Allison H.
Allison found yoga in 2012 during a crucial time of transition in her life. She stepped on the mat and was immediately hooked. Yoga brought her a feeling of peace and awareness to the mind, body and spirit.
She earned her 200-hour Yoga Alliance Accredited Certification at Reach/Nature Yoga under the skilled tutelage of Paul Weitz and Mark Lerro, with gentle encouragement from Ceily Levy. To say that she is eternally grateful to all her teachers is an understatement.
In addition to her daily yoga practice, in her spare time Allison enjoys making jewelry and spending time with family and close friends.
She is overjoyed to be teaching Beginner’s Series at Reach Yoga and hopes to help others experience the same benefits that stepping onto the mat has brought her.
Instructs: Friday 5:15-6:15pm Basics & Beyond
Beth M.
Yoga opened not only my shoulders and hips but also my heart to a better way of living my life. I have discovered greater happiness, patience, generosity, peace and grace.
When I began practicing, more than 18 years ago, I could not have imagined what began as a once-a-week exercise class would become a daily routine and lead me to complete the Yoga Alliance approved teacher-training program at North Shore Yoga.
I practice and teach Vinyasa Flow. I love the cadence of the breath – the soothing ebb and flow and the grounding yet buoyant energy it creates. My sequences aim to balance effort and ease allowing students to find their own practice within each class.
I am grateful to my students for their trust and willingness to explore the benefits and joy of yoga. I learn far more from them than they will ever realize.
Namaste.
Instructs: Monday 1:15-2:15pm Basics & Beyond, Tuesday 6:30-7:30pm Vinyasa Flow All Levels
Brooke P.
I found yoga in 2002 during a period of my life marked by a stressful job and the loss of my father. At the same time, I began doing Ashtanga Yoga and soon found that it was the only time that I felt truly present, able to hear myself, and feel what was going on inside my body. A few years later, I became pregnant with my first son and was excited not only to start the next chapter of my life, but also to commit more time to yoga. Being present in my body helped me become more present in every other aspect of my life.
Brooke has multiple teacher training certifications, including both the 200-hour Shri Yoga Teacher Training with Gina Marciano and the North Shore Yoga Training with Sharyn Galindo. Most recently, I completely my kids YTT, I love the influence of positive movement and breath on these little Yogis and I am so envious that they get this life long gift at such a young age!
Yoga is a part of my daily life, and it has changed my mind and my body. I look forward to each day when I can roll out my mat, unplug my mind and tap into my breath and my body. I am so lucky to be surrounded by such an amazing community of yogis!
Instructs: Tuesday 1:15-2:15pm Vinyasa Flow Level 1-2
Chelle C.
Always being involved in sports and physical fitness throughout my life, it was an easy path to follow when introduced to yoga. My excellent pilates instructor encouraged me to try it, convinced I would love it. He was absolutely right!
Twenty years later, because of yoga, I am a better mother to my children, wife to my husband, and overall just a better human being. I love that it builds physical strength, supports emotional balance and encourages personal enlightenment all in one practice. I believe yoga is accessible to everyone, anywhere in the world, at anytime in your life. It is a personal journey that presents itself unique to each individual.
After many years of practicing yoga, I realized I wanted to be able to share this beautiful practice and all of itʼs benefits with others. In 2013 I completed my 200 hour teacher training at Samadhi with Wendy Dahl and Wendy Sadler. Their combined knowledge and dedication to yoga was inspiring throughout the training. I have continued to enhance my learning throughout the years by teaching regular classes in a studio, at park districts, beach yoga, as well as, regularly taking classes and participating in workshops. I am registered with the Yoga Alliance, as well as completed a mini yogis certification program. I will always strive to learn more, practice more, and have more of yoga spill over into my life off the mat.
I love traveling with my husband and girls. I cherish spending time with my very best friends, listening to music, being outdoors in all capacities and getting lost in a fantastic book. My intention is always to have an overall positive outlook on life and try to enjoy each moment.
Instructs: Thursday 11:30-12:30pm Vinyasa Flow Level 2
Cheri W.
