking yoga, I invite you to join me as we open our hearts, nurture our bodies and align ourselves on and off the mat. Namaste!
More About Me....
I am registered with Yoga Alliance and am a certified yoga instructor. I completed
my teacher training through Kanyakumari Ayurveda Education and
Retreat Center and have been teaching since 2004. In addition to being a
yoga instructor, I am an occupational therapist with 23 years of experience
in 
adult and pediatric rehabilitation in a variety of settings. I have been
trained in beginning Pilates matwork through Physical Mind Institute and am
a former teacher and performer with Kanopy Dance Company of Madison, WI. I
am also a certified Reiki practitioner, trained in Thai Yoga bodywork, "Ki-ssage"
(energy work that combines Reiki and massage), and a certified ZUMBA instructor.
I am the owner and creator of "La Bella Terra" Aromatherapy products;body/room
sprays and personal essential oil perfume blends.
My approach to teaching is guided by principles of proper alignment, functional movement and injury prevention but I am particularly influenced by B.K.S. Iyengar and the Anusara style of yoga. My teaching style is infused with humor, acceptance and encouragement while providing a calm environment in which to explore and enjoy the process of self discovery.
