Dance and fitness have always played a huge part in my life. I’ve been an exercise fanatic ever since I learned how to walk. I graduated in March 2000 from UCSC with a double major in Psychology and Psychotherapeutic Dance. UCSC gave me the unique opportunity to experience many diverse dance forms (Brazilian, Indonesian, African, etc. as well as Modern, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Ballroom and Ballet) as well as the chance to work with some of the most exciting creative minds in the dance community (Mel Wong, Tandy Beal, Kathy Foley, and the Women’s Ensemble Theater, to name a few). I was featured in the video for UCSC’s Performing Arts Program. Most recently I danced with a popular local dance troupe at a Samba-Da show at Palookaville.
In addition to the dance training, my Psychology degree gives me an understanding of the factors influencing motivation, stress, and mental health. I believe that mental well-being is profoundly affected by physical health - you can’t have one without the other. Several studies have shown a correlation between exercise and improved emotional health, and I have personally experienced reduced stress, increased energy, and improved mood due to exercise.
I’m proud to say that I am an ACE® Certified Personal Trainer and Lifestyle & Weight Management Consultant, which means that I can work as an independent contractor as well as through your local gym. I’m building experience as a dance teacher as well (I’ve taught hip-hop and other forms of dance both to groups and individuals). My passion for physical fitness has expanded to include kickboxing, cycling, flexibility and weight training, yoga, Pilates, and Salsa aerobics - and I’m always looking to try something new!
I’ve spent the past several years pursuing another passion, nutrition, and as of December 2004 am a Licensed CN (Certified Nutritionist). My nutrition specialty is Metabolic Typing® and I have been a Certified Metabolic Typing® Advisor since September 2008. The link between health and disease and what we eat is unquestionably related. It is my hope that as a licensed CN and MT Advisor, I can provide people with the education and support they need to make better food choices and lead healthier lives.
In addition to Metabolic Typing® individualized nutrition plans, I am now offering clients customized programs to improve their posture, reduce pain, and increase their functional capacity through the Egoscue Method®. I became a Certified Postural Alignment Specialist in December 2008. The Egoscue approach to improving your body mechanics is unsurpassed. I am very happy to be able to offer this service.
