A YOGA JOURNEY…
The beginning…
In 2008, I was strongly encouraged into yoga class, by my then dance teacher, to become a more flexible dancer. Once I stepped on the yoga mat at the local Ashtanga Shala, I soon discovered a much-needed sanctuary for both mind, body and spirit. I was able to begin shredding some of the toxic perfectionism linked to pursuing a professional dance career and getting on the yoga mat shifted, from being this physical fight to achieve perfection, to being a place to grow, inquire and work on self-acceptance. My dancer dreams drove me out into the world, yet my Yoga practice continually kept me grounded. I explored many classes in different styles, learning different lessons along the way, picking up nuances of different traditions and experiences. I’m immensely grateful for all the teachers who came before me and all that I’ve learned and continue to learn. Because first and foremost, I am a student and my practice will continue to evolve and adapt. Therefore my teaching style is also ever evolving and I wholeheartedly believe that it takes a great and dedicated student to be a good teacher!
Photo by @emilyamulder
What is class like?
Breath, functional alignment and inclusivity are central elements in all my classes. To me, Yoga is about balance, intention and self-acceptance. I create a safe and welcoming space where individuals can explore their practice with confidence and authenticity.
It’s not uncommon for students to approach class with preconceived notions and self-imposed limitations. As a dedicated teacher, my greatest joy lies in empowering each student to tap into their full potential.
My mission is to ensure that every single person who steps into my class feels seen, cared for, and embraced, no matter their experience level or physical capacity.
Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or someone just starting their yoga journey, my well-rounded classes provide a harmonious blend of asanas (poses) and pranayama (breathing techniques) with an added sprinkle of philosophy and playfulness.
Specialized in foundations, pranayama and Yoga for people with hyper-mobility symptoms.
Hands-on assistance offered, but ALWAYS optional.
“Maria makes MAGIC on the regular in her yoga asana classes — I highly recommend!
“Maria’s magic is not an illusion or sleight of hand -- it is a function of a truly inspiring dedication of years of practice, study, and practice some more. Maria has managed to synthesize years of cross-discipline mind and body work (meditation, dance, yoga, pilates) and integrate it with a truly wonderful empathetic and intuitive teaching style. And, in so doing, she has created this exquisite synergy … an uncanny but very real Aristotle effect where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. So subtle, so deft, so amazing … being in Maria’s class is like getting to walk among a grove of Redwoods — just a real special energy and experience. Thank you Maria!”
- Grateful practitioner