Melissa first found yoga and Pilates in 2005 after graduating from Bryant University. Melissa was a two time All American Field Hockey player at Bryant and was looking for another way to build strength and flexibility. Melissa has been a student of Ashtanga Yoga, Baptiste Power Yoga, and Vinyasa for nine years and continues a dedicated practice of her own.

Melissa holds a 200 hour certification through South Boston Yoga where she trained under David Vendetti and Todd Skoglund. Melissa also holds a Core Strength Vinyasa Yoga certification through Sadie Nardini and a Mat Pilates certification through AFAA and Fitour. Melissa specializes in fun and creative sequencing with a strong emphasis on the core, and proper alignment. 

Melissa has taught in various locations for the last seven years including: Gold's Gym, YMCA, Amala Wellness, and Elliot Hospitals.  She has trained cross country teams, field hockey teams, and elite runners.

Melissa is the owner of Downdog Yoga & Pilates