For me, Yoga is the acceptance of where one is in the moment and the development of tools needed to maintain that acceptance in the face of adversity.

I was first introduced to yoga in 2009 through a Kriya/Hatha style class for musicians. Beyond the physical benefits, I was most impressed by the effects a regular practice had on my mental health and well-being. At the time, as a queer teenager with a fair share of emotional trauma, I never felt equipped to address my own mental health. I vividly remember that weekly yoga class feeling like a total reset from the mental, physical, and emotional burdens of the week—a saving grace during a very difficult and confusing time in my life.

Using what I learned in meditation, breathing exercises (pranayama) and postural work (asana), I was able to, for the first time, understand my own mental health and better respond to anxiety and depression. As time went on, I continued to develop and explore my interest in yoga—trying out different types of classes and eventually settling into a regular hot Vinyasa/Power practice.

With the onset of the Covid-19 Pandemic, I embraced the opportunity to go inward and strengthen my personal practice through an immersive eight-week online certification program. On top of a deepened understanding and appreciation for traditional texts, history, and yogic philosophy, this experience affirmed and ignited my passion for trauma consciousness, humanity, social justice, and accessibility. In July 2020, I received my 200HR Yoga Teacher Certification from Down Under School of Yoga in Boston, MA.

Today I am most compelled to teach from a place of love, acceptance, and equality—a place that holds space for all bodies, all races, all abilities, and all backgrounds. As part of my commitment to holding space and as a forever student of the practice, I continue to push myself to learn as much as I can through regular supplemental training, reading, workshops, and discussions with fellow educators and peers.

My mission as a teacher is to use every bit that I’ve learned on my journey as a student to craft a practice that works best for my clients’ individual and personal needs. There is so much out there to explore in the world of yoga—it’s just about finding the parts that speak to your soul and empower you to reach your fullest potential.

Big Love,

Kevin