Each of our Cultivate teachers is unique - as is every student who we serve.

We are here as spaceholders - here to support you as you cultivate your unique yoga journey.

Together we have a comprehensive array of knowledge and countless hours of teaching experience to help guide you on your path toward self-love, acceptance and empowerment.

We believe in the healing potential of yoga because we have all been witness to it ourselves.

Meet your guides!

These kind souls serve in-studio at Cultivate AVON , Cultivate LAKEWOOD and Cultivate WATERLOO.

click on the names below to learn more about these amazing humans

ALANA

WANG

RYT 200

Compassionate, Grounded, Curious, Steady, Generous

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I began practicing yoga as a teen at the local recreation center and quickly fell in love with the practice. While my practice has fluctuated throughout the years, yoga has found me in a variety of different ways throughout my life to help me grow.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I began my teaching journey in 2025. I completed the 200 hour yoga teacher training with Jen Rae Goetchius of Ashtanga Hub at Cultivate Yoga.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision Cultivate yoga as a space that is safe and welcoming to all. Quality yoga classes are often treated as a luxury and priced in a way that excludes a great portion of the population. The mission of Cultivate understands that yoga should be available to anyone willing to learn, and supports this by making practice purely donation based with modalities to suit a variety of seekers. I see Cultivate setting the standard for accessibility and inclusivity, providing high quality yoga classes to everyone and fostering a community of members who live the principles of yoga. 

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga allowed me to experience strength and safety in my body. It has brought a sense of peace that transcends the day to day. Yoga has helped me to find a way to safely connect my body, mind, and spirit.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Aside from yoga, food is one of the greatest sources of joy in my life. Through food I am able to find creativity, connection, culture, and community. 

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

 I began practicing yoga in 2019 — though looking back, the practice had been finding me long before I had a name for it.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I received my 200-hour teaching certification in January 2026 during a 21-day yoga immersion retreat — an experience that was equal parts rigorous and transformative.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

By showing people there is more to yoga than asanas. The physical practice is a doorway — and I believe Cultivate has the vision and the community to help people walk all the way through it.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Steadiness. Peace of mind. A deeper spiritual depth I didn't know I was looking for. Yoga gave me a foundation I can stand on no matter what's happening around me.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Connection — with others, with myself, and with the natural world. Helping people become more aware of who they are lights me up. So does spending extended time camping and being in nature, away from the noise.

ALLISON

CARUSO

RYT 200

Truthful, Loyal, Passionate, Spiritual, Cacao Lover

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I found yoga in 2014-2016 with various yoga teacher trainings.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

• 2015 completed 200-hr Hatha Yoga Teacher Training at Puma Yoga. 

•   2016 completed 200-hr KRI Level 1 Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training. Shortly after training I began to share this passion with others.

• 2018 completed a 200-hr training covering Hatha, Vinyasa, Kundalini Yoga and Meditation with Dawn Schroeder, Pranaverdana.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

As a teacher and a continuous student, using yoga and music I wish to bring awareness and self love to others so that personal growth may expand into the community and the outer world.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Self discovery and healing on many levels.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

My loving husband and his continuous support.

AMANDA

HITE

SHE/HER

RYT 200

Mindful, Centered, Understanding, Adventurous, Kind

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I came to yoga in 2015 for exercise and stayed for the peace.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

Yoga helped with my anxiety so much  it inspired me to share with others in 2017.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY? 

I envision Cultivate Yoga as a space to nurture, to connect, and as a space to support each other on journeys towards healing, growth, and peace.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga has helped me cultivate a sense of stillness within.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Delicious food and adorable animals bring me joy! Nothing is better than snugs from my cat, Fidel Catstro, Bindi the chihuahua, or my fluffy chickens.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I started yoga as a way to incorporate stretching into my cycling and running route. I read an article about how yoga increases strength, flexibility and helps reduce the risk of injuries. So, I bought a few yoga DVDs. I remember thinking yoga was slow, boring and why couldn’t I touch my toes in a forward fold. At this stage in my life, I was all about the “need for speed” - not realizing I was really running from my problems. A co-worker invited me to a Yoga in the Park event, my first live yoga class. Afterwards she recommended I try a hot power yoga class. I was hooked, that was back in 2012.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

Deciding to become a yoga teacher was a long journey for me. I've always encouraged and brought friends to classes with me but never really considered becoming a teacher, I liked being the student. On my 50th birthday, I thought about what truly makes me happy and how could I share that happiness. A month later I enrolled in Yoga Teacher Training at Modern Yoga in Strongsville, Ohio and completed August 2020. After a decade of practicing yoga, I want to spend the next decade teaching others what yoga brings to my life.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY? 

