When I first walked into a yoga class, I knew how my body worked athletically. I started strength training seriously at 14, and had also learned plyometrics, flexibility, cardio, and other sports-specific modalities. My body awareness was already good, so I never pushed too hard in class. The teacher would give an instruction for a pose, and I would ask myself, “Does this feel safe? Is it healthy?” Usually the answer was that it worked beautifully, and only enhanced my athleticism and fluidity. But often it meant that I would carefully go my own pace in class, trusting the body wisdom I had accumulated over the years.

22 years of yoga later, the principles of feeling good; body awareness; and safe, natural biomechanics are still the foundation of my practice and teaching. The joy of the movement drives my work. The principles of feeling good and therapeutic challenge create a synergy that offers profound relief from emotional and physical pain, as well as building strength, mobility, and focus.

Benefits of MindBody Peak Performance and Centering Relaxation include:

In yoga, it is so important to GO YOUR OWN PACE. I meet you exactly where you are in the moment, with whatever energy level you are at, on any given day. Some days call for calisthenics and light aerobics, in addition to yoga, to promote activation and circulation.

I have practiced yoga at the peak of athletic excellence, and also when I could barely move, surgical staples running from my sternum to below my belly button. I have been to the top of the mountain and the bottom of the valley, and everywhere in between. I bring this historical sensitivity to every facet of my teaching: anatomical cuing, constant scanning for alignment, and when to exit a pose.

My method consists of the following components:

• Rest/Priming (child’s pose, cat tilts, modified poses)
• Strengthening 
• Balancing (one foot variations)
• Asana (steadiness/ease)
• Flowing Asana (with qi gong)
• Seated Asana/Meditation
• Restorative
• Supine Stretches and Movements
• Sivasana (optional)

This is good medicine, a good journey.  I will teach you to teach yourself. 

Testimonials

“Dan’s yoga instruction is a great fit for me as an active senior who has little patience for slowing down yet has aches & pains associated with aging. He keeps his classes interesting by implementing different yet challenging movements while addressing my limitations. Since starting Dan’s classes, I have developed flexibility that was much needed.”

Marietta, GA

“I feel lucky that I found Dan, being treated for breast cancer & having side effects from the medicine left me achy, stiff & inflexible. I was totally frustrated & feeling limited in my movements & daily activities. Dan’s calming, soothing voice & manner has encouraged me to keep focusing on self care, while listening to my body. Dan will tailor the sessions to your needs & encourages you to make the practice your own, to maintain safety while still challenging yourself. I have found that because I feel better after each session I look forward to the next one. The results are slow but cumulative. The techniques & poses can be used throughout the day & can be practiced easily with little or no equipment. Dan is very encouraging in a quiet way. He is punctual, professional & knowledgeable about the practice. Dan’s style allowed me to cajole my husband into starting yoga as well & my husband’s flexibility has increased.  My husband is starting to practice on his own after a tiring day at work. Even though my husband & I have different levels of flexibility Dan can teach us together, modifying the practice as we go along.  I would highly recommend Dan to anyone starting or continuing with yoga.“

– B. R. J.