Our Instructors

Suzie Hurley is the founder and Director of the Willow Street Yoga Center, which she opened in 1994, and has been teaching yoga since 1981. Suzie is a Senior Certified Anusara Teacher and gives Anusara workshops and trainings nationally. Along with her extensive Anusara training she is an Advanced 500-hour Kripalu teacher. Her 28 years of yoga practice include 16 years of Iyengar study, principally with John Schumacher. She is a certified Phoenix Rising practitioner.

See all of Suzie's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

AJ McIntyre, Anusara-Inspired, RYT, brings a sense of energy and inspiration to all of her classes, encouraging her students to find their inner child and invite a sense of play into their practice. A former high school teacher, AJ found teaching yoga as her true calling, and enjoys learning from her students everyday. She is a graduate of the Willow Street Yoga Center Anusara Teacher Training, and continues to be inspired by her primary teachers Suzie Hurley, Kate Miller, Jenny Otto, Desiree Rumbaugh and John Friend. When not on the mat, you can find AJ knitting in a corner, or kayaking down a whitewater river.

See all of AJ's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Batya Metalitz combines playfulness and sensitivity in teaching the art of yoga. Originally from the DC area, yoga has been a guiding force in her life since her early teens. Batya found her home and place in Anusara yoga relatively early in her studies. Through Anusara yoga she has grown and blossomed in her practice, her teaching and her life. With the close guidance and wisdom of her teacher, John Friend, she continues to transform herself and those who come into contact with her powerful and dynamic teaching.

See all of Batya's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Bita’s approach to yoga is intelligent, playful, and heart-based. She emphasizes awareness, the breath, core principles, alignment, and integrating both movement and stillness to access our true nature. Cultivating a sacred space to open the body, free the mind, and connect with spirit, she aspires to ignite the magic of our existence and the bliss of living this presence. Bita can appreciate all of the stress we accumulate in our fast-paced lifestyles. Her intention is to offer down to earth techniques and ways to incorporate them into our daily lives to help minimize stress, heal our bodies, and focus our minds. Self-transformation and awakening within has guided Bita to teach from a place of love, respect and integrity.

See all of Bita's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Carrie Ganz loves to share her delight in Anusara yoga with her students. She is a recent graduate of the Willow Street Yoga Teacher Training Program and continues to study and learn with her teachers. Her classes emphasize empowerment and joy and are imbued with a sense of creativity, play and freedom.

See all of Carrie's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Cheryl Catranbone, RYT and Certified Anusara Teacher, began her practice in 1993. Teaching since 1996, Cheryl combines loving sincerity, warm humor, Enthusiasm and a step by step approach to guide her students into a practice of authenticity. Each class empowers and encourages her students to deepen their awareness and open to their own unique beauty, joy and strengths.

See all of Cheryl's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Cinema Wood is a graduate of the WSYC YTT program. She is inspired by her teacher Pandit Rajmani Tigunait and continues to study with Anusara Teachers. Cinema loves to travel, especially to Pow Wows and sacred sites. She invites her students to travel in the healing currents of their true nature.

See all of Cinema's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

After experimenting with many styles of Hatha Yoga, Edie found her home in Anusara® . She is an Anusara -Inspired™ teacher and a graduate of WSYC's Teacher Training Program. Edie's love of children inspired her to train with Yoga Tales, Radiant Child, and Budding Yogis, so that she could share yoga's benefits with students big and small. For Edie, the process of yoga is the goal. She believes that for children especially, yoga is a way to share who and how we are, with love and acceptance.

See all of Edie's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Elizabeth is a certified Anusara yoga instructor. Her study of yoga is informed by her work as a government lawyer and her commitment to citizen advocacy and volunteerism. Her classes express her belief that the practice of yoga helps to bring us in alignment with our true nature, enabling us to be more compassionate and generous to our living planet, all other beings and ourselves. She was raised in a meditative tradition and took her first yoga class over 25 years ago. She is also a Reiki master. See more about Elizabeth at her website: rosegardenyoga.com

See all of Elizabeth's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Isis fell in love with Anusara Yoga years ago and is a recent graduate of Willow Street's YTT. She is so grateful to both her Spiritual Master Jivanjili and her yoga teacher Suzie Hurley for filling her life with incredibly bright days. Her foremost intentions are to playfully and respectfully guide students to awaken to their own luminosity and to live from the heart. To that end, her teachings are infused with sweetness, awareness, laughter, and fun.

