My yoga experience started almost 8.5 years ago when I was recovering from back surgery.  I had a microdiscectomy ( the surgery removed a herniated disc).  I was 24 years old at the time and physical therapy was just not working for me.  My mom had suggested I give yoga a try.  My mom has never done yoga in her life!   I thought this option was kind of silly, but I thought I would give it a try.  My mom was kind enough to give myself and my sister in law a package to a nearby yoga studio.  I would like to say the rest is history… but it was not!  I met my future bright light and beloved guru and teacher Bridget (she owns the Amma Yanni Center and School- she is amazing and you should check her out).  She was so patient with me.  I was recovering from major surgery and she got to know me, and knew she could push me lovingly.  I sat on my mat and watched other yogis.  I learned the language and posture.  I sat on my mat in awe of others.  I did not breathe at all!  Let me tell you, it is so hard to not breathe and practice yoga.  

When I felt ready in 2015 I started my yoga teacher training.  It was helpful that I had a strong practice, a strong sense of community, and an attitude of a beginner.  It was such a long and hard journey.  It was not just physical ,it was mental, emotional, and overall exhausting.  I was working full time.  I was trying to get a business off the ground.  Yoga teacher training was rewarding, and I was able to make a lifelong friend.

I tell you all of this information because I truly believe that yoga brings unlike people together.  I am not only a teacher, but a deep practitioner.  I have overcome eye rolls in studios I walk into, and the instructor asks, “ have you ever done yoga?”  It does not look like you have”.  This ever evolving yoga practice and my teachings is something I am able to share, and it brings me such joy.  I have a yoga body and so do you!