Stephanie Metz

For many years I focused on running, and the challenge of distance. Other activities seemed too slow, I was looking for intensity! I refused to try yoga, thinking it was only a restful stretch. A few years later, in my first Vinyasa Flow class, I discovered yoga's physical challenge and began to focus on my breath. Intense poses and new found body awareness left me calm and centered. I found myself practicing and thinking about yoga more. When my asana practice increased, I noticed my how my way of looking things influenced my moods. This awareness released "stuck" thought patterns and confirmed that how we view our circumstances is the one thing we can change.

In 2007, genetic testing showed I carried the BRCA 1 gene (breast/ovarian cancer) I underwent two major preventative surgeries as a result. I left my marketing career of 14 years, with newfound clarity of my priorities in life. I spent more time with my family and decided to teach yoga.

I am a student of Ashtanga Yoga and incorporate my love of Anusara Yoga in my teaching as well. My focus is on breath based movement (vinyasa) to create a meditative flow as well as build strength. I encourage students to "practice" to know themselves better and embrace the influence they alone have on their life.

My classes offer flow as well as alignment focus, opportunities to practice arm balance and inversions- with a respect for individual needs and limits. Each student is encouraged to find the practice that suits them.

I completed Moksha Yoga's teacher training with Daren Friesen (C.Y.T.200). I also study Yoga Therapeutics and continue to deepen my understanding of anatomy. I thank Gabriel Halpern and Jayne Alenier for the opportunity to apprentice and learn about Iyengar Yoga.

I am honored to volunteer at the Cancer Wellness Center and Kellogg Cancer Center - using breath work and meditation to help others find peace.