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MYPATH to Peace, Fall 2019 ~ Instructors
Allison Williamson
Allison's practice began in 2008 when she first explored meditation to heal harmful thought patterns about food and the body. Practicing presence and mindfulness began what she believes is a life-long journey of self study. Over the last 10 years, her yoga practice has expanded from meditation to asana, to her relationship with nearly everything else: family, nature, work, culture, and more. Allison completed Asheville Yoga Center's 230-Hour RYT in 2015. Since, she has taught over 1000 classes in North Carolina & Kentucky. Specific areas she's enthusiastic to explore are intuitive movement, the community of yoga and voice.
Allison's practice began in 2008 when she first explored meditation to heal harmful thought patterns about food and the body. Practicing presence and mindfulness began what she believes is a life-long journey of self study. Over the last 10 years, her yoga practice has expanded from meditation to asana, to her relationship with nearly everything else: family, nature, work, culture, and more. Allison completed Asheville Yoga Center's 230-Hour RYT in 2015. Since, she has taught over 1000 classes in North Carolina & Kentucky. Specific areas she's enthusiastic to explore are intuitive movement, the community of yoga and voice.
Dr. Amanda Obryan
Amanda is a meditation teacher, certified wellness coach and a psychology professor. She has a passion for introducing meditation to students and believes that mindfulness provides a clear path to healing. She teaches many different types of meditation, such as mindfulness, tapping into your intuition, mantra meditation, exploring the chakras, and more. She also teaches workshops that introduce mindfulness into communication, relationships and daily life.
Amanda is a meditation teacher, certified wellness coach and a psychology professor. She has a passion for introducing meditation to students and believes that mindfulness provides a clear path to healing. She teaches many different types of meditation, such as mindfulness, tapping into your intuition, mantra meditation, exploring the chakras, and more. She also teaches workshops that introduce mindfulness into communication, relationships and daily life.
Becky Flynn
Becky has been practicing acupuncture for 8 years, 5 of those here in Louisville. Her practice, Five Elephants Acupuncture, is located in the Highlands. You can also find her volunteering with the Louisville Acupuncture Project which offers free treatment to veterans and first responders. Becky and Shanna Portman combined creative forces in the fall of 2017 when they began to offer Seasonal Yin Yoga & Acupuncture Seasonal workshops as well as more immersive weekend retreats.
Becky has been practicing acupuncture for 8 years, 5 of those here in Louisville. Her practice, Five Elephants Acupuncture, is located in the Highlands. You can also find her volunteering with the Louisville Acupuncture Project which offers free treatment to veterans and first responders. Becky and Shanna Portman combined creative forces in the fall of 2017 when they began to offer Seasonal Yin Yoga & Acupuncture Seasonal workshops as well as more immersive weekend retreats.
Brittany Tackett
Brittany is a psychotherapist, transformational life coach, yoga teacher, writer, and founder of HeartFirst Education, an educational organization whose mission is to educate the whole person, heart first. She has a passion for helping people lead more mindful, heart-centered, and embodied lives. Her approach to healing and wellness is multi-faceted and encompasses all aspects of the human experience: mind, body, spirit, and heart.
Brittany is a psychotherapist, transformational life coach, yoga teacher, writer, and founder of HeartFirst Education, an educational organization whose mission is to educate the whole person, heart first. She has a passion for helping people lead more mindful, heart-centered, and embodied lives. Her approach to healing and wellness is multi-faceted and encompasses all aspects of the human experience: mind, body, spirit, and heart.
Dylana and Fern
Fern Kaitlin + Dylana are yoga instructors who work to create an inclusive, non-judgemental, playful, loving + nurturing environment. They have trained in Louisville, Kentucky and Portland, Oregon + specialize in Acroyoga, Kaleidoscope Yoga and other partner/group movements. Safety, integrity of practice, and silliness are woven into each class.
Fern Kaitlin + Dylana are yoga instructors who work to create an inclusive, non-judgemental, playful, loving + nurturing environment. They have trained in Louisville, Kentucky and Portland, Oregon + specialize in Acroyoga, Kaleidoscope Yoga and other partner/group movements. Safety, integrity of practice, and silliness are woven into each class.
