
| Melody Brooke, MA, LPC InterPlay Facilitator www.melodybrooke.com Richardson, Texas ![]() |
Melody Brooke is a Licensed Professional Marriage and Family Counselor who has been practicing for more than 15 years. With a body-mind-spirit approach, she helps clients become more present through their senses, breath, and connection with their deeper selves. Some of the words her clients use to describe her are genuine, kind, caring, compassionate, insightful, sensitive, dependable, playful, fun, determined and creative. Melody is a certified InterPlay leader. InterPlay is a unique, playful method for discovering your full potential and expressing yourself in an atmosphere of fun and support. She is also the author of Cycles of the Heart: A way out of the egocentrism of everyday life. | |
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| Holly Curtis, M.Ed. Nia Black Belt Instructor www.niaeducation.com Santa Fe, New Mexico ![]() |
Holly Curtis, M.Ed., is an inspiring Nia Technique instructor and trainer. She began teaching Nia in 1993, following 11 years of traditional fitness instruction and two years studying dance at the University of Texas. Holly was the first Nia instructor in Austin and opened her own studio, NiaSpace, in 1996. She became a Nia instructor trainer in 1998 and has trained over 300 Nia White belts around the U.S. Holly sold NiaSpace and relocated to Santa Fe in 2002. Nia development continues to be her focus through intensive trainings, teacher development, personal coaching, workshops and classes. | |
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| Lynn Fabia Aikido Instructor, Speaker www.lynnfabia.com Dallas, Texas ![]() |
Lynn Fabia is the first female head and chief instructor of an international Aikido organization in the U.S., The Society of Aikido Centers (SAC), founded in 2002. SAC currently has affiliate schools throughout the United States. Lynn holds the rank of Rokudan (6th degree black belt). She began her study of Aikido in 1982 under Bill Sosa and in the early 90s established Aikido as a credited course and instructed at various colleges and universities in Texas. During that decade, she appeared in numerous articles in Aikido Today Magazine, opening new avenues for bringing Aikido out of the dojo and into the community. She established herself as the female Aikido pioneer in the southwest. In May 2004, she received recognition by the Texas Martial Arts Hall of Fame for her leadership and accomplishments as a martial artist. Lynn has now devoted more than 25 years to the study and practice of Aikido. During this time she discovered the powerful impact this life practice has on her life. She teaches the art of Aikido from the physical, mental and spiritual levels and is able to bring both inspiration and motivation to her classes through her philosophical insights on movement, energy and vibration. For many, Aikido is an unending source of self-awareness. The fluidity and freedom of movement are factors that distinguish Aikido from other martial arts. The intent behind the movements is non-aggressive and non-violent. Some describe Aikido as a moving meditation, in which each movement becomes a purification of the spirit. Note: Lynn's classes and private lessons are held at MoveStudio but registration and payment is through Lynn. You may contact her for more information through her website. | |
| Jenni Fox & Paul Gould Anusara Yoga Instructors Namastay Retreat Felton, California ![]() |
Jenni and Paul have touched many people with the emotional, spiritual and physical healing powers of yoga, meditation and Nia. They have been practicing and teaching for more than thirty years combined, bringing a deep understanding of alignment and a playful spirit of discovery to their classes and workshops. They are Affiliated Anusara Yoga teachers who have completed Anusara Yoga Teacher Trainings with John Friend, Yoga Therapy Training, and Relax and Renew restorative yoga certification with Judith Lasater. They are the creators and directors of NamaStay Retreat near Santa Cruz, California, and NamaStay Adventures, offering retreats and workshops around the world. They were on the Board of Advisors of Healthy Living magazine, which featured their yoga therapy articles for three years. They have been presenters for IDEA, Rancho La Puerta, Yoga Journal and Omega as well as at fitness conferences in Europe. They have appeared in Yoga Journal, Shape and The New York Times. In l998 they helped spearhead Pura Vida Yoga Retreat in Costa Rica. Both are also longtime students of meditation, having studied with Cheri Huber, Thich Naht Hahn and Jack Kornfield. Read about Jenni and Paul in Yoga Journal. | |
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| Lisa Ann McCall, PT McCall Movement Method Dallas, Texas ![]() |
A physical therapist since 1988, Lisa Ann McCall works with anyone who wants to move with grace and ease. Her philosophy is, "If you're good to your body, it will be good to you." She holds degrees in Physical Therapy from the University of Texas School of Allied Health and Science and in Education from Texas A&M University, and has completed graduate studies in Exercise Physiology from the University of North Texas. She has been in private practice since 1991, working with professional athletes, Olympians, trainers, physicians and surgeons, as well as patients suffering from arthritis, joint and neurological diseases, and chronic pain. Lisa Ann has spent the past 15 years studying and participating in a wide range of movement experiences. She is a triathlete, yoga teacher, dancer, barefoot runner, and more. She teaches people from all walks of life how to heal and enjoy the art and science of movement. Her book The McCall Body Balance Method: Simple Concepts for Ageless Movement was published in 2001. | |
