Our instructors are the backbone of this studio. Every day they show up with the energy and kindness we would like to see put out in the world.
They all bring something authentic, different and special to each class they teach. Get to know them a bit and come see them in the studio. Let’s get to know who teaches – and reaches – you here at Asana in Charlestown
souls of the studio
YOGA + sound bath + MEDITATION + BARRE
THE SOULS OF ASANA
GETTING TO KNOW
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OWNER
My deep appreciation for the practice of yoga began in 2000 while living and working in NYC. Like most twenty somethings, I was on a quest to find myself. Yoga helped. In 2002, I left my job in finance, enrolled in an immersive teacher training at the Omega Institute, moved to Charlestown, and began teaching yoga. It was around this time that I took my first class with my primary teacher, Barbara Benagh.
In 2012, I opened the Yoga Room - a small studio in Thompson Square. It was a sweet spot, but too small to serve the growing student base. In 2015 with the help of many, I had the great fortune of founding a new center, ASANA Charlestown in the heart of city square.
As a teacher I am committed to learning and a desire to serve others. My classes draw inspiration from the direct experiences I’ve had as a student on the mat and a citizen in the world.
I love the exuberant energy of an urban setting as well as the quiet serenity found in nature. I enjoy making cookies, long runs in the open air, swimming in the ocean, and skiing in the trees.
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I first found the mat during a time of transition in my life. Having danced competitively for many years, I yearned for a class that offered dynamic movement in addition to the mental benefits of the practice. As time progressed, I realized how much I craved the sense of community that yoga has to offer.
For me, yoga has evolved into an experience that illuminates the benefits of the mind body connection but also the power of community. My classes will enable students to establish a relationship between the body, the mind and the breath. Through thoughtful sequencing and a strong focus on alignment, my classes will challenge you to use your body in a mindful way. Placing high value on the sense of community yoga brings, I offer hands on assists and adjustments, plenty of indie and folk music and little nuggets of wisdom I’ve picked up along the way. No matter where you are when you walk into the studio, I aim to meet you where you are on the mat, in hopes that you can carry some form of newly found awareness when you leave the studio.
I am so grateful for my experience in Boston Yoga School’s yoga studies and teacher training program; continuing to learn so much from my teachers Ame Wren and Brenna Matthews, even after graduating.
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Jessica Diaz is an inspirational wellness speaker, writer, and certified personal trainer who overcame adversity to promote holistic well-being. As a spokesperson for the American Heart and Stroke Association, she advocates for stroke awareness and prevention. With a love for Barre fitness, Jessica became a licensed instructor in 2012, blending principles of the traditional Lotte Berk Method, Functional Movement, Breathwork, and SmartFLOW Yoga in her dynamic classes. Jessica holds certifications in fitness nutrition, Reiki, sound therapy, brain health training, functional movement. Jessica's speaking engagements and collaborations with notable brands reflect her passion for inspiring others to prioritize health and embrace mindfulness. Through her comprehensive approach, she empowers individuals to unlock their potential for vibrant living. Jessica was also awarded Best of Boston fitness class in 2023.
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Bio coming soon!
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Molly discovered yoga in 2020 and was immediately hooked. After months of practicing on an app during covid lockdown, she ventured into a studio which deeply grew her practice. A former athlete, runner, and busy-body, yoga became a tool to slow down and connect to her body.
Molly combines asana sequences with meditation concepts and an inspired playlist to create a welcoming, upbeat, and grounded experience. Molly enjoys learning about the body and aims to inspire curiosity in her class.
Molly completed her 200 hour teacher training at Boston Yoga Union with Tim Kelleher and Emily Tevald, attends workshops as much as possible, and practices at studios across Boston.
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In 2006, I stepped on my mat looking to transition to a new form of exercise after more than a decade of being a trained ballet dancer. Following my first class, I was instantly hooked on the positive vibrations yoga gave to me; that mind-body connection found on the mat. Now every time I step onto my mat, the philosophy and spirituality of yoga, coupled with the asana practice create an opportunity for growth, compassion, and greater understanding of the self.
I have studied various styles of yoga including Iyengar, Ashtanga, and Bikram, but currently focus on Vinyasa. My classes are challenging yet playful with an emphasis on alignment. My intent is to provide an open space for my students to quiet the mind and strengthen the body to cultivate a transformative experience of self-awareness.
I completed my 200-hour certification at Boston Yoga School in 2013.
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Taryn Burns (she/her) is a Yoga for Performance Specialist (eRYT500+) based in Boston, Massachusetts. She has spent the better half of a decade designing progressive programming for high performers, from Division 1 teams and middle school students to Fortune 500 employees and private clients. Her work explores the intersection between the individual / organization by identifying key performance moments, implementing yoga practices that efficiently and effectively manage stress, reducing risk of burnout and optimizing performance. Taryn feels strongly that when we are able to take care of ourselves, we are more prepared to show up for others.
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Ekaterina Blekhman: Born to Move, Born to Thrive
Passionate about movement and holistic living, Ekaterina Balduzzi – a spirited yoga teacher and lifelong fitness enthusiast. Hailing from Russia, my journey has been defined by an unwavering commitment to an active and balanced lifestyle.
Guiding others on the path of mindfulness and physical well-being, I bring a unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern vitality to my yoga classes.
With a lifelong dedication to fitness, I inspire others to discover the transformative power of movement. My dedication has most recently driven me to Slide, a powerful movement class focusing on strength and agility. Fitness isn't just a routine; it's a way of life.
Join me in embracing the joy of movement and the essence of holistic living.
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Erica began her journey in the world of Pilates over 10 years ago, driven by a desire to help others discover the incredible benefits of this transformative practice. She is a seasoned private and group instructor who empowers clients to achieve their fitness goals and find balance in body and mind. Known for her warm and encouraging teaching style, Erica creates an inclusive and supportive environment in her classes. She holds certifications in Pilates, Yoga, anatomy, and injury prevention, allowing her to provide personalized and effective instruction to clients of all levels.
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Bio coming soon!
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Lyndsey started an asana practice in 2002 before she really realized it was a practice at all. Little did she know that these poses would turn into a 20-year practice that would act as a workout in her teens, ground her in her 20’s, and lead her into her career in her 30’s.
Through inspiring instruction, Lyndsey achieved her 200 hour teaching certification at Back Bay Yoga in 2012. Since then, she has continued her education with trainings in breath work, Yin, prenatal, and hands on adjustments.
Lyndsey takes an anatomical approach to alignment in her intelligently sequenced vinyasa yoga classes. She has found herself in awe of the body and all its moving parts. She hopes that through her teaching she can inspire future yogis, like her teachers have inspired her, to find stillness of mind, strength of body, and peace within their hearts.
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Haley believes that barre is for every body - whether you’ve practiced before or are stepping up to the barre for the first time. Her classes focus on the power of micro-movements—small, intentional exercises that create a big impact. Her goal is to help clients build strength and find JOY in moving.
Haley lives in Charlestown and loves having lattes with her friends, fresh flowers, baking, and trying new restaurants with her husband.
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Bio coming soon!