Emily Smith
Emily J Smith is a devotional singer/musician and yoga teacher. She teaches yoga classes on a weekly basis at Yoga East in Louisville, KY, and also leads monthly kirtans at Yoga East and at other locations in Louisville. Emily’s mission is to help others connect with and embody inner stillness, peace, love, and each person’s own unique understanding of sacredness and the mystery of their being. She believes that it is every person's right to connect with the beautiful mystery of This Life in whatever way is most meaningful for them. Greatly influenced by the practices bhakti yoga, and by the teachings of spiritual teachers Adyashanti and Thich Nhat Hhan, she believes in the incredible power of opening and awakening the human and spiritual heart, and in letting that awake heart inform the way we live and move through this precious human existence, moment-to-moment. Emily has been practicing ashtanga and hatha yoga at Yoga East under her teacher Laura Spaulding since 2009, which is where she completed her 200 hour yoga teacher training in 2017. She has a lifelong history of singing and music-making and loves melding her love of yoga and music together as a powerful practice for awakening to The Sacred Wonder within us all.
Emily J Smith is a devotional singer/musician and yoga teacher. She teaches yoga classes on a weekly basis at Yoga East in Louisville, KY, and also leads monthly kirtans at Yoga East and at other locations in Louisville. Emily’s mission is to help others connect with and embody inner stillness, peace, love, and each person’s own unique understanding of sacredness and the mystery of their being. She believes that it is every person's right to connect with the beautiful mystery of This Life in whatever way is most meaningful for them. Greatly influenced by the practices bhakti yoga, and by the teachings of spiritual teachers Adyashanti and Thich Nhat Hhan, she believes in the incredible power of opening and awakening the human and spiritual heart, and in letting that awake heart inform the way we live and move through this precious human existence, moment-to-moment. Emily has been practicing ashtanga and hatha yoga at Yoga East under her teacher Laura Spaulding since 2009, which is where she completed her 200 hour yoga teacher training in 2017. She has a lifelong history of singing and music-making and loves melding her love of yoga and music together as a powerful practice for awakening to The Sacred Wonder within us all.
J. Miles
Yogi, martial artist, body worker, retired breakdancer, community activist, and the son of a Baptist minister, J Miles (ERYT 500) has been has been learning and studying eastern arts and philosophy for over 15 years. From the teachings of Swami Satchidananda and Integral Yoga, along with Ashtanga, Jivamukti and other prominent systems of yoga, Yogi J has crafted a style tempered by humor, relies on the importance of breath, and aims to create for each person a fluid, sustainable and enjoyable practice. Understanding that even ancient practice continues to evolve, the mantra continues to be “practice is effort toward steadiness of mind”. Always the student, J credits a group of extraordinary women for shaping his practice: Barbara Taylor (mom), Vimala Posey, Arlene Bjork, Jill Abelson, Satya Greenstone, Dana Flynn and Jennifer Elliott. Currently J Miles resides in his hometown of Richmond Va loving four children while working to improve his community through his co-founded organization, Project Yoga Richmond (PYR). He teaches classes locally at PYR, and Om On Yoga, where he serves as lead ERYT for the Om On Yoga Teacher Training Program.
Yogi, martial artist, body worker, retired breakdancer, community activist, and the son of a Baptist minister, J Miles (ERYT 500) has been has been learning and studying eastern arts and philosophy for over 15 years. From the teachings of Swami Satchidananda and Integral Yoga, along with Ashtanga, Jivamukti and other prominent systems of yoga, Yogi J has crafted a style tempered by humor, relies on the importance of breath, and aims to create for each person a fluid, sustainable and enjoyable practice. Understanding that even ancient practice continues to evolve, the mantra continues to be “practice is effort toward steadiness of mind”. Always the student, J credits a group of extraordinary women for shaping his practice: Barbara Taylor (mom), Vimala Posey, Arlene Bjork, Jill Abelson, Satya Greenstone, Dana Flynn and Jennifer Elliott. Currently J Miles resides in his hometown of Richmond Va loving four children while working to improve his community through his co-founded organization, Project Yoga Richmond (PYR). He teaches classes locally at PYR, and Om On Yoga, where he serves as lead ERYT for the Om On Yoga Teacher Training Program.