I envision Cultivate Yoga Space providing a safe, supportive and accepting community for everyone. A place to learn and practice yoga, make friends and generate happiness.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga taught me to listen to my mind and body but most importantly to breathe. By listening to my whole self I accept my limitations (letting it go), explore my edge (going for it) and live in the moment. My yoga truly became a practice when I learned that my breath will get me through life on and off my mat. Yoga makes me a better person - full of peace, love and joy.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Being outside hiking, camping, exploring new places and spending quality time with family.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I attended my first Yoga class in 2000 when I was in college perusing my degree in Health Science. I instantly fell in love with the beautiful mind body connection of this ancient practice. I travelled to Austria with my yoga teacher Bobbi Holiday and the Cultural Studies Academy in 2002 where I learned about the medical spas of Germany and Austria.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I received my CYT-200 in 2017 by the lovely Kimberly Payne of Gathering Tree Yoga. Yoga teacher training was such a turning point in my life. I feel it enabled me to come into my authentic self.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision Cultivate Yoga Space as a safe, warm, excepting, loving space to be able to discover more of about oneself in not only the physical body, but the emotional and spiritual one as well. I envision Cultivate becoming a model of how donation based Yoga can work, and excel. I see it expanding beyond one physical space, but into several spaces: places of work, places of worship, hospitals, community centers and beyond.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga has cultivated inside me the power to follow my path, the courage to take steps to do what I know deep down is my true calling.

Yoga has taught me how to listen to my inner voice, it has cultivated self acceptance, unconditional love, unattachment, and a deep connection to the Divine.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Besides Yoga, The main thing that cultivates joy in my life is my family. I am blessed to have two beautiful children and a loving supportive husband. Other was I cultivate joy are hiking, dancing, hooping, and learning more about the human body.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

In college a friend talked me into going to a class with her and I've been hooked ever since. Initially, I only practiced Ashtanga, but twenty years later my practice has evolved and draws inspiration from many different methods of yoga beyond the physical.

I completed my training in 2015 with Marni Task. Marni is a certified Jivamukti teacher. Inspired by Anusara Yoga she developed a training that infused Anusara & Jivamukti yoga methods. I am a proud certified Jivasara Yoga teacher with the best of both worlds! I have trained with my teachers' teachers: Jivamukti Yoga founders Sharon Gannon and David Life. I am in the middle of my 300hr certification with international teacher Janet Stone. I am also an advanced bodyworker specializing in Thai Massage.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

 After I began practicing regularly and noticed a difference in my mood I wanted to share that feeling with everyone!

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

My mission is to lead an accessible class where everyone feels empowered and at home in their body. I envision holding space for a community seeking a deeper, more meaningful spiritual experience. I will integrate bhakti yoga into every class. When we sing together it connects us on the deepest level and is said to be the fastest way to enlightenment.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU?

Higher purpose. I feel a deep connection to something bigger than all the hustle and bustle of our daily drama. Yoga has given me inner confidence and trust in the universe.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

My animals. I have two Australian Shepherds, Leroy and Jasper and a super senior black cat named Thomas.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I began cultivating my practice as a teen at 15 years old in 2014  

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I began helping other cultivate their practice at 23 in 2022 

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision Cultivate yoga serving our community through connection with the students as a teacher, fellow yoga practitioner, and seeking common interests to make relationships grow and flourish.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga has helped cultivate the understanding of stillness and just “being” within myself. Through every wave of change good,bad,ugly I trust it all through stillness. The biggest lesson I have taken from yoga.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

The one thing that cultivate joy in my life outside of yoga is racing. Running has been my sport since 10. I have never stopped and have zero plans of stopping.

ASHLEY

BENTLEY

RYT 200

.

BETH

MILLER

RYT 200

Calm, Passionate, Caring, Creative, Sincere

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I began my yoga practice in 2021 at the height of the pandemic initially as a means to improve my overall health and wellness. At that time I found it very difficult to manage raising my children in a safe space during such a chaotic time. I had this realization that "no one was coming to save us" and most everything was out of my control. This was the beginning of the "unraveling". In order to get through it, I began to understand that the changes needed to occur with mySELF.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

My practice was solo, at home, until the end of 2023 when I learned it was time to find a community and share in this space. Even though I practiced at home, loved ones around me began to take notice of the changes I was making physically, mentally,emotionally, and spiritually. Some thought positively of it, others did not. The ones that thought in the former, wanted to know what I was doing differently and even asked about joining some online yoga classes/challenges/programs with me. 

