What have you learned or how have you grown since becoming a YCC instructor?

Having completed my teacher training at YCC, the Center feels like a second home. I feel supported and cared for. I always feel better when I leave the Center. Through yoga, I have learned the importance of meeting my body where it is, letting go of the ego, and practicing at a level to enhance my well-being. I strive to instill those concepts in my students as well.

Besides teaching yoga, how do you spend your time?

I am a registered nurse and assistant professor teaching nursing at a local university. I am also an avid hiker. I regularly hike locally, and I try to take a "big" trip every year. Most memorable trips: Peru and the Canadian Rockies. I have two cats, Carlos (ginger tabby) and Benny (tuxedo). I adopted them as a bonded pair. They were at the shelter for three months because they could not be separated. The caring approach of that shelter inspires me to volunteer with rescue animals. I volunteer at and support the Maryland SPCA.

What to expect in class: Laura works to provide an accessible, inclusive, and meaningful experience for all students. In letting the experiences of her students lead, she is able to tailor her teaching to a holistic, reflective, and effective practice for her students in mind, body and spirit.

Laura has been teaching since completing her Yoga Teacher Training 200 at the Yoga Center of Columbia in 2014. She completed her YTT 300 in 2017, is certified in Lakshmi Voelker Chair Yoga, and has completed Level I Yin Yoga Teacher Training.