John Ellem

I discovered the practice of yoga almost 22 years ago.  After years of personal practice, in 2016 I was in the inaugural 200 hr. RYT program offered by Full Circle Yoga.  It was transformative. I currently teach yoga at the Parkersburg YMCA and at Snowshoe Mtn Resort.  Prior to covid I also taught prison yoga at Parkersburg Correction Center.  In December of 2018, I traveled to Cambodia where I had the opportunity to learn Vipassana meditation (insight meditation) by spending a week at the Cambodia Vipassana Dhura Buddhist Centre learning meditation during the day and teaching English to some of the monks and nuns at night.  In February of 2023, I finished my 500hr RYT certification through Asheville Yoga Center.

My life outside of yoga has been active and rewarding. I own Ellem Law Office, PLLC where my focus has been representing consumers in WV and OH in a variety of matters including lemon law, debt collection abuse, fair credit reporting violations as well as personal injury.  I also offer governmental relations services and engage in human rights litigation and advocacy as a board member of Human Rights for Kids. 

I had the privilege of serving 14 years (2001-2014) as a member of the West Virginia House of Delegates representing the 10^th District.  During my career in the Legislature, I served as Minority Chairman of the House Judiciary.  Prior to becoming a legislator, I served as a member of the WV Ethics Commission charged with administration and enforcement of the WV Ethics Act. 

Along with my wife Sherry and daughter Sara, I enjoy biking, hiking, and fly-fishing