Yoga: A Work-In of Breath. Balance. Connection.
The journey within...
I began my journey with yoga long before I knew what it was called. I have been a lifelong explorer of all things athletic, which led me to playing collegiate level field hockey. In many ways, I was always acutely aware of the connection between mind and body. However, I practiced the principals and deeper aspects of yoga far longer than I had realized. After years of experimenting with Pilates, Gyrotonics, breathwork and Tai Chi, I came to my asana practice in 2007 and everything changed. In many ways, yoga is the medicine that helped heal me from the inside out.
I am formally trained in Hatha yoga through Integral Yoga at the ashram in Virginia. I also trained specifically in Children's and Teen yoga. I continued my studies in Bali, Indonesia with School Yoga Institute, where I acquired more Hatha training as well as Vinyasa Flow. I enjoy teaching all levels of yoga, especially deep meditative Hatha flows, with an emphasis on guided relaxation and meditation. I believe that at the heart of yoga is the devotion to Self. Once you connect with your breath, the movements merge body, mind and spirit. This is where the healing begins. Yoga, as an asana practice, is for every body, without limits.
I enjoy creating specific classes for children and teens. In my teen classes, I incorporate mindfulness, positive self-expression and stress reduction techniques. My background as a classroom teacher informs the work I do with youth. I see each individually holistically and work with them to create a safe, creative and fun environment. I work with groups as well as privately with children as young as 4 years old. Please contact me for more information.
Maura is a child whisperer! I had been trying to get my daughter interested in Yoga and to practice along with me for 2 years with no results. 15 minutes with Maura and she was giving it a shot! Not only did Maura help my daughter stretch and begin to learn about Yoga, with fun, age-appropriate props, but after spending time with Maura I also began to see my daughters ability to self-soothe and her concentration improve! Maura has a gentle and engaging energy to which children respond so well. I recommend her class, well worth it! –Tiffany Lamb
Maura is amazing! My step-daughter is sure that she's made of magic, and I am so impressed by the talent, patience, energy and passion Maura brings with her to each class. Her calm, pure energy relaxes and encourages the kids to engage in a thoughtful and meaningful manner. They show up to her class wild and raucous, and leave calm and peaceful, saying “peace begins with me.” The transformation is wonderful! Maura's wonderful energy is truly a gift, and I am thankful that she has shared it with us. ~Windy McKinney, Waynesville, NC
Toddler Yoga: Story Time!