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision the Cultivate community greatly expanding. Many people are starving for spaces for positive and uplifting interaction and community. Spaces of inclusivity/acceptance, healing, to nurture and elevate humanity. Yoga is a catalyst for this healing on a grand scale, and more and more people are beginning to realize this. In order for this to happen, more exposure needs to happen. With the rapid advancement of technology/AI, considering online offerings may be something to consider as well as ways to stay connected outside of attending classes or events in person. I really like the recent addition of Sunday community meditation via google meet. Maybe a podcast!?!?!

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga has helped to cultivate healing, love, courage, acceptance, compassion, discipline, and peace within me. 

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

I have learned this later in life, but I get so much joy in adventure and trying new things- doing things that I once thought I couldn't do! Being in nature and raising my children 🩷

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I found yoga in the mid 90s, when a friend took me to a gentle Hatha practice at a turning point in my life. I found myself crying by the end of the practice, and it was then that I knew the power of yoga for releasing emotions, and knew that I was hooked. However, my 20s got in the way and I did not practice regularly until the early 2000s. I've been cultivating the practice ever since, and forevermore.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I started teaching in November 2021 in high schools and private classes for anyone that would come, and quickly started a nonprofit, SeedYoga, to continue to spread the benefits of yoga to underserved populations and teens. I started teaching studio classes last year. I love witnessing the shifts that occur throughout one's practice.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

Cultivate Yoga has created a community that supports each other with respect and kindness sharing these wonderful gifts, and that can reach so far outside the circle to the entire geographical community.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga has healed so many things within me, helped me find calm in moments of unrest, helped me to see the oneness when it is hard to see. Yoga is life changing in all the beautiful ways.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

One? I'm too indecisive for one. :-) My family, hikes in the woods and mountains, watching clouds - especially while floating on water, smiles and hugs, friends, good food, music and sound, contrast of sunlight and shadows.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I took my first yoga class in 2007 right after having my first baby, and I have been in love with the practice ever since! Yoga supported me as a new mom and has kept me calm through the storm of various life events that followed.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I graduated from 200-hr Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) in 2014, Yoga Tune Up Level 1 in 2015 and completed my 300-hr YTT in 2021. I love teaching yoga (almost as much as I love being a student)! One of my goals is to encourage yoga enthusiasts to become yoga teachers!

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY? 

I’d like to see Cultivate provide yoga (including meditation and mindfulness) to new communities and under-represented demographics. I’d also like to see us bring yoga to unique and beautiful spaces — demonstrating that yoga can be practiced by anyone, anywhere.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

For me, yoga has helped cultivate a sense of inner peace, a feeling of comfort in my own skin. Yoga has healed and continues to heal me. It has made me better, physically and mentally. It has made me present. After a yoga class, I reset and I’m ready to go!

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Time and travel with the people I love most. Doesn’t matter where in the world, as long as I’m with them, I’m home.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I began practicing yoga at 17 to help relieve discomfort from scoliosis. Over time, my curvature lessened, and I discovered more mobility in my back along with a noticeable increase in my overall energy.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

In 2017, I began sharing my practice with others both in studio spaces and online.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision it as a welcoming, grounding, and uplifting space where people can show up exactly as they are. A place that fosters both personal growth and real connection—where movement, breath, and community come together to support healing, joy, and a genuine sense of belonging.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU?

Yoga has helped me cultivate awareness, resilience, and compassion—for myself and others. It’s taught me how to slow down, stay present through challenges, and reconnect to gratitude, even during heavier seasons.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

My connection to my family and my community.

COURTNEY

DONOHOE

SHE/HER

RYT 200

Curious, Joyful, Reflective, Thoughtful, Loving

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

As a former dancer, I have dabbled in yoga throuhgout my adult life because it allowed me to move my body in ways that felt comfortable and familiar. However, I fully came into my practice with consistency when I moved back to Cleveland in 2018.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

March of 2025.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision CY being a place where people feel safe to explore—safe to try new things, safe to slow down, and safe to show up exactly as they are. It is a home for connection, where folks are met with encouragement rather than expectation, and where their wellbeing is held with genuine care.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU?

Yoga has helped me cultivate an inner spaciousness, a clearer, steadier sense of self that isn't so easily shaken by the noise of the world. Through the rhythm of breath and movement, it has taught me how to return to presence again and again, even when my mind wants to rush ahead or hold on to what has already passed. Perhaps most importantly, yoga has helped me deepen my empathy for self and others. By learning to meet my own body and mind with patience and gentleness, I've grown more capable of offering that same compassion to others. Yoga has become, for me, a practice of seeing--seeing myself more clearly, and seeing others with greater understanding and care. Yoga has given me a personal anchor and a new pathway for teaching and learning, one rooted in connection, curiosity, and care.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Reading and learning new things; my cat named Muggles; spending time with my husband; traveling.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

In 2008 with Marcia Camino of Pink Lotus Yoga in Lakewood, she was teaching out of her house and I did a beginners workshop with her and was instantly hooked on yoga and how it helped my focus, sleep, and getting out of my head and into my body.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

In 2012, I started teaching in Chicago at the Streeterville Corepower Studio. I moved back to Cleveland in 2015 and taught Yoga Sculpt at 3 Sisters & other studios on the westside of Cleveland until I became part of the Cultivate family. I love this tight knit community of yogis and teaching them is what gives me purpose.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY? 

