Instructors

One of my favorite childhood memories is playing “school” with my siblings. My sister and I loved to pretend we were teachers. My mom actually brought us to a local store that sold educational supplies for teachers, and we bought stickers, grading books, planners, and gold stars. We made up fake class lists and took attendance, and even created math and spelling quizzes for our fictional students (and our one live student, our younger brother). 

I love teaching yoga because it gives me a chance to inspire others they way I’ve been inspired by teachers when I’m on my mat. Practicing yoga has taught me so much about myself; I’ve learned that I’m stronger than I realize, that there is no “right” way to do a yoga pose, that I can breathe through discomfort and even find ease where I never thought possible. I want to bring this to others and provide them space to make their own self discoveries. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is that I can modify anything so that it works in my body. I’m a very logical, structured person, which sometimes means that I hear one way of doing something and believe it to be the right–the only–way. But in yoga, I can adapt a pose to better fit how I’m feeling (physically and mentally). I’ve taken this off my mat and into the rest of my life, and it’s liberating to realize that I can let go of the “shoulds” and the “supposed tos” and really do anything I decide to do.

Three words that describe my teaching style: Balanced. Accessible. Light.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me knitting, drawing, hand-lettering, crocheting, painting, even encaustics...I love all things arts and crafts!

Three people who inspire me are my family, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Leslie Knope

One of my favorite quotes is: “Never doubt that you are valuable and powerful and deserving of every chance and opportunity in the world to pursue and achieve your own dreams.” - Hillary Rodham Clinton

One of my favorite childhood memories is Following my Dad around like a shadow while we listened to Genesis and washed the cars or did yard work. And I loved the long drives to get ice cream in the middle of nowhere just to spend time talking, singing and laughing in the car together.
 
I love teaching yoga because Leading people into their breath not only as individuals but as a community is such a powerful experience. This practice has created an immensely positive shift in my life and it overjoys me to be part of passing that along to others. 
 
A life lesson I've learned from yoga practice is Every moment that you have breath, you have a choice- on your mat and in your life. And never underestimate the power of putting your heart over your head.
 
Three words that describe my teaching style: Playful, spontaneous, empowering
 
When I'm not teaching yoga you'll find me Making music, rock climbing, gardening or traveling.
 
Three people who inspire me are My Momma, my Nonnie, and anyone who has made the choice to fall deeply in love with their own life.
 
One of my favorite quotes is: "We can't direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails." Thomas Monson
 

One of my favorite childhood memories is: going on hikes with my dad to look for “nature stuff.” I grew up in an old farmhouse on 28 acres and the two of us would either walk or drive our jeep to the top of the hill behind our house and explore in the woods. On one of these nature adventures, I found a squirrel skull and my dad let me take it home to show my mom. Let’s just say she was less than pleased with my dad… but I was ecstatic.

 

I love teaching yoga: for the same reason I love practicing! Every lesson you learn on the mat reaches far beyond the walls of the yoga studio. This like-minded community paints a canvas for a more conscious and loving world. I love that I get to hold space for mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical healing and growth.

 

A life lesson I’ve learned from yoga practice is: Self-inquiry. I’ve come to realize that it’s (more than) okay to be unapologetically me. Each of us has a deeply and beautifully unique journey - it would be foolish to compare.

 

Three words that describe my teaching style: authentic, fun, ever-evolving.

 

When I’m not teaching yoga you’ll find me: working at Breathe Victor! And on the off chance that I am not working (or practicing), I’m usually out getting coffee, going for walks, making matcha and hanging with my plants, or reading books on nutrition and wellness.

 

Three people who inspire me are: I am inspired by so much. Not necessarily people, but actions of people. It’s all the beautiful little nuances that make up moments. Eye contact, smiles, seeing people be themselves and react to the world around them in an authentic and childlike way, seeing people open their hearts and minds to new love and ideas. The sunshine through a coffee shop window, seeing an old couple holding hands, the way the trees breath as the wind moves through them… I could go on and on

 

One of my favorite quotes is: “And remember, love is not some entity that exists outside of you; you yourself are love” xo, me

One of my favorite childhood memories is falling asleep in the Adirondacks listening to the rain on the roof of the cabin and thunder rolling over the lakes and off the mountains. 

I love teaching yoga because sharing yoga is like watching someone discover something incredible for the first time. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is to see the beauty in impermanence. My practice is always evolving, ever changing and growing. It supports, engages, challenges, heals. My yoga practice gives me a deeper expression of myself. I love that there is no endpoint--there’s so much possibility!

Three words that describe my teaching style: clear, fun, adventurous

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me looking for my next adventure--near or far. I love to get out to the local parks with my pup, check out a new cocktail around town, or go explore a new city or country.

Three people who inspire me are my twin sister, Melinda Gates, Nelson Mandela 

One of my favorite quotes is: “Yoga allows you to find a new kind of freedom that you may not have known even existed.” B.K.S. Iyengar

One of my favorite childhood memories is traveling to dance competitions with my dance friends and family

I love teaching yoga because I love the process of sharing. I personally have gained so much from my practice that I am honored to share the practice of yoga with my community.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is is the idea to give up what you must. Be it a relationship that is not serving you, emotions, anything that is truly getting in the way of living life inspired.

Three words that describe my teaching style: Calming. Challenging. Warm-hearted.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me cuddling with my three dogs - Gus, Tucker, and Nellie. All pit bull rescues : )

Three people who inspire me are Maya Angelou, Paige Elenson, Elizabeth Streb

One of my favorite quotes is: "My body is my alter, my postures are my prayers." —BKS lyengar

One of my favorite childhood memories is One time I woke up in the morning and at breakfast started telling my identical twin sister about a dream that I was having about sleeping in a sleeping bag floating on the water next to a ship that my Grandmother was the captain of. Weird right?! My sister said she had the same dream; with all the specifics. Coolest memory from childhood by a mile. 

I love teaching yoga because It allows me to be immersed in another person’s transformational process and help that person be guided to their true self. It is amazing what yoga has done for my life and I am so passionate about it. To be able to help another person land in his or her true body and mind and have a significant positive change in his or her life as a result is an amazing thing to be a part of. It is a win win for all involved. 


A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is Come with what is available to you and don’t taint what is possible involving expectations or judgment. 

Three words that describe my teaching style: Energetic, structured, fun

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me practicing yoga, walking with my dog, and playing with my two small daughters. 

Three people who inspire me are Avery and Allie, my two daughters, and Baron Baptiste

One of my favorite quotes is: Paraphrased from Cyndi Weis, your kids will not do what you say, but they will be who you are.

One of my favorite childhood memories is Camp Stella Maris on Conesus Lake, especially bonfires at the beach on a starry night.

I love teaching yoga because I see how people change, grow and honor their true selves through their practice

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is Patience! And, there is no such thing as perfection.

Three words that describe my teaching style: Authentic, empathetic, funny

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Enjoying my family, working, teaching indoor cycling

Three people who inspire me are My mother and my grandmothers for their compassion, quiet fierceness, and tirelessly helping others.

One of my favorite quotes is: "It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.” Antoine de Saint-Exupery

One of my favorite childhood memories is the trips we took to Puerto Rico to visit my mom's family.

I love teaching yoga because it has completely transformed my life and I love being able to witness, and sometimes be a part of that transformation, in others.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is to allow the practice to evolve in its own way. I've begun to learn how to drop the need for perfection and just be who I am right now.

Three words that describe my teaching style: Adaptable, accepting, presence-ing

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me on my own mat practicing, outside hiking in creeks and exploring, or reading a good book.

Three people who inspire me are not any 3 people in particular but more the actions people make in everyday life. I am inspired when people go out of their way to help those who need it, no matter how small the gesture.

One of my favorite quotes is: “Between a stimulus and a response there is a space. In that space lies our power to choose our response. In that response lies our growth and our freedom.”

One of my favorite childhood memories is 6th grade with Mrs. Eisenberg - she introduced yoga and meditation to the class. My yoga seed was planted! And the best part…I recently reunited with Mrs. Eisenberg! It turns out, she practices yoga at breathe!

I love teaching yoga because I love guiding people to their own connection and experience with the practice and witnessing the transformative power of yoga for the individual on the mat; how it empowers people to deepen and grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. And I love the collective energy of practicing in community

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is yoga is the constant in an ever-changing world; a place to ground, connect, and begin again...

Three words that describe my teaching style: Engaging. Grounding. Inspiring

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me practicing yoga, in nature - hiking or mountain biking, and spending time with my 3 teens, friends, and family.

Three people who inspire me are my 3 teenagers - I am inspired by how they “show-up” for all of life’s experiences.

