About

I am an award-winning teacher and a survivor of childhood emotional neglect. I know what it’s like to struggle with self-doubt and blame yourself first for everything.

The most powerful therapy for me has been movement. Especially a mindful dance fitness class called NIA (Now I Am). A sensory practice, NIA taught me how to sense my body, be present in the moment, and listen to my body’s voice. By embracing my body, I embraced my personal uniqueness.

Today as a NIA teacher, I create a safe, shame-free space where participants can move their way, access the joy of movement, self-discover, and self-transform.

By building mental health and mindfulness alongside physical fitness, my classes make you more resilient - and resilience is more important now than ever.

NIA is high-energy but low-impact, suitable for all fitness levels. No talent or experience required. Even if you’re the worst dancer in the world, it doesn’t matter. If you have a body, can move at all, and are ready to embrace your uniqueness, you can enjoy and benefit from my classes!

Trainings and Academic Degrees

• 2nd Degree Black Belt in NIA Technique mindful dance fitness

• Franklin Method

• Grief Yoga

• Trauma-Informed Movement Teaching

• NIA and Trauma

• Anatomy Trains in Motion

• Race Literacy

• Anti-Racism for Wellness Professionals

• B.F.A., Film

• M.A., English

• Ph.D., Rhetoric and Composition

My education enriches my movement teaching in many ways. Most importantly, it allows me to imbue movement with meaning. I craft yearlong programs that use movement as a vehicle for lifelong learning. Every class has a focus, and every class focus relates to the focus of the year. By taking my classes and reading my blog posts, you will take a learning journey that will benefit you physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.