Michelle Ives

I have been a Group Fitness Instructor for the last 12 years.  I have always led an active lifestyle but I discovered my passion for teaching after losing my husband suddenly as a result of an accident in 2001.  My daughters were 10 months old and just shy of a 4th birthday when he passed.  The stress relief that exercise gave became a much needed part of daily life.  The amazing mental and physical benefits that I discovered while taking Yoga classes drove me to pursue my Yogafit Certification.  I then received a scholarship to attend Level 2 Yogafit and in return, chose to give back to my community by bringing Yoga to a group of my peers.  When I addressed my group, I was met with looks of confusion.  What could I possibly have in common with the women who were twice my age or more standing in front of me.  But once they realized that we were all together in support for those who had lost their partners, age didn't matter.  We pulled out chairs and some used the walls and we practiced Yoga however we could make it work for everyone who attended.  I continued my collection of certifications and love teaching to a wide variety of smiling faces no matter what challenges they may bring.  I have worked with children through seniors and those with disabilities.  The important thing is to move our bodies and have fun doing it.