One of my favorite quotes is: “Where your attention goes, energy flows” —Baron Baptiste

One of my favorite childhood memories is I grew up in Detroit in a great neighborhood filled with families and lots of kids my age. I loved being outside riding my bike, climbing trees, playing baseball, kickball, football, basketball - any game we could come up with. Our playground was the entire neighborhood, including our yards, the neighborhood empty field, allies and the parking lots behind our house. Every day was a new adventure.

I love teaching yoga for many reasons … I especially enjoying working with students who are new to yoga and are experiencing the practice, the poses and the mind/body connection for the first time. I love working with them as they get deeper into their practice and start to understand, experience and practice their yoga both inside and outside the studio. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is The gift and importance of being present. I am a perpetual planner always two or three steps ahead, thinking/planning ahead and many times getting so caught up in looking ahead that I’m not taking the time to stop and enjoy or just be where I am. My yoga has taught me to breathe and be in the moment … something I continue to work on but I experience the beauty and the value of being present daily which I consider a true gift.

Three words that describe my teaching style: Fun. Encouraging. Empowering - everyone is unique and capable.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me gardening, traveling and spending time with loved ones.

Three people who inspire me are my mother – she’s taught me so much especially the power of love, my Sister who has had my back – even when she may not agree with me and my two beautiful daughters who I learn from every day. 

One of my favorite quotes is: Be the change you wish to see in the world.

One of my favorite childhood memories is Summer days and nights spent at my Nana and Bompa’s house. Complete with lots of family, food, swimming, croquet and picking blueberries. 

I love teaching yoga because Of the yoga glow! That change that occurs over the course of the class - in the students, the space, and me. It is inspiring and empowering. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is That it is a practice. There is no such thing as perfect. We continually shift and change, ebb and flow, and the faster we get behind that idea the better our practice will feel. 

Three words that describe my teaching style: Gratitude meets music meets heart and soul (That might be four but who is counting?!) 

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Having fun adventures with my family – my wonderful and supportive husband Jake, my sweet little monsters Piper and Campbell and our loud, snortle-pig French bull dog Turkey. 

Three people who inspire me are Every single one of my family and friends. In so many different ways. 

One of my favorite quotes is: “The same boiling water that softens the potato hardens the egg. It’s about what you are made of, not the circumstances.”

One of my favorite childhood memories is spending time with my family on Anna Maria Island on the gulf coast of Florida. Now my husband and I take our kids there every winter.

I love teaching yoga because My yoga practice has changed my life for the better in countless ways. I am honored to have the opportunity to share that possibility with other yogis.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is All challenges, on or off the mat are easier to face when you take time for a deep breath

Three words that describe my teaching style: Accessible. Challenging. Inspiring

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Hanging out with my family…or at wegmans. With three teenaged boys in my house, I never have enough food!

Three people who inspire me are my husband, David and our three boys, Kyle, Jack and Chase

One of my favorite quotes is: “Wherever you are, be all there”

One of my favorite childhood memories is Riding around with my Grandmother when it was thunder and lightening. We would sit in the back seat, tip our heads back & look out the back window and watch the storm come rolling through. I was a dreamer as a kid. And this sparked my curiosity and love for the stars and Universe. 

I love teaching yoga because Yoga allows me to center myself while giving me a chance to share lots of light and positivity to the world through my own stories and experiences. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is A yogi in all ways, always. I no longer force things. What flows, flows. What crashes, crashes. I only have space and energy for things that are meant for me. 

Three words that describe my teaching style: Fun, Empowering, Badass!

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Cooking and creating in the kitchen. I love to bring health and wellness to my life in all ways!

Three people who inspire me are Lewis Howes, Cyndi & Carly Weis. 

One of my favorite quotes is: "Consider becoming the type of energy that no matter where you go, or where you are, you will always add value to the spaces and lives of those around you."

One of my favorite childhood memories is Vacations with my dad. Every year he would take my closest friends and I up to Vermont or Lake Placid for snowboarding trips, snowmobiling trips in the Adirondacks, or just a weekend getaway during the peak of the leaves changing in Old Forge. He taught me how to appreciate nature, how to be present in the moment despite any temporary life circumstances, and how to overcome challenges and painful situations, whether it was helping me get up after a bad fall on the mountain snowboarding, or facing treatment for melanoma. He continues to teach me how to embrace change, pain, and fear while becoming a better person from those experiences.

I love teaching yoga because I love sharing the gifts that this practice has given to me with others. I love helping others begin or continue their journey of self-love. I think that learning how to love ourselves is revolutionary in a society that is constantly telling us we are not enough and that we need something outside of ourselves to be good enough. One of the best lessons learned on the mat is learning that here, in this present moment, we are enough just as we are. It’s truly an honor to share this transformational practice with others.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is that I am enough. This practice has taught me how to love myself, as well as how to truly honor my body, mind, and spirit. 

Three words that describe my teaching style: Authentic. Compassionate. Empowering.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Climbing mountains in the Adirondacks and Vermont. Working full time at a local clinic as an addiction therapist. Spending quality time with my husband and our dog. Practicing yoga almost every day at Breathe! 

Three people who inspire me are My parents. Bryan Kest. Ryan Barry.

One of my favorite quotes is: “With every broken heart we should become more adventurous.” ~Jenny Lewis

One of my favorite childhood memories is tent camping with my family: 3 girls, mom, dad, and a dog all in an old big canvas tent

I love teaching yoga because I love being part of a community of people so infused with positivity joy and kindness

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is The power of a positive, quiet mind to give you strength and stamina during difficult times

Three words that describe my teaching style: Heartfelt. Enthusiastic. Joyful

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me reading, walking my dog, sketching, being with my daughter, and taking yoga, of course!

Three people who inspire me are my 15 year old daughter, my 21 year old son, and Cyndi Weis

One of my favorite quotes is: ….you only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves (excerpt from Mary Oliver’s poem: Wildgeese)

One of my favorite childhood memories is spending time with my grandmother. She used to call me Carin Dolly and tell me I was her favorite. Of course all 12 grandkids were her favorites but she had a special way of making you feel like her favorite

I love teaching yoga because it not only allows me to share my love for yoga, but it forces me to be present in no other way in my life. I must leave everything outside and be present and give from my whole self. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is yoga is a way of being, a lifestyle. It has grown me in so many ways and continues to be who I am with no excuses

Three words that describe my teaching style: fun, basic, sometimes silly

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me working as a VP of Sales Development at Flower City Printing and of course being a wife, mother, sister, daughter, and friend take up the rest of my time.

Three people who inspire me are (1) Me (2) my daughter, Jaycee (3) My husband, Mark

One of my favorite quotes is: “Do your practice and all is coming.”- Sri Krishna Pattabhi Jois

One of my favorite childhood memories is climbing into the "deep dark woods" with my sister Abby at our grandparents house. In reality, there were a few trees, no bears, and we could see my grandparents sitting on their porch the whole time. 

I love teaching yoga because I love to watch people validate their own capabilities and talents regardless of what their yoga looks like and whether or not they can touch their toes. I love exploring the deconstruction of what it means to be good enough.

a lesson I learned from one of my teachers Baron Baptiste. The way that something "seems" and the way that something "is" are not necessarily the same. Our perception of people and situations is so powerful and can shape a reality that is not always real. 

Three words that describe my teaching style: Inclusive. Articulate. Empowering 

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me probably at breathe anyway! This is my job, my home away from home, my grocery store, my hangout place with my friends and family. My job is very social and I love that I am around people all day every day. When I leave breathe I spend a lot of time in my parents kitchen. Even though I work with my mom and sister being at home is where I get to really spend time with them. 

Three people who inspire me are I'm an inspire junkie. I look for it everywhere and I almost always find it. I am inspired by anyone when I see them in their element: watching anyone do what they were put on this planet to do is inspiring. I am inspired by someone in a spontaneous moment of kindness or act of consideration shown toward someone else. I am inspired by the type of person who believes they can change the world for the better and are actively doing it. 

One of my favorite quotes is: “You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.” —Rumi

One of my favorite childhood memories is Running cross country. I ran from middle school through college, and every fall when I smell cut grass and falling leaves, I am immediately back in my spikes and lucky socks, nervous on the starting line. When I think about the transformation that happened – from a bundle of nerves at the start to giddy, proud, free and relieved at the finish – week after week, race after race, it blows my mind. I get tears in my eyes every time I watch a race!