Health and wellness have always been passions of Cheri’s. Coming from a competitive sports background followed by years of intense cardio workouts and running marathons, she reluctantly tried yoga to nurse numerous pains and injuries. After a few “ah ha moments,” she became hooked, realizing the increase in strength, speed, humility and patience far outreached the benefit of just “getting more flexible” she thought yoga was for.
In 2013 Cheri became a certified yoga teacher under the guidance of Jenny Kaufman and Sharyn Galindo in a 200-hour program at North Shore Yoga. She has been trained in Restorative Yoga as well as meditation. A chronic student, she continually seeks out workshops and experts to train under to expand her knowledge.
Cheri is a certified health coach and also does small group fitness training with TRX and other modalities. She loves using the trio to integrate mind, body and wellness to inspire students. Her classes are challenging yet accessible, as she guides students to utilize the breath to create space in the mind and body. Her focus is on the precision (not perfection) of building each pose to draw you into the moment, create an imprint of the physical and mental alignment to take with you into your daily life or vigorous activities. She loves that yoga not only offers courage and perspective, but also improved performance and injury prevention.
Cheri’s goal is to inspire others to pause and be curious, to explore their edge without judgement, and have fun becoming in tune with your body from all aspects.
Instructs: Monday 6:30-7:45pm Vinyasa Flow All Levels
Debbie M.
Almost 15 years ago, a dear friend convinced Debbie to try her first yoga class. She had no idea what to expect. She immediately fell in love with the practice and instantly appreciated the mind-body connection. After five years of yoga classes and feeling a huge transformation physically and emotionally, Debbie decided to deepen her practice and knowledge in a 200 hour teacher training at Moksha Yoga Center.
Debbie teaches Vinyasa flow style yoga focusing on alignment and the micro-movements that can enhance the postures. She works with students to use effort to create ease.
To help a student feel stillness in a challenging pose and discover new sensations is why she loves teaching yoga. It is a truly gratifying experience to watch another person experience the benefits of yoga.
For Debbie, yoga has helped her heal physically after some medical challenges and surgeries. She practices Vinyasa and Ashtanga yoga which she has studied and practiced consistently for several years. The practice has taught her to move slowly and fluidly through life. Her practice is a moving meditation which has helped calm her mind and maintain a strong sense of well being.
Instructs: Monday 6:00-7:00am Vinyasa Flow Level 1-2, Saturday 12:30-1:45 Vinyasa Flow Level 1-2
Erika B.
Erika came to yoga eight months pregnant with her third child. As an active runner, she was unsure yoga could provide her all the benefits she found physically and mentally from running.
After a few short months (and a new baby), not only did yoga provide her space for physical challenge, but she understood why so many referred to a yoga mat as a magic carpet ride. She discovered that yoga has the ability to lift her up spiritually, physically, mentally and change her into a better version of herself.
Erika’s classes focus on proper alignment and helping her students find their inner strength as they practice to reap the full benefits of their individual practices. She helps her students discover that every time they practice is a new opportunity to explore theirselves leading to change and growth on and off the mat.
Instructs: Friday 1:30-2:30 pm Vinyasa Flow Level 2
Judy R.
I am so excited to be joining Reach Yoga and to be of service to my community by encouraging others to develop a personal yoga practice.
I have lived, worked, and volunteered in our Glencoe community for 32 years. My husband Howard and I have three grown children with an ever-expanding family. I love to ski and bike, and try to incorporate these hobbies into my travels around the world while searching for wonderful yoga retreats and culinary delights. Some of my favorite places are Italy, France, Thailand … and the list goes on.
I have been actively teaching yoga for 12 years. At this stage in my teaching career, I am concentrating on styles of Hatha Flow and Yin yoga.
In 2001, I achieved the Yoga Alliance 200 hour certification with Daren Friesen and Moksha Yoga. I am currently finishing the 2013 500 hour certification with Sharyn Galindo.
