About
I stand at the crossroads of mind and body wellness. I offer the connection and integration that may begin with the body but in doing so opens the student to the balance, calm, and serenity that yoga provides the mind. Many, if not most and myself included, people come to yoga for the physical benefit. Mountains of clinical and empirical evidence prove the rewards of a consistant yoga practice for general fitness, injury recovery and prevention, relief of chronic pain, and aleviation of systemic disorders including insomnia, hormonal imbalances, and digestive disorders. But in seeking to use yoga as a tool for the body we are exposed to the wealth of benefit yoga offers the mind.
I have been teaching for more than 10 years in group and private settings. I have lectured and trained young teachers and other fitness professionals in anatomy, physiology and philosophy and published articles and papers on the subject of holistic wellness and lifestyle. I am also a licensed acupuncturist and I have spent a lifetime studying philosophy and the interconnectedness of the body and the mind. I practice my own teachings daily to navigate this rollercoaster of life knowing that I can't fight the waves so i had better learn to surf.
What I love most about teaching is the look on a student's face when an elusive truth finally "clicks" and this glow of understanding comes over them. Whether its a a new pose achieved or a relief from pain or the realizatoin that life just isn't as overwhelming as it used to be; there is nothing in this world that can compare to that.
Reviews
Debra F.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I begin with a conversation. I listen. I let the student tell me what their hopes and goals are for our experience together, whether physical, mental/emotional, or life changes. From there we formulate a plan and begin with the appropriate combination of yoga, meditation, breathwork, and discussion. I always offer the student tools to practice in between sessions to improve and empower the student.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a Yoga Alliance Certified Teacher having completed the 200 hr training offered at the Miami Yoga Shala, Miami Beach, FL. I have completed and maintain the requirements for the designation of Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher according to the Yoga Alliance.
I completed graduate work and earned a Masters Degree in Oriental medicine from the Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine, Ft Lauderdale, FL. I hold licenses from both national and state licensing boards to practice acupuncture.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I have a sliding scale.
How did you get started teaching?
Yoga moved me profoundly and I felt the need to share that gift.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with beginner to advanced students. I have worked with athletes, the injured,and the elderly. Yoga shapes itself to the needs of the student. Yoga, in the hands of a good teacher, answers the questions that are asked.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently attended a workshop with the Connection Coalition which brings Trauma Informed yoga to young people at risk in shelters, foster care and middle and high schools.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for a teacher with enough experience to meet you at your needs. Someone who is understanding, compassionate, and wise enough to assist you on your journey. Someone you trust and are able to talk to.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Just have an idea what you are looking to gain from your experience. Ask about their knowledge and history of teaching. Ask them why they are on their journey and see if the answer resonates with you.