OUR TEAM - CENTERED ON CENTRE

Your Centered On Centre Ave Teaching Team

Our teachers all share a love for yoga and are excited to lead you through a knowledgeable, authentic and inspiring practice. Our teachers are all Registered and certified with the Yoga Alliance with a minimum 200 hours of intensive training. Many of our instructors hold over 500 hours of training and thousands of hours of experience to share! We all look forward to meeting you on your mat!

Natalie Carrington RYT, RCYT, RPYT I feel very blessed to have the opportunity to work with so many amazing yogis and gifted yoga teachers at COC on an ongoing basis! As both a chiropractor who integrates acupuncture, and a yoga teacher, I continue to be amazed on a daily basis by the human body. Yoga is a powerful tool for many individuals, as it creates so much body awareness, mindfulness, connection to ourselves and others, learning, and the ability to correct and prevent injury. I am grateful for the wonderful community that supports Centered on Centre Yoga studio!

Jenni Chinski E-RYT, YACEP, RCYT My yoga journey began 15 years ago as a new mom looking to reclaim a sense of health and wellness on all levels. I was quickly drawn to my first 200 hour yoga teacher training with Hali McQuillan. My first 200 hour Vinyasa Flow training was followed by subsequent trainings in Hatha, Restorative, Children's Yoga and Prenatal Yoga. My passion really lies within the self care side of yoga. The practise of presence, acceptance, gratitude and love, on and off the mat. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these gifts through a practise focused on mindfulness, meditation, pranayama and restorative yoga. You can catch me on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at Centered On Centre Ave!

Tanya Ryan E-RYT, YACEP Yoga has taught me to absorb each moment separately; to overcome anticipation and find contentment in the present; to listen to my body and seek awareness of my mind; to constantly strive to be pro-active rather than re-active; to overcome judgement and seek out compassion. Yoga allows for the unique opportunity to become fully aware of your connection to your mind and your body – each time you step into your practice you learn something that allows you to deepen that connection. I have enjoyed getting to know myself better through my own practice and have found it equally gratifying to be able to share in the experience of others.

I first started my yoga journey in 2003 when I was drawn to Ashtanga yoga as a means to restore flexibility lost from weightlifting. Although I liked the physical aspect of this style of yoga, and found it quite challenging, more so was the need to be still and breathe. As time went by, however, it was this aspect of yoga that I would find myself craving: the peace and self-awareness that, through time and practice, I had managed to find in savasana. Many years later, yoga is no longer just a physical practice, but a way of being. I have seen many physical changes as my practice became deeper, and while I am happy to reap the physical rewards of yoga, the greatest changes have come from within. For me, yoga is magical, working from the outside in, we slowly step into who we truly are. The connection between mind and body, movement and breath, is a moving meditation that enables us to become more self-aware, and in turn, leads us to live a life that is more fully in the present.

I continue to be amazed and deeply grateful for all the lessons that yoga has taught me, and am humbled to acknowledge that my yoga journey will be a life long commitment to learning. I completed a 250 hour Ashtanga style training in 2012, and have since trained in Yin Yoga, Yoga Nidra, Chakra Yoga, Yoga Thrive and meditation. I am a self-professed body nerd and spend my spare time reading about fascia and anatomy (no kidding!) and will be sure to share all sorts of interesting body facts in class; indeed, I can get quite passionate about it. On a serious note, my personal teaching style is to teach from my practice and what I know to be true from my own yoga journey. I place an especial emphasis on the breath and body awareness. Modifications are offered so all present can enjoy a class that is consistent with their level of practice. It is my belief that yoga is for every ‘body’ and it is my intention as a teacher to ensure that every class is safe, welcoming and informative for all. I look forward to meeting you on your mat. Shanti.

