A Bit About Me
The work I do is a synergistic blend of mind & body modalities meant to foster and build meaningful opportunities for learning, growth, and connection.
Art + Science
In my therapeutic work, I craft unique, customized sessions based on principles of yoga therapy, meditation, contemplation, play, bio-mechanics and movement. These sessions guide clients in exploration of the past, present, and future using a variety of therapeutic modalities. I aim to create a supportive, non-judgemental environment whereby individuals can learn about themselves, heal from injuries, experience more connection, and ultimately guide themselves toward the life they want. I believe one of the greatest gifts I can give my clients is my open, unwavering presence — where understanding and self-empowerment can unfold.
In my consulting work, I help other wellness and yoga professionals create engaging and memorable learning experiences, whether online or in-person. I use research backed learning principles and theories to write, sequence, design, develop, assess, and evaluate learning and training materials that are student-centric and accessible. Most importantly, I help translate the subject matter expertise of those I work with into experiences and offerings that students will find meaningful, relevant, and useful. I also advise on curriculum, delivery methods, user experience design, and technology that could support or hinder a learning experience.
Experience + Knowledge
I have been working in the wellness and yoga field for almost a decade, practicing and teaching yoga for longer. As a former content producer for Yoga International and Himalayan Institute, I have been privileged to work with and learn from some of the most prestigious yoga instructors in the country. I continue to work with Yoga International as the Head of Digital Experience, creating synthesis between product, content, customer support, and growth so the members experience a cohesive and exceptional journey. I have a Master’s of Science in Education, a double undergraduate degree in International Business and Entrepreneurship, and have worked in small business and start-up consulting across design, growth+marketing, production, product, operations, and IT.
Play
My hobbies include making paper and art, wandering the great outdoors, writing, perusing art galleries, playing music, following healthtech trends, and taking care of my growing indoor botanical garden. One of my favorite things to do is watch the dance between light and shadow, preferably with a cup of tea.
I once produced and hosted a podcast—Women Seekers and Leaders—a passion project that highlights women in the pursuit of truth through spirituality, philosophy, science, religion, art, and overall self-discovery.
You can find some classes and meditations with me on Yoga International.
If you’d like to collaborate, please write to me!
Qualifications
Certifications
Certified Yoga Therapist (600 hrs) - Spanda® Yoga Movement Therapy
Certified Ayurvedic Yoga Specialist (120 hrs) - Kathryn Templeton
Certified Yoga Teacher -
300 Hour TT: Himalayan Institute
200 Hour TT: Forrest Yoga
Certified Astrologer - Nightlight Astrology with Adam Elenbaas
Degrees
Masters of Science in Education - Purdue University
Focus: Learning Design and Technology
Bachelors of Business Administration - Baylor University
Major: International Business
Major: Entrepreneurship
Minor: Marketing
Continued Education Training
Therapeutic Vinyasa Design and Myofascial Activation for Orthopedic Concern with Dr. Jaime Stover-Schmitt
iRest Yoga Nidra Meditation
50 Hour Yin Yoga Training with Bernie Clark
Yoga History and Philosophy with Doug Keller
The Vital Psoas with JoAnn Staugaard-Jones
Trauma Awareness: A Yogic Framework with Sean Feit Oakes
Teaching Yoga and Mindfulness to Children with Jennifer Cohen Harper
Working with the Pain of Abandonment with NICABM
The Yamas and Niyamas with Deborah Adele
Yoga and Traditional Chinese Medicine with Tiffany Cruikshank
The Art and Flow of Yin with Paulie Zink
Yoga Anatomy Training with Tiffany Cruikshank
The Four Desires with Rod Stryker
School of Metaphysics Dreamschool Dream Interpretation
The Art and Science of Raja Yoga (Meditation) with Ananda Yoga Center
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) with Jon Kabat-Zinn
Life Coach Training with Martha Beck
What My Clients Say
“
Serena is truly the best! This was my first time trying yoga therapy and I couldn’t have had a better first experience. Serena eased my nerves right away with her professionalism and warmth. By using the practices prescribed during my sessions, I have incorporated helpful ways to reflect, cope, and process my experiences into my everyday life. I’ve learned about my mind, body, and heart through this work. What I enjoy most about Serena’s yoga therapy sessions is her supportive, warm, and encouraging demeanor — while always allowing for plenty of space for introspection.
”
— Alison
“
I really enjoyed my time working with Serena in Yoga Therapy. We worked through so many deep things with the combination of movement and meaningful conversations, that I hadn’t been able to uncover on my own. So many of the things we worked on together are still part of my every day life now even over a year later! My time with her gave me some wonderful tangible tools to use as well as new perspectives and thought patterns for my daily life. I’m so grateful for the time we spent working together and the lasting positive impact it’s had on my life!
”
— Patricia
“
Serena is an empathic yoga therapist who supports your health and wellness by evaluating your body and mind. She supports your personal goals and gives you manageable steps to help move toward meeting those goals.
”
— Ryanne
“
Serena put together a yoga class for the morning of my wedding and I felt an overwhelming sense of support and tranquility as I embarked on the most important day of my life. Serena delivered all I wanted and more in our yoga session, and the day would not have been as peaceful without her.
”
— Caitlin
“
Serena is a fantastic instructor. She is outgoing, engaging and extremely talented. She is very knowledgable on the subject matter and creates challenging sessions that are tailored to your skill level. I highly recommend her.
”
— Chris
“
Serena’s energy is a shining light, and she is able to hold the focus of the room so well that a shield-like veil is formed, allowing each of her students to fully concentrate on themselves.
”
— Adam
“
Serena has a gift for creating a safe, compassionate, and supportive space to explore practices that can help both in the moment and when you do them on your own later. She listened when I needed to share and helped me find movements that felt nurturing and relaxing. She also helped me to prioritize what needed to be addressed first.
”
— Samantha
“
Serena is a star. As a yoga instructor, I'm extremely picky about my yoga. Serena goes above and BEYOND teaching yoga. I was engaged, sweaty, and felt enLIGHTened after working with her. Serena is the perfect combination of knowing her asana, cheerleader sweetness and tough love edge pusher.
”
— Kimberly