Nichole has studied yoga for over ten years, first coming to the practice to regain her balance after a sports injury. She has had the privilege of studying under some wonderful teachers along the way, both locally and in Los Angeles, where she lived for a few years. Nichole has been teaching since 2006 and in 2008 received her Yoga teaching certification from YogaFit® Trainings Systems. She earned her prenatal/postpartum yoga teaching certification in 2009 while pregnant with her second child.

Nichole teaches a combination of classical Raja Astanga, vinyasa flow, Iyengar and Kundalini yoga. She has studied these various braches of yoga and likes to incorporate a bit of all of them into her teaching. The focus of Nichole's classes is ultimately to use the asanas (poses) as a means of cultivating a greater awareness of and connection to one's physical self, one's breathing and one's thoughts, emotions and spirit. She strives to be beginner friendly but to also provide many modifications so that everyone is challenged and able to grow in their practice. Most importantly, Nichole hopes to make yoga accessible and open to everyone, no matter what one’s current level of fitness is. She believes that the more we nurture and tune in to our own bodies, minds and hearts, the more we are able to engage the world in a compassionate and loving way.

Nichole usually begin class by asking what the students would like to work on, if there are any particular areas of strength, balance or flexibility in the body on which they would like to focus and if there are any goals of the mind or spirit they hope to aspire to. She will always try to weave those needs and desires into the fabric of the class. Her belief is that as a teacher, she can best serve students by guiding them towards their own goals while presenting information and challenges appropriate to their individual circumstances. What you can expect from the class is to warm up the body with some flowing sequences of postures (vinyasa) tied together with breath-work (pranayama), followed by some deeper poses or asanas held for longer periods of time, as in the Iyengar tradition. Nichole often includes some information on the history and use of various techniques and traditions as well as a bit of yogic philosophy while everyone is working up a nice sweat. The classes will end with a deep/guided relaxation and a meditation. It is, indeed, work... but joyful work! As much emphasis is placed on releasing tension as is placed on strengthening and engaging the body. Poses and sequences are taught with a variety of modifications so that the beginner and the experienced yogi alike can meet their challenge and grow in their practice safely. Come prepared to stretch, to sweat and to grow stronger in mind, body and spirit!

Nichole was also enrolled in the Spiritual Life Society's Yoga Teacher Training Program, but has taken a break since the birth of her two children. Nichole lives in Kent with her husband and family and is also an accomplished musician.

Email Nichole at nicholecm@gmail.com