I love teaching yoga because It is both incredibly different and strikingly similar to what I do in my “day job” as an academic pulmonary & critical care physician. It reminds me that everyBODY comes to the mat (just like they come to the office or the hospital) with their own story – the story of their unique anatomy, prior injuries, strengths, vulnerabilities, and opportunities for opening. When people feel seen in the context of this history, there is possibility for huge learning and growth. 

a lesson I learned from my yoga practice is Life (and yoga) is a dance with your sacred partner, your body (thanks, Bryan Kest). For years, I viewed my body and physical capacity as something to be “overcome” or changed. When my ears opened to the idea that there is power in being gentle, in listening, in working with my body, there was a tremendous shift in my relationship with myself!

Three words that describe my teaching style: Evolving, welcoming, precise 

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Rounding in the ICU, thinking and writing about how to improve care for seriously ill patients, and jumping in lakes with my husband and children! 

Three people who inspire me are my patients, my parents, and Odette Harris (seriously, look her up)

One of my favorite quotes is: : “Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.”

One of my favorite childhood memories is Always playing cards and golfing with my grandparents. 

I love teaching yoga because I love connecting with my students through sharing my knowledge of yoga in an accessible and fun way for everyone.

a lesson I learned from one of my teachers Trust the process!

Three words that describe my teaching style: Playful, Approachable, Supportive 

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me On the retail floor or in the juicebar, running on the Erie canal, or home with my dog Dudley studying for grad school

Three people who inspire me are My incredible mom & dad, and Baron Baptiste

One of my favorite quotes is: "Though she be but little, she is fierce!" -Helena in William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream

One of my favorite childhood memories is summer vacations on Lake Champlain, exploring the shores, streams and woods - the freedom to just be, with no schedule, experiencing deep peace and connectedness with the natural world.

I love teaching yoga because I love teaching yoga because, knowing the powerful feeling that my practice brings me, leading classes that could facilitate and inspire others to explore and experience their own greatness is a huge honor!

a lesson I learned from my yoga practice is that when you are truly open to possibilities, amazing things happen!

Three words that describe my teaching style: positive, accessible, and energetic.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me teaching Musicianship at the University of Rochester, performing or enjoying live music, exploring art and nature with my family in and around Rochester (and beyond) …

Three people who inspire me are my amazing wife Elizabeth and our two incredible daughters Ilana and Jordan. They are my continual source of inspiration, support, and love!

One of my favorite quotes is: : 
“We’re vibrating with love and light,
Pulsating with love and light,
In a world gone mad 
There must be something more than this!”
~Trey Anastasio

One of my favorite childhood memories is Disney World every year with my family. There is no place in the world that allows you to be more present and in the moment than when you’re on top of Splash Mountain with Briar Rabbit.

I love teaching yoga because It’s amazing to see students go through a personal change by working through their own mental resistance; this change can unfold in each individual pose as well as an overall change. Teaching yoga also allows me to give back to students what other yoga teachers have given me; access to an amazing life-changing tool, yoga!

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is Being uncomfortable and challenging yourself is the only way to truly grow; it’s the only way to unlock your true potential.

Three words that describe my teaching style:Challenging, Powerful, Focused.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Practicing Yoga! An athlete at heart, yoga has become a consistent part of my daily routine. The physical practice has allowed me to challenge myself in ways that I haven’t been able to due to an injury but, more importantly, it challenges me mentally in ways I never thought possible. 

Three people who inspire me are My Father, my Mother and my Sister. No three people on this earth are more driven than they are. 

One of my favorite quotes is: “The good Lord gave you a body that can stand most anything. It’s your mind you have to convince.” –Vince Lombardi

One of my favorite childhood memories is going to The Lake with my grandparents. My birthday is on July 5th. On the Fourth of July when everyone around the lake celebrated with the Ring of Fire, my grandparents always told me that all the flares and fireworks were for my birthday. I believed them!

I love teaching yoga for the same reason I love practicing yoga. It requires me to stay present and not get caught up in my head. When I finish teaching a class I have a similar feeling to when I finish a practice - I feel grounded and peaceful. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is yoga really is the quality of mind behind anything and everything you do.

Three words that describe my teaching style: simple. evolving. necessary.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me cooking, baking, traveling and hanging out with my family

Three people who inspire me are my mom for her unwavering positive attitude. my grandfather for his entrepreneurship and life perspective. my daughters who have unlimited potential.

One of my favorite quotes is: “If not now, when?”

One of my favorite childhood memories is spending weekends with my grandparents

I love teaching yoga because there is nothing like watching the energy of a class transform from beginning to end based on the guidance I provide

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is you have to make time for yourself

Three words that describe my teaching style: Fun. Energetic. Grounding

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me traveling, at the gym, laughing with family and friends

Three people who inspire me are my grandfather, my mom and my dad

One of my favorite quotes is: “The dictionary is the only place that success comes before work. Hard work is the price we must pay for success. You can accomplish anything if you’re willing to pay the price” —Vince Lombardi

One of my favorite childhood memories is our family of four (my younger sister Becky and our parents) traveling via Cessna aircraft piloted by my dad. We flew together in a four-seat plane to visit grandparents and relatives in Pensacola, Florida. I remember feeling excited (often nervous-praying silently!) during those turbulent adventures to safely land!

I love teaching yoga because it reminds me how I want to be: connected, grounded, patient and giving.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is is to breathe and stay through the challenging poses (as in life-situations), trusting the process to show the way, because it works.


Three words that describe my teaching style: Friendly. Connected. Intentional.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me biking or jogging on the canal path, working / freelance writing online, at the Y, or hanging with my guys at home

Three people who inspire me are (in addition to the breathe yoga team) are my husband Albert, Marianne Williamson and Baron Baptiste.

One of my favorite quotes is: “Be the change you want to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi

One of my favorite childhood memories is Our yearly family trips to the Adirondacks to go camping.

I love teaching yoga because It gives me the opportunity to share my knowledge of yoga. For me, yoga has changed my life in how I look at and respond to things. Teaching allows me to open up these possibilities to others.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is To be grateful, kind to myself and others, and present in my life.

Three words that describe my teaching style: Calm, confident, empowering

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Spending time with my family, hiking, and practicing yoga

Three people who inspire me are My mother, my daughters, Cyndi Weis

One of my favorite quotes is:“You gain strength, courage, & confidence by every experience in which you stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing you think you cannot do”
~Eleanor Roosevelt

One of my favorite childhood memories is Being rocked to sleep and sung to by my grandmother and grandfather.

I love teaching yoga because It truly feels like a gift that I was meant to share with others and continue to evolve as a woman, mother and teacher.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is If I can't take a full deep breath where I am, then I should not be in that place, situation or pose.

Three words that describe my teaching style: Light hearted, energetic, meditation in motion.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Having high stakes negotiation with my 3 1/2 year old daughter.

Three people who inspire me are My grandmother, Helen Raineri, Amba Stapleton, Nosara Yoga Institute.

One of my favorite quotes is:
"Watch your thoughts;
they become your words.
Watch your words;
they become your actions.
Watch your actions;
they become habits.
Watch your habits;
they become your character.
Watch your character;
it comes your destiny.”

ne of my favorite childhood memories is I was a dreamer as a kid. I wanted to be an Olympic gymnast, an actress, a singer and a dancer all at once. My sister and I shared a love for movement. When our parents were out in the evening, we would turn up the lights inside, turn on the music, open the curtains and dance to our reflection in the windows. It was so joyous — dopamine levels must have been off the charts. My dreams, in those moments, felt entirely within reach.

I love teaching yoga because I read a great book recently, Love Warrior, by Glennon Doyle Melton. She wrote, “In yoga, instead of using my mind to download wisdom, I use my body”. That’s what I love about teaching yoga! In yoga, the body teaches the mind which is a complete flip-flop to what I used to think about how we learn. Our bodies have a lot to say. Yoga can help us learn to listen.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is Like yoga, life can be awkward and frustrating. It's uncomfortable at times. When I stop arguing with what is (in yoga and in life) and breathe, accept and adapt, I experience my life in an entirely different way.

Three words that describe my teaching style: big-hearted, joyful, imperfect

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me at breathe, with my family, or taking quiet time to read

Three people who inspire me are I am inspired by three categories of people: People who are oppressed by circumstances and still find the good in others, people who have suffered greatly and yet still reach for joy, and people who are privileged and remain compassionate and open-hearted.

One of my favorite quotes is: "What's in the way is the way"
Mark Nepo

 

One of my favorite childhood memories is having hot cocoa with my sister after making snow forts, snow angels, and snowmen during Minnesota winters.

I love teaching yoga because I believe in the healing power of yoga (mentally, emotionally, and physically) and because there is always something new to learn about the practice or myself.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is I always have the option to choose love over fear.