Yoga is an important component of a healthy lifestyle. I practice both yoga and pranayama (study of breath) daily, in addition to meditation. I believe yoga is an amazing tool that each of us can develop over time to bring more balance and harmony into our busy and demanding lives. Yoga encourages us to develop flexibility and range of motion, as well as to learn to breathe more effectively. By doing so, we wake up our body’s natural ability to regulate itself and to defend against deterioration and disease.
My invitation to you: There is a style of yoga for everyone. While some are attracted to a strenuous, athletic style of yoga, others may reap benefits from a gentler, restorative practice. Let’s find out – together with Reach Yoga — and customize a yoga practice just for you.
Instructs: Monday 11:00-12:15om Gentle Flow (at Takiff Center), Tuesday 5:15-6:15pm Vinyasa Flow Level 1-2, Thursday 11:00-12:15pm Gentle Flow (at Takiff Center)
Julie L.
Julie’s best friend encouraged her to take a yoga class when her children were babies, and she was immediately drawn to its healing and strengthening effects. After realizing that her mat was the place where she felt most herself, she decided to enroll in teacher training.
Julie earned her 200 RYT certification in 2007 with Sharyn Galindo at North Shore Yoga and has been teaching yoga to adults, children, and families ever since. Julie strives to create vinyasa flow classes that are truly a moving meditation (infused with a bit of humor from time to time). As a busy parent, yoga instructor, and schoolteacher, she loves that yoga is a fluid and ever-evolving practice that can be tailored to suit any time frame, mood or need. She is a perpetual student herself and is grateful be able to share this amazing practice that has benefited her life so much over the years.
When she is not on her mat, Julie is an aspiring DJ (in her own mind), dog walker, English teacher, chauffeur to two non-stop kids, and wife to her very patient husband.
Instructs: Monday 9:30-10:45am Vinyasa Flow Level 1-2, Thursday 1:30-2:30pm Vinyasa Flow Level 1
Laura F.
Laura stumbled upon yoga while seeking a means to build physical strength and flexibility, and ease pain in her knees from years of biking and running. Along with the many physical benefits she found a practice that inspired the mind-body, heart and spirit.
Laura was drawn to and truly believes that yoga is for everyone, regardless of level of fitness, age, shape or motivation. Yoga teaches us that each time we practice, each moment in life, each breath we take is an opportunity to start fresh, learn, play and explore. Her hope through teaching is to inspire others to open to the possibility of transformation on and off the mat, living with greater awareness, integrity, compassion, and peace.
Laura guides a mindful, slower-paced class that includes pranayama (study of breath), meditation and alignment-based poses that balance, open and strengthen the body and mind. Static holds and dynamic movement are integrated to encourage greater depth of exploration and self-discovery. Modifications and use of props are offered to allow students of all levels to participate safely, personalize their practice and experience the joy of yoga.
Laura earned a 200-hour Yoga Alliance certification under the gifted guidance of Lourdes Paredes and Pam Udell. She apprentices with Gabriel Halpern in therapeutic classes based on the Iyengar tradition. She is certified in Restorative Yoga from Judith Hanson Lasater and has completed continuing education courses in therapeutic yoga with Doug Keller and other master teachers. Her path to teaching continues to unfold through daily practice and study. She is deeply grateful for the opportunity to share the benefits and wisdom of yoga with others.
Instructs: Friday 11:00-12:15pm Basics & Beyond
Laura M.
Enthusiastic and deeply committed, Laura Merlo’s intention in teaching is to inspire others to connect with and express their greatest potential both on and off the mat.
Drawn to the full body strengthening, peace, and relaxation that she finds through the practice, Laura continues to come to her mat with an open mind and heart. After many years of running and weight training, yoga has allowed her to mentally and spiritually be more aware of her body in a way no other exercise has allowed.
Laura’s teaching style is constantly evolving and growing on a daily bases; her vinyasa flow classes include lots of movement, lots of breaths, and lots of postures. She is also passionate as a wife, mother to two little ones, and owner of Reach Yoga. Laura hopes to express her love of yoga onto each and every student she teaches.
Laura practices yoga everyday & has been practicing asana regularly for over a decade.
