I have been a student of yoga since 1998. I began practicing in my dorm’s lounge at the University of Wisconsin- Madison, as a way to find peace and quiet. It worked, or at least enough of the time, to inspire me to learn more. I saw very quickly that yoga could help me sleep and take better care of myself during times when I felt nervous or fearful. I also saw how it complimented my running and tennis; yoga created space and openness that seemed to alleviate soreness and fatigue.

It is not an exaggeration to say yoga got me through challenging times in college and afterwards. Somehow my practice was teaching me that I could manage anything; I was building a stronger sense of self and a feeling of purpose. I read a lot of books to try and understand how this was happening. I drew inspiration from experienced teachers.

I began my primary teacher training in 2003. My certificate is from The Temple of Kriya Yoga, in Chicago. Their excellent program is a year-long home study course, with quarterly retreats in rural Illinois. My teachers there watched me grow into self-confidence and health.

Since then, I have completed many other trainings and experienced many other teachers around the country. Most notably, perhaps, is the time I spent with Nischala Joy Devi at the Sivananda Ashram. With her I learned to adapt yoga for patients with heart disease or cancer. With her I learned to soften around the teachings and make space for love.

Yoga is an ancient tradition that describes a systematic path to freedom. It is not a religion, nor is it dogmatic. It is an experiential science. The sages have handed down those ideas and techniques they believed pointed in the direction of complete consciousness and bliss. They offer them to us as gifts, in hopes that we will practice and see for ourselves.

As we practice it in the West, yoga is predominantly postures and breath. We move our bodies to strengthen the muscles and promote flexibility. We learn to breathe fully and deeply. Both aspects promote a healthy body and a calm mind.

There are many different styles of yoga. Some stress physical alignment or repetition, others are more like dance. Some are slow and meditative, others are fast and vigorous. Even different teachers within the same style teach differently. Because yoga is experiential, we bring our unique character to the practice.

The type of yoga I teach can simply be described as Vinyasa. “Vinyasa” is a Sanskrit work meaning “flowing with breath.” In my classes, we move within a pose or between the postures according to a specific breath pattern. In other words, we coordinate our movements with the breath. This brings a natural rhythm to class, a peaceful flow that allows us to rest in the simplicity and joy of what we are doing.

Private lessons are a great way to begin a yoga practice, or to cater the teachings to your particular needs. They are also create an opportunity to ask questions and deepen your practice through one-on-one time with a teacher.

If you are new to yoga, you may be nervous about group classes. We can work together to build a basic knowledge of the postures and the breathing, so that you will know what to expect and be comfortable joining a class. Many students begin yoga in a group class, and that is fine, too. The idea is to do what’s best for you.

Some long-time yoga students come to private lessons when they have experienced an injury or illness. Through my knowledge of the practice and my experience with diverse clients, I am able to craft a sequence that addresses your particular needs. I have worked with students recovering from heart surgery and wrist surgery. I have worked with students 85 years old. Everyone can benefit from yoga. Yoga promotes healing and wellness, and the teachings are broad enough to include everyone.

I am available for private lessons in your home or at Lila Yoga in Madison Valley for $75/hour.

Classes

I teach public classes at Lila Yoga. These classes are open to everyone on a drop-in basis. Start anytime and come when you can.

Tuesday 9h45-11h00
Thursday 9h45-11h00
Sunday 8h30-9h45

Level 1 Hatha classes are taught to introduce and deepen a student’s knowledge of the practice. We move slowly and deliberately, building strength and flexibility without rushing or forcing. Students are all ages and abilities, both male and female. All are welcomed and encouraged to do their best.

Workshops