How did you discover yoga?

I discovered yoga when I was about 22 years old. I broke up with a partner, was 60 pounds overweight and struggled with depression. Yoga gave me the strength to become healthy and recover physically and emotionally from the relationship and to recover my physical health. Then, 2 years ago I became ill with chronic fatigue syndrome, along with a host of other health issues. Yoga was an integral part in the the physical and mental disciplines that allowed me to stay the course, have faith in myself and recover completely from my illness in less than a year. I am now the healthiest and happiest I've been in my whole life!

What is your favorite type of yoga - or what kind of yoga do you teach and practice?

I have practiced in the style of Ashtanga, Vinaysa Flow and Yin Yoga. I have also begun studying Kundalini, Iyengar and Anusara yoga. The main type of yoga I practice and teach is Vinaysa Flow yoga, however I continue to learn and be open to teaching whatever my students need. I most recently started to learn about T'ai Chi.

What can you offer different types of students?

Children: I try to keep in touch with my inner child and I love teaching children of all ages. I have taught children in numerous venues from academic tutoring to athletic coaching.

Teens: I have also coached teens and pre-teens. This is a group of students I feel particularly passionate about, as our culture ingrains a very negative body self-image that manifests in pre-puberty and adolescent children.. One of my goals is to develop a comprehensive wellness program that includes nutrition education, yoga and guidance on other important issues and teach it to as many youth as I can to help our next generations be healthy ones.

Adults: I continue to strive in my own practice so that I can offer insight and challenge to my adult students. We engage in creative discovery together, focusing on physical, mental or spiritual development.

Seniors: I view my elders as priceless parts of our society. I enjoy working on programs to help seniors stay fit, active and happy. We can focus on physical, mental or spiritual development as well.

Physically Challenged: Whether this means you are ill and need a gentle relaxation and restorative program, or are injured and need a program to rehabilitate, I can work with you to develop a program that best suits your needs.

What do you offer your students?

I offer my students my sensitive and responsive nature as an instructor. I am interested in sparking the fire in your spirit to inspire you to incorporate the benefits of yoga into your life, enabling you to walk a path of health, peace and happiness.

How long have you been practicing?

About 9 years.

What certifications do you have?

I have completed certification through the Asheville Yoga Center and my Yoga Alliance certification will be active in March 2008.