Jennifer Owens
Jennifer, LCSW is the co-founder and Wellness Director of Bridge Counseling and Wellness, an integrative mental health center in Louisville, KY. She is a certified ecotherapist and specializes in an outdoor-mindfulness based, somatic approach to individual and group therapy, nature connection and holistic treatment of mild to severe anxiety issues. After a lifetime of outdoor adventures and teaching women backpacking skills, Jennifer developed a passion for forest bathing and has been guiding and practicing all over the state of Kentucky (and beyond). She is the president of the Shinrin-Yoku Society of Kentuckiana and has partnered with environmental groups, parks and non-profits to increase the knowledge and practice of forest bathing. Jennifer completed the Kentucky Master Naturalist program (through University of Kentucky) this year with a concentration on nature connection, passive recreation and environmental conservation. She is currently a student at the Wildcraft Forest School and has studied with the Earthbody Institue, Mindful Ecotherapy Center and Animus Valley Institute. Jennifer hopes to reconnect humans with their inner and outer wild nature for the increased well-being of our psyches and the planet. Jennifer’s approach to guiding is open, safe, nurturing and exploratory.
Jennifer, LCSW is the co-founder and Wellness Director of Bridge Counseling and Wellness, an integrative mental health center in Louisville, KY. She is a certified ecotherapist and specializes in an outdoor-mindfulness based, somatic approach to individual and group therapy, nature connection and holistic treatment of mild to severe anxiety issues. After a lifetime of outdoor adventures and teaching women backpacking skills, Jennifer developed a passion for forest bathing and has been guiding and practicing all over the state of Kentucky (and beyond). She is the president of the Shinrin-Yoku Society of Kentuckiana and has partnered with environmental groups, parks and non-profits to increase the knowledge and practice of forest bathing. Jennifer completed the Kentucky Master Naturalist program (through University of Kentucky) this year with a concentration on nature connection, passive recreation and environmental conservation. She is currently a student at the Wildcraft Forest School and has studied with the Earthbody Institue, Mindful Ecotherapy Center and Animus Valley Institute. Jennifer hopes to reconnect humans with their inner and outer wild nature for the increased well-being of our psyches and the planet. Jennifer’s approach to guiding is open, safe, nurturing and exploratory.
K. Michelle Lewis
K. Michelle Lewis is the founder and CEO of DrumSmart LLC, an all purpose percussion studio in Louisville, KY. She also serves full-time as the Music Specialist at Bloom Elementary School. She is passionate about the healing effects that drumming has on the body, mind, and spirit. The spirit of the drum has the power to connect humans to their highest self, create communities that are compassionate, and heal individuals from the inside out. She is on a mission to spread her drum love and healing all over the world. Thus far, she has traveled to present workshops in New Mexico, Kentucky, Texas, and Indiana. In 2019, her tour will continue through Colorado and Costa Rica to name a few. When she is not drumming, you can find K. Michelle hanging from trees in a hammock like her favorite animal the Sloth, writing a book called, “For This I Am Grateful” My Journey of Healing From Multiple Sclerosis,” or wandering through the forest soaking up love from the earth, wind, animals, and sun. www.drumsmartllc.com
K. Michelle Lewis is the founder and CEO of DrumSmart LLC, an all purpose percussion studio in Louisville, KY. She also serves full-time as the Music Specialist at Bloom Elementary School. She is passionate about the healing effects that drumming has on the body, mind, and spirit. The spirit of the drum has the power to connect humans to their highest self, create communities that are compassionate, and heal individuals from the inside out. She is on a mission to spread her drum love and healing all over the world. Thus far, she has traveled to present workshops in New Mexico, Kentucky, Texas, and Indiana. In 2019, her tour will continue through Colorado and Costa Rica to name a few. When she is not drumming, you can find K. Michelle hanging from trees in a hammock like her favorite animal the Sloth, writing a book called, “For This I Am Grateful” My Journey of Healing From Multiple Sclerosis,” or wandering through the forest soaking up love from the earth, wind, animals, and sun. www.drumsmartllc.com
Lee Schardein
Yoga is one of Lee’s greatest passions, and she feels privileged to be able to share this practice with others. Lee has a background in dance, and through Vinyasa Flow discovered a healing way to pair breath and movement into a dancing, moving meditation. Lee completed her 200 hour yoga teacher training at Yogaia in the Fall 2015 class, after practicing various styles of yoga for over a decade. She is currently working towards her 300 hour YTT with Laughing Lotus in NYC, where she is being trained in their signature Lotus Flow. Lee travelled with Laughing Lotus to Rishikesh, India in February 2018 and 2019. Yoga and meditation have become Lee’s primary source of self-care, and she encourages her students to find a consistent practice to combat stressors and improve their overall wellbeing. She inspires students to take the lessons learned on the mat into their daily lives. During Lee’s class be prepared to smile, sweat, hear a great playlist, and leave feeling a little lighter. Lee is a licensed professional clinical counselor and has been working with children and adolescents in and the community mental health field for 8 years. Lee is the proud mama of two pugs.
