I am the Founder, Executive Director and Lead Teacher of Rising Lotus Inc. My work and my commitment to health and wellness and how it relates to underserved communities is my life’s work.

I am a yoga instructor, massage therapist and addiction counselor.

I began my healing arts journey by graduating from Loving Hands School of Massage in Fortuna CA in 1997. After two years of practicing Bikram and hot vinyasa yoga I completed my first yoga teacher training in 2001 at The Heartwood Institute in northern CA.

I have taught studio yoga classes, workshops, private sessions and at special events and retreats in California, Hawaii, Kentucky and Indiana since 2001.

In 2004 I was hired as The Assistant to The Executive Director at The Heartwood Institute. During my employment at The Heartwood Institute I was introduced to other wellness practices and I was able to further my studies and hone my craft as a massage therapist and yoga instructor.

I have studied and practiced yoga extensively with experienced teachers and practitioners in the Anusara, Hatha Raja, Iyengar and Ashtanga lineages. I am a massage therapist with more than 800 hours of education and training and in both land and aquatic modalities. I studied aquatic bodywork, WATSU & Waterdance and Thai yoga massage at Harbin Hot Springs, School of Shiatsu and Massage in 2010 and 2012 to 2014. In 2007 I completed the 200 hour power vinyasa yoga teacher training at Frog Lotus in MA.

I have professional experience working as a case manager with mental health nonprofits and government agencies serving several populations, children, women, homeless adults and the dually diagnosed.

I have an AA degree in Hospitality Management.

I was honorably discharged from The United States Marine Corps.

I am currently the Lead Ambassador for VEToga KY.