Instructs:Tuesday 9:30-10:45am Vinyasa Flow Level 2, Wednesday 8:15-9:15am Vinyasa Flow Level 2, Friday 6:00-7:00am Vinyasa Flow Level 2, Saturday 6:30-7:30am Vinyasa Flow Level 2
Lauri S.
I came to my first yoga class in 2001 upon the suggestion of a fellow aerobics instructor who’d started teaching yoga. As a certified yoga instructor and personal trainer for years, I’d believed exercise was about training the body alone, and was dubious yoga had a place in my exercise regime. However, I kept coming back because yoga spoke to the long-ignored dancer within me and I enjoyed moving my body in a way I hadn’t in a very long time. For a while, I struggled with quieting my mind, but came to appreciate the magic of yoga: linking breath with movement not only transforms the body, but the mind and spirit. Through yoga, I have become more accepting of myself for sure, and others. Yoga makes me sweat, but has helped me clear away the urge to sweat the small stuff.
Iyengar states, “Yoga is like music. They rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind and the harmony of the soul create the symphony of life.” I believe each of us has a unique symphony that is expressed when we come to our mats. When the mind, body and soul are aligned, we find connectedness to ourselves and to others that transcends the corners of the mat or the walls of a studio like ripples on the water.
I gravitate toward teaching a vinyasa flow that incorporates power, grace, humor and strength. Keeping an eye on alignment and awareness of how our bodies move in space, I seek to help others discover their flow of prana and lines of energy that exists within us all. I aspire to create a space that encourages freedom of mind, body and soul. A place where the mat becomes a safe haven. Where judgment is uninvited to the party and playfulness is encouraged; acceptance the goal.
Under the nurturing direction of Lourdes Paredes and Pam Udell, I have completed my 200 hour Yoga Alliance certification and gratefully acknowledge the study of yoga is a continuous journey. Each of us is our own teacher, but I am blessed to have four wonderful children, a husband, friends, fellow yogis, my dog and life as my fellow teachers along with me!
Instructs: Monday 8:15-9:15am Vinyasa Flow Level 1-2, Saturday 8:15-9:15am Warm Vinyasa Flow Level 2
Linda O.
Linda has been practicing yoga for more than 20 years. An avid runner, she began yoga as a way to stretch muscles and enhance her performance. When a persistent knee injury brought her running to an end, Linda started taking daily yoga classes at a number of studios in Chicago, including Moksha, Yogaview, and Namaskar, where she started a regular practice with Lourdes Paredes.
Linda earned her 200-hour certification at House Of Shanti at Healing Power and is certified through the Yoga Alliance. She recently completed a master teaching and continuing education course with Judith Hanson Lasater, Ph.D., Physical Therapist, and author of Yogabody: Anatomy, Kinesiology and Asana. In addition, Linda is a writer for Illumine, Chicago’s premier yoga magazine.
Linda was drawn to yoga because she feels it helps us to see the true nature of each individual. Her intention is to practice and teach yoga with integrity, honesty, and compassion. She believes that yoga is a practice that allows you to see infinite possibilities. A message she shares in class: “If you open yourself up to breathing fully, you are opening yourself up to your full potential. Let your breath lead your practice and everything else will follow.”
She is grateful to her mentors, Lourdes Paredes and Pam Udell, who teach with grace, inspiration and intelligence.
Instructs: Tuesday 11:00-12:15pm Basics & Beyond, Thursday 9:30-10:45am Basics & Beyond
Lisa S.
I began my yoga journey as a supplement to an intense cardio routine. After an injury, yoga was my only available outlet. As I was practicing daily, I wanted to know more about the poses and the practice. That is when I completed my 200 hour teacher training at Reach Yoga in Glencoe. It gave me a deeper understanding of the physical and mindful practice, as well as teaching me that yoga always offers more to learn, for the mind, body and soul.
My daily practice has created a time in the day that allows me to breath, feel strong and centered. Yoga has changed my mind, body and energy so that I am a better wife, mother and friend. Its powerful effect is something I love and am so fortunate to be able to share with others.
Liz G.
