Erica

ISHTA Yoga Certified Instructor. Dance, yoga and movement have always been a part of my life. I began dancing at an early age taking classes in ballet, tap and jazz. In 1992, I met former NYC Opera dancer and choreographer Lynn Barr while studying modern dance in college. I danced with Lynn for many years performing in university theaters, NYC venues, Italy and Prague. I have also studied modern dance at the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance and Flamenco with Dionisia Garcia.In 2004, I decided to broaden my dance horizon and began taking belly dance classes. Inspired by the dance and music of the middle eastern culture, I quickly fell in love with the dance form. I have taken classes and workshops from many amazing teachers including the great Jamila Salimpour, Suhaila Salimpour, Ranya, Yousry and Nourhan Sharif, Carolena Nerricio, Rachel Brice, Dalia Carella, Kaeshi, and Sarah Locke. In 2006, I received my Level 1 Certification in the Suhaila Salimpour format. Inspired by her technique and passion for the dance, I continue to study with Suhaila as often as possible.Another influence in my performing is my devotion to yoga. After training at Be Yoga with Alan Finger, I was certified to teach ISHTA yoga in 2004. ISHTA is an acronym that stands for the Integrated Science of Hatha, Tantra, and Ayurveda. The Sanskrit word for ishta means “individualized” or “personalized”. This is an important aspect that I try to bring to my dance. I recognize the importance for each dancer to remain an individual and bring their own style and personalization to each performance.Recently, I became a YogaEd instructor. I am now able to bring the benefits of yoga to children and teach public school teachers how to incorporate yoga into their school day.