Michelle Mann Donegan E-RYT, YACEP I first started my yoga journey in 2003 when I was drawn to Ashtanga yoga as a means to restore flexibility lost from weightlifting. Although I liked the physical aspect of this style of yoga, and found it quite challenging, more so was the need to be still and breathe. As time went by, however, it was this aspect of yoga that I would find myself craving: the peace and self-awareness that, through time and practice, I had managed to find in savasana. Many years later, yoga is no longer just a physical practice, but a way of being. I have seen many physical changes as my practice became deeper, and while I am happy to reap the physical rewards of yoga, the greatest changes have come from within. For me, yoga is magical, working from the outside in, we slowly step into who we truly are. The connection between mind and body, movement and breath, is a moving meditation that enables us to become more self-aware, and in turn, leads us to live a life that is more fully in the present. I continue to be amazed and deeply grateful for all the lessons that yoga has taught me, and am humbled to acknowledge that my yoga journey will be a life long commitment to learning. I completed a 250 hour Ashtanga style training in 2012, and have since trained in Yin Yoga, Yoga Nidra, Chakra Yoga, Yoga Thrive and meditation. I am a self-professed body nerd and spend my spare time reading about fascia and anatomy (no kidding!) and will be sure to share all sorts of interesting body facts in class; indeed, I can get quite passionate about it. On a serious note, my personal teaching style is to teach from my practice and what I know to be true from my own yoga journey. I place an especial emphasis on the breath and body awareness. Modifications are offered so all present can enjoy a class that is consistent with their level of practice. It is my belief that yoga is for every ‘body’ and it is my intention as a teacher to ensure that every class is safe, welcoming and informative for all. I look forward to meeting you on your mat. Shanti.

Alexa O'Connor, E-RYT With roots in dance, I've always loved movement and expression. Channeling all my passion into the practice, I pursued a 500 hour Moksha certification in 2012. After a year of teaching that style exclusively, I trained with Alice Hong to expand into Hatha and Vinyasa style classes, creating cohesive and unique sequences with confidence. More recently, I specialized in Aerial yoga, a fun yet challenging hybrid between aerial circus arts and traditional yoga asana. For me, yoga has offered more health, resiliency, gratitude, and happiness. My aim as an instructor is always to hold a supportive space where practitioners can uncover these and the many other benefits of the practice. Hope we can connect soon!

Drena Walmsley, RYT My journey with yoga began in 2010. I decided that yoga would be a great gift to my body after beating it up by attempting to go from a non-runner to running a half marathon in 3 months. Little did I know it was the best gift I would ever receive. Not only did yoga get me across the finish line, it has also strengthened my body and mind in ways I never imagined. What started as some stretching that felt good in my body, ended up being life changing for me. The gift that yoga really gave to me was me. Through yoga I have re-connected to me, to who I really am and what matters to me most. I am more connected to this world we live in, to the people that I love and to what lights me up. Yoga is now a daily practice for me. And I love to share my passion for yoga with others. In 2014, I did one of the hardest things I have ever done. For the month of January, I left my husband, my beautiful 3 children and my comfort zone to travel to Little Corn Island in Nicaragua to take my 200 hour yoga teacher training with Meghan Currie. Living on an tiny island in Central America with 30 strangers from all over the world, immersing ourselves in the study and practice of yoga was an incredible experience to say the least. My training gave me the gift to tap into what postures my body is needing on any given day. But it also gave me the confidence and desire to share this gift with others. For me, teaching is a way of sharing my love with the world. It is my intention to make you feel good in your body, to bring awareness to the gift that lies within each of us, and to inspire others to truly live life and not just exist within it.

Marjan Ruitenschild, RYT Yoga and I had a difficult relationship in the beginning. Certain ‘resting’ poses were very uncomfortable and there were times when breath did not help me ‘stay on my mat’. I have been immersed in the world of fitness for over 20 years. This experience includes previously owning a fitness centre, personal training, nutritional advising, to personal exploration in the outdoor/backcountry world by skiing, hiking & paddling. Yoga has since taught me patience, body awareness and self-love. Each time I step on my mat I feel excited to discover new ways my body will move. I love that it is accessible to everyone – young & old, female & male, inflexible & flexible – all walks of life. Each class guides you on your quest to tap into your inner strengths and physical capabilities. Gifting yourself time and movement is vital to your overall wellness. Embrace your gifts!

Erica O'Callaghan, RYT Each time I step on my mat, I aim to learn and grow, feel and inspire, educate and empower. I am passionate about guiding others to discover the stillness in their mind that we so often struggle to feel in today’s society. I care about the why of yoga and how it can help everyone connect to their mind, body and spirit. When I first began yoga I was only there for the body. I initially didn’t connect with the mind and spirit and it was 5 years later that the mind and spirit aspect of yoga came back into my life. I am forever grateful for that. I aim to deliver a safe but empowering class for my students. It wasn’t until I took my 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training through Centered on Centre Ave Yoga with Jenni Chinski and Tanya Ryan that I really began to understand how to use my body to assist in stilling my mind. I love teaching this to my students so they can take yoga off of their mats and live it in their day to day life. Having the confidence to roll out their mat at home, seeing yoga as a tool for enhancing their life anytime they desire. I currently teach Hatha, Gentle, Restorative, Vinyasa and Buti Yoga. I love the yin to the yang and I personally do all of the styles to create a balance in my own life and to grow as a teacher. We never stop learning in yoga and that has been my biggest learning, to keep growing I must do, I must listen and I must share.

