Have you ever wondered if yoga teachers live in a constant state of zen? Oh, if only! The truth is, I'm in the trenches just like you, working my mindfulness muscles regularly.
Curiously enough, it's my Type A overachiever tendencies that led me to embrace yoga wholeheartedly! My initial encounter with yoga was during my early 30s when I worked in the demanding corporate world, striving to get ahead. I fell in love with it right away.
In the beginning, it was the physical aspect of yoga that kept drawing me back – a welcome relief from the built-up tension in my body from prolonged hours at my computer. I'll admit, I became somewhat fixated on a narrow interpretation of yoga – thinking it was about flexibility and contorting into a pretzel.
Yet, as my journey continued, I experienced the transformative effect that breath work and meditation had on my mental well-being. My practice deepened as I learned other modalities like QiGong, somatic movement and mindfulness techniques, altering my perception of yoga entirely. I let go of the common belief that yoga demanded expensive clothes, extraordinary flexibility, or a specific body type. Yoga, I discovered, is an inclusive practice, accessible to all.
When I’m not on my mat, you'll spot me in the charming haven of New Dundee, Ontario, Canada with my husband, Ted, our dog Vinny, and our cat Jade. Ted and I love to travel and enjoy exploring new places to hike. I also love getting lost in a good book, whether it's a fictional story I can escape to or a soulful read that inspires a good yoga practice. Driven by a passion for living a holistic lifestyle, when I'm not breathing life into yoga poses, you'll find me breathing in the sweet air of living well.
Back in the day, I ventured into the world of business, securing a Diploma in Marketing from Conestoga College. Little did I know, that would not be the end of my educational journey.
I've always been passionate about health and wellness and guess what? It's never too late for a passion-powered pivot. At the age of 40, I graduated from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition as a Registered Holistic Nutritionist. Then, by the age of 50, I added the Certified Fitness Instructor badge to my collection, along with completing my 500 hr Yoga Teacher Certification through My Vinyasa Practice.
Oh, but my learning journey doesn't end there! I've been gobbling up knowledge like it's a feast for the curious soul. I have taken additional courses in Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Yoga Nidra, Yoga Therapy for Anxiety, Somatic Healing and Corporate Yoga. Plus, I've got my trusty CPR skills in my back pocket, always ready.
"I love doing Yin Yoga with Carrie via Zoom at home, where I can relax during and after the session. A great way to 'chill' at the end of the first day of the week."
-Anonymous
"I joined Carrie's Thursday evening class this summer and it was a beautiful combination of yoga, qigong and movement. Carrie brings her fun and vibrant personality to class making it something I looked forward to each week."
-Shelley Cullen Heipel
"Great way to relax after a long day at work! Love these sessions. Would highly recommend it!"
-Melissa Grassi
"I feel so lucky to have participated in Carrie’s Spring Detox Program. I found it very informative and helpful. I learned some great new techniques and have incorporated them into my daily/weekly routines. I really appreciated Carrie’s vast knowledge on nutrition and her openness to share her own tips and experiences. I would highly recommend this program for anyone wishing to improve their digestion and wellness habits. "
-Renee Fink
"My Saturday morning yoga class with you is truly the highlight of my weekend. I love connecting with everyone and so thoroughly enjoy every yoga pose. Sometimes, you say exactly what I am thinking during poses (about tightness, letting feelings flow through, the sensations to pay attention to after certain poses, the buzzing inside... i could go on) I also love the Spotify music, too. It always seems to perfectly complement each pose. So thank you! I appreciate your guidance through yoga, my connectedness with the group, and how awesome I feel moving into my weekend."
-Jennifer Hewett
"Carrie's yoga has been life-changing for me! It has improved both my physical and mental health. I started Carrie's online Saturday yoga classes and I noticed an almost immediate change in my mobility. Carrie's yoga is about movement - and it feels so good!! But she always says - do what is best for you or what feels right for you. The 1-hour yoga class allows me to take a break mentally and focus on doing something good and healthy for me! Carrie's yoga is life-changing and the positive benefits in my life are endless!!!"
-Christine Eckert
"I have a strong aversion to commenting on people's performance - good or bad. That said, on rare occasions, you just meet someone who deserves to be recognized. For me that person is Carrie. I was hesitant to sign up for a class because of all the normal excuses: time, money, Covid, I don't love exercising etc...but I'm so glad I did. She is an excellent teacher with compassion to spare. Her classes are fun and when the instructor loves what they do it simply shines through. I would like to encourage you to take the leap. We have all been through so much. It is time to look inward and try some self-love. Her classes are a good way to start that process. Enjoy."
