Hi, I’m Melissa.

I’ve been practicing yoga since 1999, beginning at the Iyengar Yoga Institute of San Francisco. Over the years, my practice has been shaped by teachers including K. Pattabhi Jois, Judith Lasater, Leah Adams, Christopher Wallis, and Rupert Spira… moving from a physically demanding Ashtanga Vinyasa practice toward more restorative, meditative, and somatic approaches.

My own experience with injuries, surgeries, and the stress of working in corporate environments has deeply influenced how I teach. I now emphasize nervous system regulation, mindful movement, and learning to listen to the body. My intention is to help you build strength, flexibility, and stillness — while leaving class feeling grounded, centered, and at ease.

Alongside teaching yoga, I work as a human-centered designer, consultant, and facilitator. This systems-aware, detail-oriented perspective informs how I create classes and spaces that support calm, focus, and presence.

My philosophy is simple: yoga is an invitation to recognize awareness as the nature of all experience. It is full embodiment, noticing ease, and resting in what is already here.