I grew up as the youngest of four in a competitive, sport-savvy family in Staten Island, New York. From an early age, I was taught how to move my body, not just for fun but to push boundaries. Playing sports and competing against my brothers fueled a deep love of movement. But, as a teenager, I struggled with an overwhelming amount of anger and an aggressive personality. This anger led me down a destructive path of fighting, drug dealing, and stealing.
Fortunately, I found a way out by channeling this intense energy into boxing. It became a powerful outlet where I used my body more purposefully and released the anger weighing on my heart. Boxing was one of the most physically demanding challenges I’d ever faced, but it was also the most rewarding. The focus, discipline, and determination I learned in the ring are the same principles I bring to my yoga practice today.
As my boxing journey continued, I realized that my strength and determination were growing, but I still lacked the balance and coordination needed to truly excel. My trainer suggested dancing, and though I was hesitant, ballet and jazz quickly became transformational. They taught me body awareness, attention to detail, and how to coordinate my two left feet. It was like learning a new language, one that required intense focus and determination but offered the rewards of grace, pace, and personality.
At 26, I left my hometown and moved to Los Angeles, where yoga became the next evolution in my movement journey. Yoga, for me, was the perfect combination of strength, flexibility, and mental clarity. After practicing for some time, I knew I needed to deepen my knowledge, so I enrolled in Yogaworks Teacher Training with two modern-day yoga pioneers, Maty Ezraty and Lisa Waldorf. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to study with Annie Carpenter and other incredible yoga instructors, and work with brilliant Physical Therapists and Sports Kinesiologists, like Gary Gray, Stuart Macgill, and Gray Cook.
Today, I focus on alignment and biomechanics, ensuring that our bodies and energy move with precision and efficiency. My classes are a seamless blend of Yin and Yang, reflecting my diverse journey through boxing and dance. I love teaching yoga because it not only builds strength and flexibility but also calms the mind and spirit, creating a harmonious balance within.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share the transformative power of yoga with students and teachers from around the world. I look forward to meeting you on the mat and guiding you on your own journey to strength, peace, and personal transformation.