Three words that describe my teaching style:Enthusiastic. Supportive. Caring

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me playing my cello, practicing yoga, or posting cat photos on Instagram.

Three people who inspire me are my former cello teachers, my yoga instructors, my family, and my friends. I feel very grateful to have so many inspiration sources!

One of my favorite quotes is: “Begin anywhere.” —John Cage

One of my favorite childhood memories is I loved being outside as a child playing four-square, manhunt, kick the can, capture the flag, climbing mounds of snow, rafting in the creek, and to top it off laying in our driveways gazing at the sky.  
 
I love teaching yoga because there is an energetic connection that flushes through my being and I am buzzing with bliss. I am able to see a human for who they are deep down, and to let my human be seen, all of it, raw, vulnerable and as I am standing in true north. I feel empowered and I am here for you to uncover yours. 
 
A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is sit in the discomfort, there is peace within this. When you stay you create space for something new to be seen, felt, or heard. 
 
Three words that describe my teaching style: Energetic. Healing. Empowering 
 
When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Hugging the trees, toes deep in moss. Meditating. Practicing yoga. Reading. Creating. Hanging with thirtyseven. 
 
Three people who inspire me are  Gaia, our beautiful Mother Earth. The universe. My guides. Energy inspires me, this beautiful connection of everything, I am you, you are me, all is well.... when you feel it, you know. 
 
One of my favorite quotes is: Your Inner Being is always guiding you toward what you are wanting. It is never protecting you from something else.  Abraham-Hicks

One of my favorite childhood memories is I would never be able to think of just one! I have four incredible older siblings; one brother and three sisters. My parents have been married for nearly forty years and they are my rock—my biggest supporters and my very best friends. Their passion for life, love and family has been pivotal for me throughout my journey. They have never stopped believing in me… never stopped encouraging me to reach higher. My childhood was filled with a lot of giggles, singing, dancing, family trips, parties and Sunday dinners. Family gatherings and getaways are still the traditions I cherish most… tons of food, wine and happiness. The memories we have shared will always be the ones that I hold closest to my heart. I truly love watching our family grow bigger and bigger… and I look forward to all the precious moments, craziness, laughter, and adventures that are yet to come. 

I love teaching yoga because It’s transcending. It’s a feeling that is almost impossible to describe. Looking out at all the bodies who showed up on their mats is amazing… it makes me feel so humbled—so grateful. Every individual person has a different story… different backgrounds, different joys, different tragedies. And yet, we are all still the same. We are connected by these moments of vulnerability; when we begin to remove our masks and allow others to see us for who we truly are… when we finally set ourselves free. Witnessing the growth that others experience; mentally, physically and emotionally, is such a privilege. I think the most rewarding aspect of teaching yoga is that moment—that brief glimpse of time—when you realize that there is only one person in the room. We are all one. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is Set your intention. Know the “why” behind all that you do! Ground down into the roots of who you are so that you may rise into all you are yet to be. My yoga practice has taught me to embrace all that once was… that every place I have been has led me to exactly where I am right now… and will take me exactly where I am meant to go. There is no moment more perfect—nowhere else I am supposed to be—but right here, right now. 

Three words that describe my teaching style: Creative, Mindful & Fun!

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Spending time with my fiancé, family and friends, going to yoga (obviously!), drawing (my passion), painting, making jewelry, crafting pretty much everything (ha-ha), writing, reading, shopping, arranging flowers, potting plants (succulents are my favorite), listening to music, going to concerts, traveling (favorite), planning our wedding (yay!) and of course, working—teaching nursing at Nazareth College. 

Three people who inspire me are There are WAY more than three! My parents, siblings, fiancé, family, friends, many yogis (couldn’t name them all!), a million artists, numerous writers, and powerful women!

One of my favorite quotes is: : “Somewhere between what she survived, and who she was becoming, was exactly where she was meant to be. She was starting to love the journey. And find the comfort in the quiet corners of her wildest dreams. They say people don’t change…Well, she wasn’t always this way. Even if she didn’t change the entire world, she would change her part of it. And she would affect the people she shared it with. A butterfly whose wings have been touched, can indeed still fly. Whether something was meant to be, or meant to leave, didn’t matter as much anymore. She would soak up the sun, kiss the breeze, and she would fly regardless."

~J. Raymond

One of my favorite childhood memories is Christmas mornings!

I love teaching yoga because I love seeing people grow and discover new things and experiences in their own bodies like I have in mine. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is slow down and listen to my body!

Three words that describe my teaching style:Consistent. Genuine. Encouraging. 

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me with my kids, at home, or running. 

Three people who inspire me are my mom, my friend Monique, my daughter .

One of my favorite quotes is: "If you always do what you've always done, you will always get what you've always gotten"

One of my favorite childhood memories is Visiting my grandma in Jaffrey NH for the summers. We swam in the lake, canoed, picked blueberries and climbed Mt. Monadnock. I treasure these memories with her. 

I love teaching yoga because I love sharing my love for yoga. Teaching also helps me further develop my personal practice. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is I can’t think of one lesson in particular. Yoga is a reflection of life.

Three words that describe my teaching style:Compassionate, Empowering, Committed 

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me you will likely find me with the incredible people I work with at Batiste Leadership, or the individuals we serve. If you don’t find me there then I am with my family, which includes my husband and kids, and my mom, dad, sisters, brothers, in-laws, and many nieces and nephews. And if I’m not with them then I’m probably practicing yoga or walking my dog. 

Three people who inspire me are My kids: John (6), Aiden (6) and Eve (2). 

One of my favorite quotes is “To move the world we must first move ourselves"
– Socrates

One of my favorite childhood memories is ordering books and stickers from Troll Book club at school. 

I love teaching yoga because it is a continuous exchange of experiences, learned and shared. It represents using the gifts I've received and passing on that love and knowledge that has been given to me.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is yoga = life = love. Many of life's lessons filter through my yoga practice. Some of what shows up for me is acceptance, compassion, trust, patience, strength, and focus. 

Three words that describe my teaching style: Graceful. Joyful. Thoughtful

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me at Browbiz, practicing yoga, or filling up on music at live shows or with a really crisp and loud speaker :)

Three people who inspire me are Rachel Brathen, Phish, and my nephew, Jimmy. 

One of my favorite quotes is: "If you cry because the sun has gone out of your life, your tears will prevent you from seeing the stars." —Rabindranath Tagore

One of my favorite childhood memories is riding my bike with my best friend, Max, along country roads in summertimes that seemed to never end

I love teaching yoga because yoga makes such a difference in people's lives. I simply just remind people to pay attention to themselves, and the rest beautifully unfolds on its own.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is there is no greater gift you can give yourselves and others, than to be fully present in each moment with them.

Three words that describe my teaching style: Diverse. Mindful. Heartfelt

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me helping my daughter play the piano, playing trains with my son, and dancing around the kitchen with my youngest!

Three people who inspire me are Amiya, Naveed, and Ayan, my children!!! They make me want to be a better person to everyone and everything in this world, each and every single day, and they inspire me to soak up the beauty of life's simplest things.

One of my favorite quotes is: “You must believe that one of two things will happen. There will be something solid for you to stand upon or you will be taught to fly." —Patrick Overton

One of my favorite childhood memories is Family vacations to Boston where dill pickles were always part of the road trip snacks; Going for car rides for something to do; my Dad pretending he couldn’t remember whether our new sibling was a boy or a girl (‘I know your Mom had a baby, I just can’t remember what it was….’); Riding my bike under the street lights waiting for our simple July 4th celebration of cooking out with a charcoal fire and sparklers after.

I love teaching yoga because I believe in it. I have said that people leaving church should feel the way I feel leaving yoga: connected, inspired, peaceful, and motivated to share the experience. It is a privilege that I get to throw a little of that around.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is So many! Stand in True North. Come into alignment. Expand out. Focus. Pause. Listen. Breathe…

Three words that describe my teaching style: Seeking. Symbolic. Spiritual. 

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me at my day job working as a nurse, at the Rochester Vegan Community Center learning to cultivate compassion in my every day choices, at the Little Theater for the best movies, and aimlessly wandering thrift stores… 

Three people who inspire me are: Christ, Buddha, Krishna, in no particular order. 

One of my favorite quotes is: “No.” ~Rosa Parks

One of my favorite childhood memories is anytime my older siblings came back home! My three older siblings lived in and traveled to exotic places like Uganda, Hong Kong, Disney World, and New Jersey all throughout my youth; our house was always a buzz with excitement whenever one of them came back home!