-Diane Francis
"I just completed a transformative 4-week journey with Carrie, which encompassed weekly 1-hour private sessions and personalized homework assignments. I am overjoyed with the remarkable results I've achieved during this period. My sleep has significantly improved, and I leave each session feeling lighter and more energized. It's as if I've rediscovered a vibrant spring in my step! My enthusiasm for this positive change is so profound that I've eagerly committed to another 4 weeks of this incredible journey."
-Muriel Smuck
"After 1.5 years of working from home and 3 lockdowns, I was embarrassed by the weight I put on and the loss of my fitness abilities. I was nervous to get back into working out and afraid of not being able to keep up and the judgement of others. Carrie’s class was easy to follow, I never felt as if I couldn’t do any of the exercises she did and I felt no judgement at all. In fact, I felt welcomed and supported. Thank you for making my first step back to fitness fun, easy and welcoming."
-Stacy Bergen
"Carrie's approach to yoga is nothing short of exceptional. Her ability to seamlessly blend mindfulness with physical practice creates an atmosphere of serenity and rejuvenation that is truly unparalleled. Her sessions not only invigorate the body but also nurture the mind, leaving participants with a renewed sense of vitality and clarity. What sets Carrie apart is not just her profound understanding of yoga but also her remarkable skill in tailoring sessions to diverse audiences. Whether it's a room full of seasoned practitioners or individuals completely new to yoga, Carrie effortlessly adapts her instruction, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and engaged throughout the session."
-Manar
"Carrie gave a wonderful yoga presentation of relaxing, yet rejuvenating, exercises to a group of over 60 women at a Women's Institute Area Convention in New Dundee. We had all been sitting for most of the day, so Carrie's stretches and tweaks were so welcome. Carrie was confident and relaxed although she had never faced such a large group of 'mature' women. It was great that she gave alternate stretches or poses for those who needed modification. Many of the women commented afterwards how much they enjoyed the movement, the soothing voice of the instructor and how relaxed they felt. It was a great way to end our day. Thanks again, Carrie. Hopefully, we'll see you again!"
-Women's Institute Member
"During Carrie's online Yin Yoga class, she was able to show how to do the different positions in various ways and I was never made to feel like the option I chose was inferior. It was so relaxing and easy to follow. A must for anyone new at yoga, anyone that has injuries or pains. If you think yoga wouldn't work for you try her program out."
-Stephanie Goertz
"Nothing ends a busy day or starts an upcoming busy week better than your Yin yoga sessions, Carrie. I love the connection time with you and other participants before we begin and am thankful for the feelings of deep relaxation and contentment when the session has ended. "
-Jenn Hewett
"I love doing Yin Yoga with Carrie via Zoom at home, where I can relax during and after the session. A great way to 'chill' at the end of the first day of the week."
-Anonymous
"I joined Carrie's Thursday evening class this summer and it was a beautiful combination of yoga, qigong and movement. Carrie brings her fun and vibrant personality to class making it something I looked forward to each week."
-Shelley Cullen Heipel
"Great way to relax after a long day at work! Love these sessions. Would highly recommend it!"
-Melissa Grassi
"I feel so lucky to have participated in Carrie’s Spring Detox Program. I found it very informative and helpful. I learned some great new techniques and have incorporated them into my daily/weekly routines. I really appreciated Carrie’s vast knowledge on nutrition and her openness to share her own tips and experiences. I would highly recommend this program for anyone wishing to improve their digestion and wellness habits. "
-Renee Fink
"My Saturday morning yoga class with you is truly the highlight of my weekend. I love connecting with everyone and so thoroughly enjoy every yoga pose. Sometimes, you say exactly what I am thinking during poses (about tightness, letting feelings flow through, the sensations to pay attention to after certain poses, the buzzing inside... i could go on) I also love the Spotify music, too. It always seems to perfectly complement each pose. So thank you! I appreciate your guidance through yoga, my connectedness with the group, and how awesome I feel moving into my weekend."
