About Karen
I was interested in yoga for about ten years before taking my first group yoga class. Although i had a regular meditation practice and also took lessons in T'ai Chi, i was afraid to try yoga because i thought my body was not a yoga body.
During an unusually stressful period in my life, i found that i was no longer able to sit in meditation without my thoughts racing -- worry and fear were consuming me. A close friend suggested that i try yoga, and i began with my usual list of reasons why i couldn't: I was too this, not enough that, etc. She replied: "I'm going to call you next week, and you'd better tell me you've signed up for a yoga class." I fell in love with yoga during that first class. It wasn't as beginner-friendly as advertised and the teacher had no idea what to do with my round, inflexible body, but during the final relaxation pose Savasana, i finally found some stillness and quiet in my racing mind. I continued my practice primarily at home, using books and videos. I began to notice changes in myself -- some changes were physical, like increased flexibility and better balance; some changes were deeper, like becoming more patient with myself and others, and a greater sense of ease in the midst of difficulty. Yoga has been a healing practice for me physically and emotionally. I've found increased range of motion in joints with old injuries, my blood pressure has lowered, and i'm better able to manage chronic illness. As a survivor of trauma, i've found comfort and release through yoga. I've come to a greater acceptance of myself, my history, and my limitations. Over the years since that first class, it has become my joy and passion to share yoga with others -- particularly with those who are reluctant to try yoga for the same reasons i once was. After several years of bringing family and friends with me to yoga classes taught by others, i was inspired and encouraged to begin my own path to becoming a teacher. I am grateful to the teachers who have put themselves at the forefront of a body affirming movement in yoga, showing that people of all body sizes and types can not only practice yoga, but teach as well. In my teaching, i strive to lead classes that are inclusive of everyone present, offering options for postures so that those brand new to yoga as well as long-time practitioners may benefit. I teach from a trauma-sensitive, gender-neutral, and body-positive perspective. All body sizes, genders, backgrounds, and abilities are welcome, and it is my goal to make sure you are safe, respected, and have fun! Certifications: Yoga Alliance E-RYT-200, Curvy Yoga, Yoga For All, Accessible Yoga, Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Inclusivity Training for Yoga, Adult/Child/Infant CPR and AED Memberships: Yoga and Body Image Coalition Community Partner, Yoga Service Council Individual Member |