Marci Hewitt, RYT My first introduction to yoga was by a friend of mine who talked me into trying a hot yoga class with her in the city over 10 years ago. I definitely had my doubts but tried it anyway, and it turned out to be not so bad! I started attending classes regularly as I was honestly looking for the physical benefits of yoga as I have always been a fitness enthusiast and never seemed to take the time to stretch because to me it seemed unnecessary. Following a few injuries I really began to see the benefits from a consistent yoga practice. Over time I noticed that yoga was becoming much more than just gaining flexibility and preventing injury, it was also how my view changed after attending a yoga class. Suddenly the challenges we face seem to be much smaller and achievable. I would notice a complete shift in perspective from when I entered the studio to when I left. My body now craves the stretch and my mind craves the stillness. I love everything about yoga, the mindfulness, gratitude, contentment, and living in the present moment both on and off the mat. Practice kindness, stay humble and join me on my mat!

Lindsay Coghlan, RYT My love affair with yoga started 9 years ago when I was given a DVD to practice yoga at home. Initially I thought it would make me more flexible as a goaltender while I was playing college hockey. I quickly discovered the focus & stillness it brought to my mind & strength/stamina to my body. The mind/body connection yoga gives me is what keeps me coming back to my mat. I’m honoured to be apart of such a great community at COC and able to teach in such a cozy, friendly and accessible studio. See you on your mat!

Kate McBee, RYT I found my way to yoga after many years of personal struggles with confidence, different back injuries, and chronic pain. I'd known I wanted to develop my practice and become an instructor for many years but ended up going in some very different directions before finally finding my way back to my mat. It didn't take long at all for me to remember what drew me to yoga in the first place. My practice has helped me find my strength not only physically but mentally and emotionally and has helped to reconnect me with myself. It has made me stronger and more confident both on and off the mat. The sense of calm and peace I find from the body/mind connection is so important to my wellbeing. It encourages me to live more fully and continues to inspire me to pursue my path as a student and a teacher and to share this gift with others. I completed my 200hr Vinyasa Flow style teacher training and my 50hr Yin Yoga training, both through Centered on Centre Ave Yoga. I'm deeply grateful for the love, support, knowledge, and wisdom that our teachers shared and feel so fortunate to have the opportunity to teach beside them (and all these other beauties) in our warm and inviting community studio. I seek to teach with authenticity and compassion, creating a safe and welcoming space for every'body' looking to invite the practice of yoga into their lives.

Maria Arnell, RYT I was originally drawn to the physical aspects of yoga. My practice soon evolved to include nurture of the self and nurture of the spirit…. I am learning, Yoga is a way of living skillfully, in love with life. It is a gift to share. I love to connect with students and share a sense of calm, strength and joy in their yoga practice. I strive to teach well-balanced, empowering classes with compassion, creating smooth sequences that integrate different postures, honoring all bodies. I completed my 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training and 50 hour Yin Yoga Training with Centered on Centre Ave Studio. I have a deep desire to continue my knowledge and practice in all aspects and styles of yoga. I am continually inspired by the students and teachers of Centered on Centre and am grateful for the welcoming nature of the studio – it is a true Gem in the community. I hold my family very close to my heart, they are my passion. I am an animal lover, and a fitness and anatomy enthusiast. I love to dance, eat chocolate and black licorice, hang out with family and pals, snuggle my furry friends, immerse myself in the beauty of nature, travel, spoil my daughters, step outside my comfort zone and live on the wild side. Yoga is a way of living that challenges me, inspires me and helps me grow and flow and breathe through life. …. We teach best what we most need to learn… With Love and Gratitude.

Coming Soon : Mianne O' Brien RYT, Caitie Kruggel RYT, & Dorothy White RYT

~Centered On Centre Ave ~ 205 Centre Ave Black Diamond, AB centeredoncentre@gmail.com~
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