Enjoying movement for as long as I can remember, my growth in self-awareness has often been rooted in exploring my own physicality. Though I had been taking dance classes since I was three, my first awakening of self-awareness began with the Alexander Technique in college. Upon graduating, I continued to study the Alexander Technique for several years with two talented teachers, June Ekman and Judith Gradowitz. During this time, I began to attend T’ai Chi classes with Maggie Newman, a notable teacher of the Yang style, with whom I studied for three years.
In 1999 I enrolled to become a certified Pilates instructor at the Kelly Kane Core Integration School. Along with full mat and equipment training, I was given a foundation on proper alignment and bio-mechanics, learning how to watch a client move and how to give her clear guidance. While I was studying at the Kelly Kane School, I was introduced to Continuum Movement as taught by Mary Abrams.
Continuum has been incredibly influential in my life. It was the first movement system where I felt that I had the freedom to explore my body without judgement. Mary Abrams also introduced to me the Affect Theory, which has become a signficant underpinning of my understanding of the interplay of emotions and energy. I often incorporate the sounds from Continuum into my Polarity sessions to great effect.
After teaching Pilates for several years, I began to study Gyrotonic and eventually became an instructor. My understanding of how to teach and how a body can move expanded vastly. I will forever remain grateful to my mentor Maria Holm and master trainer Young Ah-Kim.
For many years I have taken both modern and ballet classes in New York City. I would like to especially note Christine Wright, who is a generous soul gifted with a clear eye.
I have taken numerous anatomy classes and somatic workshops and am always searching for more.
I am always curious about ways to gain self-awareness and physical improvement, which in my experience are often intertwined. This curiosity is my wellspring as a movement teacher and bodywork practitioner. Whether you choose to try a Gyrotonic session or Polarity Therapy session or both, I will offer both my knowledge and my interest towards your own self-discovery and growth.
CERTIFICATIONS
Associate Polarity Practitioner, American Polarity Therapy Association, 2006
Gyrotonic Level 1 instructor, 2005
GYROKINESIS® instructor, 2004
Pilates Instructor, Kelly Kane Core Integration School, 2001