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Our mission is to help you feel better in your body, mind and soul.

Meet Mary

Mary raised her quadruplet daughters and was a middle school educator for 14 years while teaching everything in the fitness world, from spinning to step aerobics. She turned to yoga after her full time employment retirement and received her 200 hour yoga teaching certificate from Kripalu. She loves gardening, hiking, music and spending time with her friends and family, including her grand-pets.

How did you discover your passion for movement?

I have always been active, my entire life. I ran, danced, lifted weights, etc. I did aerobics 100 years ago with Judy Drodz and was a member of Berkshire NautaIus. Around the time I had my daughters The Club at Bousquet became Berkshire West and incorporated more fitness options. I had been to play racket sports, but wanted to do more I went to aerobics classes. high and low and literally after taking two classes I decided to teach aerobics. I made a cassette tape and put together a great class. Then came step which I adored, then spin which I also love. I got certified in Spin and Aerobics and did continuing education in all sorts of fitness related stuff for years. I even took and passed my personal training certification. I worked at Canyon Ranch in the fitness department and I think that is a feather in my cap. As time went on I taught less and transitioned to a career in public school teaching. Upon retirement from education I took some time to see what I wanted to do. About the time I was getting restless I got a Kripalu catalog in the mail. That was it. I had done yoga few times, but I am a teacher first and foremost so it was a natural transition, especially because I was 60 years old and couldn't do step anymore (although I do still teach a kicking Spin class weekly). The gift of Kripalu! In the Berkshires.

What is the most inspiring thing about teaching students at BYDF?

Oh they are so normal! I really don't know how else to say that. I find the students are really easy to be with - be it a first timer or a regular. I think new students feel welcome and at ease. I think the physical space lends itself to inspiration with the warm colors and soft lighting.

Flashback to your childhood. What do you want to be when you grow up?

A Teacher.

How has your personal movement practice helped develop your sense of self and pave the way for self-discovery and healing?

I think my yin certification and teaching has forced me to slow down. As I have put together each weekly class structure with the postures and inspiring poems or quotes, that becomes my mini practice. I do the practice and find I have had the opportunity to be with myself in a way that is becoming more authentic and relaxed. I love to choreograph vinyasa segments and I incorporate those into some of my yin practice. I have been known to go through a segment in my kitchen as I cook! My body and soul is tied to music and vinyasa can be so fun with the right music and postures.

What do you want people to know about your teaching style and classes at BYDF?

I would say I have an athletic way of teaching. I am very focused on body alignment and want everyone to be safe with their bodies. I view yoga as I view all physical activities, you must listen and feel your body and in whatever capacity as you take part in class. I would also like people to know that yoga is not competitive and it's not about touching your toes. It's very personal. So if you find yourself in my class and the posture is not available to you don't do it. I offer many options for taking a posture lower or higher. Childs and/or

Savasana are always welcome at anytime.

Tell us a little more about yourself or what are you up to when you're not in the studio?

I am a puzzle person. I do Wordle and the Crossword everyday. I share results with my sister-in-law in Poughkeepsie, NY. Now that the weather is changing I will get started on a jigsaw. 1,000 pieces. I purchased a moveable puzzle board with drawers so I can put it away when it starts to bother my husband. I exercise everyday in some way, and often meet friends and we do a walk or hike.

I cook. I try to explore more recipes. I don't consider myself a good cook, so I really want to change that opinion of myself. I explore cultural options in the Berkshires, I read, I listen to music a lot, and I watch movies. I travel to see my kids and also to interesting places. I hang out with friends! I drink coffee, sometimes tea.