Who or what inspired you to be a yoga teacher?
I was initially interested in deepening my own practice, but the turning point came when the marketing company I worked for created an in-house yoga and meditation studio just as I completed my first 200-hour training in January 2008. I was inspired to share the life-changing tools I discovered through yoga with my co-workers and help cultivate well-being in the workplace, so I began instructing them.
Describe your style of yoga:
My style continues to evolve. Earlier this year, I completed a restorative yoga training. After observing that many of the clients I work with were in need of relaxation tools to manage stress, my approach became more focused on helping them unwind and restore balance, both in-person and virtually, incorporating life coaching when needed.
What’s your favorite yoga pose?
This is ever-changing for me as well. Lately, twists and side bends are my favorites because of the way they help me lengthen and open my side body.
What brings you to the mat?
My yoga practice is a sanctuary, guiding me back to my authentic self. It offers a place of peace, self-discovery, and healing.
If you teach, where?
I founded my business, Belightful (www.belightfulyoga.com), in January 2010. I support Belightful’s diverse roster of clients, which includes corporate executives, adults in substance abuse rehab, individuals on the autism spectrum, and children. In April 2017, I became certified as a yoga therapist. In addition, I teach part-time for Trinity Health, where I’m part of the Michigan Heart team, providing yoga therapy in their Intensive Cardiac Rehab program. This includes private sessions, charting in patients’ records, group classes, and healthy mindset workshops. Belightful is inclusive of all populations and has supported more than 175 diverse organizations, both in-person and virtually.
How has being a member of YAGD helped you in your career?
Being a member of YAGD has allowed me to connect with other teachers in the area, learn from their expertise and experiences, and support the growth of Belightful’s yoga offerings as well as their own.
Do you have a favorite yoga story from your teaching experience?
It’s challenging to narrow it down to one specific example, as seeing the healing and progress in so many clients has been extremely fulfilling. However, my time as a yoga therapist at Children’s Hospital stands out. I had the privilege of working one-on-one with pediatric patients in the oncology, nephrology, hematology unit, as well as those with behavioral health diagnoses.
To learn more about my business or me, visit Belightful at www.belightfulyoga.com or Founder Bio.
On a fun personal note, I got engaged on the Fourth of July to Chris Reid. #fireworks&forever We love traveling, playing pickleball and entertaining friends and family together. Our wedding is planned for August 2025.