Margit and the Prana Mudra: Uplifting Current of Vital Energy

Earlier last summer I was confiding in Gwen, a fellow yoga teacher and friend that recently passed. I said to her, “ I feel as if I’m practicing (yoga) as though I’m preparing for something but I don’t know exactly what that is.” I had been feeling this way for months, and although I had many goals for my practice, I felt my preparation was fueled by something greater than I could even explain. In this case, by “practice,” I’m referring specifically to yoga philosophy, the study of self, and meditation.  A few weeks before Gwen died, I also confided in her that I felt as if I might be my own greatest obstacle, and if that was true, I was interested in trusting myself and getting comfortable with hearing the sound of my own voice. Afterwards she prescribed me a mantra to dispel fear, without knowing that she had tapped into one of my greatest fears: not living up to my full potential.

Flash forward a few months to me experimenting in teaching with–what might seem frivolous to some–several platforms such as Facebook live and videos on YouTube…To the outside observer it might just seem as if that’s what yoga and tennis teachers do now, but no one knew except for me, that it was all just an experiment on my end.  I realized that when I filmed myself, I froze and became a different person. I became self-conscious, and tight in a way that doesn’t happen when I’m in the comfort of a regular class setting, and it really bothered me.  Little did I know that this self-practice of “getting over myself” and “accepting myself” was actually preparation for what is happening present day, and that I would need to get comfortable in a hurry if I was to keep in touch with students and stay afloat through this challenging time!

What my students don’t know is that I receive exactly what they hope to gain in coming to take my classes.  Cut to the present moment: an opportunity to inspire and be inspired (which is basically all I ever hope for) in these uncertain times that require us to operate day by day, one breath at a time.  How important it is, now more than ever, to focus ourselves on the task at hand, enjoy simple pleasures and stay positive when there’s potentially so much to be down about!

I do realize I am one of the fortunate ones, and that is not lost on me. A student asked me the other day, “Aren’t you scared?!” The truth is that I do have concerns, but apart from being as prepared as I can be and making decisions I’m comfortable with in the moment, I try to let the rest go. Not an easy task for someone who likes to plan and control what could happen in the future! And so with that I share that I feel a strange sense of calmness, in this rare opportunity to allow all of this practice come to fruition (there’s no shortage of opportunity, time for the “performance”!) I wish you much peace, perhaps with the ability to spend more quality time at home caring for yourselves and others, perhaps reminding yourself of where you are, one day at a time, one breath at a time…I look forward to seeing you on the other side!

😉 Margit

You can keep up with all the Margit does, here at The Yoga Sanctuary and on her court at home, by following her Facebook page, PlayTennis.PracticeYoga. 

Anita, sitting in TYS’s main downstairs studio

The Yoga Sanctuary: Tell us a little about yourself.

Anita Weisglass: I was born in Greece in 1937, which means that I am a survivor of the Holocaust. My family name is Castro, a Spanish name, and that means that my ancestors came to Greece in 1492 when they were expelled from Spain because the were Jewish. We survived the Holocaust with the help of Greek Orthodox families with whom we went into hiding.

We came to the United States in 1952 under the Displaced Persons Act that President Truman enacted. We settled in Boston.

In 1961, I went to Israel to visit family and while there I met my husband, Max, who was also visiting family. His home was Montreal, Canada, and that is where we went after we married.

In the 1970’s, he moved his business to Houston, Texas, and we lived there for 20 years. My husband always dreamed of moving to Florida to enjoy boating and fishing. We came here 21 years ago after his retirement.

We have two daughters. Lena, who now lives in California and has two daughters herself—Rachel and Natalie—and Melanie, who now lives in Duneden, Florida.

TYS: When did you first start yoga and what are its greatest benefits for you?

AW: I started practicing yoga with Bonnie, the former studio owner, at what is today the YMCA many years ago. Bonnie and Yoga opened a new world for me, a world of exercise and relaxation. For one hour during yoga practice, I concentrate in a peaceful way and the world and its challenges fade away.

TYS: What is your favorite yoga pose and why?

AW: Yoga is relaxing and keeps my body flexible. I look forward to the days when I have yoga practice. And, of course, my favorite pose is what comes at the end of all the work I have done—Savasana!!