I want to help facilitate a grounded and connected community that shows up for one another.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

It's given me inner peace, a sense of purpose in my life, and something that I can always practice that keeps me humble even as I grow as a teacher. I think yoga can be so much more than a series of movements synced to breath.  To me it’s a life-force you can take off your mat to heal, grow, create, connect, and love in new ways.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Being in nature.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I began cultivating my yoga practice in 2018. I was battling with depression and anxiety and didn't have the tools to manage life challenges and obstacles. I discovered yoga and fell in love with the way it made me feel. Yoga helped me to calm and relax my mind, guiding me towards a deep sense of inner peace I had been longing for. My yoga practice is how I began to heal my wounds and work towards becoming a better human.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I earned my 200hr yoga teacher certification in 2023 and have been guiding others on the path of greater ease ever since. 

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision Cultivate serving our community by aligning with its values of keeping yoga accessible for all. Yoga really should be free for everyone and I never want a price point to stop someone from receiving the healing modalities they need.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU?

Yoga has helped me cultivate a deep sense of community and togetherness. Yoga has helped me to honor each connection made between teacher and students.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Other than yoga, my daughter cultivates the most joy in my life. Being her mom has made me more compassionate towards the world around me and overall a better human being. I have more patience and understanding. She is the funniest person that I know and there is never a dull moment with her around.

ERIN

SONENSTEIN

SHE/HER

RYT 200

Curious, Welcoming, Thoughtful, Excited, Grateful

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I took my first vinyasa class at Harmony Yoga in Willoughby on March 2, 2011 and was hooked ever since! 

I received my certification on 9/15/2015 from Diana Vitantonio’s Soul Activist YTT program. 

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I received my teacher certification in 2015 and have taught some classes for friends, but I am really looking forward to teaching in a way that lets students find what feels good in their body, while building strength and moving intentionally.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY? 

I envision Cultivate Yoga as a space in the community where yoga is accessible to everybody and supportive of every body.  As a donation-based studio, Cultivate removes some of the barriers to joining a class, giving all students an opportunity to feel good in their bodies, and learn the practice of yoga - both on and off the mat. 

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga has cultivated so much in me over the years and continues to do so with each practice.  I have seen an evolution of self-acceptance and appreciation, the ability to sit with hard things (both on and off the mat), more compassion for myself and others, the ability to recognize the difference between pain and discomfort (both physically and emotionally) - and learning how to adapt to both.  Yoga has also cultivated new friendships and deepened existing connections, building a network of people who encourage, support, and celebrate in life’s wins - big or small.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Entertaining the people I love with themed parties. 

EVAN

SCHARFELD

HE/HIM

RYT 200

Sharer, Learner, Creator, Hugger, Explorer

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I found yoga in 2015 and fell in love with the practice during my very first class.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I received my RYT200 certification from Omnipresent Yoga/Carrie Treister in 2017 and currently serve the community through Cultivate Yoga.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY? 

I envision Cultivate Yoga helping people in the underserved community find, accept and empower themselves through the practice of yoga. Our studios can be a sanctuary for anyone who wishes to be part of an amazing community while exploring their own path through this life.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga has taught me to love and accept myself and my unique path through this life. My yoga extends beyond the mat and has brought me balance, ease and truth. It is a practice I believe in and one that I absolutely love to share with others.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

So many things bring me joy in this life: my amazing kiddos, exploring nature, all things creative, warm hugs & meaningful moments with other humans =)

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I began cultivating my yoga practice in 2015

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I began to help others cultivate their practice in 2018.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY? 

I believe the late Heavy D said it best, "Now that we've found love, what are we going to do with it?" We at Cultivate Yoga have tapped into the love that permeates deep inside all of us and now we must share that love. The practice of Yoga can be a guide for everyone to tap into that love. Love is healing and much of our community needs to be healed. I would love to see Cultivate expose yoga to those that struggle finding love in a world that, at times, appears to be devoid of it. Healing is not exclusively for the elite or the monetarily wealthy. Healing is not only for those that can afford it. Healing is for the human collective and Cultivate Yoga is here to provide that tool for all that are ready to receive it.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga has helped me cultivate so many things. Self love, compassion, commitment, dedication, and most of all peace.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

My willingness to be authentic and transparent cultivates joy in my life. My openness inspires others to be themselves around me and in their own lives.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I began practicing yoga at age 13 for exercise and physical transformation while spending most summers in Canada exploring Jui-Jitsu, meditation, and philosophy.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I began helping others seriously cultivate their practice in 2017.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY? 

