The role of mindful movement and the preservation of functional skills including physical, cognitive, and general well-being has always been of interest to me. Early in life, I observed family members participating in sports and exercising into their eighties and mid-nineties. This inspired me to become involved in activities like running, skiing, horseback riding, hiking and other exercise. It also inspired an interest and academic pursuit into the clinical neurosciences.

I was first introduced to the Classical Pilates Method while undergoing rehabilitation following injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident. Pilates was central to a successful recovery from the injuries that I experienced. Through the process it became apparent that Pilates not only supported, but facilitated body-mind engagement, deep integration, and relief from pain. This experience with Pilates methodology was so impactful that I decided to pursue a career in the practice of Pilates.

A dedicated personal practice was initiated in 2010 where I sought out and trained with several 2nd generation master teachers trained by Romana Kryzanowska, a student of Joseph Pilates. In Spring 2018, I made the decision to enter teacher-training certification and subsequently became a third generation Classical Pilates Instructor through the Pilates Technique Certification Program in Santa Monica, CA. Certification was based on the 5-level system of movement methodology of Joseph H. Pilates. I was trained by Jill Cassady, who was trained and subsequently hired by Romana to work with clients at Drago's gym. In addition to Classical Pilates training, I received training in different yoga practices and breathing techniques both of which I incorporate into sessions as needed or requested. The selected yoga training at the studio is Yin or gentle yoga and includes floor, chair, and wall yoga. All training is individualized and accessible to all levels of skill.

Health and wellbeing are essential components of our lives. I am a Board-Certified Health and Wellness. Coach (NBC-HWC) having successfully passed the national examination through the National Board of Medical Examiners. My training focused on the attainment of health-based goals utilizing a Positive Psychology approach to wellbeing. In addition to Pilates and yoga, health and wellness coaching is available for those who are interested as either an add-on to their program or as a stand-alone.

I have a PhD in psychology of education, a MSc in speech-language pathology and taught university graduate-level gerontology courses focusing on dementia, cognition, and neurodegenerative diseases for 17 years. A life-long interest in the clinical neurosciences lead me to work clinically for 20 years with diverse populations including individuals who experienced stroke, tumor, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative disorders. Working in hospital and community-based neurorehabilitation facilities, the effects of the mind-body connection on functional recovery were apparent. I am passionate about using Pilates, Yoga, and Wellness strategies to help people of all ages maintain functional abilities and experience a good quality of life.