I admit, I never imagined I would teach fitness classes. I’ve definitely had a session with my therapist unpacking the elementary school kickball game that solidified the story for me. Too intimidated to run to home, I stayed on third til there was a pile up on base and we all got out. Add a few scathing looks from first graders and my fate was sealed—I decided I was the smart kid, not the athletic kid. And in high school, to avoid running laps, I took yoga.

A bachelor’s in New Testament studies, then a master’s in creative writing later, I was the Director of Operations at a clinic that taught autistic nonspeakers a means of communication through spelling on a letterboard. My brother was one of those nonspeakers. During my time advocating for the humanity of these individuals, I witnessed the suffering that comes when we do not fully see each other.

I found my way back to yoga, and a deep love for the practice, while searching for how I could increase listening, connection, and compassion in this world. From studying interpersonal neurobiology in clinical psychiatrist Dr. Daniel Siegel’s online course, I learned that yoga—a mindfulness and body-regulation practice—is the foundation of a mind that is primed to move with compassion. I soon pursued Zumba as another body-regulation tool.

I know what it feels like—the fear, the courage—to change your story. Because of that, I teach my classes with deep respect for my students’ experiences, using the best of what they have to help them realize the possibilities. Calling on my work as a writer, communicator, and educator, my classes are different. I promise to educate you, to empower you, and to leave you feeling good in both body and mind.