Cathy Getz in her favorite pose: Virasana

The Yoga Sanctuary: Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Cathy Getz: From my first trip to Florida with Grandma when I was 18, I knew I wanted to live here, so when my husband Jim and I retired in 2003, the move was imminent. Jim and I already owned a vacation home in Burnt Store Marina.  I was raised by a fishing guide Dad and a Mom who loves to swim more than another activity (she is now 91), on Lake St. Clair in Michigan. Charlotte Harbor water was the draw.

I have been a student at TYS since 2007 and had been associated as a Staff Member/Retail Manager between 2010 and 2015.  I call myself “Staff Emeritus” and still offer unsolicited advice and help when needed. I’m also a member of TYS’ first teacher training class in 2011.

TYS: When and why did you first start yoga?

CG: I started practicing at Burnt Store Marina in 2003 because I was curious and knew I needed something to slow me down. Two days a week was not enough and I began to search, finding Vibha Kumar, Virginia Williamson, and ultimately, Bonnie Yonker (former owner of The Yoga Sanctuary).  I drove to Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte every day for class and connected with other Yogis.  When Bonnie opened TYS in 2007 I had found a home.

TYS: What are the greatest benefits of practicing yoga?

CG: For me, the greatest benefit has been to learn to look at others with an open heart.

TYS: How has your yoga practice changed your health and/or life?

CG: I’m way less intense!  (I know some may refute that!).

TYS: What is your favorite yoga pose and why?

CG: I have two, sitting in Virasana and Sarvangasana (even though I do not practice it as often as I should).  I am well grounded in Virasana (Hero’s Pose) and can be very relaxed while still alert.  Shoulderstand just feels good to me; the neck stretch and ability to focus are the two main reasons.

TYS: Do you have a favorite book or quote that you would like to share?

CG: Again, I have two. Both are from fortune cookies and are now taped to my computer! “Compassion is a way of being” and “You feel restless – change is just around the corner.”

Diane Smolen

The Yoga Sanctuary: Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Diane Smolen: Talking about myself does not come naturally. I arrived in Florida following retirement from a career in Michigan where I had earned a PhD at Michigan State University. Several years were spent working at Lansing Community College, where I met and married my husband, Chuck Bettinson. I went on to work for the Department of Education, State of Michigan. There I was involved in developing, implementing and then directing a number of different programs with state wide scope, responsibility and high visibility.

Chuck and I have a son, Tim Bettinson. Tim, and Margo Schwarberg, own and operate an independent restaurant in the suburbs of Cincinnati. Both have had long careers in the restaurant business.

Two of my proudest undertakings have been sharing my life with the Bettinsons and my educational attainment.

TYS: When and why did you first start yoga?

DS: Yoga for me began 5 years ago at our very own Yoga Sanctuary. At the end of a lengthy rehabilitation period following major back surgery that fused the last two vertebrae of my lumbar region, the therapist suggested I try some form of exercise that would be a bit kinder to my body. At that time, I was willing to try anything. I had already had a hip replacement and was faced with giving up many of the activities that I loved – long walks, running, working with my performance dogs and competing with my dogs in canine agility.

I attended a Yoga Sanctuary Open House, bought a mat and a strap and signed up! Margit helped me through my orientation session. I even wrote down all the props I would need for my first gentle yoga class. I wasn’t certain I would remember them and Margit had shown me how to use them safely.

Since that time every class, every instructor, every gentle correction has been a positive and life changing experience.

TYS: What are the greatest benefits of practicing yoga?

DS: I love my yoga practice for many reasons. I’ve strengthened my spine, back and leg muscles and my balance has improved. I learn something about myself and my body with every session. I have learned to quiet my mind and be still. I have learned what it means to be present even though I still find it a challenge to achieve. Yoga has helped me strive to be a better person. My life is much richer as a result of yoga.

TYS: What is your favorite yoga pose and why?

DS: Downward facing dog is my favorite yoga pose as it stretches my back and my hamstrings, two of my tightest areas and reminds me to re-establish my breath

TYS: Do you have a favorite book or quote that you would like to share?

DS: Several years ago in a gentle yoga class and then later in a meditation class, Melissa taught us a mantra that I have come to use almost daily.

May I be safe,

May I be happy,

May I be healthy,

May I dwell in peace.

I have added – with acceptance and understanding for all.

The Yoga Sanctuary: Can you  tell us a little about yourselves?