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| Julia McPherson Hooping Instructor Sassy Hoops Dallas, Texas ![]() |
Since the moment she crafted her first hoop, Julia's been smitten with hula hoops. Nothing makes her happier than big, colorful, oversized hoops swirling around her. Her hoop journey began in 2004 when she started hoop dancing in her backyard and making hoops for friends and family. Julia has never described herself as "sporty" or athletic. When she discovered hoop dancing, she knew she had found an exercise regimen that she could stick with and that would continue to challenge her. Her passion led her to start her own business, Sassy Hoops. Drawing on her bellydance and yoga experience, Julia blends modern dance movements with Middle Eastern flair in her teaching. She helps students focus on the playful aspects of hoop dance as well as the sensual. Julia believes hoop dancing boosts confidence and induces healthy giggles. As a new mom of twins, Julia is happily using hoop dancing to regain her pre-pregnancy shape. | |
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| Amara Pagano 5Rhythms Teacher Waves Studio Olympia, Washington ![]() |
Amara Pagano is a devoted student and teacher of the 5Rhythms(TM), a physical and spiritual dance practice which promotes a fullness of life and freedom in movement. Amara co-created Waves Studio, in Olympia, Washington, as a physical and spiritual home for the 5Rhythms. Waves Studio has become a large and diverse learning community of people dancing and living this work. Amara is committed to articulating the value of the 5Rhythms, and specifically the results of becoming a physically present body, an embodied heart and an engaged mind. Amara brings warmth and compassion to her teaching, but most of all, she is a living example of the results this dance practice offers. She is physically and emotionally present and clear in her mission as a teacher. Her devotion to her students’ own freedom in their bodies, hearts and minds is immediately apparent. Students instinctively trust Amara as she guides them into deeper connection with themselves and the world. In her workshops and classes, she invites people to live life more fully and love life more deeply. Amara is certified to teach the 5Rhythms work by its creator Gabrielle Roth and has been teaching internationally for more than nine years. | |
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| Clarissa Pierro Master Instructor The Art of Exotic Dancing for Everyday Women™ ![]() |
Clarissa's love of movement and authentic self-expression led her to dedicate herself to bringing The Art of Exotic Dancing for Everyday Women™ (AOED™), a dance-inspired movement meditation and personal growth program, to as many women as possible. After a successful career in the corporate world, she embarked upon an entrepreneurial venture as a businesswoman, speaker, and dance instructor. Clarissa travels across the country promoting AOED and teaching as a Master Level Instructor. She is a key contributor to the overall business direction of AOED™ and the launch of The Exotic Way™ brand. | |
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| Melody Reid Nia White Belt Instructor Houston, Texas |
Melody was hooked from her first Nia experience in 2004. After having just relocated to Houston after a divorce that left her uncertain about her future, Nia provided a physical, emotional and spiritual release she had never before experienced. Under the instruction of Nia Black Belt Trainer Helen Terry, Melody’s Nia experiences continued to inspire and fulfill her with every class. The amazing physical results were an added bonus: weight loss, toning and tightening of muscles, adding grace to simple movements, and bringing awareness and balance into her daily routine. Melody completed her White Belt certification and become an instructor in 2004. Her love for Nia and her discovery of the joy of movement drives her to share this unique and exhilarating movement form with others. | |
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| Karen Sanzo, MS, PT Pilates Unlimited & Sunnyland Physical Therapy Dallas, Texas ![]() |
Combining more than 20 years of Physical Therapy expertise and her in-depth knowledge of the Pilates repertoire, Karen focuses on the essential relationship and interdependency of body and mind and how this affects one's complete health picture. In a clear and deliberate manner, she guides her students and clients toward a new awareness of the complex mechanics of their own bodies. Pilates Unlimited offers comprehensive mat and equipment teacher training and certification. Karen also conducts seminars and workshops nationwide on a variety of topics for physical therapists, healthcare practitioners, Pilates instructors and body conditioning professionals. Karen's certifications include Colleen Glenn's PilateSystem, The Professional Health and Fitness Institute, and The Pilates Center of Austin. Continuing education work has been with Michelle Larsen, Ron Fletcher, Paul Gordon, Karen Prechtel, Susan Moran-Perich, Michael Miller, and Gary Calderone, along with numerous workshops on anatomy and biomechanics. | |
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| Angelika Schwab Instructor Yamuna Body Rolling Dallas, Texas |
Angelika is a certified Yamuna Body Rolling instructor/practitioner, Pilates instructor and Ananda yoga instructor. She discovered the Yamuna method after a car accident in 2002. This unique therapy provided her with new tools to explore, open and heal her own body. She is excited to bring this modality to MoveStudio on an ongoing basis. | |
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| Lori Smullin 5Rhythms Teacher Ecstatic Productions Mountain View, California ![]() |