I love teaching yoga because it allows me to share my practice! My practice helped me learn to love myself, how to give love, and receive love. Teaching yoga is a way for me to show my gratitude for the practice and all it can give; it’s my hope as a teacher that I can help my students receive its blessings.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is you can surrender to the practice or try to conquer it. When you try to conquer the practice you may grow physically stronger but you won't know what real strength is until you learn how to surrender.

Three words that describe my teaching style: Heartfelt, Upbeat, and Calming

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me practicing yoga, gallivanting the city of Rochester with my daughter and husband, searching for adventure, being creative in the kitchen, traveling to visit my family, reading something with a happy ending, binge watching netflix, or learning how to DIY anything...from furniture to deodorant!!

Three people who inspire me are Anyone who demonstrates kindness, my tribe of phenomenal women who I am blessed to call friends and family, and my husband Peter for his calm, kind, and respectful approach to life.

One of my favorite quotes is: “The beauty you see in me is a reflection of you.” -Rumi

One of my favorite childhood memories is Running around my house, singing and dancing with my microphone

I love teaching yoga because It allows me to share everything I have learned and my passion with people.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is How to truly love myself 

Three words that describe my teaching style:Captivating, uplifting, invigorating.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Reading Harry Potter and drinking coffee

Three people who inspire me are My mom, dad, and sister 

One of my favorite quotes is: “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning how to dance in the rain.”

One of my favorite childhood memories is spending my summers at Moss Lake Camp in the Adirondack mountains. We would spend our days riding horses, swimming, practicing archery and much more. 

I love teaching yoga because you can always learn from those on their mat in front of you.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is that it’s just that, a practice. Each time I roll out my mat I know it will be a different experience. You never know what life has in store for you! I have learned to be present and go with the flow.

Three words that describe my teaching style: present, fun, grounding.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me playing tennis or with my hands in the earth gardening. I love to travel so I am always looking for a new adventure!

Three people who inspire me are My husband and my two amazing daughters have always told me anything is possible.

One of my favorite quotes is: “The only constant is change” ~Heraclitus

One of my favorite childhood memories is skiing with my family

I love teaching yoga because when I teach yoga there is always something to learn about yoga and myself. Those moments are crucial even when difficult to experience. They pull me to my true self with stillness

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice iscompassion without judgement

Three words that describe my teaching style: Flow. Exploration. Alignment

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me with family and friends and in the summer in the garden

Three people who inspire me are Thomas Jefferson, breathe instructors and staff and B.K.S lyengar (just love alignment)

One of my favorite quotes is: Be the change you want to see in the world

One of my favorite childhood memories is canoeing down the Erie Canal with my grandpa and my cousin. We got in a splashing war and ended up absolutely soaked. My grandpa couldn’t even speak, he was laughing so hard. It was such a great day.

I love teaching yoga because I love teaching yoga because: it allows me to witness and be part of my students’ journey toward being their truest selves. As a teacher, I feel that it’s a privilege to aid in the process of self-discovery through yoga; I love to see a yogi make their journey from being afraid or hesitant in their practice, to being confident and bold. It’s even better to then watch them carry that confidence with them as they leave the studio.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is It is okay not to be perfect. When you create space for life to be a little messy, you create space for so many wonderful things that have been waiting for you to let them in! 

Three words that describe my teaching styleEmpowering, Challenging and Fun. 

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me loving on and playing with my beautiful daughter, Aria. I may also be reading, taking pictures or baking.

Three people who inspire me are My daughter, who gives me a reason to be my best self every day. My parents, who have taught me to put my whole heart into everything. My husband, who is fearless and authentically himself - always.

One of my favorite quotes is “The moment you doubt you can fly, you cease forever to be able to do so.” - J. M. Barrie, Peter Pan

One of my favorite childhood memories is Walking around in the tide pools in Cape Cod with my Dad. He loved the shells and the horseshoe crabs and all the gifts the ocean left at our feet. It was a sticky, stinky place. And he loved it. I just loved being with him. 

I love teaching yoga because I love yoga. I love what it allows us to learn about ourselves. I love allowing people to use yoga to see who they really are. To make the choices that support the best version of themselves. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is You don’t always have to fight or flight. You can actually choose to just stay. Sometimes it’s most powerful to just stay and breathe through the discomfort. 

Three words that describe my teaching style Strong, Accessible, Empowering 

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me With my family. My mom lives in Waterloo and visits regularly. My son and his wife have recently blessed me with my first grandchild. My grown daughter lives just a few minutes from my house. And I have a young teenage boy still at home. Every Sunday night we all gather to have dinner and share the good and the bad that we call life. I cherish those 2 hours every week. I love to travel and see new places both here in the states and around the globe. I love to be outside (especially when the weather is warm). I like to talk long walks, bike rides and hike the great trails of NYS. 

Three people who inspire me are My Grandma. If strength was genetic, I get mine from her. She is one of the strongest women I have ever met. She has the most generous heart and is the definition of unconditional love. My Sister, who has been knocked down 7 times and got up 8. She inspires me every day to move forward in my life with faith and love. My husband, who is my ROCK. From his love and support I jump into the unknown. He gives me wings to fly to any height I desire. He loves the ugliest parts of me. Everyone deserves that one person who will never leave them. Troy is that for person for me. I don’t deserve him. But, I’ll never let him go.

One of my favorite quotes is Never Give Up. Never, never give up!

One of my favorite childhood memories is Walking along the creek in our back yard with my brother. We would spend all day skipping rocks, throwing sticks, catching tadpoles.... Everything. Eventually we would come out of the woods and have to make our way back home. 

I love teaching yoga because Finding my own yoga practice has changed my life. Teaching gives me the opportunity to see my students practice and life evolve as mine has. I love seeing how each student connects with their version of yoga differently.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is You never regret showing up. That goes for anything. Showing up for relationships, yoga, your job, just yourself. You don't have to show up as a specific version of yourself, but just as you are in that moment. If you've shown up, you've made the effort. That speaks volumes.

Three words that describe my teaching style Genuine, Energizing, Inclusive 

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Plant shopping, doing yoga, or cooking.

Three people who inspire me are The person who doesn't waste time worrying about the unknown.

The person who never stops trying to improve and always stays open to growth.

The person who seeks to find the good within everyone. 

One of my favorite quotes is "The first step is the one you believe in."

One of my favorite childhood memories is: spending time at my Grandma’s house on Honeoye Lake. When I would spend the night, she would give me “coffee” in the morning.  I’m pretty sure it was milk and sugar with a splash of actual coffee. 
 
I love teaching yoga because:  I love sharing what I know!  Yoga has changed my life and I can only hope to open others up to that same possibility.
 
A life lesson I’ve learned from yoga practice is: to get out of your own way.  It’s amazing what can happen when you do.
 
Three words that describe my teaching style: inclusive, passionate and intentional.
 
When I’m not teaching yoga you’ll find me: practicing at Breathe, in my kitchen or hanging out with my husband and two kids.
 
Three people who inspire me are:
My family, Oprah, The Queen of England
 
One of my favorite quotes is:
When you know better, do better – Maya Angelou
 

One of my favorite childhood memories is Riding horses!
 
I love teaching yoga because I want to share my love of yoga!
 
A life lesson I've learned from yoga practice is to stay present. To focus on the event or the experience right now, moment to moment.
 
Three words that describe my teaching style: energetic, fun, and grounded.
 
When I'm not teaching yoga you'll find me cooking, reading, or spending time with my family.
 
Three people who inspire me are my friend Sandy, my dad, and my grandma.
 
One of my favorite quotes is: "There's no better time to be happy than right now!"
 

One of my favorite childhood memories is: Traveling cross country with my parents and two sisters in a 2-door car, pulling a pop-up camper.  We spent seven weeks driving to California and back, stopping at as many national parks as we could.  We still laugh at all the crazy things that happened while traveling.  I cherish the memories from that trip.  
 
I love teaching yoga because: teaching gives me the chance to share something that has made such a positive impact on my life with others.  If we can breathe, we are “doing” yoga.
 
A life lesson I’ve learned from yoga practice is: all my actions are like dropping pebbles into a pond.  I never know how the ripples created by each pebble will affect me or those around me. I can choose to create ripples of compassion and love.
 
Three words that describe my teaching style: open, grounding, lighthearted
 
When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me: walking or hiking with my husband, reading, or enjoying my friends and family.
 
Three people who inspire me are: my sons (Aaron and Trevor), my husband and too many yoga teachers to list.
 
One of my favorite quotes is: “Happiness cannot be traveled to, earned, owned or worn.  It is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace and gratitude.”  – Denis Waitley
 

One of my favorite childhood memories is Going to Cape Cod with my mom every year. Sometimes it was just us two, sometimes the rest of the family or friends tagged along. As I get older I’m so grateful to have had this time and these memories with my mom.

