Michelle Keklak

Trainings/Certifications:

I was initially Level 1 and Level 2 certified by Beth Shaw's YogaFit worldwide program. I have also completed the Aiken Yoga 200 hour immersion teacher training program. I am a high school science teacher and assistant cross-country coach too. So, I do incorporate yoga components in my job like stretching for my athletes and breathing practices for my students with anxiety.

My favorite posture is Pigeon. With its many variations (classic, reclined, resting and revolved), pigeon pose offers a stretch in the hips for yogis from beginner to advanced.

I found yoga while working as an exercise coordinator at a local gym. I was all about teaching the hardcore cardio and lifting classes. One of the instructors invited me to a yoga class. During relaxation, my mind would not be quiet as thoughts of the "things to do list" creeped in plus the worry that my children had been in the gym childcare for too long. Then I heard a voice gently say to me in my mind "Why can't you take a break...be still...it's just 10 minutes?" I knew right then I needed to take a closer look into yoga even if it was power yoga!

Yoga has taught me to develop more of a mind and body connection with myself. It has also helped me practice positive self-talk and be at peace more with myself and others.