ABOUT MELISSA

I am a creator by nature - whether it's teaching yoga, painting a mural or working behind the scenes at a video shoot, I am not tied down to any singular process. I truly believe that all creative expression is connected, no matter what form it comes in, and I strive to ride the flow of whatever shape it takes; on and off the mat. I tend to be a bit of a recluse, but I love people and love a strong, inclusive community... I also love art, music, food, coffee, nonsense, laughing, learning, being.. and dogs.. dogs are truly the way to my heart... there's a reason "Heartmelting Pose" is also know as "Puppy Pose.." just sayin.'

My yoga teaching style marries my love of art and yoga in playful and expressive slow flows that are strong, balanced and approachable. Together we combine the somatic experience of a yoga flow with technical intensity and the artistic expression of each pose. I aim to empower every student to explore themselves, to touch in on their unique gifts and to gain the confidence and knowledge to let the practice of yoga charge up their whole being. Bottom line is: I want my students to love yoga as much as I do; I want them to feel for themselves how much it can heal and elevate.  

My formal education led me to studies in Photography, Sculpture, Graphic Design and Interior Design, with heavy studies in mathematics. I have been practicing yoga since 1999, teaching since 2012. I got my first certifications through Yoga Sutra for Life, studying under Master teacher, Ranjitha Sandeep, an internationally acclaimed Ashtanga (Raja) Yoga Therapist. I continued my education by assisting Yoga Sutra for Life's wellness programs and Teacher Trainings for an additional 3 years. I have attended advanced studies with experts such as Sri Dharma Mittra, Meghan Currie, Ryan Leier, Elena Brower and through my work at Wanderlust Festivals.