Theresa Reed, Certified Yoga Instructor
contact me at: mailto: innerdivinity@wi.rr.com
contact me at: mailto: innerdivinity@wi.rr.com
I have been practicing yoga since 1999, after my dentist suggested that some of my issues were due to improper breathing. I was pleasantly surprised at how much better I felt after my first class. Not only was my breathing improved, but my achy hips felt relaxed and inwardly, I experienced a sense of peace that was extraordinary. I never realized how messed up my body was from an old injury (I broke my leg at 2 years old. I fell off a couch playing Road Runner – so much for the theory that cartoons don’t incite violence and injury!). Yoga helped me to get out of my head and into my body – and to heal issues that were beginning to create chronic pain. By the way, I did learn to breathe properly (but I still hold my breath or breathe through my mouth on occasion)!
Since then, I have continued practicing diligently and in 2004 I decided to become a teacher so that I may share the benefits of yoga with others. Over the years, I have had the good fortune to study with many talented teachers.
I have attended workshops with Gary Kraftsow, Rodney Yee, Desiree Rumbaugh, Judith Hanson Lasater, Elise Browning Miller, Frank Jude Boscio, Jason Crandall, Aadil and Mirra Palkhivala, Sharon Gannon, David Life and Todd Norian, among others. I continue to take workshops whenever and wherever I can as I know that continuing my training will only help to serve my students better in the future. Currently, I am interested in learning more about Restorative Yoga as well as therapeutic uses for asana.
I started Inner Divinity when I realized that there were no studios that welcomed people like me – eclectic, independent minded folks who are not naturally flexible. Often times, I would feel like a fish out of water - too quirky and not too hot at being a follower (group think is not my cup of tea). I really wanted to belong to a studio where I was free to be me and didn’t have to hide my personality – or my physical limitations. I wanted to talk about chakras, rappers and crack jokes. I wanted the opportunity to say no if I didn’t like a pose or didn’t like to be adjusted. Soon, I discovered that there were others just like me who loved yoga but found many studios to be (ironically) stiff and full of “rules” and expectations.
At Inner Divinity, my classes are simple hatha yoga with no frills and no acrobatics. I like to focus on alignment, meditation and a positive, upbeat attitude. You’re allowed to be yourself here and I encourage community – many of my students become friends as they learn, stretch and meditate together. If you have flexibility issues, don’t worry – props are used to assist in finding comfort and proper alignment in the poses. Classes are purposefully kept small so that no student’s needs are overlooked. With no more than 4 students in a class, I help to serve those who may not feel comfortable in a large setting or for those who prefer a more intimate and caring environment. And guess what? You can chat with your fellow students in class. Often our classes are like a “yoga party” where we laugh and share stories. I find it helps break up the mood and keeps things moving.
If you’re looking for a guru, you’ve come to the wrong place as I am utterly, unapologetically human with plenty of flaws and quirks. If you like to march to the beat of your own drummer, can think for yourself and enjoy listening to Ministry (well, you don’t have to like Ministry), then this is the place for you.
Come and see what it feels like to be spoiled!
Om Shanti,
Theresa
A few fun facts about me:
I have two children and both just completed grad school. Yup, I’m that old.
I often do yoga with my cats as I listen to Slim Thug, Gogol Bordello or Marilyn Manson among other choice miscellaneous musical delicacies.
I’m an old skool punk rocker but I adore rap and industrial music.
My husband is a musician and so is my son.
I could read by the time I was 2 years old.
I love trashy reality tv.
I am a flexatarian – meaning I’ll eat just about anything.
My daughter is a vegan so I can cook some mean vegan foods.
I try to cook at least 3 new dishes a week.
I am a social media fanatic.
Tarot cards are my biggest passion. My main career is as a professional tarot reader.
I planned both my children by astrology. As soon as they were born, I did their charts.
I am slightly OCD.
I read constantly.
My favorite movie of all time is “Happiness”.