director of emerge | yoga & antigravity instructor | massage therapist | health + life coach:
Vanessa found yoga in 2001 at a tiny non-for-profit ashram offering classes for teens. Being an avid practitioner of kickboxing & martial arts, she had to be dragged by a friend who wanted to explore this “hippie stretching exercise.” Anticipating a solid hour of touching her toes in dire silence, she was quite surprised at the physical and mental challenge yoga provided. After her 1st class, she was hooked. Growing up with scoliosis, she found yoga was a great way to manage chronic back pain while simultaneously providing a challenging workout that magically left her feeling… calm.
Becoming increasingly interested in this mind|body integration spiel, in 2007 Vanessa enrolled in a 7-month intensive program at the Finger Lakes School of Massage. While there, she earned certifications in Reiki & herbal medicine in addition to becoming a New York State Licensed Therapist. It was there Vanessa began to delve into the more subtle aspects of the practice and was empowered by the balance it brought.
Through meditation (and learning to breathe), Vanessa realized that yoga wasn’t something we DO as much as a state of BEING. Interested in learning more, she enrolled in her 1st teacher training in 2009 and went on to complete a 500-hr program at ISHTA Yoga in NYC.
Vanessa learned that journey to optimal wellness is a multidimensional process that starts within and then eventually expresses itself outwardly. Being personally touched by the transformational power yoga provided, Vanessa was compelled to share with others. In 2012, she opened Emerge with the simple intention of creating a safe space for self-discovery and expression.
In every class|session with Vanessa, she strives to meet her student’s individual needs, supporting them on their unique journeys toward physical, mental, and spiritual rejuvenation.