Yoga is one of Lee’s greatest passions, and she feels privileged to be able to share this practice with others. Lee has a background in dance, and through Vinyasa Flow discovered a healing way to pair breath and movement into a dancing, moving meditation. Lee completed her 200 hour yoga teacher training at Yogaia in the Fall 2015 class, after practicing various styles of yoga for over a decade. She is currently working towards her 300 hour YTT with Laughing Lotus in NYC, where she is being trained in their signature Lotus Flow. Lee travelled with Laughing Lotus to Rishikesh, India in February 2018 and 2019. Yoga and meditation have become Lee’s primary source of self-care, and she encourages her students to find a consistent practice to combat stressors and improve their overall wellbeing. She inspires students to take the lessons learned on the mat into their daily lives. During Lee’s class be prepared to smile, sweat, hear a great playlist, and leave feeling a little lighter. Lee is a licensed professional clinical counselor and has been working with children and adolescents in and the community mental health field for 8 years. Lee is the proud mama of two pugs.
Magen Stevens
Magen teaches mindfulness. Her classes focus on breathing and mindfulness through concentrated movement. It’s Magen’s intention to offer this mindful practice as a lifestyle method to help others to become more stable in the face of change. Magen has taught in Oklahoma and Colorado. She has been teaching for 6 years. Magen is a previous 16 time National Cycling Champion and cycling coach. She loves trail running, coffee, and hikes with her husband and senior pup. She is certified in CPR and First Aid.
Magen teaches mindfulness. Her classes focus on breathing and mindfulness through concentrated movement. It’s Magen’s intention to offer this mindful practice as a lifestyle method to help others to become more stable in the face of change. Magen has taught in Oklahoma and Colorado. She has been teaching for 6 years. Magen is a previous 16 time National Cycling Champion and cycling coach. She loves trail running, coffee, and hikes with her husband and senior pup. She is certified in CPR and First Aid.
Matt Eshleman (BA, ERYT500, YACEP)
Matt is the director of teacher training at You Do Yoga, a Registered Yoga School offering 200 and 300 Hour certifications and Continuing Education courses, and currently travels the US leading unique educational experiences. Find out more at www.YouDoYoga.com
Matt is the director of teacher training at You Do Yoga, a Registered Yoga School offering 200 and 300 Hour certifications and Continuing Education courses, and currently travels the US leading unique educational experiences. Find out more at www.YouDoYoga.com
Meghan Bektasevic
Meghan practices a non-harming lifestyle, living in such a way that intends no harm in thought, speech, or action to any living being. She is passionate about doing everything she can to positively impact the environment and the life of every person she meets. With the strong belief that everyone deserves to be happy and free, she lives by a non-judgmental and compassion-centered philosophy. Through dedicated practice, Meghan has created a life built on the connection of mind, body and soul. She is deeply concerned with the connection of Earth's people. She intends to hold space for ALL, building upon the foundation of grace and empathy to encourage a community of connection, trust, love and respect. Meghan genuinely believes that we are all good natured. Given rapid evolution and troubling worldly issues, it can be challenging to protect ourselves from outside circumstances that threaten our inner peace. Through mindful movement and silent reflection of the soul, we are able to obtain that consistent peace and happiness we all seek.
Meghan practices a non-harming lifestyle, living in such a way that intends no harm in thought, speech, or action to any living being. She is passionate about doing everything she can to positively impact the environment and the life of every person she meets. With the strong belief that everyone deserves to be happy and free, she lives by a non-judgmental and compassion-centered philosophy. Through dedicated practice, Meghan has created a life built on the connection of mind, body and soul. She is deeply concerned with the connection of Earth's people. She intends to hold space for ALL, building upon the foundation of grace and empathy to encourage a community of connection, trust, love and respect. Meghan genuinely believes that we are all good natured. Given rapid evolution and troubling worldly issues, it can be challenging to protect ourselves from outside circumstances that threaten our inner peace. Through mindful movement and silent reflection of the soul, we are able to obtain that consistent peace and happiness we all seek.
