Your idea of perfect happiness?  That second cup of tea, brewed to perfection, with a quiet view overlooking a vast ocean. What is your greatest fear? Not reading all the books on my nightstand. What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? My quick judgments. What is the trait you most deplore in others? Lying and cheating. Which living person do you most admire? RBG and Michelle Obama. What is your greatest extravagance? A trip to Rancho la Puerta.  On what occasion do you lie? If the truth will hurt someone. When and where were you happiest?  Right now. Which talent would you most like to have?  To be able to sing. What do you consider your greatest achievement?  Not there yet! If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be? A Dolphin  Where would you most like to live?  By the ocean. What is your most marked characteristic? Facial expressions. Who are your heroes in real life? My sister, MaryJo. She lost her only son 2 years ago and she continues to live a full and vibrant life. Her life is full of supportive friends and family because she takes the time to connect with all of them. What is the one tea you can’t live without? Oolong Honey, green, puer, I can not pick one! What is your greatest regret?  Not continuing my education in my 20’s and 30’s. What is the last gift you gave someone? Cold Brew Rose Tea from Teance.  How would you like to die? By the water, peacefully.

Her Story

Ann was introduced to yoga in 1978 in her freshman year at college when Yoga studies were placed in the theatre department! Ann completed her studies with a Bachelor of Science in Education, Health Minor and a Certification in Athletic Training from the University of Dayton in 1981.

In 1998, she became a student of guru Pretzel "Bija" France. She learned the Pretzel’s Yoga method. Her teaching was a mixture of Iyengar, Bikram, Pilates, music and laughter. For the next 17 years, Ann practiced with Pretzel and learned techniques that became the foundation for her teaching. In 2013, Pretzel convinced her to become certified and teach, and the year after that - in 2014, Pretzel passed away and left Ann with the amazing gift of her yoga and teachings. Ann takes it upon herself to share the gifts of her guru in the studio each day.

Ann continues exploring the world of physicality and mental awareness, she believes the mind and body are connected so deeply that anything is possible, come join the community and dive deep to your best self!

On Teaching

Teaching Style: Direct. Inspired. Positive. Wise.

How do you teach?  With joy and gratitude

What is your teaching philosophy?  

Always  have fun, laugh at yourself and your poses. Remind yourself that no 2 classes are alike and listen to how your body is feeling for that day.  Also: you can do anything for one minute.

A favorite moment of teaching? 

When I started to incorporate Pilates into my yoga teachings

A favorite moment between you and Pretzel:

Our trip to Yuba River for 2 days hiking, swimming and doing  a liquid juice fast. We both felt so good the first 24 hours, it was like a high but then the next 24 hours we started to get super silly.   The drive back to the bay area, we literally had lost our minds and had to pull off the highway and get real food!  We laughed so hard we almost peed our yoga pants!  Maybe we did...

What would you tell your 20-year-old self? 30-year-old self?

In my 20’s Follow your dream to become the first female athletic trainer for a professional sports team.  In my 30’s dive deep into yoga and pilates, then become more attuned to your insides.  Life will always throw you curves but learning to catch them and throw the ball back will help you in your future.

What does Aging Gracefully mean to you?   

To have a daily practice of supporting myself, examples: yoga, pilates, hike/walk, stretching, good nutrition, sleeping well, being kind, using the roller method for massaging my body, self care first and foremost each and everyday.  Then reaching out to a family member and a friend everyday now, especially now that we are in Covid-19.  Checking in.  Being in a place of contentment with who I am and then being of service to others.  

Interested in Private In-Home Sessions with Ann?
Get in touch.