A devoted student of life, I first came to the practice of yoga over 20 years ago while pursuing doctoral studies at the Center for Politics & Economics at the Claremont Colleges. It was a revelation to encounter a methodology that concerned itself unconditionally with examining the causes of human suffering in an impartial and comprehensive manner. What began as a simple joy in learning to dance with all aspects of myself through the postures, has since evolved into the study of what it means to be a full and engaged human being in communion with life around me and beyond. Imagine reading your favorite book and realizing that it will never end as long as you keep reading–that is what the practice and state of Yoga is to me. The subject is intensely personal yet gives insight into the universal, the undefinable, the vastness that is unknown, in a simple yet accessible manner, without dogma or predetermined beliefs.
The roots of my yoga practice lie not at the feet of Indian gurus nor are they result of years of studying esoteric texts (although my perspective and understanding continues to be illuminated by many skilled masters and I have always enjoyed exploring texts that are both ancient and timeless in their wisdom). I have simply been blessed by the support and tireless efforts of my parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, partners, and friends who through their example and great love have nurtured my curiosity to learn, my joy in independent explorations, and provided me with a refuge to house the creative silences with time to mature and grow. These relationships have woven a web of generosity, consideration,care,respect and love that in turn have inspired me to continue to show up and learn by doing, to listen to myself and others, to be of service by simply being present and helping –to the best of my ability–all creatures great and small, all beings precious, all hearts no matter their condition.
I also owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to BKS Iyengar, Geeta Iyengar, Prashant Iyengar, Ramanand Patel, Peter Thomson, and Kofi Busia, all of whom continue to inspire me and inform my practice through their practices and devotion to those around them. It has been through their direct guidance, example, and care that I have come to be woven into the tapestry of a living tradition and welcomed into a community of learning and love. I am also immensely grateful to Manouso Manos, Osha Hanfling, Kathy Alef, Anne Saliou and Villard Martin for helping to establish a firm foundation in the practical art of teaching yoga and so generously sharing their wisdom,skill, classrooms, and great hearts over many years of apprenticeship, mentorship and friendship.
I am certified to teach in the Iyengar tradition and consider it a great blessing to share this method of practice with all who are interested in working steadfastly and with an open mind to establish their own direct experience of their body, mind, and spirit in a simple yet joyous manner. I hope you will join me in this practice and that you too may come to discover all that is bright, beautiful, and free!