The values of yoga that we practice on the mat are equally as important off the mat. As a teacher, I hope to bring awareness, acceptance, and action to the philosophy of yoga which asks that we become better humans for ourselves and our community. Cultivate Yoga can help foster that by providing accessible yoga in a safe space.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga helped me to understand the links between nutrition, sleep hygiene, physical performance, and mental resilience. It helped me to establish proper, healthy habits that I never thought were achievable, as well as cured my insomnia, improved my chronic low back pain, and allowed me to go within for deep healing.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Nothing is better than being by the ocean or hiking in nature with my family and friends. When I’m not doing my Ashtanga practice or meditation, I enjoy swimming, rock climbing, and exploring the open road.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

2010.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

As a teacher, in 2019. 

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I want yoga to be accessible and appealing to all. I believe Cultivate is and can grow into a strong force for that. I also would love to see this include more yoga for people of all ages (kids, seniors), pregnant people, postpartum folks, and people of varying identities and abilities.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga broke me open and brought me home to myself, and to the earth mother. It’s taken me to the deepest depths and highest heights. Yoga showed me that we are all one, and after starting yoga I began to know the truth, and was able to stop ignoring it, that i needed to stop eating my siblings, non human animals. It opened me up to the basis of how i live my life and see the world as an ethical vegan. Practicing the 8 limbs of yoga allows me to see and live my values. It brings me great joy and ease in my body. It has allowed me to cultivate my intuition, love for myself and all beings. 

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

My daughter, art, connecting with others on a soul level, chocolate, being naked in a large body of water, being present for births.

JEREMY

JACKSON

HE/HIM

RYT 200

Energetic, Kind, Athletic, Fun, Compassionate

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I began my practice around 2012, when I came to yoga for exercise and flexibility. But, I stayed with the practice because I realized that it provided an outlet for stress, anxiety, an opportunity to reconnect with

my body and mind.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

 I completed my 200-hour YTT in September 2024 and began teaching shortly after. I am completing my 300-hour YTT in May 2026, and have been assisting at Cultivate since October 2025. I love introducing people to yoga. My favorite part of teaching and assisting yoga is the human connection, we need more of that in this world.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

By continuing to provide greater access to yoga for all individuals with their donation-based model. Cultivate Yoga offers warm inviting spaces with an amazing welcoming community that supports one another. In this space people can feel nourished, allowing them to heal and grow in their own way while feeling supported.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU?

On my mat, I have learned to take breaths and relax so that I can respond instead of react to situations off my mat. I look to find strength in the stillness, to acknowledge my emotions, feel them and then try to let them go.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

When I’m not on my mat I enjoy spending time in nature with my family and friends, hiking, cycling, and fishing. I am also an ice hockey coach, player and official.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I started practicing breathwork in 2023.  

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I began facilitating breathwork in July 2024.  

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

Cultivate Yoga provided a safe space for me during a difficult time in my healing journey. I envision providing that same safe space for others in the community.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU?

Breathwork allowed me to feel. I was able to reconnect with my body. Breathwork is a vessel back to yourself. It is also an opportunity to quiet your mind and go into your heart.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Spending time with the people I love and my dog Chapo :)

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I began studying and practicing yoga around 2002 at Oberlin College.  

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I started teaching in 2019 when Pop Life first opened their doors. 

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision Cultivate serving the wider community in Collinwood—both those who have migrated to Collinwood for the arts and the ethos, but also those who may have been in Collingwood for perhaps multiple generations and may be getting exposure to Yoga for the first time. I hope to see members of the immediate local community as well as people from farther afield coming into the studio sharing space and the creative spirit that makes Pop Life unique.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU?

Yoga has been a lifeline for me, both is a private practice and as an experience shared in community. While I appreciated the impacts the practice made on my physical body, it is the more profound psychological aspects that have kept me coming back to my mat again and again. Connection to breath and cultivated mindfulness have helped anchor me through many stressful and challenging moments of my life.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

In addition to the practicing Yoga, I am a contemporary dancer, great appreciator of music and the arts, and mother of two wonderful humans and many obliging houseplants.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

After following every exercise trend since the 90s, I found yoga in 2015. I thought at the time I would “slow things down and just stretch more”. I remember Shavasana, from my very first class and feeling… “Can I get up yet?” “Do we do this in every class?” Little did I know - I had just met my most challenging pose. It wasn’t physical and would ultimately improve the quality of my life moving forward. To this day, I still haven’t mastered the pose, but hope to spend the rest of my years trying.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I completed my 200-hr YTT with Carrie Treister School of Yoga in 2018, I knew then Yoga was calling me to share it with others. I began teaching with Fitness Pro Travel at various resorts. I completed my 300-hr YTT off the grid in Costa Rica with Lakshmi Rising in 2021. I will always consider myself a student of yoga. Furthermore I am deeply grateful for the kind and authentic teachers that have shared their knowledge and practice with me. I promise to continue to share this most amazing gift.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY? 