See all of Isis's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Jen studied yoga for years and throughout her pregnancy, so enrolling in Itsy Bitsy Baby Yoga classes upon baby's arrival was natural for her. The classes were so fun, and she missed them so much when she went back to her job at an environmental non-profit, that she jumped at the chance to study with Itsy Bitsy Yoga Founder Helen Garabedian in 2008. Jen is pleased to be able to share the yoga experience with Willow Street's little yogis and their parents. She continues to study with wonderful Anusara instructors here and on Capitol Hill and plans to pursue adult teacher certification in 2010.

See all of Jennifer's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Jenny Otto, E-RYT500, RYT500 is co-founder/director of Golden Heart Yoga and founder of Body Balance Yoga. A student of John Friend since 1994, she is a Senior Certified Anusara Teacher who is well-known as a master teacher and yoga therapist, offering workshops nationally and internationally. Jenny brings detailed expertise of anatomy and physical alignment as well as lots of creativity to her teaching, and uses sound, breath, mudra and meditation to enhance her classes.

See all of Jenny's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Jessica's many years of training, performing and teaching ballet and modern dance led her to Pilates and Willow Street. She is certified in Classical Pilates technique and continues to study the method with teachers trained in Authentic Pilates. She enjoys sharing her enthusiasm for Pilates with her students and seeing their joy in what the method brings.

See all of Jessica's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Joe Miller draws upon his 20 years of yogic exploration and study of anatomy to recognize and celebrate our endless potential to align with the rhythms of nature and truth flowing within and around us. Joe uses his deep understanding of Anusara Yoga, Tantric Philosophy, and Ayurveda to support every student in connecting to their innate wisdom and discovering their own greatness. Joe has been teaching for over 10 years, is an integral part of the WSYC Teacher Training program, and continues to deepen his own practice by studying with his principal teachers, John Friend, and his amazing family.

See all of Joe's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

John Acton, Anusara –inspired, RYT, brings an eclectic background to the yoga mat. John is a practicing RN specializing in Arthritis and Rheumatism, a musician, a pilot, and a motorcycle safety instructor. He brings a great love of life to yoga and to his students. John has had extensive training in yoga therapeutics with John Friend and Jenny Otto, and was recently certified through the Duke Medical School’s Department of Integrative Medicine as a Yoga for Seniors instructor. John’s primary teachers are Moses Brown and Suzie Hurley.

See all of John's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Jordan Bloom is a Certified Anusara yoga teacher committed to "seriously" playful transformation and the celebration of life through the powerful practice of yoga. Originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, Jordan has been living in the United States for the past decade, teaching and studying yoga with many great and inspirational teachers. Using his diverse life experiences and his playful sense of humor, Jordan brings fun, laughter, and intensity to his classes. Jordan has been blessed to study with many great teachers, in particular, John Friend, the founder of Anusara Yoga has been a mentor and major source of inspiration and growth for Jordan in his practice and his teaching.

See all of Jordan's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Joy came to Yoga Nidra after 15 years of teaching earth-based awareness practices and 9 years as a full-time life and holistic spirituality coach (in her pre-Willow Street days). She has been leading Yoga Nidra practices since 2003, is a Certified iRest Yoga Nidra teacher, and created the popular Yoga Nidra CD, Birthing the Phoenix. www.joylifecoach.com

See all of Joy's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Julia Goodwin first turned to pilates to strengthen her core and back muscles and never stops being surprised at how much the flowing movement continues to strengthen and stretch her entire body. Julia is certified by RSA Studios and studies with Roberta Stiehm Allen and others trained in authentic pilates to deepen her own and her students’ understanding of the work. She loves to see her students grow through the challenges of pilates and encourages them to have fun and surprise themselves at what they can do.

See all of Julia's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Kate Miller is a certified Anusara yoga teacher with over 10 years of teaching experience. Kate inspires her students to radically affirm and honor all that they embody, and believes that we can only grow and transform ourselves from a place of deep recognition and acceptance. Kate poetically weaves through her classes the philosophical teachings of yoga with precise alignment instruction that invites her students straight into their hearts. To learn more about Kate, please visit www.redmoonyoga.com.

See all of Kate's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Kath Meadows brings a sense of enthusiasm and engagement to her yoga classes both as student and teacher. Her love for anatomy drew her to the alignment-based principles of Anusara yoga and it was here that she found a balance between her deep connection to yoga and her love of teaching. Her graduate studies at Gallaudet University and on-going friendships have served to reinforce her sense of commitment to equal access for all. She enjoys sharing her love of yoga with Deaf and hearing students alike. Kath likens the study of yoga to reading a wonderful book that does not have an end. In that spirit she continues to deepen her studies with certified Anusara teachers Cheryl Catranbone and Lucy Lomax and to draw love and encouragement from her Anusara inspired teachers Naomi Gottlieb-Miller and A.J. McIntyre.

