Lori and her daughter practicing double downward-facing dog

Lori and her family

 

I began practicing yoga when I was pregnant with my first daughter, and I loved how grounded, joyful, and relaxed I would feel after taking a class.  I became a children's yoga teacher after getting certified by It's Yoga Kids in San Francisco in 2015 and began my teaching practice by bringing home carloads of my kids’ friends for playful yoga time.  I love to plant the seeds for a solid foundation and life-long love of yoga by helping kids develop strong, flexible, and peaceful bodies and minds. 

When I was a child, I often struggled with worry and anxiety (and still do!).  I wish that I had been able to have the support of a yoga practice then, and hope that by teaching children yoga tools and mindfulness techniques, they will be able to navigate any difficult emotions and/or experiences they encounter.  I also weave yoga philosophy into my classes through quotes, books, stories, skits/plays, and games.

Several years ago, I began incorporating art projects into my classes.  Some of the yogis asked for more of this creative time so I expanded some of my classes to 90 minutes to include crafting.  I try to use natural materials and recycle/reuse as much as I can.  Some of our projects include: lavender eye pillows, weavings, fairy houses, felt bracelets, mala necklaces, tye-dye pencil pouches, bath salts, lip balm, beeswax wraps, watercolor bookmarks, macrame rainbows, upcycled can pen/pencil cups, and wire trees.  The process of crafting engages our creativity and is also meditative, and I enjoy watching the kids’ imaginations come to life through their art projects.

When not teaching yoga and art to children, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, hiking, camping, reading, cooking, volunteering, and learning to play the guitar.