About Me
I could write a book about my life experiences, how I navigated trauma, grief, almost dying from Crohn's Disease, parenting, and more that led me to where I am, or share a lifetime of teaching stories, but this isn't that space. This About Me will be short, clear, and to the point. I will be sharing more about myself and real-life tips to help others on rea journeys through books, classes, and more. To learn more about me through my career paths and various trainings, check out the Education & Credentials section below!
Education & Credentials
Dentistry, Anatomy & Physiology
2003-2026
Since 2003, I have been taking courses on the human body, and completed a Radiology Dental Careers Level I & II program offered by my high school, Howard University, and Northern Virginia Community College to begin working in the Dental field. To advance my career into complex surgical dentistry, I had to take college-level dental and medical courses on the brain, the 11 body systems, deeper anatomy, and more, which I still use today as a wellness professional.
Yoga, Pilates, Breathwork & Meditation Trainings
2015-2026
I may not look my age, but I took yoga classes in gyms and on VHS way before the internet even existed! I completed a 200-hour Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga Teacher Training program in March 2015, a Mat Pilates Certification in 2016, and an Advanced 300-hour Ashtanga, Acro & Contortion Yoga Alliance Registered Teacher Training Program in September 2017. In 2023, I completed another 200-hour yoga teacher training and a 200-hour Meditation training. In 2024, I completed 2 Breathwork Trainings (Level I & II) and enrolled in an 800-hour Medical Level Yoga Therapy Program. I have had the opportunity to study under instructors such as Guru Sri Dharma Mitra, Kino MacGregor, and many other experienced instructors from America, India, and other parts of the world.
Stretch Therapy
2001-2024
In 2023, I completed a 60-hour training program that covered extensive anatomy, safe stretching sequencing and techniques, quizzes, a 90-minute final exam, and a one-hour hands-on corporate evaluation to work at Stretchlab as a stretch therapist. After passing, I then had to do 12 hours of stretching, evaluated and critiqued by the lead trainer at my location, before being allowed to work on my own book of clients. The training was very thorough but intense!
I have been taking classes and workshops about partner stretching techniques, acro yoga, and Thai massage since 2016. Attending cosmetology school in 2004 and working in Day Spas since 2001, I gained a lot of knowledge with massage techniques, pressure points, and reflexology points that I still incorporate into my stretch sessions and in-person classes today.
Zumba
Entire Life/2018
In November 2018, I decided to take my love of Caribbean and Latin music, culture, and dance to the next level and take a Level 1 ZIN teacher training to become a Certified Zumba Instructor. After 12 hours of non-stop dancing and learning more choreography than any brain can hold, I became a Zumba teacher.
I have always taken long trips in Latin and Caribbean countries from a very young age, especially since my grandfather lived in Barbados my entire life.
Strength Training Background
Since 10
My father was a competitive bodybuilder who trained me in the gym since I was ten years old. He is somebody who was highly respected in the fitness and weightlifting industry for being all-natural and having such muscle mass and strength at his age. He won 1st place in several weightlifting competitions for bench pressing over 525+ lbs while over the age of 40. My father won his last competition in July of 2004 at 46, before being diagnosed with Bone Marrow cancer in 90% of his body and passing 3 months later.
Child Development and Lactation Courses
2008 & 2012
18 years ago, trying to be a stay-at-home mom for the first time, to socialize myself and my little one, I sometimes worked at my child's grandmother's childcare facilities, helping out in the infant-toddler rooms. I had to take college child development classes, and medical-level, hands-on First Aid and CPR training for infants, toddlers, children, and adults, including all mannequin sizes and AED equipment.
In 2008 and 2012, I enrolled in lactation and Lamaze courses taught by Registered Nurses and professional Lactation Experts at hospitals to support myself and others on their nursing journeys. Especially the moms and nursing babies at the childcare, years before Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok were ever a reference point for anyone, especially mothers.