See all of Kath's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Kathy Carroll, an Anusara Affiliated teacher, has been Suzie Hurley’s student for almost 20 years. She is a professor in a MEd program, a writer of educational books and musical CDs, and a Vibrational Kinesiologist. A teacher and healer, Kathy helps students experience the joy that comes from integrating yoga into daily life.

See all of Kathy's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Katie Myer approaches yoga from both an intellectual and creative perspective, infusing her classes with mindfulness, a playful spirit, and a connection to the heart. She fell in love with Anusara Yoga in 2006 and with each class, felt transformed into a more joyful, more authentic version of herself. Her classes inspire others to uncover that potential within themselves, while having a blast on the mat. Katie's thirst for knowledge drives her to advance her understanding of yoga through regular studies with senior Anusara teachers. She is thankful for their unbounded generosity in sharing the gift of yoga.

See all of Katie's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Kelly Fisher is a Certified Anusara Yoga instructor, and her teaching is rooted in 17 years of yoga and meditation practice. This practice is the foundation of everything she does -- from her ongoing yoga studies to her musical exploits, from getting the groceries to hiking in the woods. Her goal is to help each of her students develop a similar foundation so that they might flow with Grace in every moment.

See all of Kelly's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Leah began practicing yoga in 1992 and it has been the guiding force of her life ever since. She is inspired by the gentle yet powerful ways that yoga has transformed her life and shares this enthusiasm with her students. She hopes that every student experiences yoga as an invitation to step into the greatness of who they are and to embrace the mystery of who they might yet become. Her passions include her family, her two big dogs, and art. She is a certified Kripalu teacher, Willow Street graduate, and currently is pursuing Anusara certification.

See all of Leah's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Lucy Lomax, E-RYT 500 and a Certified Anusara teacher, credits yoga with keeping her balanced in a frenetic world. She retired early as a financial policy analyst to be a yoga teacher. Believing that yoga is a metaphor for life, she teaches the importance of moving from a position of strength and inner wisdom of the body/mind. Lucy infuses her teaching with a sense of lightheartedness and enthusiasm.

See all of Lucy's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Maria, RYT 500 and Certified Anusara Yoga teacher, is inspired and delighted by her first yoga teacher, Suzie Hurley, as well as John Friend and other wonderful senior teachers. Prior to teaching yoga and becoming a mom, Maria danced and performed professionally for many years. She considers teaching yoga to be one of her greatest blessings. With kindness, enthusiasm and clarity, Maria helps her students find a place of love, acceptance and courage within each class.

See all of Maria's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Marion Griffin is both an Anusara and Kripalu certified teacher. Her first yoga teachers were Rikki Middleton and John Schumaker. She taught High School for 30 years, and is a water colorist and an oil painter. With love, a smile and inspirational words Marion invites her students to look at and enjoy the deeper aspects of their yoga practice.

See all of Marion's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Mary B. Bauer practices yoga nidra to calm and quiet her mind and thereby enable her to bring out the best in herself by bringing out the best in others. She has studied yoga nidra under Robin Carnes for 3 years and has completed Richard Miller's Level 1 Teacher Training.

See all of Mary's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Moses Brown believes that yoga should be a heart-opening experience that is supportive as well as empowering to the student. His teachings create an approach that is physically dynamic, mentally stimulating and therapeutic. Moses brings focus, concentration, and mindfulness to his classes, weaving them together with playfulness, joy and FUN!!

See all of Moses's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Naomi Gottlieb-Miller, RYT, began her study of yoga in 1999 to take the edge off of living in NYC. A graduate of WS YTT Program, she continues her yoga study with senior Anusara teachers. Naomi brings lightness and play to all her classes, encouraging students to invite a healthy dose of laughter into their practice. She is inspired by the joy her students bring to their mats and considers teaching yoga the best gig ever.

See all of Naomi's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Natalie Miller endeavors to offer her students what Anusara yoga boundlessly gifts to her: a loving and supportive community, a reverence for the inherent wisdom of body, and ever-new revelations of the beauty within and around us. Natalie's classes eloquently inspire students to love who they are and to be in awe of who they're becoming.

See all of Natalie's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Olga Rasmussen (RYT 500 E-RYT 200) is a certified Anusara Yoga teacher.Her instruction is enriched by her extensive training in this practice and her deep love of spirituality - a life long passion. Through the simple elegance of Anusara Yoga, she encourages her students to embody greater alignment, and to connect more deeply with their hearts and the spiritual essence of the practice - a path inviting transformation, joy, celebration, and compassionate living. Olga holds a doctorate in spirituality and education and taught for 25 years.