Miguel and Nicole Dotres: We have been married for 15 years and have 2 children.  We moved to Punta Gorda from Miami 3 years ago in an effort to find a great place to raise our kids.  Miguel is originally from Miami – a real life Florida native.  Nicole is originally from Texas.  We were fortunate enough to find each other in Florida and are grateful to have made Punta Gorda our permanent home.

TYS: When and why did you first start yoga?

M & N: Miguel had practiced yoga in the past and wanted to find a sanctuary in our new town.  Nicole was fairly new to yoga – having only taken an occasional class when she was pregnant.  Moving to Punta Gorda allowed Nicole to embark on a complete physical transformation as she had been struggling for her entire life with multiple health issues.  Starting yoga allowed her to manage many of the symptoms of her fibromyalgia and narcolepsy.  We joined The Yoga Sanctuary exactly 2 years ago, and have made it part of our life and daily routine.

TYS: What are the greatest benefits of practicing yoga?

Nicole:  Yoga introduced the idea of moderation, balance, and stability for mind and body – something that I definitely needed – and was clearly missing. While I find that I still push myself too hard – or navigate too easily to the extreme – I am learning everyday – and yoga has been essential to this development.

Miguel: The greatest benefit is having the ability to have a singular thought, a singular movement – provide the mind, the body and the soul – an extension of energy that comes from a place deep within the earth.  Having that connection for just a few moments of yoga practice fills every part of my body with joy.

TYS: How has the yoga practice changed your health and life? Have you found any emotional or other benefits?

Nicole: I now focus on practicing patience with myself and my body. While I still have pains and physical limitations, my effort is to listen to my body without judgement andto find ways to help the body, mind, and spirit as a whole. I am learning to allow my body to yell and scream at me – listen – and then move on. Unlike the past where I would try to fight back – Insisting that I had to be a certain way or able to do certain things – now my approach is to be accepting of what I can do today – and allowing myself to be happy with that.

Miguel: By practicing yoga, I am able to bring balance to my every day.  I feel stronger and am able to enjoy coaching my kids in soccer and even teaching yoga to them on the field.

TYS: What is the best thing about sharing the yoga practice together? 

M & N: Finding a place in our lives where we can be together while still growing individually.  We simply love being together and encouraging each other.

TYS: What is your favorite yoga pose and why?

Nicole:  Tree Pose.  This pose was very difficult for me at first and something that I set as a challenge to myself to be able to do.  I worked at it every day until I was able to do it well –  which made me proud.   At the same time, it is a pose that reminds me that every day is a new and different day, and that when my mind is out of balance, my body is too.

Miguel: Mountain Pose.  For me mountain pose represents the beauty found in the silence of growing things.  While it may appear a simple pose – the focus to me is to bring the mind and the body in balance while absorbing the energy of the earth through the roots of our feet.

TYS: Do you have a favorite book or quote that you would like to share?

Nicole: Wherever you go – there you are…

Miguel: Infinite spirit, open the way for divine design of my life to manifest; let the genius within me now be released; let me see clearly the perfect plan.

Rev. Amy Kindred

The Yoga Sanctuary: What made you decide to participate in the teacher training program?

Amy Kindred: I wanted to deepen my understanding of yoga. It has made such a difference in my life. I also wanted to learn to teach yoga.

TYS: Has being in the program changed your yoga practice in any way?

AK: There is a requirement to keep track of your home yoga practice and how you felt or what you noticed each time you went to your mat. After four months of doing a home practice 5 times a week and writing it down, it’s now a habit for me. I am mindful so much more of yoga’s many gifts.

TYS: What has been the most rewarding part of the program for you?

AM: The journey with others in the class has been deeply rewarding. As one of my fellow classmates said early on, “You’ll do fine. We got your back.” I felt that support all along. Embarking on the journey to becoming a yoga teacher is so intense. Knowing you are not alone and that others are there for you and with you made it such a wonderful experience.

TYS: What was the most challenging part of the program for you?

AK: Anatomy. I loved learning Sanskrit and exploring ancient Yoga Sutras, but learning anatomy was tough.

TYS: Where do you see yourself taking now that the program is complete?

AK: Soon, I’ll by teaching my first class “unaided” by my TYS teacher and mentors. I loved learning to teach and I’m so excited to continue the journey of practicing and teaching yoga. “We who teach yoga are always students,” as Jennifer French, our TT lead teacher and program director, says. I look forward to learning more.

