About me
For as long as I can remember, I have loved to move and dance. As a gymnast in the 80's, aerobics student, weight trainer & mountain biker in the 90's, and lifelong hiker, I have always loved the way my body demanded my attention when I exercised. But it wasn't until I began practicing yoga regularly that I reconnected with my body as mindfully as I had as a young gymnast. I learned a presence that didn't seem to exist during other aspects of my day. This was the beginning of my understanding of Embodied Mindfulness; I just didn't have a name for it early on. Now I aim to bring this presence to all parts of my day. As a child, I loved to draw and paint, which inspired me to study studio art and make space as an adult for my passion for creativity. I deeply appreciate the creative process as a form of meditation and therapeutic release. The fusion of creativity and mindful movement has been an anchor for me as I navigate life. Since 1997 I have been intentionally studying yoga and meditation. The ability to be 'in the moment' has served me personally, as I parent, and professionally, when I worked as a Teen Center Director, Elementary School Behavior Specialist, and Community Counselor. This way of being helped me heal when I was widowed and allowed me to be present to my children while they experienced the same painful loss. To me, one of the greatest gifts of mindfulness is that, while it helps us be present and accepting of our pain and suffering, it also creates more space to feel the joy, beauty, and connection that is present in daily life. What makes me qualified to guide you through body-mind therapy sessions, mentor or teach you what I know? All this life experience, a BA in psychology, and over 1,600 hours of professional yoga and Phoenix Rising Yoga training that have earned me the designations of C-IAYT with The International Association of Yoga Therapists and RYT 500, E-RYT 200, and YACEP with Yoga Alliance.* Since 2006 I have contracted with public and private organizations and schools to provide individuals of all ages the opportunity to practice yoga and mindfulness. I very much look forward to supporting you on your journey!