-Jennifer Hewett
"Carrie's yoga has been life-changing for me! It has improved both my physical and mental health. I started Carrie's online Saturday yoga classes and I noticed an almost immediate change in my mobility. Carrie's yoga is about movement - and it feels so good!! But she always says - do what is best for you or what feels right for you. The 1-hour yoga class allows me to take a break mentally and focus on doing something good and healthy for me! Carrie's yoga is life-changing and the positive benefits in my life are endless!!!"
-Christine Eckert
"I have a strong aversion to commenting on people's performance - good or bad. That said, on rare occasions, you just meet someone who deserves to be recognized. For me that person is Carrie. I was hesitant to sign up for a class because of all the normal excuses: time, money, Covid, I don't love exercising etc...but I'm so glad I did. She is an excellent teacher with compassion to spare. Her classes are fun and when the instructor loves what they do it simply shines through. I would like to encourage you to take the leap. We have all been through so much. It is time to look inward and try some self-love. Her classes are a good way to start that process. Enjoy."
-Diane Francis
"I just completed a transformative 4-week journey with Carrie, which encompassed weekly 1-hour private sessions and personalized homework assignments. I am overjoyed with the remarkable results I've achieved during this period. My sleep has significantly improved, and I leave each session feeling lighter and more energized. It's as if I've rediscovered a vibrant spring in my step! My enthusiasm for this positive change is so profound that I've eagerly committed to another 4 weeks of this incredible journey."
-Muriel Smuck
"After 1.5 years of working from home and 3 lockdowns, I was embarrassed by the weight I put on and the loss of my fitness abilities. I was nervous to get back into working out and afraid of not being able to keep up and the judgement of others. Carrie’s class was easy to follow, I never felt as if I couldn’t do any of the exercises she did and I felt no judgement at all. In fact, I felt welcomed and supported. Thank you for making my first step back to fitness fun, easy and welcoming."
-Stacy Bergen
"Carrie's approach to yoga is nothing short of exceptional. Her ability to seamlessly blend mindfulness with physical practice creates an atmosphere of serenity and rejuvenation that is truly unparalleled. Her sessions not only invigorate the body but also nurture the mind, leaving participants with a renewed sense of vitality and clarity. What sets Carrie apart is not just her profound understanding of yoga but also her remarkable skill in tailoring sessions to diverse audiences. Whether it's a room full of seasoned practitioners or individuals completely new to yoga, Carrie effortlessly adapts her instruction, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and engaged throughout the session."
-Manar
"Carrie gave a wonderful yoga presentation of relaxing, yet rejuvenating, exercises to a group of over 60 women at a Women's Institute Area Convention in New Dundee. We had all been sitting for most of the day, so Carrie's stretches and tweaks were so welcome. Carrie was confident and relaxed although she had never faced such a large group of 'mature' women. It was great that she gave alternate stretches or poses for those who needed modification. Many of the women commented afterwards how much they enjoyed the movement, the soothing voice of the instructor and how relaxed they felt. It was a great way to end our day. Thanks again, Carrie. Hopefully, we'll see you again!"
-Women's Institute Member
"During Carrie's online Yin Yoga class, she was able to show how to do the different positions in various ways and I was never made to feel like the option I chose was inferior. It was so relaxing and easy to follow. A must for anyone new at yoga, anyone that has injuries or pains. If you think yoga wouldn't work for you try her program out."
-Stephanie Goertz
"Nothing ends a busy day or starts an upcoming busy week better than your Yin yoga sessions, Carrie. I love the connection time with you and other participants before we begin and am thankful for the feelings of deep relaxation and contentment when the session has ended. "
-Jenn Hewett
"I love doing Yin Yoga with Carrie via Zoom at home, where I can relax during and after the session. A great way to 'chill' at the end of the first day of the week."
-Anonymous
"I joined Carrie's Thursday evening class this summer and it was a beautiful combination of yoga, qigong and movement. Carrie brings her fun and vibrant personality to class making it something I looked forward to each week."
-Shelley Cullen Heipel
"Great way to relax after a long day at work! Love these sessions. Would highly recommend it!"
-Melissa Grassi
"I feel so lucky to have participated in Carrie’s Spring Detox Program. I found it very informative and helpful. I learned some great new techniques and have incorporated them into my daily/weekly routines. I really appreciated Carrie’s vast knowledge on nutrition and her openness to share her own tips and experiences. I would highly recommend this program for anyone wishing to improve their digestion and wellness habits. "
-Renee Fink