Michelle Kucera-Jewell and Michael Jewell
Michelle, though known for her deep belly laughter, brings together nearly 25 years of experience working within for-profit and non-profit organizations, from guiding wilderness trips to facilitating corporate team building. She has recently transitioned out of her role working in leadership development for Apple to commit fully to holding sacred space for her community. Now that she has stepped off the corporate ladder and into #vanlife her desire as an RYT 500 and Cacao Practitioner is to help people know that they are worthy of love, not because of their doing; simply because of their being. Michelle utilities skills developed through her Masters Degree in Cultural Studies along with her certifications and training as an Ayurvedic Yoga Specialist through the Himalayan Institute, Laughter Yoga Leader, Yoga Behind Bars, and Reiki Practitioner. She is humbled by the opportunity to learn from and co-create healing, transformational space in every sacred session.
Michael Jewell utilizes his humble, attentive presence to hold sacred space for people through body and energy work as well ceremony and ritual. He merges his work in Shamanic Medicine with over 12 years serving as a licensed Massage Therapist, training in Yoga Calm, Klemmer Facilitator, Yoga Behind Bars as well as certifications in Cupping, Laughter Yoga, and Reiki Practitioner. Michael carries this healing work into his art as a glass blower where he is passionate about acknowledging life by creating memorial pieces with the ashes of people and animals who have transitioned from the physical realm. As an RYT 500 and Cacao Practitioner, Michael hopes to support people in deeply knowing their inherent worthiness and infinite capacity to love and be loved.
Michelle and Michael bring this healing work to underserved, marginalized and oppressed populations with a passion for serving adjudicated youth and people living with trauma. They will be joining us at MYPATH after a nationwide cacao tour and time with their teachers in Central and South America. To learn more about what Michelle and Michael are up to visit iyehealing.com
Michelle, though known for her deep belly laughter, brings together nearly 25 years of experience working within for-profit and non-profit organizations, from guiding wilderness trips to facilitating corporate team building. She has recently transitioned out of her role working in leadership development for Apple to commit fully to holding sacred space for her community. Now that she has stepped off the corporate ladder and into #vanlife her desire as an RYT 500 and Cacao Practitioner is to help people know that they are worthy of love, not because of their doing; simply because of their being. Michelle utilities skills developed through her Masters Degree in Cultural Studies along with her certifications and training as an Ayurvedic Yoga Specialist through the Himalayan Institute, Laughter Yoga Leader, Yoga Behind Bars, and Reiki Practitioner. She is humbled by the opportunity to learn from and co-create healing, transformational space in every sacred session.
Michael Jewell utilizes his humble, attentive presence to hold sacred space for people through body and energy work as well ceremony and ritual. He merges his work in Shamanic Medicine with over 12 years serving as a licensed Massage Therapist, training in Yoga Calm, Klemmer Facilitator, Yoga Behind Bars as well as certifications in Cupping, Laughter Yoga, and Reiki Practitioner. Michael carries this healing work into his art as a glass blower where he is passionate about acknowledging life by creating memorial pieces with the ashes of people and animals who have transitioned from the physical realm. As an RYT 500 and Cacao Practitioner, Michael hopes to support people in deeply knowing their inherent worthiness and infinite capacity to love and be loved.
Michelle and Michael bring this healing work to underserved, marginalized and oppressed populations with a passion for serving adjudicated youth and people living with trauma. They will be joining us at MYPATH after a nationwide cacao tour and time with their teachers in Central and South America. To learn more about what Michelle and Michael are up to visit iyehealing.com
Mimi Hahn
Mimi Hahn is a Louisville native and lover of all things local! She spends her days as a yoga instructor and teacher trainer and is feels honored to be able to work on her two passion projects, a small business (Endless Summer Paddle & Coffee Company) and a nonprofit (The Kentucky Yoga Initiative. She is thrilled to have had the opportunity to combine her love of water with a physical asana practice and can’t wait to share this practice with the community!
Mimi Hahn is a Louisville native and lover of all things local! She spends her days as a yoga instructor and teacher trainer and is feels honored to be able to work on her two passion projects, a small business (Endless Summer Paddle & Coffee Company) and a nonprofit (The Kentucky Yoga Initiative. She is thrilled to have had the opportunity to combine her love of water with a physical asana practice and can’t wait to share this practice with the community!
Nicole Hays
First and foremost I am a mother of 3 powerful children, and a wife to an amazing man. When you don’t find me on my mat you can find me in my kitchen, behind a book or at my sewing machine. Homemaking and sharing yoga are my driving forces. My mentor once described me as the embodiment of grit and grace. When meeting me on your mat, you will find my teaching style embodies both as well. Every student and teacher has an authenticity yearning to shine through. Teaching has given me the opportunity to help students explore their inner, and outer workings so they can let their authentic-self take the wheel. For my 200 hr, I trained with the stellar Sharon Tessendori, in the treehouse, aka Barefoot Works. Monica Gharios led me through my 250 hr aerial yoga training. Eagerly I jumped in a 300 hr, here locally, but quickly realized I want to wait and travel for my 300 hr.
