02/16/2026
Meet Joan!
WHAT BROUGHT YOU INTO YOGA?
I came to yoga for peace of mind during a very stressful time in my life. My anxiety was at an all time high and quieting my mind was challenging; so, I took my first yoga class and I was hooked. It was a moving meditation and for that one hour the rest of the world stopped for me and I could just be.
I also studied dance in undergraduate school, but hadn’t danced for many years, so I really felt that connection of moving my body and focusing in on the mind, body, breath. All of that really gave me an escape from the stress and anxiety that I was feeling.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PRACTICING, AND WHEN DID YOU START TEACHING?
I have been practicing for about 12 years, and I started teaching 9 years ago.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE CLASS, STYLE, OR ASANA TO TEACH?
Right now my favorite is Yoga Nidra. I just love that Sunday afternoon time, I look forward to it all weekend. It’s such an effective way to share what I yearned for when I came to yoga - that sense of ease and peace, and connection to your true nature.
WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR STUDENTS TO WALK AWAY WITH FROM YOUR CLASSES?
Right now things are happening that are difficult and stressful, so I want to bring people a sense of relaxation and an ability to let all that go. I love the idea of guiding people through the koshas energetic layers and letting them get into a place where they are just truly at that center of self, at peace and ease.
DO YOU HAVE ANY LAST THOUGHTS, ADVICE, OR TIPS FOR US?
Studying yoga philosophy and learning about non-attachment had such an impact on my life. There was a time I didn’t think I’d ever find joy again, but realizing that my circumstances and all the things going on in the world are separate from me, that they don’t have to affect me every moment. I want to encourage others to explore non-attachment so they can also learn to let go of struggle, be in the moment, accept whatever comes, and still be able to find peace and joy.
PRACTICE WITH JOAN
Mondays , and Sundays @4:30PM
Or you can sign up for one of her Ceremonial Cacao Ceremonies held throughout the year.