Why do you dance? 
I dance because it just feels good to my body and my spirit. It brings me great joy to dance for myself and to evoke joy from my audience. There is nothing more freeing than twirling around on stage like a little kid :-)
Why do you teach belly dance?
Teaching allows me to help women rediscover how cool it is to be a woman and to employ the power of dance in a manner that evokes respect and admiration from ourselves and others.
Who should take belly dance classes and why?
Women should take belly dance to get in shape in a way that is less stressful to their joints and just more fun overall. I find some women don't "work out" because they are either bored of typical workout classes or are intimidated by having to commit to a gym. A class with a live instructor is always better than trying to workout at home with a video.
What are some of the benefits of taking a belly dance class?
The chief benefit is that belly dance is a natural "de-stressor"ithat lubricates the joints and conditions our muscles in our arms, torso, upper & lower abs, hips, calves, ankles, you get it - overall.
What if I'm a terrible dancer/have no rhythm/have never taken a dance class in my life?
This is the class for you! You will come away feeling and looking like one when I'm through :-) This dance does not discriminate. All body types, sizes and levels are celebrated in my classes.
What is the #1 thing you wish for your clients to take with them after a session with you?
To feel good about themselves and enjoy that they are blessed to be able to dance and move their limbs. Some are not so fortunate to be able to move and those of us who can should truly appreciate this gift.
Who or what inspires you?
I've realized I'm inspired by art, beauty and passion and the people who can express art, beauty and love through whatever art form they choose to express.
What does belly dance have to do with yoga?
Belly dance in my opinion is like yoga in motion. Many of the poses one learns in yoga are similar to the extensions and contractions used in belly dance.
Do you practice yoga and why?
I practice doing sun salutations as a way to distress. My goal is to develop a more focused yoga practice for myself personally as I find when it do it regularly it brings calmness to my mind and body.
Favorite yoga pose.
Warrior. It makes me feel so powerful even when my thighs shake! Lol
Least favorite yoga pose.
Hmm hard to say. I guess head stands.
Real life lessons from practicing & performing dance?
This dance is not about being a temptress although many think it is. The more we can emote beauty and sensuality vs. sexuality the better this dance is received. I always think of two things when I dance. First, would I be comfortable performing this routine in front of my father, brother or small children? That always makes me keep the perspective where it needs to be. I think when women try to be "sexy" they end up with audiences who may treat them in a more disrespectful manner.
Favorite dance experience.
Getting a dance meditation sent my way right before a big performance.
Hobbies & interests unrelated to yoga or belly dance.
I love to sing, create and facilitate programs for teens and I also enjoy marketing and learning graphic design.
Birthday:
July 1st I'm a crazy Cancer with a Virgo rising and a Libra moon!
Hometown (and where else have you lived?):
Pittsburgh but have lived in Virginia (for college), Atlanta, New York and Chicago!
Something most people don't know about you.
I started a dance troupe at my university before I graduated.
Anything else you'd like to share?
I grew up in a household where we had "family jam sessions!"