I envision Cultivate Yoga; FOSTERING a greater equity in yoga, promoting physical and mental growth, so our entire community flourishes; HELPING others connect - mind, body, and spirit within themselves and with others; HOLDING SPACE for joy, kindness, healing, compassion, vulnerability, forgiveness- a non-judgment space to share, support, start important conversations- or to simply breathe.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Mindfulness, inner wisdom, authentic self, gratitude, meditation, breath, peace.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Being present with family and friends. My four adult children, Zac, Regan, Katie, Jacob, and my husband Brent cultivates so much joy and gratitude in my life.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

2007

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

2010

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

By being:

• A community that is 100% inclusive

• A space where students feel accepted, seen and heard

• A place where kindness rules above all else, because that is the truest form of yoga
  

By having a team of teachers who:

• Remember they too are students always (first)

• Aim to inspire + educate with compassion

• Do their best to live their yoga

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Strength, balance, (both physical + mental), mindfulness, empathy, intuition, self love + the list goes on!

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Being a mom + being in nature.

KIMBERLY

RUE PAYNE

SHE/HER

RYT 500

Kind, Compassionate, Adventurous , Genuine, Passionate

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I took a semester of yoga my freshman year of college.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I began teaching in 2003. 

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision a loving, kind, compassionate, and welcoming community open to all bodies, backgrounds, paths and beliefs regardless of finances.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga has been a journey of inner reflection and a path that continuously leads me to deeper places within. It guides me through my own truths and holds me close to my values of ease, safety and sovereignty. It allows me to be in touch with the unseen and mysteries of life. It opens new doors of awareness and grounds me in love, appreciation, gratitude and joy. 

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Connection to family, friends and mother nature.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I began Cultivating my practice around 2011 when I realized that I needed an outlet for stress and anxiety. Yoga soon became a cornerstone of my life as I continued to find my way back to my mat again and again.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I began teaching in May of 2024 after graduating from my CYT-200 hr training.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I love the community that has been built through Cultivate! I envision Cultivate continuing to grow and flourish as a gift-based studio that opens its arms to all and helps everyone find a space to grow and be the best version of themselves. I particularly love all the various outlets and sub-groups that you can find at Cultivate–whether it is volunteering, book club, or community dinners, there is truly something for everyone within Cultivate. You can find yourself on your mat when you practice and find community off your mat.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga really helps me to be the best version of myself. On my mat, I have learned how to pause so that I can respond instead of react to situations off my mat. I’ve learned to find stillness, to acknowledge my emotions, feel them, and then try to let them go. Yoga is a practice that re-energizes me and allows me to reconnect with myself and my purpose.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Spending time with my family and friends, reading a good book, or walking through the metroparks with my dog, Scout, cultivate joy in my life.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

The day I was born ;)
 

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I became Breathwork certified in 2020 and Bodywork certified in 2024, both by Innercamp, with whom I still collaborate. 

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

By offering loving community, safe spaces, friendship/family, activities, devotion, support, and gift based healing practices to those in need.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU?

It brought my mind and body back into unison. It unearthed inner wisdom and connected me to something greater than myself. It expanded my emotional capacity and cultivated more self awareness and confidence... one breath at a time.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Just one? NOPE! - travel, cats, music, dance, nature, friendship, gardening.

MELLO

MITCHELL

HE/HIM

Certified Meditation Instructor

Peaceful, Patient, Passionate

https://www.mellomitchell.com/

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I began my formal meditation practice 21 yrs ago.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

​I began helping others in their meditation practice 10 yrs ago.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY? 

Cultivate is a beautiful and welcoming space and community. I'm so passionate about sharing with others what I have learned and experienced so that the community will expand further with open hearted people of all ages that share a passion and discussion in learning, growing, serving, loving as they evolve to their highest unlimited potential becoming exemplary beacons of light.

WHAT HAS MEDITATION HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Over many years, using a variety of practices, I have learned how to live a more balanced and purposeful life. Stress and anxiety dissolved, and my health naturally improved. Inner peace and a new outlook on life matured and living became easier.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Helping others to learn how to live more peacefully, balanced, harmonious and free. Seeing those ah ha moments in others as wakening occurs in dharma talks and meditation.

