“I believe that it is not only my goal, but also my duty as an instructor to create a safe space for my students. Giving students the ability to consent to hands-on adjustments and have the power to change their mind at anytime is a critical part of my teaching style.  Whether everyone in my class is a trauma survivor, or no one is, I believe reminding people that they have a choice in what happens in their personal space is imperative. Yoga helped me work through my own trauma, and I became a yoga instructor to share this beautiful practice with others. It is not just a physical practice, but a means of learning so much about oneself, that gives us the ability to heal.”

Vanessa Blair

“What if you had the power of choice without feeling vulnerable in a yoga class? Sometimes it’s nice to have a gentle assist to remind us where we should safely be in a posture. Then there are other days or even weeks we would crumble and fall apart at the mere thought of someone assisting us. In the classes I teach you will always be offered a choice. You may choose to be assisted or not and can change your mind at anytime during the class. My goal is for you to feel safe on your mat and the class environment while you practice. I teach through a Trauma Informed lens.  It is always your choice, always your body, always your breath. You may join us or take a position of comfort. First and foremost the breath connection is a priority. The physicality is merely a bonus.  I work with men and women of all ages but I primarily work with pre- and post-natal women. I have been a Respiratory Therapist for 22 years now and work with the neonatal and labor and delivery population currently. I feel deeply connected to helping women safely connect to their own bodies both physically and mentally. The Yoga Flip-Chip is a fantastic tool that puts the choice of touch in the students hands.”

Melanie Park

E-RYT® 200, RYT® 500, YACEP®