I first stepped on a yoga mat the summer of 2004, in the heart of Columbia, SC. I was led to the practice by a desire to feel better and to find my true place in the world. I had been diagnosed with an acute form of leukemia and was having difficulty dealing with the many emotions and symptoms of the disease. I needed an outlet that would provide a safe, nurturing space for me to be in my own body
. Once I began a committed practice, I knew yoga would be a large part of my life from that moment forward. Developing the steadfastness and deep contentment yoga provided was essential in my personal growth. Yoga taught me to be grounded, strong, and resilient in the face of adversity while “keeping my inner light bright.” I learned to face obstacles rather than fight or avoid them, which inevitably made me a stronger, more centered and more complete person. I used the tools from my mat to recognize areas of my life where I needed to go deeper and really challenge myself, and also the areas where I simply needed to soften. In the summer of 2007 I made a choice to stop living incrementally, to listen to my heart and ignore the signals and suggestions of popular culture. I wanted to look at my place in the universe from a different vantage point and ask bigger questions. I traveled to India unaccompanied and explored the subcontinent for six weeks. I visited temples, witnessed pujas on the banks of the Ganges, and spent many hours in quiet contemplation. I returned to the United States more centered and more enthusiastic about embracing the big questions and daunting challenges. After living in Boston for almost five years, I moved to San Diego to embody that resolution and to take a leap of faith. I completed my 200 hour yoga teacher training in December 2013 and am excited, honored and humbled to have the opportunity to teach yoga. My goal as a teacher is to weave challenging, empowering, playful, and innovative asana with an expertise in the flowing wisdom and subtleties of yoga philosophy. I want to inspire students to look inside, find their inner beauty, and delight in the joys of every day life. When not on my mat, I enjoy spending leisurely days at the beach, spending time with my friends, and if it’s college football season, you’ll probably find (or hear!) me cheering on my favorite team. GO GAMECOCKS!!