First and foremost I am a mother of 3 powerful children, and a wife to an amazing man. When you don’t find me on my mat you can find me in my kitchen, behind a book or at my sewing machine. Homemaking and sharing yoga are my driving forces. My mentor once described me as the embodiment of grit and grace. When meeting me on your mat, you will find my teaching style embodies both as well. Every student and teacher has an authenticity yearning to shine through. Teaching has given me the opportunity to help students explore their inner, and outer workings so they can let their authentic-self take the wheel. For my 200 hr, I trained with the stellar Sharon Tessendori, in the treehouse, aka Barefoot Works. Monica Gharios led me through my 250 hr aerial yoga training. Eagerly I jumped in a 300 hr, here locally, but quickly realized I want to wait and travel for my 300 hr.
Pharann Hoffman
Pharann is a licensed massage therapist, 200hr RYT, and Certified in Sound and Vibration healing. Pharann believes we all are vibrational beings capable of healing ourselves with the right tools. She uses Tibetan and crystal singing bowls along with gongs to facilitate a shift in the brainwave state. Pharann offers sonic massages and sound baths in her hometown of Bowling Green, KY and is thrilled to share her expression of a sound journey with the MYPATH yoga festival. Get ready to relax and enter into the alpha state and beyond.
Pharann is a licensed massage therapist, 200hr RYT, and Certified in Sound and Vibration healing. Pharann believes we all are vibrational beings capable of healing ourselves with the right tools. She uses Tibetan and crystal singing bowls along with gongs to facilitate a shift in the brainwave state. Pharann offers sonic massages and sound baths in her hometown of Bowling Green, KY and is thrilled to share her expression of a sound journey with the MYPATH yoga festival. Get ready to relax and enter into the alpha state and beyond.
Sammy-Jo Hand
Body positive advocate, feminist, social justice worker, and spiritual teacher, I’m all about helping people flow, with equal amounts of awkward and grace, through the ups and downs of life. Connecting on a very human level with humor, love and weirdness, I facilitate different movement, breath, meditation and self-love workshops with the purpose of aligning people with their human experience (whatever that means to them in the moment). Certified in both Hatha and Kundalini yoga lineages, I’ve studied various meditation, yoga and healing modalities in Australia, India and the United States. I am also a certified Body Positivity facilitator and Koru Mindfulness for Emerging Adults trainer, working at the University of Louisville and other schools, helping students realize their awesome human-ness. Collective-care is also my thing. I am involved in a number of white-ally social justice groups. I believe that this here life is not just about the individual experience, it’s about all of us living our best lives. So, my message is very much one of caring for self as well as the collective. Lastly, I’m an Aussie who lives with my partner in a cozy home filled with pillows and cushions in Louisville, Kentucky (we met whilst backpacking India. It’s a beautiful story, one for another time). I do not say G’day or ride a kangaroo. Sorry.
Body positive advocate, feminist, social justice worker, and spiritual teacher, I’m all about helping people flow, with equal amounts of awkward and grace, through the ups and downs of life. Connecting on a very human level with humor, love and weirdness, I facilitate different movement, breath, meditation and self-love workshops with the purpose of aligning people with their human experience (whatever that means to them in the moment). Certified in both Hatha and Kundalini yoga lineages, I’ve studied various meditation, yoga and healing modalities in Australia, India and the United States. I am also a certified Body Positivity facilitator and Koru Mindfulness for Emerging Adults trainer, working at the University of Louisville and other schools, helping students realize their awesome human-ness. Collective-care is also my thing. I am involved in a number of white-ally social justice groups. I believe that this here life is not just about the individual experience, it’s about all of us living our best lives. So, my message is very much one of caring for self as well as the collective. Lastly, I’m an Aussie who lives with my partner in a cozy home filled with pillows and cushions in Louisville, Kentucky (we met whilst backpacking India. It’s a beautiful story, one for another time). I do not say G’day or ride a kangaroo. Sorry.
