Ellen's teaching style is an interactive mix of attentive alignment, fluid movement, and breath awareness. With an established understanding and interest in both subtle body energetics and physical anatomy, Ellen's classes focus on encouraging the personal exploration of postures to create internal space. She encourages curiosity about the practice and often uses the wall and various props to further enhance the asana experience. Her classes are designed to meet you where you are and bring you deeper into your practice. Ellen teaches public and private classes, trainings/workshops in the NY, NJ and PA area. Ellen has a library of classes online with Yoga International. She offers mentoring sessions to certified teachers and excels at guiding yoga instructors in exploring and developing their unique voice. Ellen shares years of asana and alignment practice, continued philosophy study and a passion for teaching in every setting. “Tell me and I forget. Show me and I remember. Involve me and I understand.” Chinese Proverb Interview with EllenWhat style, tradition, and/or lineage are you a part of (if any)? I think for some, honing in on a specific style or lineage works well. My path has been rather diverse. I was initially trained in Sivananda Yoga, earned my 500-hour certification through the Himalayan Institute, trained in Anusara Yoga, and continue to be a student of the Iyengar Yoga tradition. Finally, yin yoga has been a constant throughout the years. What can I expect from your classes? The classes I offer on Yoga International reflect my love of study as well as my love of teaching. In particular, the yin classes are the ones where I share a current reading, experience, or information that may lead people to find more clarity in a posture physically or energetically or offer them deeper insights into themselves. Focusing on alignment first allows time to consciously settle into each pose and explore some of the more subtle aspects of practice. In each class I teach, my goal is to share the knowledge I have gathered, offer options so that the class is enjoyable for everyone, and encourage students to continue with their practice at their own pace. What’s on your mind these days yoga-wise? I love the opportunity that teaching yoga offers—the ability to help others feel better, where "better" is unique to each individual student. Some attend class to become stronger and increase range of motion, while others seek out tools to help access an inner calm. I strive to help all of my students find their own version of "better.” Additionally, my focus is on encouraging or mentoring newer teachers. I love having the opportunity to be a part of the growth and success of my peers, just as many teachers have influenced my own journey. What I am not interested in? Conversations that create polarity and separation. As both a teacher and student within the larger yoga community, I welcome the opportunity to learn the diverse points of view of others around me. I believe that we all have something to teach one another, and I want to continue to further my own education as well as share my discoveries. What do you like to do outside of yoga? I’m fortunate enough to live within driving distance of New York City, where I am able to enhance my practice by taking classes or workshops with many wonderful teachers. I love the energy of the city and occasionally take a day off to enjoy walking around, browsing through shops, and eating outside. I spend time with my family and our puppy, and I enjoy travel. I’m that person with the brochure of the attractions that we “must” see while visiting a new city. I also love to read and once in a while have a Netflix binge day with my husband!
Ellen's teaching style is an interactive mix of attentive alignment, fluid movement, and breath awareness. With an established understanding and interest in both subtle body energetics and physical anatomy, Ellen's classes focus on encouraging the personal exploration of postures to create internal ...Read More