Yoga Teacher
Hey, I’m Michelle! I graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in Communication Studies. I am spunky, energetic, and passionate about helping people come alive, both on and off the mat. The practice of yoga changed the trajectory of my life.
In 2014, my father passed away unexpectedly, and the grief took a toll on my physical and mental well-being. After months of feeling stuck, I decided to make healing my top priority and dove head-first into yoga and meditation. I attended various workshops and yoga retreats where I laughed, danced, moved my body, ugly-cried, and then laughed some more. Yoga was the path that led me back to my Highest Self.
In 2017, I completed the 200-hour Fusion Teacher Training Program. Since then, I have taught for Linn-Mar Men & Women’s Soccer, Linn-Mar Varsity Football, as well as subbing at yoga studios throughout Cedar Rapids and Marion.
Join me for the Sunday morning Soul Flow class where you will step off your mat feeling balanced and ready to start your week.
- Favorite Yoga Pose & Why?
I have two favorites: Full Wheel (Urdhva Dhanurasana) – I was a gymnast when I was younger, and I feel the same playful energy whenever I do this pose. It’s a great heart opener yet you feel incredibly strong in your arms, shoulders, and legs.
Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana) – This is my favorite pose to do after work or anytime I’m forced to sit for long periods of time. It’s a great hip opener and forces me to breathe with intention. - Favorite Food/Meal? Wood-Fired Margherita Pizza
- What you like to do when you have an hour of free time? Learn a new song on the ukulele or doing something crafty like painting or making jewelry.
- What is your guilty pleasure? True Crime Podcasts/Documentaries
- What is the best book you’ve read and why do you love it? The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle & The Untethered Soul by Michael A Singer because they are both deeply insightful and remind me to live in the present. And The Power of Vulnerability by Brene Brown because her research on vulnerability has rewired my brain and Brene is by far my favorite author.
- What is your favorite season & why? Summer because I love to be in the water as much as possible. Boating, Kayaking, swimming, camping– I love it all.
- Why do you meditate? Even 90 seconds of meditation can reduce cortisol levels, lower your heart rate, and lower blood pressure. Meditation calms my mind and helps ground me. When you meditate, you tap into the endless source of light that is within all of us, and all it requires you to do is sit down, close your eyes, and focus on your breath.
- What makes you passionate about teaching? Yoga has brought so much bliss and healing to my life. There is something so powerful about showing up to class, getting out of your head and into your body, and leaving feeling more grounded and grateful. I love seeing the transformation students have even after one hour of yoga. It’s truly a magical practice that aligns you on a body, mind, and soul-level, and it’s for people of all ages and skill levels.
- What is one thing you want students to know about your teaching style? My teaching style is playful and energetic. I like to get the blood flowing but also leave plenty of space for pause and rest. I will encourage you to challenge yourself while always providing modifications for yogis of all levels to enjoy.
- Do you have a favorite yoga mat or meditation cushion? Manduka mats are my favorite, and the Ajna Buckwheat Meditation Cushion is awesome for meditating!