After decades on the client side, Liz turned her passion for fitness and nutrition into a vocation. A Certified Holistic Nutritionist, Personal Trainer, 200 HR Yoga, Barre and Group Fitness Instructor, with additional certifications in Active Aging, Sports Nutrition and Weight Management, Liz helps clients and students find their own path to health and wellness.
Instruct: Tuesday 5:15-6:15pm Vinyasa Flow Level 1-2
Mary A.
Mary initially came to yoga for physical reasons, mostly to regain the flexibility she knew as a dancer in high school. She continued to practice until she was sidelined by a skiing accident and subsequent surgery. Regaining her practice with the help of many wonderful teachers Mary decided to become a teacher herself, and to share her belief in yoga and all its benefits. Mary received her teacher training from YogaFit, focusing on safety and alignment, and YogaKids for children. Mary is always learning, attending workshops and conferences regularly. Teaching in a variety of settings from schools to corporate fitness centers, her students range from infants to seniors. Mary loves that yoga meets you where you are and takes you places you have never been; that it’s about connecting and reconnecting to one’s own inner wisdom. Paraphrasing one of Mary’s favorite quotes, “the mind and the parachute are alike in that they both work better when open.” Mary invites you to come to yoga with an open mind and promises that you may very well get more than “just” a flexible body.
Instructs: Monday 11:00-12:15pm Hatha Level 1, Wednesday 1:00-2:15pm Gentle Yoga
Melissa N.
Melissa is deeply rooted in and passionate about the the mind-body connection. A practicing Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 20 years, Melissa became a yoga instructor 3.5 years ago. She is inspired most by inspiring others to be their absolute best selves and yoga is the greatest vehicle for this.
Melissa offers vigorous, powerful, and soulful vinyasa yoga classes. While you will feel incredibly challenged physically, you will leave with a deeper, more rooted connection to your sense of self and peaceful center.
Instructs: Fridays 9:30-10:45am Vinyasa Flow Level 2
Mia C.
‘Yoga’ is changing!!! My intent when teaching yoga is to provide an environment where students can create space in their body and mind, find stillness, explore and discover full range joint mobility, and practice being present with ‘what is’. My classes are straight forward, mindful yet powerful, and lighthearted. I leave time for students to let their practice unfold.
I did not come to the mat knowing it would ever be this important to me. I was a tri-athlete and long distance runner, and believe that being physically active my whole life helps to complement and inform my practice and teaching.
I have had Rheumatoid Arthritis for over 30 years and my yoga and meditation practice have helped ease the difficulties of living with RA. I am passionate and compassionate in helping those with physical limitations find peace on their mat through their practice.
I received my L1 (2012) and L2 (2014) teaching certificates through Yogaview and am indebted to Tom Quinn, Quinn Kearney, Geri Bleier, Claire Mark and Megan Dunne Krouse. I have studied meditation with Elesa Commerce of The Deep Calm and taken in depth workshops with Jason Crandell, Rod Stryker, and Maty Ezraty. Most recently I am excited about strength, stability, and mobility in all of the joints. I completed a training with Cecily Milne of Yoga Detour in Jan of 2019 and am heading down this awesome path…come and join me!
Instructs: Monday 5:15-6:15pm Vinyasa Flow Level 1-2, Friday 8:15-9:15am Vinyasa Flow Level 1-2, Saturday 9:30-10:45am Vinyasa Flow Level 1-2, Sunday 4:15-5:30pm Vinyasa Flow Level 1-2
Pam G.
Staying true to the original intention of yoga, Pam weaves yoga’s ancient roots into her practice to create awareness that yoga cares more about the shape of your life than the shape of your body. Pam came to the mat 17 years ago to reap the physical benefits of the practice, but became hooked as the practice revealed many life lessons that have allowed her to thoroughly enjoy and experience life off the mat. Pam teaches an authentic practice that connects the classical intention of the asanas to the physical, mental and spiritual benefits we experience today. With Pam, expect a class with a steady cadence, focus on the breath and food for thought.
