Enjoying movement for as long as I can remember, my growth in self-awareness has often been rooted in exploring my own physicality. Taking dance classes since I was three, my first true awakening of physical 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 an underpinning to 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 continuously attend workshops in anatomy, exercise, movement and somatics.
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
Reiki Level I, 2012
Associate Polarity Practitioner, American Polarity Therapy Association, 2006
Gyrotonic Level 1 instructor, 2005
GYROKINESIS® instructor, 2004
Pilates Instructor, Kelly Kane Core Integration School, 2001