Currently enrolled in the adult health nurse practitioner program at Boston College, I was recently sitting in an evidence-based research course, when my professor commented on what needs to happen when approaches to “practice” are no longer effective. “You must be willing to kill the sacred cows, or put them out to pasture.”

A neuron fired and a light bulb flashed on. Instantly, the metaphorical reference reminded me of the Zen koan, “When you see Buddha on the street, kill him.” In order to prepare for growth, we must be willing to challenge ourselves, fully surrender ego, question our most deeply held beliefs, sometimes completely sever ourselves from them, look at our relationship to self and others from different angles, learn new practices, and through informed action (re)teach these practices. Then, repeat.

An inspired yogini of ten years, I was originally drawn to the more traditional approach of Ashtanga yoga, and studied with David Swenson. Years later, I became more interested in the creative free flow sequencing of Vinyasa Yoga, so I studied with Shiva Rea. Without a doubt over the years, my personal yoga practice has evolved. I've immersed myself fully in experiencing the joy of asana by cross-pollinating my knowledge in many styles of yoga and learning a variety of philosophical disciplines—including Tantra. At one point, before relocating to Concord, NH, I even owned my own yoga studio.

There is a saying, "The pause is as important as the note." And, through the years, I have found it is the “every day” experiences and people that have been my most informed teachers. Lately, my powerful encounters have been in palliative medicine—working with patients moving through the death and dying process. I’m constantly invited to come fully into relationship with my beliefs, those of another, fear, compassion, the essence of living a life with purpose, and what it means to “let go.” What a gift.

When not practicing medicine in the clinical milieu of healthcare, the "notes" and "pauses" of my life translate into: rehabilitating human injuries in my private deep tissue massage therapy practice of fifteen years, flying hawks and falcons, whipping up a culinary treat in the kitchen, sipping tea at midnight while absorbing myself in words on written pages, wrapping myself up in the teachings of Buddhism and Native American Indian spirituality, celebrating the full moon, instructing cardio spin classes at the local YMCA, photographing nature, whispering to my beehives in the back yard, supporting charitable causes, spending time with family and friends, making my travel destination dreams a reality, and practicing asana in Boston, MA (where I live part-time) or Concord, NH.

It is with great joy that I introduce myself as a student and teacher of yoga to the Living Yoga community. I look forward to meeting you on your mat in a Primary Series or Vinyasa Flow class. I am also available to instruct private sessions upon request.