Sarah Baldwin
Sarah Baldwin is an herbalist, writer, and seeker from the woods of southern Indiana. She is the author of The Herbal Healing Deck, an earthy and mystical oracle deck featuring guidance and wisdom from the green world. She has worked with plant medicines for over a decade, with a special interest in shamanism and plant spirit medicine. You can connect with Sarah at: www.moonflowersarah.blogspot.com or www.instagram.com/theherbalhealingdeck
Sarah Baldwin is an herbalist, writer, and seeker from the woods of southern Indiana. She is the author of The Herbal Healing Deck, an earthy and mystical oracle deck featuring guidance and wisdom from the green world. She has worked with plant medicines for over a decade, with a special interest in shamanism and plant spirit medicine. You can connect with Sarah at: www.moonflowersarah.blogspot.com or www.instagram.com/theherbalhealingdeck
Sarah Balmer
Sarah Balmer is a lightworker and spiritual teacher who is passionate about helping others lead a more awakened life. Through her jewelry, art, yoga classes, and workshops, Sarah loves to explore the relationship between creativity and spirituality to unmask the layers, liberate the spirit, and live with greater authenticity. Sarah holds certifications for teaching yoga, holistic health coaching, crystal healing, personal training, reiki, regenesis past life regression, and design.
Sarah Balmer is a lightworker and spiritual teacher who is passionate about helping others lead a more awakened life. Through her jewelry, art, yoga classes, and workshops, Sarah loves to explore the relationship between creativity and spirituality to unmask the layers, liberate the spirit, and live with greater authenticity. Sarah holds certifications for teaching yoga, holistic health coaching, crystal healing, personal training, reiki, regenesis past life regression, and design.
Shanna Portman
Shanna is a 200RYT, who has been practicing since she was a small child and has been teaching at Eternal Health Yoga for the past two years. She also offers a weekly community class at St. Paul's United Methodist Church.
Shanna is a 200RYT, who has been practicing since she was a small child and has been teaching at Eternal Health Yoga for the past two years. She also offers a weekly community class at St. Paul's United Methodist Church.
Susan Schroeder
Committed to optimal health through intelligent movement, Susan has devoted her last 20 years to a path of self discovery, transformation, & leadership. Her passionate pursuit for modern embodiment of divine potential has kept her reaching for more in every area of life, to expand & evolve into her fullest Self. Susan loves incorporating latest technologies of movement & community building to connect a tribe of humans ready to stand together from the center of their own greatness. Always eager to meet like-minded thinkers and devoted students of life, Susan shares her humor, accessibility, and empowerment with all who desire a brighter future & are ready to be the change we want to see.
Committed to optimal health through intelligent movement, Susan has devoted her last 20 years to a path of self discovery, transformation, & leadership. Her passionate pursuit for modern embodiment of divine potential has kept her reaching for more in every area of life, to expand & evolve into her fullest Self. Susan loves incorporating latest technologies of movement & community building to connect a tribe of humans ready to stand together from the center of their own greatness. Always eager to meet like-minded thinkers and devoted students of life, Susan shares her humor, accessibility, and empowerment with all who desire a brighter future & are ready to be the change we want to see.
Suzy Hawkfire
Suzette Winona Summers (Suzy Hawkfire) is a Circle Weaver, Certified Artist of the Spirit Energetic and Spiritual Life Coach, Mind Body Spirit Healer, Shamanic Practitioner, Ecstatic Dancer, and Empowerment Coach. Suzette believes the best way to learn is in a sacred container where play, exploration, and authenticity are made safe, honored and encouraged.
Suzette Winona Summers (Suzy Hawkfire) is a Circle Weaver, Certified Artist of the Spirit Energetic and Spiritual Life Coach, Mind Body Spirit Healer, Shamanic Practitioner, Ecstatic Dancer, and Empowerment Coach. Suzette believes the best way to learn is in a sacred container where play, exploration, and authenticity are made safe, honored and encouraged.
Tiffany Langdon
My passion lies in studying Hindu Mythology and Yoga Philosophy. I tend to teach yoga classes that weave asana and mythology together including fluid movement and carefully chosen postures to strengthen the body and to prepare the body for meditation. I urge students to practice yoga to develop a deeper understanding of their 'true self'. My classes are challenging but fun, safe, light-hearted and accessible to all levels and I invite every student to be satisfied with their yoga practice as it is today and to enjoy their own journey. You will find my love of music pours into my teachings and I love to infuse my studies of the chakra system and Tantra yoga philosophy into my classes.
I've traveled to far places and have sat with gurus, practiced with amazing teachers, dipped my body in Ganga Ma, danced in holy temples, meditated in the most beautiful sunsets, participated in puja ceremonies and sang mantras during many satsangs. And, this fulfilling journey has led me to here and now.