Lori Smullin began practicing the 5Rhythms(TM) in 1991. The profound changes she experienced ignited a passion for sharing this work with others. Lori is adept at creating sacred space where dancers are invited to discover and express themselves with authenticity. Her open, intuitive teaching style encourages students to deeply engage with the transformative nature of this practice, while her gentle humor helps keep it all moving. | |
| Gerry Starnes, M.Ed. Trance Dance Facilitator, Shamanic Practitioner www.gerrystarnes.com Austin, Texas ![]() |
Gerry Starnes, M.Ed., has facilitated TranceDance events and workshops since 2000. He is a Founding Member of the Society of Shamanic Practitioners, founder of Shamanic Passages, and co-owner of NiaSpace in Austin. He is also currently Executive Director of the Ravens Grove Foundation for Healing. As a contemporary shamanic teacher and facilitator, he holds regular classes and presents a variety of workshops in Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio. He has completed intensive training with Wilbert Alix and is among the most active TranceDance facilitators in the US. Gerry also has experience in counseling, teaching and group facilitation. He offers both individual and group sessions and programs. Gerry believes strongly in the healing power of shamanic work and is a gifted and trusted guide into the world of spirit. He has been a frequent guest presenter at MoveStudio since 2002 and a guiding force for our ongoing TranceDance program. More about Gerry on his website. | |
| Donna Starnes Nia Black Belt Instructor NiaSpace www.donnastarnes.com Austin, Texas ![]() |
Donna Starnes, Nia Black Belt practitioner and owner/director of NiaSpace in Austin, has been teaching the Nia Technique for more than 10 years. Through Nia she has found true joy in movement as well as a dynamic outlet for her creative side. Her background includes modern dance, improv theater, contact improvisation, ecstatic and contemplative dance, and graphic design. She is also a certified instructor of The Art of Exotic Dance for Everyday Women. Donna is an intuitive and playful teacher who enjoys the process of living in her body and guiding others in discovering their own embodiment through awareness of movement, breath, voice and music. She creates and open and supportive space for connecting with one's own body wisdom and having fun in the process! | |
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| Helen Terry, M.Ed., RSA Nia Black Belt Instructor NiaMoves www.ilove2move.com Houston, Texas ![]() |
Helen Terry is from England, where she completed a degree in Physical Education and Special Needs with honors at the Chelsea School of Human Movement. Upon moving to Texas, she completed her masters degree in Exercise Physiology. She is a certified black belt NIA instructor and teacher trainer and the founder of NiaMoves Houston, a successful mind-body center, where she offers regular classes, workshops and teacher trainings. She also presents at conferences and offers trainings internationally. Helen has tremendous enthusiasm for holistic movement and motivating others, and she has an infectious effect on those who attend her sessions. | |
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| Robyn Lark Wakefield Urban Goddess Dallas, Texas ![]() |
Robyn is an educator, writer, award winning artist, and founding director of Urban Goddess Inc. in Dallas, Texas. Her deep and expansive understanding of women's issues has evolved from years living, studying and working among the women of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Phillippines, Taiwan, Australia and North America. As an educator and counselor in Sydney, she conducted experiential travel for western women to remote parts of South East Asia. During this time she recognized that women must honestly explore their interior environments if they are to fully engage with their most powerful ally: their intrinsic "Wise Woman." Robyn has a natural gift for creating the space where authentic dialogue can take place. As a catalyst for personal transformation, she has been empowering men and women for more than two decades to step into larger shoes and live more audacious and authentic lives. She loves opening women’s hearts and minds to the infinite possible ways they may perceive and pursue their passions, lives and dreams. Through the Urban Goddess Seminars and her one-on-one "Paintbox Coaching" she has been the impetus for many women to move forward and create a life of meaning and fulfillment. | |
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| Ellen Watson Ecstatic Dance Instructor Moving Ventures Big Sur, California ![]() |
Since 1984 Ellen Watson has been on staff at Esalen® Institute, where she founded and developed the Movement Arts Program. She studies, practices and teaches various modalities of moving meditation and ecstatic dance practice, including Gabrielle Roth’s 5Rhythms™, Esalen® Massage, Holotropic Breathwork, Liquid Yoga, SpiritDance, The Art of Essential Touch, and Your Body is a Musical Instrument. Through these practices she has found healing and understanding, a doorway to freedom, peace, and a path that has become a passion. Among her great pleasures are opening the door for people to dance, sing, play, pray, touch and be touched. Ellen offers workshops, retreats, and trainings at Esalen® and at other inspiring locations around the globe. She is a licensed minister, and believes that the core of all healing begins in the realm of heart and the spirit. Being at Esalen® has afforded Ellen the opportunity to study with many gifted master teachers, all of whom have influenced her life and her teaching, including: GangaJi, Eli Jakson-Bear, Gabrielle Roth, Susan Harper, Emilie Conrad, Terence McKenna, teachers of The Rhidwan School, Babatunde Olatunji, Angeles Arrien, Jack Kornfield, and Christina & Stan Grof. | |