I love teaching yoga because I came to yoga for the physical, and stayed with it because of the way it taught me to listen to and appreciate my body. My practice has gotten me through so much. I know that people are going through things too and I love being able to hold space for them the way other teachers did for me. It’s always about so much more than the poses, and I really want to convey that message to my students.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is In a million years I never imagined myself as a “yogi”. I spent so much of my life being high-strung and stressed out because I never saw the value in taking time to pause and ended up focusing on the wrong things. Through a consistent asana and meditation practice I’ve found this lightness within myself. It’s powerful.

Three words that describe my teaching style Grounded. Relatable. Relaxed.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Cooking! It’s my truest creative outlet, I love spending my free time in the kitchen.

Three people who inspire me are My mom, a social butterfly and forever my closest friend. She is so compassionate towards animals and the people in her life.. I’d like to think I took some of those qualities from her.

Michael Pollan, he completely changed the way I understand my relationship to food, culture, and the environment. His perspective really resonates with me.

Cyndi Weis, for the way she has cultivated such a powerful yoga community in Rochester by visualizing something that might have seemed crazy at one time. She really created something to be proud of.

One of my favorite quotes is “Don’t waste your time on jealousy - sometimes you’re ahead, sometimes you’re behind. The race is long, and in the end it’s only with yourself.”

One of my favorite childhood memories is Doing Yoga with my Mom and sisters in our living room listening to Van Morrison. A close second is riding my pony, Just packing a lunch and heading out.
 
I love teaching yoga because I get the privilege of sharing a profound and dynamic practice to fellow Yogis. It’s a fun and challenging flow in a beautiful space where physical and mental break throughs occur moment to moment day by day.
 
A life lesson I've learned from yoga practice is letting go of assumptions. Staying in the moment. Perceptions are framed by experiences that may be running just below are conscious awareness. Perceptions can change and enable people to connect and find community anywhere.
 
Three words that describe my teaching style: Focused, Fun, Forward Moving
 
When I'm not teaching yoga you'll find me Skiing, sailing, riding, being with family and cooking.
 
Three people who inspire me are New yoga students that are brave enough to practice,  struggle and perceiver. Doctors without borders. People who speak truth to power.
 
One of my favorite quotes is: Change is the only constant in life.
Heraclitus
 

One of my favorite childhood memories is taking family vacations in Lake George with my mom, dad, and brother. We would play the "truck game" on the drive up and back. All of us picked a color and whoever saw the most of their color won. I sat up front with my dad and kept score. When we got there, we would spend hours at the pool - going down the slide and jumping in and out. I didn't care if my hair was wet or how I looked in a bathing suit. At night, we would go to dinner, buy souvenirs, and play mini golf. It was simple, yet I was so present in those moments. It was complete body and mind freedom. 

I love teaching yoga because I love everything about yoga and I believe in it 100 percent! This practice has completely changed my life for the better in so many ways. I truly believe yoga saved me by giving me purpose, healing, and new meaning to my life when I needed it most. My mission is to inspire others to fall in love with yoga like I have and commit to doing the work in order to live life as their greatest self. Another reason I love teaching yoga is because I have the honor to meet so many like-minded individuals who roll out their mat day after day. I love making connections with people and being immersed in this incredible community. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is how to dissolve the blocks, or limiting beliefs, that all of us have in our minds. These beliefs hold us back from our greatest potential by telling us we "cant". This is why a yogi must play their edge in poses in order to break through the boundaries that our minds hold us to. I've learned that when I embody this edge on and off the mat, the possibilities become endless! 

Three words that describe my teaching style:passionate, encouraging, relatable 

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me at breathe practicing yoga! Also, at Wegmans working in the kitchen, at home in my own kitchen cooking or baking vegan food, running and biking in the sunshine, traveling and taking a yoga training, and spending time with loved ones at home or at a favorite restaurant. 

Three people who inspire me are (besides this entire breathe community!) - I'm inspired by my mom and dad for their undeniable strength and resilience, their hard work ethics, and their unconditional love. I wish I could write about the different ways I'm inspired by so many of the teachers at breathe, but my third person is definitely Ryan Barry, whos words and overall way of being push me and inspire me to be something greater than myself. 

One of my favorite quotes is: "be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire". 

One of my favorite childhood memories is putting on a backyard performance of the Wizard of Oz. I was Dorothy and I assigned every neighborhood kid a role. The parents came to watch in folding chairs on the lawn. My little white poodle "FiFi" was Toto.

I love teaching yoga because it continues to teach me about the beauty of the whole person. I love to see transformation of all kinds blossom in myself and in my students. The power of the human mind, body and spirit is celebrated in yoga and I am reminded each time I teach how honored and lucky I am to help guide it.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is just when you think you can't go on, you find the will to continue

Three words that describe my teaching style:Passionate. Energetic. Focused

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Taking yoga. Walking my Doberman Pincher dog "Lady". Volunteering my time on a community Board or fund-raising. Acting in commercials for local TV spots. Working in my skin care company

Three people who inspire me are my husband Chris, my mother, anyone over 80 years old that is still active and practicing yoga!

One of my favorite quotes is: "Its better to want what you have, then have what you want"

"If you always do what you always did, then you'll always get what you always got"

One of my favorite childhood memories is visiting my uncles farm and feeding lambs with a baby bottle

I love teaching yoga because it inspires me, teaches me, and brings me into the present moment

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is each breath is a precious gift, it is the key to relaxing and healing

Three words that describe my teaching style: Healing. Relaxing. Compassionate

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me reading, playing with my doggies, spending time with my love, John

Three people who inspire me are Judith Hansen-Lasater, Malala Yousafzai, Dahli Lama

One of my favorite quotes is: Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.- Dahli Lama

One of my favorite childhood memories is going to Camp Cory every summer. First as a camper and then many years as staff. I just felt so at home there - so comfortable - so myself.

I love teaching yoga because....of connection. I feel connected to people in class and I love that it gives me a chance to give others the opportunity to connect with the practice and the people practicing all around them. With connection - builds community - I love teaching for the community it offers and also the community I have a hand in creating.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is... whoa , how do i pick just one....The importance of being present - being present for myself - so I fully experience what is before me, And, being present for others - it shows people I love them, it gives others support...which is empowering.

Three words that describe my teaching style: Raw. Real. Grounding.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you will find me taking pictures or hanging out with my family. 

Three people who inspire me are my kids- they make me want to be my best self always. The Baptist Yoga Community- the support and its teaching me of the power I hold, is a gift I hope to give to others. 

One of my favorite quotes is: “You know sometimes all you need is 20 seconds of insane courage, just literally 20 seconds of embarrassing bravery, and I promise you, something great will come of it” —Benjamin Mee (We Bought a Zoo)

One of my favorite childhood memories is Swimming and body surfing in the waves at our family cottage for hours on end.

I love teaching yoga It gives me the opportunity to share something I love with others. Helping people discover a new pose or uncover something new in their practice is a gift that I honor every time I am in front of a class.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is So many lessons I cant pick one! The one I use most is the ability to remain calm, and more importantly present, under stress. To get through the storm you must go through. Yoga gives you the tools to do this.

Three words that describe my teaching style:Supportive, inclusive and heartfelt

When I’m not teaching yoga, you will find me At one of my boys sporting events. Probably an ice rink.

Three people who inspire me are my parents and my boys

One of my favorite quotes is: "I am not what has happened to me. I am what I choose to become."
~Carl Jung

One of my favorite childhood memories is
Spending the summers vacationing with my grandparents and cousins in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire. I fell in love with New Hampshire and the beautiful New England coastline. When it was time to apply to college it was my only choice. I met 12 of the most amazing woman in college and we were roommates for 4 years. We made a pact to meet the first weekend in August every year when we graduated and we have kept our promise to each other all these years! 

I love teaching yoga because
This practice changed my life in every way. It has helped me find happiness, feel healthy, healed and whole through daily meditation and physical practice. I have learned to quiet my mind, to be more mindful and present for those in my life and have removed many of the distractions/thoughts that got in the way of me being my true self. Sharing these tools with others has been my greatest joy! 

A life lesson I’ve learned from yoga practice is
It is a journey not a destination. Nothing happens overnight and it takes patience, perseverance, and the willingness to “do the work” to make the changes you want to see in your life. The work on your mat is just as important as the work off the mat and the journey is never done but like an onion you peel the layers off one at a time until you get to the core of who you are. 