Join me for a session in Louisville Kentucky or travel with me to a yoga + meditation retreat in one of the most beautiful cities, towns or villages around the world! You will experience a sense of connection with yourself and others in a safe and fun environment that encourages transformation.
My passion lies in studying Hindu Mythology and Yoga Philosophy. I tend to teach yoga classes that weave asana and mythology together including fluid movement and carefully chosen postures to strengthen the body and to prepare the body for meditation. I urge students to practice yoga to develop a deeper understanding of their 'true self'. My classes are challenging but fun, safe, light-hearted and accessible to all levels and I invite every student to be satisfied with their yoga practice as it is today and to enjoy their own journey. You will find my love of music pours into my teachings and I love to infuse my studies of the chakra system and Tantra yoga philosophy into my classes.
I've traveled to far places and have sat with gurus, practiced with amazing teachers, dipped my body in Ganga Ma, danced in holy temples, meditated in the most beautiful sunsets, participated in puja ceremonies and sang mantras during many satsangs. And, this fulfilling journey has led me to here and now.
Join me for a session in Louisville Kentucky or travel with me to a yoga + meditation retreat in one of the most beautiful cities, towns or villages around the world! You will experience a sense of connection with yourself and others in a safe and fun environment that encourages transformation.
MYPATH Organizers
Brenda Cashel, PhD
Brenda grew up in Vermont and moved to Kentucky for graduate school. When she met her husband Pete she chose to stay on the KY farm and help run the business, and they became one of the first certified organic vegetable growers in the state. Over the years, Terrapin Hill Farm has evolved into primarily an agritourism business. Brenda has been organizing music festivals on the farm for about 20 years, and has also developed it into a successful wedding venue. A ballet dancer throughout her childhood and college years, she enjoys yoga because it makes her feel in tune with her body the way ballet did. After practicing yoga outdoors at the farm's music festivals, she was inspired to create an event centered around enjoying yoga and related activities in the farm's beautiful, natural setting. It has been a joy for her to work with Gabriella to turn this dream into reality.
Brenda grew up in Vermont and moved to Kentucky for graduate school. When she met her husband Pete she chose to stay on the KY farm and help run the business, and they became one of the first certified organic vegetable growers in the state. Over the years, Terrapin Hill Farm has evolved into primarily an agritourism business. Brenda has been organizing music festivals on the farm for about 20 years, and has also developed it into a successful wedding venue. A ballet dancer throughout her childhood and college years, she enjoys yoga because it makes her feel in tune with her body the way ballet did. After practicing yoga outdoors at the farm's music festivals, she was inspired to create an event centered around enjoying yoga and related activities in the farm's beautiful, natural setting. It has been a joy for her to work with Gabriella to turn this dream into reality.
Gabriella Gaona
Gabriella is an artist, yogi, & co-creator. Born and raised in Louisville, KY, She is dedicated to sharing Yoga with everyone in her community. Her Yoga journey started at age 16. In 2014 she and her mother, Sabine Gaona, co-founded "The Inner Warrior" an Eco-Conscious Yoga boutique. They also made it their mission to make Yoga more accessible for the community though their donation-based classes. Gabriella has always been inspired by connecting with others & believes that Yoga can benefit humanity in a big way. In 2016 she completed her 200hr Yoga Teacher Training in San Francisco, CA, which helped inspire MYPATH Fest in many ways. Gabriella's intention for this event is to celebrate this transformational practice and to share the many different paths to Yoga (union), hoping to build a more friendly & healthy future for our planet! She is so grateful to be able to co-create this event with Brenda.
Gabriella is an artist, yogi, & co-creator. Born and raised in Louisville, KY, She is dedicated to sharing Yoga with everyone in her community. Her Yoga journey started at age 16. In 2014 she and her mother, Sabine Gaona, co-founded "The Inner Warrior" an Eco-Conscious Yoga boutique. They also made it their mission to make Yoga more accessible for the community though their donation-based classes. Gabriella has always been inspired by connecting with others & believes that Yoga can benefit humanity in a big way. In 2016 she completed her 200hr Yoga Teacher Training in San Francisco, CA, which helped inspire MYPATH Fest in many ways. Gabriella's intention for this event is to celebrate this transformational practice and to share the many different paths to Yoga (union), hoping to build a more friendly & healthy future for our planet! She is so grateful to be able to co-create this event with Brenda.