TYS: Do you have any suggestions for someone that is considering a yoga teacher training program?

AK: Jennifer also said, “Trust the process.” With the mala beads in hand, a new Teacher-In-Training student would do well to recite, “Trust the process. Trust the process.” over and over again.

Yogi of the Month—Amy Kindred

I am a mother to a 31-year-old son who lives in Cincinnati. I also have a stepdaughter in Rhode Island and a stepson in Indianapolis. My husband and I moved to Punta Gorda five years ago. Long before moving here from the Midwest, we would spend a month every year on the east coast of Florida. Although my husband is retired, I continue to work. I am a Unitarian Universalist (UU) minister, and I serve the UU Fellowship in Port Charlotte.

It’s hard to recall when I first started doing yoga. It has to be more than 20 years ago. Sometime around 1992, I came across a yoga DVD and found it to be very helpful for the overwhelming stress I experienced as an art teacher for 12 years.

I have two very clear poignant memories about my yoga practice. I was doing yoga in my home on the morning of 9/11. I remember feeling very calm in the midst of a terribly confusing moment. Later, sometime in 2006, I recall participating in a yoga class on Cocoa Beach. It was a misty early morning. With the sound of the waves and the breeze, it was a powerful “one with nature” experience.

I now practice yoga four or five times a week, combining a home practice with classes at The Yoga Sanctuary. I love the Sunrise Yoga classes on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. After arriving to class, sometimes in the dark, I like to pretend that during that hour when I’m doing yoga with others inside and the birds are chattering like crazy outside, together we are the ones who encourage the sun to rise. Silly thought, I know. “Use whatever crazy notions that get you to your mat,” I say.

With food sensitivities and fibromyalgia, I am prone to aches in my muscles and joints. I walk, swim, run a little, and do lots of yoga to help with stress. With exercise, avoiding the cold, and watching what I eat, painful flare ups rarely happen.

Breath work, meditation, and keen observation of how the body is engaged in movement are extremely beneficial for people who, like me, are easily distracted and have a hard time sitting still. I like the aspect of discipline in the practice. I believe it has helped me to grow into a person who brings a calmer presence off the mat because of the time I have spent on the mat.

My favorite yoga pose is Bridge Pose with a block under my lower back. It just feels good to stretch the front body and reminds me of my youth when I could easily do backbends unassisted.

To maintain a regular practice, I find I have to schedule time to do yoga in my calendar the same way I have to write down the date and time to attend a meeting.

Outside of yoga, I love kayaking and making art when I can.

My favorite quote is, “One is not born a woman. One becomes one.” —Simone de Beauvoir (It speaks to strength, growth, and experience.)

Wendy Salafia: When yoga was becoming a solid part of my life, the idea of one day teaching would float through me. I love the practice. My teachers were a huge inspiration. When Rosario, my husband, and I moved to our final house in 2016, I was faced with the prospect of what to do with the rest of my life. My children are all on their own, and now it was my turn to do something for me, something that fulfilled me and nourished my soul. One day I was half-heartedly searching online for a local YTT program, just to gather information. And there it was, on the Yoga Alliance website, The Yoga Sanctuary was offering YTT beginning in December. And it was only being offered every other year! Now is my chance, I thought, though I didn’t decide immediately. Committing to YTT would lead me out of my comfort zone. Was I ready? Could I actually see myself teaching? I toyed with the idea, talked with loved ones, meditated on it. At the end of it all I knew that if I didn’t take this chance I would regret it. Now is my time.

TYS: Has being in the program changed your yoga practice in any way?

WS: My practice has opened and deepened.  Prior to YTT, I had a difficult time with meditation. I feel that actually learning the practice of meditation helped to break through my barriers. Sitting in stillness comes easily and, if I do say so, quite naturally to me now. My asana practiced has mellowed in a wonderful way. “Power” vinyasa used to be my go-to practice; learning from the ground up to build upon basic poses has caused me to slow it down, dial back the intensity. And that feels really good!

TYS: What has been the most rewarding part of the program so far?

WS: Falling deeper and deeper into the study of yoga has validated that this is where I’m supposed to be, right here, right now. My classmates— being on this journey with those who are like minded has created a bond very much like family for me. They’ve helped me, held me, supported me and I’ll be forever grateful for their presence in my life.