Three words that describe my teaching style:
Challenging, energetic, and empowering. 

When I’m not teaching yoga you’ll find me
Practicing yoga, at breathe working in retailing or behind the juice bar, connecting with family and friends. 

Three people who inspire me are
My father who always told me that I could achieve all my dreams with hard work and an education, Brooke Hamblet who showed me the way to the truth, and Ryan Barry and Carin Laniak who believed in me and encouraged me to be a yoga teacher even when I didn’t believe in myself. 


One of my favorite quotes is:
The truth will set you free. 

One of my favorite childhood memories is Spending summers at our family camp on Skaneateles lake, better known as "Farchione's playground", with all of my cousins! Specifically I remember learning how to water ski: both of my grandparents got into the water to help me up and my Dad "hit it" driving the boat. I remember feeling like I was on top of the world once I finally got up skiing!

I love teaching yoga because it challenges me to step out of my comfort zone.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is to trust yourself to know what is right.

Three words that describe my teaching style: empowering, authentic, spirited

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me working as a physician assistant, working at breathe

Three people who inspire me are my Mom—she is my constant reminder to follow my dreams. My Dad—he is the hardest working person I know! Grandma Jane—she defies all odds.

One of my favorite quotes is: "Be yourself. No one else is qualified."

One of my favorite childhood memories is One of my favorite childhood memories is breaking into random song and dance with my sisters. After a while someone would sing a wrong lyric or change the key and we’d go back to our typical sister interactions. Making music together was (and is) one of our most challenging and rewarding connections.


I love teaching yoga because Yoga has completely transformed my life, I love teaching it and being a witness to that transformation in others.


A life lesson I've learned from yoga practice is A life lesson I’ve learned from yoga practice is that the work is never done, it simply changes form.
 
Three words that describe my teaching style: Challenging, Connected, Empowering
 
When I'm not teaching yoga you'll find me Practicing yoga, making music, connecting with family and friends.
 
Three people who inspire me are My Mom, My Dad and both of my sisters. Yes, I know that’s 4, but they’re a package deal.
 
One of my favorite quotes is: “Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.” - Dr. Seuss
 
 

One of my favorite childhood memories is Every thanksgiving all my cousins would drive up and spend a couple days at our house for the holiday. A majority of our time was spent outside playing in the snow. On years that there wasn’t any snow yet, my dad and uncles would take all the seats out of the mini van, line it with plastic, and drive over to the local ice skating rink arena. They would drive around to the back of the building where they ice rink dumped their ice shavings and load as much as they could into the back of the mini van. It took several trips (and hours) but we would eventually have a single path of snow all the way down the back yard and our own little sledding hill.

I love teaching yoga because because there is no ideal, model practice. I love knowing I can help a student evolve whether they’ve been on their mat for 30 days or 30 years.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is you are perfect for now. Wherever you are at, whether on the mat or off, is just where you need to be.

Three words that describe my teaching style: Lighthearted. Authentic. Accessible.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Going on hikes or couch snuggling with my dog, Sadie. Or reading a book.

Three people who inspire me are My strong and beautiful Mom. My equally strong and beautiful big sister. And my first yoga instructor, Joy, who planted the yoga seed.

One of my favorite quotes is: "Respond to every call that excites your spirit."
-Rumi

One of my favorite childhood memories is My favorite childhood memory is going to Disney World with my family when I was in 8th grade. We saved for the trip and planned for years. All the anticipation made it such a big deal. I remember seeing the castle for the first time and just feeling the magic.

I love teaching yoga because
I love seeing my students find the possibility in each pose. I feel so honored each time I teach that I have the privilege of being part of this amazing journey with them. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from yoga practice is Anything really is possible. Yoga has changed my life both on and off the mat. Yoga has helped me become an active participant in my own life instead of just sitting on the sidelines watching it happen. 

Three words that describe my teaching style: fun, empowering, compassionate

When I’m not teaching yoga you’ll find me practicing yoga at Breathe, spending time with my husband, children and dog, camping, meal planning and binge watching tv shows on Netflix.

Three people who inspire me are
My husband Les, My children and My yoga teachers

One of my favorite quotes is:
Those mountains that you were carrying, you were only supposed to climb
~Najwa Zebian

One of my favorite childhoot memories is I was a very lucky kid.  I grew up in a tiny rural town in central PA where all the kids in town played together, rode bikes everywhere, and showed up for dinner at 6:00pm only to go right back outside for games of kick-the-can and flashlight tag until the town’s 10pm curfew whistle blew.  To try and narrow it down to one memory is so hard because I have countless memories of days at the swimming pool, playing baseball, building tree houses, rollerskating and just hanging out with the best friends ever.  
 
I love teaching yoga because I finish every class with such a feeling of joy.  Simply put... teaching yoga makes me happy.
 
A life lesson I’ve learned from yoga is to take care of your body and it will take care of you.
 
When I’m not teaching yoga you’ll find me behind the juice bar at breathe, at Wegman’s or walking my dog.
 
Three words that describe my teaching style less is more.
 
People who inspire me are my Mom and Dad, my husband Bob, and my friend and mentor Sue Shaffner.
 
One of my Favorite quotes is You get out what you put in”
-Barb Hanak, my mother, on raising kids.

One of my favorite childhood memories is
Halloween! I mean seriously! Being able to dress up as your favorite monster/character as an preteen/teenager and roam around the neighborhood with my friends getting bags of candy! 

Another favorite memory is visiting my grandparents for thanksgiving. The time that we spent together was precious to me. Seeing the care that my grand parents put into preparing the meal and the activities for all of us when we were younger are memories that I will keep forever.

I love teaching yoga because
I absolutely LOVE sharing my practice with my students. Seeing everyone work so very hard and then to have come down into savasana and seeing everyone's face relax and become peaceful is one of my all time favorite experiences. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is
BREATHE! Don't react to things that are difficult. breathe and respond! It is not how you look, its about how you feel, and I feel wonderful!

Three words that describe my teaching style:
Energized, Playful, Sweaty!

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me
On my motorcycle! My wife Laurie and I love taking long rides on the weekend to get away from every-day things and spend time on the road. Running (during fair weather conditions - I love running 5Ks), Working in the yard - I loving garden/yard work as there is a bit of zen meditation to mowing, clipping, raking and tending. 

Three people who inspire me are
There are so many people that inspire me. Everyday people. People that are able to face adversity, resistance and confrontation and turn it into compromise, cooperation and teamwork. 
Laurie Dobbins my wife; Ryan Barry my first yoga instructor; my dog T.J. he always loved us no matter what and was always ready to share his love.

One of my favorite quotes is:
"A year from now you will wish you had started today." -Karen Lamb
However I love to paraphrase this by stating:
"A year from now, you will be grateful that you started today" -Matt Dobbins

One of my favorite childhood memories is Spending time at Conesus Lake with my family. We spent most of our time on the water, eating really good food and enjoying time with each other. It was so simple but we made so many lasting memories.

I love teaching yoga because
I love to share this practice with others. Yoga has become such an important part of my life, my healing and my growth and I love to see that happen for others.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is To be kind. Yoga has taught me to be more kind to myself, to others and to acknowledge that every practice is like each day, a place to begin again with new opportunities and experiences.

Three words that describe my teaching style: Invigorating, mindful and versatile.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Practicing yoga or doing something active, with my animals, working as a mental health therapist, spending time with my family and friends or finding a new place to explore.

Three people who inspire me are my mom & dad – they are the most selfless and supportive humans, who always stand behind me & encourage me to put my all into whatever I do. My siblings, I can’t choose just one because they all inspire me with many different attributes – they are brave, caring, creative and always show up fully to help any person or being in need.

One of my favorite quotes is:
“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” -Howard Thurman

One of my favorite childhood memories is growing up in the same town as my grandparents. When I think back to my childhood, all the amazing moments that stand out are moments with them. I was so fortunate to have them in my life for so long, and to grow up with them just down the road. It was the driving factor in my relocation back to Rochester several years ago. I want my own kids to be able to have that same experience with my parents, and form the same lasting bonds.

I love teaching yoga because yoga has profoundly and completely changed my life, and it is a huge honor to be able to share what I love with others. I love watching my students fall in love with their practice...coming back to their mat over and over, uncovering a new little piece of the puzzle each time. It’s incredibly fulfilling, and humbling, to be a part of that process. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is be thankful for this moment. To be a lover of what is...to live in the present moment…and to just breathe! 

Three words that describe my teaching style: Grounded, Challenging, Fun 

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me spending time with my husband and 3 kids, training for marathons, teaching outdoor bootcamp, and working as a personal trainer. I love everything having to do with health and fitness, and love sharing this passion with my friends. I also love dogs and spending time with my family on Cape Cod.

