Oh, what fun it is to introduce you to this month’s new teachers! These two are total gems!

Debbie Forbes

Location: Land O Lakes, FL

Tell us a little about your relationship with yoga — both your practice and your teaching. Yoga is a place to center myself.  I have practiced off and on over the years, but was intrigued by the modality as a way to help myself and my Massage clients. I wanted to go a little deeper and did my teacher training.  Now I feel more comfortable showing clients stretches and am learning a lot as I start this new journey.

Why do you want to bring Curvy Yoga to your community? I have overheard athletic, confident types say how going to a studio intimidates them.  For many of us curvier girls, it’s very overwhelming.  I want to create that safe place for acceptance and movement.

What can folks expect when they take a class from you? I always say we are practicing together, a sisterhood of movement.  Corrections to poses aren’t corrections.  They are adjustments.  You will honor your body and challenge yourself, but always within your limits. When leading a yoga class, you need to feel safe, have fun and above all, enjoy yourself!

What has been your favorite part of the certification process? I have had the distinct pleasure of meeting Anna, who is one hot ticket.  I have thoroughly enjoyed her point of view. Learned a lot from her personally and the follow up materials are fabulous.  As a matter of fact, when I am done here, I am going to kick back in the hammock and read over the whole manual.

How can people get in touch with you? www.DebbieForbes.com has my massage schedule with 24/7 online access for two counties, Pasco and Pinellas.  My yoga classes will be updated there also.  I have a wellness blog, www.blackdogwellness.com and people can also reach me via email at debbie4bz@gmail.com and phone/text at 727-642-2666.

Dena Kahn

Location: Washington, DC

Tell us a little about your relationship with yoga — both your practice and your teaching. My relationship with yoga is constantly evolving but, lately, I see it as a pursuit of happiness.  The idea of life being a happy, compassionate, gracious, and kind experience was taught to me most effectively through yoga.  Through my teaching of yoga, I hope to help others find greater well-being, happiness, presence, affirmation, self-worth, and gratitude.  Through my practice, I hope to soften my inner critic and bring the same to myself.

Why do you want to bring Curvy Yoga to your community? Yoga is for everyone.  That is why I love Curvy Yoga!  Yoga can help you become more you- the best of you.  I teach a wide variety of classes. Curvy Yoga seems a natural extension of my desire to make compassionate and good quality yoga available and accessible for all!

What can folks expect when they take a class from you? My classes are welcoming, warm, and supportive.  Students can ask questions, laugh, cry or be in silence.  Together, we’ll breathe, move, stretch, strengthen, and rest with enough time to feel and understand each posture or practice and to make modifications.  My hope is that each class helps students to find a deeper connection within.

What has been your favorite part of the certification process? Conversations with Anna were so natural, so fun, and so clarifying.  I was so inspired by them.  The Curvy Certification process and my conversations with Anna allowed me to uncover so much about the essence of my yoga teaching.  It was so exciting!!!

How can people get in touch with you? The best way to reach me is by email, dena@yogawithdena.com, or via Facebook at yogawithdena!