TYS: What has been the most challenging part of the program so far?

WS: The program is intense. Practicing yoga at home or in a class is one thing, learning all that is involved in the practice of yoga is an entirely different entity. It’s been a humbling experience.

TYS: Where do you see yourself taking now that the program is complete?

WS: I love this question. One question on the YTT application was if teaching yoga is the primary aim of my taking the program or was it to simply deepen my practice and knowledge. At the time, it was unclear to me where YTT would lead, so my response was that I felt the answer to the question would present itself upon completion of the course.  And it did. I want to teach. I want to share the art of the practice that I love so dearly. I’m 100% confident that teaching yoga is what I want to do with the rest of my life.

TYS: Do you have any suggestions for someone that is considering a yoga teacher training program?

WS: If your practice is a passion and you love to learn, do this. Be open minded and committed. Prepare yourself for a journey that, if you let it, has the power to change your life.

Read about Wendy’s full path below….

Yogi of the Month—Wendy Salafia

I became a mom at 17, and the next 25-plus years were happily devoted to raising four human beings that, thankfully, turned out rather well. And after almost 30 years, my husband is more than ever my best friend. I am now known as “Nonni” to two grandchildren who I adore beyond all reason. Two years ago, my husband and I moved to Florida. Now it’s our turn to devote our lives to us.

I took my first yoga class over ten years ago just to try it out. I didn’t fall in love. About three years later, I tried it again. That time it felt right, so I continued. Now I practice every day—not only asana but also meditation and observance of the yamas and niyamas.

Physically, sciatica used to be a challenge for me, and so was my inability to “be still.” I no longer struggle with sciatica, and I have learned to be comfortable and content in stillness all due to my yoga practice. Yoga tunes up and tones my physical body as well as my mental and emotional body. My body feels stronger and more supple from asana. And mentally/emotionally, yoga has taught me to be more present, compassionate, and forgiving of myself and others. It’s taught me the importance of letting go and accepting things that are not in my power to control.

Trikonasana, or Triangle Pose, is my favorite yoga posture. The very first time I was brought into this pose and my teacher aligned my body in proper form, it just felt so good. As it strengthens and opens my body, it also calms my mind.

I feel as though yoga never really leaves me. When I’m not doing asana, I’m living the yamas and niyamas to the best of my ability. Yoga is not an activity that has its place in my life. Yoga is my life.

Outside of The Yoga Sanctuary, I volunteer at the local branch of the library, which is something that I love doing. I love books, and I love to read. Being loose in a library is akin to being a kid let loose in a candy store. All of those books and stories—knowledge—right at my fingertips!

Favorite quote: “Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, “Wow! What a ride!” —Hunter S. Thompson

Vrksasana: the tree pose

Introducing Jim Cupo

TYS: What made you decide to participate in the teacher training program?

JC: I saw that my asana, or yoga postures, were improving. I was getting more flexible, but had heard there were aspects of yoga other than the movements that we do. So, I wanted to know more about yoga. 

TYS: Has being in the program changed your yoga practice in any way?

JC: The program has changed my practice by understanding more of what yoga is all about. There’s so much more to explore than what we are able to do in class. My practice has become more comfortable because I understand it’s foundation better. I have a more consistent routine now with meditation, my everyday asana home practice, and journaling.

TYS: What has been the most rewarding part of the program so far?

JC: The most rewarding part of the program so far is being in a group with others on the same path as me and seeing everyone progress. Seeing where we started from, how much we learned, and how far we have come.

TYS: What has been the most challenging part of the program so far?

JC: The most challenging part of the program has been keeping up with the studies, and retaining the information so as to be prepared for quizzes. Also, teaching in front of others, but over time I’ve gotten better at that.

TYS: Where do you see yourself once the program is complete?

JC: I think once the program is complete, I’ll continue to practice and explore everything I have learned. Now that I understand what yoga is, I’m going to see how I can help others.

TYS: Do you have any suggestions for someone that is considering a yoga teacher training program?

JC: If you’re considering taking the teacher training program, you will not regret it. There is so much more to yoga than what we’re able to do in class, such as learning where our studio came from, the lineage of all the teachers that have come before us. It’s a lot of hard work and learning, so be ready to eat, sleep, and live yoga. Our studio and program director, Jennifer, has been such an inspiration to me. She is an excellent teacher and sees each individual’s abilities and struggles

Click here to learn even more about Jim!

