Yoga + Meditation

I stepped into my first yoga class when I was 18 or 19 years old, dropping into what turned out to be an Ashtanga class at my university’s gym. For the next five years, I dabbled in various practices, eventually landing on Bikram Yoga, which I practised for several years until I could no longer rationalise my association with a teacher that, to me, defied the very essence of yoga. I then began exploring Iyengar Yoga and Kundalini Yoga, and studying Buddhist philosophy, all of which have immeasurably influenced my life and teaching.

I began teaching Kundalini Yoga in 2004, but I never really considered myself a ‘yoga teacher’ until 2007 after studying in India. Before leaving to return to the United States, my teacher, Baba Harihar Ram, asked me what I planned to do after I settled back into my life in Washington, DC. I told him, in no certain words, that it was time for me to get a job; I hadn't worked regularly for 6 months, and after several months in India, it was time to get back to the daily grind. He looked at me, puzzled, and said, "Well, you'll teach. After all, you're a teacher." While I didn't take his response seriously at the time, here I am today, sharing the teachings of yoga with anyone who has a wiling ear and a spirit that yearns for the light.

I teach both Kundalini Yoga and what most understand as Hatha Yoga. The latter, for me, is an integrated approach of alignment-based asana, breathwork, kriya, and contemplation strongly rooted in tantric Buddhist philosophy. I bring a lighthearted, authentic spirit to the practice, while remaining deeply grounded in the tradition of yoga.

Yoga practiced during pregnancy has been shown to have numerous benefits for both mother and baby, including: keeping stress levels in check, helping to keep mom and baby healthy during pregnancy, and helping prepare mom for labor and childbirth. Carving time out for self-care can also help pregnant women cultivate an ability to tune in to the needs of their body and their babies. When a woman is pregnant, she is continually giving of herself to another being, a commitment that continues into parenthood. Because of the seemingly unending giving of ourselves, it is critical that we refill our cups regularly by taking time to take care of the body and nourish the spirit. In short, we are better parents when we take care of and nurture ourselves.

Prenatal Yoga is different from just taking a regular yoga class and modifying poses. Prenatal Yoga classes are focused on alleviating pregnancy discomforts, taking care of the pregnant woman's body, mind, and spirit, and preparing for childbirth. In addition, women who are pregnancy can come together in community and share experiences, learn from one another, and find a deep connection with others who are on the transformational path of becoming a mother.

My experience as childbirth educator, doula, and birthing woman allow me to bring an informed and inspired view of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum to prenatal and postnatal yoga classes. They are a wonderful way to connect with other moms, move into your ever-changing body, and embrace the journey of pregnancy and motherhood. 

I don’t currently teach any public prenatal yoga classes, but do offer private 1:2:1 sessions.

Don't get thrown off by all of my talk about pregnancy and childbirth! I teach all kind of folks...and guys, you aren't excluded! My teaching style is a devotional blend of alignment-based asana, dynamic flow, and mindful movement. Each class is anchored in life-affirming, intentional inquiries that guide the integration of yoga in life "off the mat". I also specialize in using yoga therapeutically to address both physical and mental concerns*, including:

• scoliosis

• spinal fusions

• hip replacements

• knee injuries and replacements

• sports injuries and training recovery

• depression

• post-traumatic stress disorder

• anxiety disorders

• perinatal mood disorders

• anyone who needs a little more light and joy!

Each of my classes incorporates breathwork (pranayama), contemplation, Yogic philosophical teaching, and chanting.

My current schedule only allows me to teach private non-prenatal yoga classes. If you are interested in chatting about how we can work together, please contact me.

*Please note that, while yoga and meditation can be powerful tools for working with a variety of physical, mental, and emotional concerns, it should not be considered a substitute for working closely with a qualified health professional.