I started practicing Yoga in 1998 and I’ve been teaching for over 10 years. Certified by Yogaworks, I’m 500hr ERYT and also certified in Trauma Informed Yoga. I enjoy teaching several styles: Hatha, Yin, Vinyasa, Gentle, and Chair Yoga. If you have or are recovering from an injury I can modify poses for you to keep you safe.
In addition to teaching Yoga, I also teach Pole Dance. Pole fitness not only builds strength and flexibility, its extremely fun and builds confidence as well as self esteem.
I earned a certification in Plant Based Nutrition in 2010 from E-Cornell University.
My mentors in TIY are Kyra Haglund, RW Alves, and Hala Khouri. My 200hr and 300hr Yoga mentor is Chrissy Canning- you can find info about her here: www.yogamamamethod.com.
How my journey began…
When I was in college my friend invited me to take her Yoga class for free. I had no idea what yoga even was- I thought it was going to be like aerobics. I could not touch my toes and for most of the class I felt awkward and bored. I really enjoyed the Savasana at the end of class. I had never been given permission to relax. I noticed how good I felt and knew I had to go back. After several weeks of classes I noticed I did not need to use my inhaler (I have asthma). My overall health improved with the growing level of body awareness that Yoga teaches us. I decided that one day I would become a Yoga teacher just like my friend because giving others peace and health is the kindest thing one can do.
I found pole dance over 10 years ago when a friend wrote a screenplay about her experiences as a stripper. She showed me a youtube video of some advanced pole artists & I was shocked at how strong & beautiful pole dance was. I bought a pole for my home & never stopped learning.
What People Are Saying
“I cannot recommend Monica enough!!! The best yoga instructor I have ever had and so patient and kind. I am beyond excited to attend her classes no matter where life takes me. Definitely check her out especially if you're still stuck at home!”
— Jennifer K.
“Monica is an amazing yoga instructor! I learned so much during my hour session. I feel better about stretching on my own bc I now know what proper alignment feels like. She provided me with some great yoga poses/stretches for my back injury. I would recommend her to anyone.”
-Stormie B
“I had so much fun, and learned so much in this online class with Monica tonight! Thank you Monica for making me feel so welcome! I can't wait to meet you in person when I move to L.A. 💚💚 This was exactly what I needed!”
-Shanell
“She has the best personality, great technique along with direction and is so so so personable. Take a class with her, you won’t regret it!”
-Tritia
“Monica’s conditioning class was amazing I want to do it every week!!!!”
-Janet
“Best darn yoga teacher I know! Check this out!”
— Amy K.
“BEST CLASS EVER!!”
-Layla R.
“Monica is great!!! One of the best pole instructors I have ever had!!!”
-Alexis
“Monica is great!!! I’m so happy I finally got to take a class with her, even if it was virtual. She was hilarious and a great instructor. Great energy. I was a little skeptical about taking a pole class via Zoom, but I know it’s totally doable if you have the right instructor!”
-Sharon
“Monica’s class is so fun and an amazing workout”
-Neda
“Monica was a fantastic instructor and her vibes are contagious! Very impressed with the clear instruction on a 🔥 choreo and fun energy she was able to bring to class, even via zoom!”
-Samantha
YogaFit certification
Yogaworks 200 hr certification
Yogaworks 300 hr certification
Yoga Alliance Member
Insured Instructor
Certificate of WFPB Nutrition (E-Cornell University)