Meet Michelle

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Michelle. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Michelle, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

I found my purpose somewhat by happenstance, trial and error, meditation, grit and determination. A combination of life experiences, inspirational people and various career opportunities has led me down the path that I have followed towards a career in the health, wellness and fitness industry. For a long time I devoted my career life to helping people with differing abilities in the field of special education. My hobbies included yoga, fitness and nutrition. The past five years I have been able to turn my hobbies and passions into a career that I love! I believe my purpose has always been educating, leading and mentoring people in different capacities, and now I get to support people on their health and fitness journeys through coaching and teaching barre and yoga. I have received numerous certifications and continue to discover other areas of interest within the health and wellness field. I will continue to pursue my desire for life long learning. I am fortunate to have people in my life that have supported and encouraged me along the way, to not only find my purpose but help me turn it into a career.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I currently teach mat barre classes for Protea Movement. I have taught various forms of yoga for several years and recently became certified in barre. I feel fortunate to be a part of the original group of teachers hired at this new studio. The studio holds a special place in my heart because the owner is a friend of mine. She had a dream of opening her own yoga studio for many years and her journey has inspired me. Her passion, determination and grit to make it happen contributes to the positive vibe of the studio. I teach with an amazing group of teachers and the camaraderie and learning from one another makes this a special place to teach, learn and grow! I am also a health and fitness coach. I have the pleasure of coaching clients in their work environment and virtually. I enjoy doing informational presentations on wellness related topics and providing guidance and resources for people on their health journey.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

The qualities, skills and/or knowledge that have been most impactful on my journey are determination, confidence and teamwork. I highly recommend attending trainings and getting certified in areas of interest to help develop confidence and greater knowledge. Practice, practice, practice! I was so nervous the first few times I taught, and still get butterflies in my stomach before teaching. Being prepared helps me lessen the anxiety around teaching and also reminding myself that participants will get a great workout regardless of what my music playlist is, if I fumble my words or if I forget a move in my planned sequence! Being humble goes a long way!

What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?

My biggest area of growth in the past 12 months is attending barre training and getting certified to teach a style I had never practiced or taught before. As a middle aged woman just starting out in the fitness teaching profession it can be intimidating. I encourage people of all ages to try something new, face your fears and have fun with it! Having a regular weekly class that I teach on a permanent studio schedule is new for me and this helps to regularly challenge my creativity and motivate me!