Three people who inspire me – I’m inspired everyday by my students. I’m inspired by my parents, who live their lives as examples of kindness and generosity, I’m inspired by my kids, who remind me everyday to show up as my best self so I can help them to do the same, and I’m inspired by this community we have formed at breathe, truly a home away from home!

One of my favorite quotes is: “Life is a series of thousands of tiny miracles” – Mike Greenberg

One of my favorite childhood memories is playing outside in the woods around my house with my best friend.

I love teaching yoga because yoga deepens our connection to ourselves and others.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is that it’s not always easy, but worth working hard for.

Three words that describe my teaching style: Fun. Free flowing. Natural

Three people who inspire me are my husband and three kids, my mom and the Weis women

One of my favorite quotes is: peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise or chaos. It means to be in the midst of those and still be calm in your heart.

One of my favorite childhood memories is:
Playing outside with my brother and sister, riding bikes and exploring the neighborhood.
 
 
I love teaching yoga because:
I feel complete when I am sharing yoga.
 
 
A life lesson I’ve learned from yoga practice is:
Live in the present moment. Here. Now.
 
 
Three words that describe my teaching style:
Uplifting, Playful & Balanced
 
When I’m not teaching yoga you’ll find me:
Reading, doing handstands or traveling.
 
Three people who inspire me are:
Beyoncé.
 
One of my favorite quotes is:
“You are entirely up to you.”
 
 

One of my favorite childhood memories is Sitting on the front porch watching rainstorms and counting thunder with my dad.

I love teaching yoga because it allows me to embody connection and share this value with others. Connection to body, breath, self, others, the practice…so much connection! 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is there is magic in slowing down and choosing connection over distraction.

Three words that describe my teaching style:nourishing, playful, human.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me spooning my dog, listening to music & podcasts, planning trips with my husband.

Three people who inspire me are I couldn’t possibly choose just three! My friends inspire me, my family, I love seeing women in their element, rocking it in their own unique way. Neko Case is way up on my list! 

One of my favorite quotes is: “When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.” 
-Lao Tzu

One of my favorite childhood memories is growing up in Honeoye. I remember having so much space around me. Open fields, woods for miles, sunsets like you would never believe. Creeks every which way you looked, a huge Lake right across the street. A huge pond in my backyard where you would catch me knee deep catching frogs or tadpoles. Having freedom to hold space for yourself before fear could creep its way in. 

I love teaching yoga because I love to watch people unleash their own personal power. To break down the walls that they think define them and then from there possibility becomes clearer. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from yoga practice is that nothing is just going to happen for you. You either show up for yourself or you don't. The more you become aware of your actions and emotions the sooner you can start to catch yourself dipping below the line. 

Three words that describe my teaching style Passionate, Powerful, Inspiring. 

When I’m not teaching yoga you’ll find me either working at breathe or at the gym. 

Three people who inspire me are My Father, the breathe community and Ryan Barry. 

One of my favorite quotes is "If you want real control, drop the illusion of control. Let life live you. It does anyway."

One of my favorite childhood memories is is playing hide and go seek with my Dad. My Dad would hide, I would count to 20 and then when I would finally find my Dad he would pretend that he was sleeping. I would very quietly cover him with all the cushions and pillows in the house, thinking this was the funniest moment ever. When I would put the very last pillow in the house on him, he would wake up, jump up from underneath the pillows, chase me, pick me up in the air, crank up the music (usually Frank Sinatra or Gloria Estafan) and we would dance our hearts out. It was crazy and I loved it.

I love teaching yoga because I get this amazing opportunity to share with people the tool that transformed my life. I love yoga, I love people and I love being part of the ripple effect of yoga. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is to doubt my doubts and to face my fears. Yoga has allowed me to see how I have gotten in my own way and how to soften and heal my own resistance. I know that me in alignment, feeling good, loving myself and coming from my highest place as consistently as possible is changing the way I see and experience everything. It’s amazing that the more comfortable that I am with myself and the more I trust my path and my process, the more others seem to be comfortable being themselves and then I get to be part of witnessing a community of walls coming down. It’s pretty amazing.

Three words that describe my teaching style:Motivational. Empowering. Loving. Funny 

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me at breathe, at my favorite yoga training or out anywhere in nature with my two dogs.

Three people who inspire me are My Father, My Grandfather and Bryan Kest

One of my favorite quotes is: “Be the change that you want to see in the world.” —Ghandi

One of my favorite childhood memories is spending time with my Grandfather

I love teaching yoga because I get to connect with so many wonderful people everyday and feel like I have made an impact on them, even if it is a small one

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is It is just a practice. There is no end and we are always evolving

Three words that describe my teaching style: Playful. Nurturing. Authentic

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me at home surrounded by friends and family

Three people who inspire me are My husband, my children and the entire breathe team

One of my favorite quotes is: Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world, today I am wise so I am changing myself.

One of my favorite childhood memories is of my first sleepover, which I spent with my grandparents. My grandmother let me wear her teal blue satin nightgown, and she promised not to tell my parents how much candy I ate.

I love teaching yoga because every class is an opportunity for me to practice being present and allowing myself to be vulnerable.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is how to extend grace to myself: through my practice, I have developed—and continue to develop!—my capacity to approach both my body and mind with care and compassion.

Three words that describe my teaching style: warmhearted; grounded; relaxed

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me teaching music history classes (I'm an Assistant Professor of Music History and Cultures at Syracuse University), reading, or working on my book.

Three people who inspire me are my parents and my spouse

One of my favorite quotes is: "When we practice generating compassion, we can expect to experience the fear of our pain. Compassion practice is daring. It involves learning to relax and allow ourselves to move gently toward what scares us."
Pema Chödrön, The Places That Scare You

One of my favorite childhood memories is picnics with my mom in the summer. She would always make Waldorf salad

I love teaching yoga because Yoga changed my life and I want to help others find that inspiration.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is drop what you know

Three words that describe my teaching style: Masculine, Sweet, kick ass (not my words)

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me running my salon+spa

Three people who inspire me are Ryan Barry, She is my mentor; Cyndi (I mean she is amazing); My partner Jeff, he finds the peace in everything. He makes me stop and notice the beauty around me.

One of my favorite quotes is: "Conformity Erodes Identity" -Scott Dennis

One of my favorite childhood memories is Spending time with my grandparents over the summer, and on various weekends and holidays. We loved playing checkers, going to the park and riding the carousel, and listening to the Annie soundtrack over and over again.

I love teaching yoga because of the connection, love, and caring energy that we cultivate together as a community. Yoga literally has saved my life. Having the opportunity to share the science and practice of yoga brings me gratitude and hope that others may also find a place to heal and uncover their peace as well.

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is acceptance and gratitude. Creating the space to accept where I am physically, emotionally, and mentally in the present moment continues to provide healing, balance and growth in all aspects of my life. The amount of gratitude that flows when I create the space to breathe and do this work is immeasurable.

Three words that describe my teaching style: enthusiastic, compassionate, and playful

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me caring for my twin boys, teaching middle school special-education, hiking, playing musical instruments, and practicing yoga every day.

Three people who inspire me are My mom, my maternal Grandmother, and Tao Porchon-Lynch

One of my favorite quotes is: "Resolve to be tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant with the weak and wrong. Sometime in your life, you will have been all of those.”
Siddhartha Guatama Buddha
"Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu"

One of my favorite childhood memories is I have so many! I loved riding my bike. My sister and I would have competitions over how many library books we could borrow and read in a week. My mom is one of 8 children, so we have a huge family. Every summer I would have sleepovers with my cousins for weeks at a time. 

I love teaching yoga because I love teaching yoga because: Yoga has given me so much and I love sharing that with people. It is such a privilege to share something I love with people. There is so much joy watching people experience yoga for the first time or the 100th time – it’s all amazing. 

A life lesson I’ve learned from my yoga practice is Yoga has profoundly changed me in so many ways, but the one thing that always sticks with me is that yoga is a practice, not a perfect. There is nothing that needs to be fixed and I can show up on my mat and take whatever yoga has to offer me that day. 

Three words that describe my teaching style: Inviting. Powerful. Authentic

When I’m not teaching yoga, you’ll find me Loving on my peeps, cheering at my daughter’s swim meets, doing yoga, hanging with the Family. This life is full of great stuff!

Three people who inspire me are My daughters, Emma and Paige – they show me how to meet life’s challenges with a warm smile and open heart. My students at school have taught me to celebrate every victory, large or small.

One of my favorite quotes is: “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” Marianne Williamson