I began practicing yoga at home in 2006 to relieve stress, anxiety, and a feeling of internal chaos. Having been a dancer from childhood through college, I knew the importance of a mind-body connection for my wellbeing so I gravitated toward a yoga practice. It was immediately obvious to me that I loved the physical challenge of power yoga, with the heat and sweat leaving my body feeling cleaned out and open. What I was not prepared for when I found Hilltop Yoga in 2008 was to delve deeply into thoughts and patterns that had come to seem inevitable to me—and to be able to change them through the simple practice of movement and breath! Unlike dance, and unlike the pressures of graduate school, yoga was not a performance for anyone. I began practicing vinyasa and power classes, loving them for their surprises and challenges each time. When I found Ashtanga, I also found a deep grounding and lightness that enabled me to develop pranayama (breathing) and meditation practices. Through a multi-limbed practice I have recovered a deep sense of connection and authenticity with myself on and off my mat. Yoga has been, with the help of my amazing teachers and the Hilltop community, a true experience of coming home—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

In 2009, I completed Hilaire’s 200-hour teacher training program with the desire to deepen into my practice and share experiences of healing and lightness as a teacher. I teach a challenging yet playful vinyasa class and Ashtanga primary series and am completing my 300-hour teaching certification. My hope is that in each of my classes my students can find a deep internal connection as they safely and playfully explore postures, breath, and meditation. I am profoundly grateful to my husband, my teachers, my friends and family, and the Hilltop community for your support.

Namaste,
Anna