See all of Olga's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Pat Blum, RYT 500, is a graduate of the WSYC YTT, AYTT, an Anusara Inspried teacher and continues her Anusara and Para yoga studies with dedication. She is a life long teacher and a lover of adventure and travel. Pat brings enthusiasm and compassion to her early morning class with the goal of assisting each individual in reclaiming their bodies, and opening their hearts.

See all of Pat's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Rebecca Gitter, RYT, is delighted to share the wonders of yoga with the littlest yogis and their caregivers. After training with Itsy Bitsy Yoga founder Helen Garabedian, Rebecca became a certified instructor for Babies, Tots and Tykes. She completed her 200 hour teacher training in 2006, and recently received additional certifications in pre- and post natal yoga. She continues her study of yoga with many teachers in the area. Her classes create an environment where kids can safely discover yoga through age appropriate poses, songs and play. As the mother of 2 school aged children, her first yoga students, Rebecca understands the challenges of parenting and knows yoga can bring balance and support in raising healthy and joyful kids.

See all of Rebecca's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Regina believes that through deliberate movement, we collect knowledge about ourselves and the universe. With consistent practice, we intelligently become aware of the choices that we have in life, while individually expressing our unique interaction with the world around us. After receiving a BA in Physical Therapy, Regina began studying the healing art of Movement, and has completed 200-hour trainings in both Vinyasa Flow and in Anusara Yoga. She is currently an Anusara Inspired teacher in Baltimore and has been studying the art of Hooping as a form of healing in the body and the mind. Regina uses knowledge from all of her studies to create a safe, fun and healing environment for students. Learn more about Regina at www.yogaonwheels.org.

See all of Regina's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

After years of struggling with back pain, Rick found Willow Street; since beginning his studies of Anusara Yoga, he remains pain free. This new-found freedom inspires Rick to help people find their own freedom, no matter what form it takes. Rick is a graduate of Willow Street's YTT program and continues to be inspired and seriously impressed by his fellow students and teachers.

See all of Rick's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Roberta Stiehm is a dancer, singer, teacher, and student of Yoga living in Takoma Park. She has danced and taught modern, ballet, and movement for Actors professionally, for over 25 yrs. She has had an extensive performance career in the US and abroad including Broadway. She is certified in True Pilates since 2000, with Romana Kryzanowska, and as well as teaching group mat classes, teaches privately in her own studio, fully equipped with all Pilates apparatus.

See all of Roberta's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Robin Carnes discovered yoga at age 18, and it has gradually become the center of her life. Robin is a certified iRest yoga nidra instructor, yoga instructor and Kripalu DansKinetics instructor. Since 2006, Robin has become fascinated by how iRest yoga nidra meditation can help people in all walks of life experience greater health and well-being. Her passion is sharing yoga and meditation with military servicemembers and families, as well as others who have experienced trauma.

See all of Robin's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Sara Shelley specializes in Yoga and Meditation for the childbearing years. She empowers her students to cultivate greater trust, confidence and ease during this transforming time of life. Sara holds a Masters degree in Dance Movement Therapy, is a Certified HypnoBirthing Childbirth Educator, and the mother of 2 boys.

See all of Sara's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Sheree believes strongly in the power of yoga to transform the mind, the body and the spirit. Her fun, enthusiastic and playful teaching style is balanced by her knowledge of alignment, meditation, breathwork and the therapeutic benefits of the practice; all offered with clarity and inspiration. She is a Certified Anusara teacher, RYT, and continues her studies with John Friend, Rod Stryker, and others. She has a Masters in health education, is the mother of three daughters, a dog and cat, and has trouble matching her socks.

See all of Sheree's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Susana Crespo is a graduate of WSYC's Teacher Training program and has a Masters' from Clark University in International Development and Social Change. Off the mat, she explores the geography of global problems through the use of GIS (Geographic Information Systems). On the mat, she explores the inner landscape of the body-mind with a sense of discovery, joy, and freedom. Brimming with enthusiasm for Yoga's power of transformation, she is half-Ecuadorian and speaks Spanish.

See all of Susana's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

Tyagan Scott Attaway is a Certified Anusara teacher and loves the spiritual teachings of Swami Satchidananda. He believes that a good yoga class leaves students feeling better about themselves. Tyagan, his spiritual name, means unconditional love and is a helpful reminder that the key to happiness is to serve and love all life.

See all of Tyagan's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

See all of WSYC's classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).

The Insight Meditation Community of Washington (IMCW) is a spiritual community teaching and practicing Vipassana meditation. Contact Rose Monsell for more information.

See all of imcw.'s classes for Summer '10 (7/19-9/5).