"The human body is the best picture of the human soul." - Ludwig Wittgenstein

Therapeutic Yoga

My training encompasses Vinyasa Yoga, Mindful Yoga, Dance Movement Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Yoga. Read more about the specifics here.

My practice of Therapeutic Yoga is based on Somatic Psychology and Polyvagal Theory, both of which offer ways of understanding the mind-body connection.

Therapeutic Yoga sessions include learning Yoga postures designed to address specific emotional and physical concerns; and learning to harness the power of your breath to calm your nervous system. Therapeutic Yoga movements are slow, intentional, and paired with the breath to engage the parasympathetic nervous system. 
In a calm state, the heart rate slows, intestinal and gland activity increase, and muscles relax. This practice can be helpful for those experiencing mental and emotional health concerns that have a strong physical component. Eg.) Digestive issues, thyroid and other hormonal issues, chronic pain,  and / or persistent muscular tension often associated with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and sleep-wake disorders.

Sessions are tailored to meet each client where they are; and designed to address emotional, psychological, spiritual, and psychosomatic concerns. For counseling clients, these sessions supplement our therapeutic work and progress. Current counseling clients may add a 30-Minute Therapeutic Yoga session to the beginning or end of any counseling session.

While Yoga teaches control and self-regulation, Mindfulness Meditation can offer freedom from trying to be or feel any particular way. Learning and practicing both can be a dynamic way to create space in your body and mind. Learn more about Mindfulness here.

     The Vagus Nerve

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Why Yoga?

Eight years ago, a foot injury from running brought me to my Yoga mat for what I then considered to be an alternative form of fitness. I quickly learned it was far more, There was a spiritual quality to what I was experiencing. As I practiced, I began to feel more comfortable in my own skin. After each class, my feet met the ground in a new way and the world seemed brighter. Practicing Yoga has taught me to offer grace to myself; to find the balance between striving and ease in my life. It is my delight to facilitate for others this practice of blending of the physical, mental-emotional, and spiritual; expanding and strengthening the body in order  to find vulnerability, growth, and personal power.

Private Yoga Lessons

Though Yoga in any form can provide mental-emotional stability and support, Private Yoga lessons are ideal for clients desiring strength,  flexibility, and balance without a focus on mental-emotional health.

Clients will learn breath control (Pranayama), postures (Asana) and alignment to prevent injury and create space in the body. Sessions are designed to support the client in developing their own daily practice.

Clients can choose whether or not to incorporate Yogic meditation and / or study of the moral and ethical codes of Yoga ( the Yamas & Niyamas)  into their sessions.

I have experience working with clients of various ages and abilities. I design sessions to meet each client where they are. You don't have to be flexible to practice Yoga. In fact, Yoga is the best tonic for stiff, sore muscles and joints.

Group Classes

I teach Vinyasa Yoga classes at Yoga Riot in Sellwood on Mondays and Tuesdays at 4pm. Check out yogariot.com/ for information on rates and memberships.

I teach private groups as well. Rates depend on the size of the group. Please e-mail me your request.