I am pursuing a Master of Social Work at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, specializing in Advanced Generalist Practice to become a Clinical Social Worker. I am pursuing graduate studies while completing an International Yoga Therapy certification from the Paramanand Yoga Research Institute in Indore, India.
My journey towards holistic wellness began with my insecurities, mental illness, and substance abuse struggles. I decided to adopt yoga as a suitable somatic practice early on, in my teens after seeing a woman on a television show practicing yoga postures. I would go on to practice on and off with regular interval breaks. In 2018, after a personal trauma, I felt a strong desire to immerse myself in yoga. I decided to send myself to the Gyan Yog Breath Ashram in Rishikesh, India followed by travel and self-study in Thailand and Indonesia. In Rishikesh, I completed my initial 200HR yoga teacher training and fell in love with Yoga. Since then, I have developed a strong, daily, self-practice taught over 1,000 hours as a yoga instructor, obtained 500RYT studying with YogaRenew, and received a Yoga Alliance’s Continuing Education Provider credential, YACEP.
In addition, I am currently under the kind and generous tutelage of Yoga Guru, Dr. Omanand Guruji at the Paramanad Yoga Research Institute and Ashtanga Instructor Indigo Moane’. With deep respect and gratitude to all who have helped me along this path including Gatumji with Vendata Institute, Joe Miller, Diedra Demens, Julie Pasqual, Raaja Azoqua, Iyengar Yoga NYC, Jessica Lavalliere, Bill Brundell, and the faculty at Gyan Yog Breath Ashram, and of course, Patanjali, who have all been a light for me on my yoga journey in ways they do not even know.
To me, yoga is more than just physical asana (postures); it is a profound practice that cultivates inner peace, enhances self-awareness, and develops a deeper connection with oneself and the world around us. I am eager to share the transformative power of yoga with others and create a supportive and inclusive space for all people.
Lokah samasta suhkino bhvantu.