Pam completed her 200-hour teacher training through Moksha Yoga and expands her knowledge in every yoga class she attends and teaches. Pam continued to follow her passion for whole-life wellness and became a Certified Holistic Health Coach. Her approach to wellness is rooted in yoga philosophy by helping her clients connect with their deepest heartfelt intentions to feed their body, mind and spirit. Following her own heart, Pam launched her healthy prepared food business called The Bread & Buddha Kitchen to make healthy living truly easier. Find her food at her grab-n-go fridge, called The Organic Food Boutique™, here at Reach and online at www.thebreadandbuddhakitchen.com. You can find her wellness blog with recipes at www.thebreadandbuddha.com.
“Helping people come back to self through yoga, wellness or writing has given me the greatest gift of connecting to people soul-to-soul. Not only do I get the rare opportunity to glimpse into people’s heart, but I have the privilege of watching as they come back home to self as well. It’s a privilege that I cherish and I am so grateful that my journey has led me here.”
While yogis believe that our lives are measured by the number of our breaths, Pam’s loving family, friends, students and clients remind her that life can also be measured by the moments that take your breath away.
Instructs: Sunday 9:30-10:45 Warm Vinyasa Flow Level 2
Pam M.
Pam Miller began her yoga practice 10+ years ago, and from the start, wanted to go deeper. She immediately embraced the physicality of the practice, and soon became hooked on the total yoga philosophy. She quickly immersed herself in the yoga community where she learned the appreciation of a quiet mind, a place to breathe, and a shared experience.
In 2013, Pam deepened her passion by fulfilling her 200-hour teacher training at North Shore Yoga. Pam brings a thoughtful flow to her practice and is happiest when sharing it with others.
Instructs: Tuesday 8:15-9:15am Vinyasa Flow Level 1-2, Wednesday 6:00-7:00am Vinyasa Flow Level 1-2
Paul W.
Paul has been teaching yoga for over twenty years. He holds the Sivananda Advanced Certification of Yoga Acharya and has also trained extensively in other traditions including Ashtanga, Iyengar, and viniyoga.
Paul also incorporates Thai bodywork and Ayurveda in his approach, empowering others to achieve their goals of greater vitality, balance and peace of mind.
In addition to leading yoga teacher trainings, Paul specializes in teaching unique populations including seniors, Parkinson’s patients, the developmentally challenged, and those in addiction recovery.
Paul holds E-RYT 500 yoga educator certification with Yoga Alliance, advanced certification in Thai Bodywork, Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy certification, and has an M.A. in Psychology from the University of Santa Monica.
Instructs: Wednesday 11:00-12:30pm Hatha Level 2, Sunday 11:00-12:15pm Hatha Level 1-2
Rebecca B.
I started practicing yoga many years ago because I was looking for a complement to running, and I loved the way yoga allowed me to slow down and practice a more present form of movement. I studied under Savitree Kaur in Kundalini Yoga in the late 90s, and was inspired by her to transition into teaching, and then eventually found my way to Yin and Restorative. I completed my teacher training at Heaven Meets Earth with Lisa Faremouth-Weber, and continued to study and certify in both Yin with Travis Eliot and Restorative with Lauren Eckstrom. I am also a certified Reiki Master Teacher with additional certification in reading Akashic Records. I want my students to feel comfortable in my class, feel free to laugh and not take themselves too seriously–and most importantly–leave the studio feeling more relaxed, refreshed and at peace than when they walked in.
Instructs: Thursdays 6:30-8:00pm Zen-Yin
Shalaka T.
From my first yoga class eight years ago, I was hooked on a practice that is as much mental as it is physical. Despite having never been an athlete growing up, I discovered through yoga that I could exceed my own expectations of what was possible.
It was this revelation that led me to the path of teaching, because I wanted to share that magical feeling that yoga brings of empowerment and bliss. After completing my 200-hour teaching certification in 2011 through Total Body Yoga in Mundelein, I have continued to learn and grow through additional trainings in Gentle, Restorative, and Prenatal yoga.
