Name & Hometown:
I was born & raised in Ferndale, MI, but I currently reside in Madison Heights.
Who or What inspired you to be a Yoga Instructor?
When I was a child, my oldest sister was practicing community yoga, so from a fairly young age, yoga was normalized for me. Plus, the attraction to something that was much more than just a physical activity took hold by the time I was in my teens.
I never felt inspiration to teach, but rather, I’ve felt the obligation to share knowledge and help others to understand the bigger purpose of yoga, not just the asana practice.
Describe your style of yoga:
I would say I practice and teach Hatha yoga. I’ve never followed trends of western styles. I spent over 25 years studying on my own, before starting formal training. Hatha gives a person the opportunity to listen to their bodies, and adapt the asana to their needs at any given point, depending on the day, with consideration to injuries, or other issues that they may be experiencing.
What’s your favorite yoga pose?
I find it impossible to choose an asana that I would prefer over any other. As the saying goes: “If you are resisting an asana. it most likely is the one you need.”
What brings you to the mat?
Life! LOL
If you teach, where?
I teach two classes at Namaste in Royal Oak. I also provide yoga therapy and private classes through the studio.
How has being a member of YAGD helped you in your yoga career?
I have been a member for a year, and the meetings always seem to land on Saturday mornings when I am teaching, so I’ve not been able to be as involved as I would like. Since becoming a member, I have thought more about how we, the yoga industry in Metro Detroit, can work together as instructors and studios to support each other.
Do you have a favorite yoga story from your teaching experience?
I have no single favorite experience. I enjoy teaching for the sense of community that the classes and studio bring. Creating an environment that allows wide ranges of people to feel comfortable to practice in a manner that suits the individual, while feeling the support and togetherness of a solid community.
Is there anything else you would like to add.. like family… hobbies… Karma Yoga… or other professions?
I love to travel with my wife and try to take at least one big trip a year. Our first trip overseas was to Scotland 5 months after I had a hip replacement where I hiked Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh. Being able to do this so quickly after surgery really is a testament to the benefits of yoga ! We’ve also hiked in Alaska and love taking walking tours of places we visit.