Edie is retired from teaching grades from preschool to college. Her teaching position here in Punta Gorda was at Edison College (now Florida SouthWestern State College) in the mathematics department from 1990 to 2005.

Together they have two sons, ages 30 and 24.

Glenn began yoga in the nineties here in Punta Gorda. Edie began yoga in the late seventies in Atlanta. Both have since continued their practice off and on. They both were privileged to do yoga at what is now the YMCA where Bonnie, the former studio owner, began teaching. They we were fortunate to be there when she arrived and followed her to the Yoga Sanctuary.

Edie began her yoga practice to enhance her life spiritually, emotionally, and physically. Glenn followed suit. Edie practices at least five times per week, including a home practice. Glenn practices when possible. They both practice Gentle Yoga. Edie loves the Meditation/Restorative classes. Glenn would like to attend Level I classes too, as Edie would when her body allows. They are also interested in the Tai Chi class.

Glenn had joint issues, particularly in his knees. Gaining core strength and greater flexibility has helped his conditions. Edie had neck, back, and hip issues. Along with L4 back surgery and stem cell treatments, her yoga practice has greatly improved her muscle tightness and joint strain.

The greatest benefits of practicing yoga for both Glenn and Edie include learning the tools for ultimate relaxation and breathing, and social experiences with healthy-minded people. Glenn and Edie say their yoga practice has made their lives so much better and propelled their health in a positive direction. They say it sweetens the good parts of life while offering them the tools necessary to create opportunity and learning in the difficult times. Emotionally, yoga continues to help relieve the anxiety they seem to awaken to with every day at this pivotal time in history.

As they continue to age they know that so too will their physical challenges. And they know their yoga practice will continually evolve to assist them.

Glenn continues to “chef” as well as work on his classic car collection and home renovations. His most important and enjoyable pastime is helping his sons with renovating their real estate properties. He also enjoys biking and walking. Although retired from formal teaching, Edie finds a continual supply of individuals who need assistance mathematically, and she also tends to other side businesses. She is an avid reader and also continues studying energy work through Donna Eden as well as meditation through Shambala.

Glenn’s favorite pose is the sun salutation for all the integrated benefits it provides as well as its centering and balance benefits. Edie’s favorite pose is Legs Up The Wall because it is all about centering and calming for her. And, of course, more blood to the brain.

All of the above keep Edie and Glenn coming back to yoga. They love the interaction with healthy-minded, giving people. And, for Edie, Melissa has done much to inspire and aid in her healing.

Edie’s favorite quote: “To see a world in a grain of sand and a heaven in a wild flower, hold infinity in the palm of your hand and eternity in an hour.” —William Blake

Glenn’s favorite quote: “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving.” —Albert Einstein

I have been married to Dave, the love of my life, for 23 years. My children Jack and Olivia are simply amazing. I was put on this earth to be a teacher. I teach fourth and fifth grade gifted at Neil Armstrong Elementary School.

I first began yoga three years ago, and it has changed my life! I began to practice because it was on my “bucket list” of things I wanted to do. Running is my first love, and in order to keep running strong, I needed to stretch things out. However, yoga has changed my life and overall outlook, and I strongly encourage everyone to give it a try. I practice about three times a week. It has become somewhat of a religion for me. I love to attend mixed level classes and up. I love any pose that challenges me. The challenge of yoga is one of the things that keeps me coming back.

I did not have any particular physical challenges, per se, but mentally I have learned to slow down and take a breath. I say this to the students and colleagues I work with all the time. The greatest benefits of practicing yoga have been the daily reminder to be aware and celebrate mind, body, and spirit connection. The idea of a daily practice resonates with me, and I transfer this idea into many aspects of my daily life.

My yoga practice has changed my life in so many ways. The practice empowers me to focus on the here and now and on being present in whatever I am doing. At times, this can be an immense challenge for me. Staying present is something that I am always working on. I keep coming back to yoga because the teachers at TYS inspire me in some way every time I come to practice.

Outside The Yoga Sanctuary I love to run, walk, and bike. I am a Girls on the Run coach, and that is one of my most favorite things.

Favorite quote: “You will never regret being kind.”