MICHELE

NICHOLLS

SHE/HER

RYT 500

Silly, Sassy, Bubbly, Energetic, and LOUD!

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

2014

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

2017

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

Sharing space and breath with others that find this journey called “life” important.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Confidence, patience and an understanding that I don’t need to have it all figured out.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

My family, music and outdoors – and when I can get them all together – it’s like winning the lottery!

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I went to my first studio class in 2011 at Harmony Studios in Willoughby.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I started teaching in 2022 at Studio 108 in Independence with Tracy Rhineheart.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

By lowering the economic barrier to entry to make it available to all. I hope that anyone willing to cultivate a practice will feel welcome and seen.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU?

An inner knowing that I am enough. Simply breathing is enough. And there is nothing outside myself that will complete me. 

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Being a parent. The ability to look at the world through the lens of a child, helps me cultivate joy in many areas of my life.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I was introduced to the practice in 2010 and became a dedicated student of yoga in 2016. 

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I started helping others cultivate their practice in 2024 when I started teaching.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision Cultivate to be a space that is welcoming and safe for all members of the community. I envision Cultivate serving the community through volunteer work, workshops, and our donation-based classes.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU?

Yoga has been a transformative journey, teaching me the power of discipline and the strength that comes from perseverance. It has unlocked flexibility not only in my body but in my mind—helping me embrace challenges with grace, find balance in chaos, and approach life with renewed energy and purpose.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Being outside in nature, dancing, and being in community with friends, neighbors, and loved ones.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

 I've played with physical practices through different mediums all of my life but yoga became the thread that weaved

 those mediums together. When practice became praxis.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

When I began to play with metaphor.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

Receiving people where they are.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU?

Understanding the explicits to understand the implicit.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Noticing the changing of seasons on hikes with my dog.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

When I was in Medical School at Ohio University, I took my very first yoga class. One of our anatomy professors and her husband (two yogi’s in Athens, Ohio) offered free yoga to medical students who wanted to “de-stress” a little…In an empty lecture room, we pushed desks to the side, rolled out borrowed mats, and started to learn how to breathe and move together, working towards our first Sun Salutation! It was probably one of the most impactful parts of my journey towards becoming a doctor because from that day on I was hooked!

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

When I became a physician in 2005, I started recommending yoga to patients on a regular basis. The benefits in my own life were so positive and plentiful – I felt like I wanted to share this magic secret yoga practice with everyone! During my first “Believe in CLE” event I was inspired by the speaker who encouraged the “because I said I would” Mantra – I wrote down on a small piece of paper that day that I would one day become a yoga teacher. The dream became a reality when I was accepted into Yoga Teacher training in 2017.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA OUR COMMUNITY?

I love the concept of making yoga available to everyone. It is a dream I am proud to be a part of and support. I see yoga as a tool for healing – connecting our mind, body and spirit – achieving balance between all three…No matter who we are or where we come from, we all have similar struggles and challenges in our lives. Cultivate Yoga Space is able to connect us ALL. In becoming a part of the Cultivate community I am excited to give back and spread this breathing practice around to everyone who wants to participate!

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga has given me an alternate way of viewing or approaching a situation by encouraging me to first take a breath, and then dive in. It has given me a greater ability to listen…and has cultivated within me the strength to respond instead of react.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

My 4 kids – Grace, Maria, Faith & Frankie (who are twins!), our family adventures, traveling, cooking, wine, and listening to lots of great music!

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

2014 after going whole food plant based.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

Graduated from Marni Task's 200hr Jivasara teacher training program in 2016, certified as a Y12SR (Yoga 12 Step Recovery) Leader in 2017.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

In general I'd like to see a mindfulness emerge in everyone - a mindfulness that helps us understand that we are all connected and that the practice of yoga can help with that connection by focusing on an individual’s journey first. More specifically, with Cultivate Yoga I'd like to witness this mindfulness practice extend beyond any preconceived confines of the existing yoga community and extend out infinitely to anyone who wants to explore and expand themselves and their community.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga has taught me that slowing down and going inward is not only calming and peaceful but ultimately satisfying and fulfilling.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Eating plants!

SALLY

BROOKS

SHE/HER

RYT 500

Bold, Vibrant, Supportive, Devoted, Encouraging

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I began cultivating my practice in 1994 and began serious study in 2005.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I began helping others cultivate their yoga practice in 2006 when I began teaching.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision Cultivate Yoga serving our community by making yoga accessible to everyone through the gift-based model, and by giving students access to the finest teachers in the area.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

In my own life, yoga has helped cultivate peace, community, joy, open-heartedness, and discipline.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Besides yoga, music, art, and writing cultivate joy for me.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

I began cultivating my practice in 2015.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I began helping others cultivate their practice in 2018.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision Cultivate serving our community by helping others experience the inner tranquility found through the mind, body, spirit connection that yoga brings.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga has cultivated a deeper connection to mySelf bringing a greater understanding and acceptance of who I truly am.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

The uninhibited laughter of my beautiful grandchildren!

