Yoga has been part of my life since 1976. My practice
has developed as I have, starting from my late teens to my current early 50s. During these years I have enjoyed
learning how to truly care for myself through yoga, applying adaptations for healing post whiplash, for supporting healthy
back function after herniating a disc in heavy yard work, and so on. The effects of breathing for calming and steadying my
mind are tools for returning again and again to a healthy perspective. In transitioning into menopause these simple
supports have worked. The regularity of my practice has soothed sadness and grief, and has shown how to cultivate
my potential rather than reinforce old habits and anxieties. I feel grateful for a solid background to direct me as therapist,
teacher and practitioner.
In 1976, I became full-time staff at the Kripalu
Center for Yoga and Health. During my almost twenty years of residency at Kripalu, I became certified as a Kripalu Yoga
teacher in 1980, and eventually joined the faculty of Yoga Prgrams in 1992. My four years of experience as faculty gave me
a glimpse of how much value comes from sharing the teachings of yoga. Participants gained insights, made lifestyle changes,
became interested in practices that previously had been foreign or unaccessible.
In 2000, I again furthered my skills through certification
in the Viniyoga tradition both as a professional level teacher and yoga therapist, based on the lineage of Krishnamacharya
as taught through TKV Desikachar, Gary Kraftsow and Mirka Scalco Kraftsow. This enriched
my ability to embrace others' needs, applying tools from the yoga tradition to help manage chronic conditions, stress, and
to create the energy to engage in this life.
Practicing the tools of yoga when they are appropriately adapted for the individual
brings about a change - a focus toward a direction that is worth investing energy in. It is a priviledge to share in this
process. There is shared learning and growth that keeps the practices alive and meaningful!