As much as I enjoy the challenging poses, I also love the simple ones that bring insight to what is going on in the body and mind. In my classes, expect to see a wide variety of poses and even a few party tricks, but also support, encouragement, and the message that you can take what you learn off the mat.
Instructs: Wednesday 6:30-7:30pm Yoga For Working Stiffs
Shawna D.
Shawna began practicing yoga in 2002 to off-set the physical rigors of running and the mental rigors of law school and tried different classes, but it wasn’t until a trip to Kripalu in 2004 that she found a self-accepting practice that resonated with her. The challenges of motherhood and a full-time legal career made finding a studio difficult, so she continued a sporadic home practice for several years. After another trip to Kripalu in 2014, Shawna realized that yoga was integral to her physical, emotional and mental well-being and committed to growing her personal practice.
In 2015, Shawna studied at Reach Yoga’s 200-hour teacher training class led by Deb Wineman and Paul Weitz and graduated in April 2016. In addition to finding supportive teachers and classmates, she finally found a studio to call home. Shawna continues to work full-time and has been teaching yoga on the weekends since September 2016, but you can often find her attending weekday morning classes at Reach where she finds both inspiration and a sense of grounding that allow her to bring more of her best self to the workplace, to her family and to her classes. She is both honored and humbled to be teaching at Reach.
Instructs: Sunday 3:00-4:00pm Vinyasa Flow Level 1
Steph M.
Stephanie was a lawyer, marketing director, and marathon runner before she discovered yoga. Her connection to yoga was gradual, yet profound. Stephanie began doing yoga as a complement to running, but over time she found that yoga gave her much more. Her physical practice became a tool for grounding, reflection, and greater understanding of herself and others. Stephanie teaches because, despite her initial resistance, yoga is now essential to her life, and she hopes to share the many benefits of yoga with others (and lets people know it takes time and patience- but the rewards are great).
Stephanie’s classes are often vigorous, yet balanced, with equal focus on strength and stretch. Her sequences include key actions with attention to detail–often leading to a peak pose. Stephanie’s favorite time to teach (and practice) is at sunrise. Although she loves to talk students through arm balances and inversions, time to sit in silence is always offered.
Stephanie volunteers at the Cancer Wellness Center, Kellogg Cancer Center and also Midwest Palliative Care and Hospice. She teaches vinyasa flow classes at local studios, corporate yoga classes as well as private sessions. Stephanie holds level 200 (Moksha Yoga) and 500 (Yogaview) certifications. She continues to learn from her primary teachers at Yogaview.
She is registered with the Yoga Alliance at the 200-hour “experienced” level, and has completed a 500-hour training program.
Instructs: Tuesday 6:00-7:00am Vinyasa Flow Level 2, Thursday 6:00-7:00am Vinyasa Flow Level 2
Zoe N.
After 15 years of competitive running, I discovered yoga in 1993 and began practicing to DVDs before my long days in advertising began. In 2002 after the birth of my first child, I enrolled in Rod Stryker’s Teacher Training. I have been practicing daily ever since.
I am constantly curious and always learning from those around me, and the gazillion Yoga Books I have read. More formally I have had the unique privilege of studying with Paul Weitz, Baron Baptiste, Tim Feldman, Paul Grilley, Tim Miller, David Swenson and David Keil. Having completed many teacher trainings, I am honored to teach Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Hot, and All Levels Yoga.
I was never a Gumby and I believe EVERYONE can practice yoga, regardless of flexibility,. I love to break the more challenging poses into attainable pieces and I will always encourage you not to take yourself too seriously and to practice with a smile. I want you to walk out of class feeling challenged, nurtured and more at peace. I am constantly curious and always learning from those around me. I have a fabulous husband and three wonderful kids who to help me practice daily.
Instructs: Wednesday 9:30-10:30am Vinyasa For All, Thursday 8:15-9:15am Vinyasa Flow All Levels, Sunday 8:00-9:15am Basics & Beyond
This Community Inspires Me To Do What I do.