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

My first experience with yoga was while I was in high school.  I bought a yoga DVD and would practice in my living room by myself.  I was a competitive figure skater at the time, and already pretty flexible. Yoga taught me that strength balances flexibility, and that I needed both…not just in my body, but also in my mind.  It took a few years to really develop a practice, but when I finally did, I was head-over-heels, in LOVE with yoga.  

As much as I loved figure skating, it was always something I was performing for others.  The stress and anxiety that came with competing, sometimes grew bigger than my love of the sport.  Yoga was something that was just for me.  With over 16 years of a steady practice, yoga continues to bring me so much peace, strength, gentleness, comfort and inspiration.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

I got my 200 hour yoga certification, about a year and a half after I started seriously practicing.  I recognized a dramatic shift in my self, both externally and internally, and felt called to share this ancient practice with others.  I have been teaching yoga since 2009, and love to infuse my classes with creativity and spirituality, and encourage students to practice turning a mundane moment into a sacred one.

In 2022, I also became an Ayurveda Wellness Coach.  Ayurveda is a 5,000 year old ancient healing system that focuses on lifestyle preventative care, and is all about living in alignment with the cycles of nature.  It is considered the Sister Science of Yoga, or the Self Care aspect of yoga. 

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I see Cultivate helping individuals bring more awareness into their lives, and move more thoughtfully through the world.  I see Cultivate as a warm, welcoming and safe space to move and breathe together, healing both individually and collectively.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU? 

Yoga has helped me to be more fearlessly authentic and love myself more deeply.  It’s brought compassion, acceptance, and peace to my head and heart.  I have a stronger trust in life’s organic unfolding.  This ancient practice has strengthened my spiritual life, and lovingly reminds me that yoga is not something that I do, but something that I live. 

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

JOY = Family, adventure, nature, dancing, writing, cooking, live music, learning, and creating!

VALERIE

WILLIAMS

SHE/HER

RYT 500

Soulful, Extroverted, Humorous, Passionate, Creative

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

In 2018, fresh out of undergrad and as a new mother. Yoga found me during postpartum, where I was trying to understand who I was all over again. I was exposed to yoga a few times in college, but it didn’t really resonate with me. When I found it again in 2018, I was moved by how transformative it was for not only myself, but my motherhood journey as well. It helped me relearn what joy was and how to cultivate gratitude in any moment. It helped me step into a new phase of life all while reconnecting with who I have always been.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

 I began teaching yoga in 2020, at the very start of the pandemic. My first few months of teaching was strictly virtual, which allowed me to gain confidence and practice teaching without the huge audience in front of me. Even then, I knew I was right where I was supposed to be. By 2022, I quit my full-time job and focused on teaching yoga solely. I taught for various studios, schools, non-profits, corporate wellness programs, etc. Those experiences allowed me to grow as a Wellness leader in Cleveland. By the grace of God, I was offered a position as a Yoga Instructor for Cleveland Clinic and the Ohio State University in 2023. Since then I have dedicated my life to providing accessible, therapeutic yoga to all ages.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision Cultivate Yoga as a bridge between the community and accessible yoga. It breaks down the financial and economical barriers to wellness that many people face. Cultivate Yoga has a unique opportunity to expose so many people to the beautiful practice of yoga, meditation and mindfulness. Nowadays a drop-in yoga fee can equal the price of a full gas tank, a couple bags of groceries or even a bill payment. Cultivate strips away the idea that you have to choose between wellness and survival.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU?

Yoga has helped me cultivate understanding, gratitude, compassion for self and others, as well as the confidence to live life loudly.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

My two children, Indigo and Juelz.

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN CULTIVATING YOUR PRACTICE?

2010  

WHEN DID YOU BEGIN HELPING OTHERS CULTIVATE THEIR PRACTICE?

Depending on the type of practice, 2012 with helping people find their way back to their bodies.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION CULTIVATE YOGA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY?

I envision Cultivate as a space that prioritizes care, presence, and belonging where practitioners and students alike feel seen, valued, and encouraged to cultivate awareness, resilience, and balance both on and off the mat.

WHAT HAS YOGA HELPED TO CULTIVATE WITHIN YOU?

Yoga has help me find my body and inner strength.

BESIDES YOGA, WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CULTIVATES JOY IN YOUR LIFE?

Baking