Sylvia first discovered yoga in 1983. That early introduction to the elemental practices of kindness, self-care, and present-moment awareness became a thread that would continue through the many chapters of her personal and professional life.
An educator by profession, Sylvia has taught English at the high school and college levels and currently works as an elementary school teacher. Her interest in the relationship between body and well-being also led to an 18-year massage practice, during which she served as adjunct faculty for the College of Southern Maryland’s massage certificate and associate degree programs.
Sylvia’s exploration of complementary practices has continued throughout her life. She has practiced Reiki for more than 20 years and went on to complete her 200-hour yoga teacher certification, bringing together her interests in movement, awareness, self-care, and contemplative practice.
Sylvia also understands Breathe from the perspective of a student. She has been a Pilates practitioner at Breathe for over 10 years, giving her firsthand experience with the movement principles and language familiar to many of Breathe’s clients. That experience creates a natural bridge between Pilates and yoga in her teaching. Sylvia particularly enjoys introducing yoga to people whose primary movement experience has been Pilates. She understands that an experienced Pilates student can still feel like a complete beginner when stepping onto a yoga mat, and she helps students explore the differences and connections between the two practices without expecting previous yoga experience.
At Breathe, Sylvia welcomes both new and experienced yoga students. Her approach is grounded less in achieving a particular pose and more in developing awareness, exploring movement and breath, and meeting yourself with kindness and curiosity.
In addition to her group yoga classes, Sylvia offers private yoga and meditation sessions when her schedule allows. A private session can be especially useful for someone who wants an introduction to yoga before joining a group class, would like help developing a personal practice, or wants dedicated time for meditation and present-moment awareness.
Because Sylvia is also a school teacher, her private availability is limited during the school year and typically expands during the summer months. Please contact Breathe to ask about current availability.