Owning a yoga studio was not on my life’s agenda. When I worked at Lululemon for a hot minute about 9 years ago, they asked me to write down my goals for the year, 5 years, 10 years, and hang them on a wall for all to see (for me to hold myself “accountable” they said). I literally laughed out loud and told them I wasn’t ready to share that. Really though, I think it was because I hadn’t actually PLANNED for anything. I had been married for awhile, was toting around a baby on each hip and had just moved from city to suburbia after closing a couple businesses my husband and I each owned individually. I had no idea what the future would hold.
I have now been practicing yoga for over a decade, teaching for most of that time and have loved every single moment of my journey. I completed a few teacher training programs and have spent many hours since then on my mat as a student, learning something new each and every time. I have met a community of like-minded people, made friends with teachers near and far and have curated relationships that have enriched my life beyond words. And even though I’m wearing many hats these days as wife, mother, teacher and studio owner, I truly try to live my life one day at a time.
I feel so blessed to have been introduced to yoga when I was, and that it has really allowed me to shine. I want you all to stay on this beautifully enlightened path with me, let’s see where it takes us together!
Welcome. Join me.
Laura Merlo,
Student/Instructor/Owner
HOW WE GOT STARTED
When I took over ownership of Reach Yoga in 2018, it was already up and running as a respectable and valuable part of the beautiful Glencoe community. I walked into what I already deemed a second home to myself and 25 other valued instructors. As a team, I knew we could keep alive what had already been successful and thriving and I could add my own creative spin bringing new energy to an already well-oiled machine. My goal is to create a space at Reach where everyone feels as happy as I am to be here. I plan to share my love of all things yoga with whomever steps through our doors. Let your love for whatever it is you do, be so pure and so big that its shifts the energy in the room.
Our Teachers
Etiquette
We provide mats, towels, and props for your use. If you borrow one of our mats, please be sure to wipe down your mat with cleansing towels (which we provide) after your class to ensure the mat is clean for the next student.
We have a water cooler at the rear of the studio for hot/cold beverages. Please arrive at least ten (10) minutes before the start of any class to allow for adequate time to check in, enroll for class, to set up your mat and get settled in the studio.
If you do arrive late, please come in calmly and quietly.
Please turn off all cell phones and leave them in the boutique. Cell phones are not allowed in class.
Please do not walk into the studio wearing shoes; you may leave your shoes at the front (retail and check-in area) of the studio.
Policies
LATE POLICY
Yoga teachers work hard to respect their students by starting and ending class on time. Arriving late can disrupt the focus of both students and teachers. Depending on how late you join a class in progress, it can even be unsafe for you, as the rest of the class may be moving into postures that your body is not properly prepared for. Along these lines, try your best not to leave class during Savasana. This is the final relaxation posture where everyone can soak in all of the benefits of their practice. If you need to leave class early, let your instructor know ahead of time so that she/he can let you know when it’s a good point in class to slip out.
WORKSHOP POLICIES
Pre-payment in full is required at time of registration.
Refunds will be issued for cancellations up to two weeks prior to the date of workshop.
Reach Yoga credit only is given for cancellations at least seven (7) days prior to the workshop.
No refunds, no credits fewer than seven (7) days prior to the workshop.
If Reach Yoga cancels a workshop, a full refund will be issued.
FREE CARDS
Use of our studio, including with a Free Class card, is contingent on signing a waiver of liability.
Class cards must be used by the expiration date.
If a specific teacher or class is specified on the free class card, the card is usable only for that teacher or class.
PRIVATE CLASSES & PARTIES
Pre-payment by cash or credit card is required at time of booking.
Cancellations more than 24 hours prior to the scheduled session will receive a refund.
Cancellations within 24 hours of scheduled session will receive neither a refund nor a credit.
BOUTIQUE POLICY
Returns are accepted within seven (7) days with a receipt, assuming merchandise is unused, in original packaging, and has tags attached.
Reach Yoga credit for returns within thirty (30) days with a receipt.
Clothing must be unworn, and yoga mats/props must be in their original packaging.
Used clothing, mats, towels, etc. are non-returnable.
Underwear is non-returnable and non-exchangeable.
All sale items are final sales.
Allison H.
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