Brett attended his first yoga class in early 2002 while working as a personal trainer in New York City.

“I decided to stop into a yoga class to get a ’Quick stretch’ before a rigorous cardio and weight lifting regimen. What I got was a literal life-altering experience. After one hour of being led through completely unfamiliar movements, I felt alive in an entirely new way.  I didn’t understand what it was or how it worked, but I knew that I wanted more.”

Within weeks Brett enrolled in his first teacher training program and began what turned out to be a three-year break from weighlifting and joint-pounding cardio, in order to fully focus on yoga and yogic philosophy.

“Over the last 8 years I have listened to my teachers’ instructions as I transition from one pose to the next on my mat. Breath by breath, the practice not only transforms my body, it also provides a safe environment to allow mental blocks and emotional baggage to release their hold on my life. When I show up on the mat, I let go of the past, take responsibility for the present, and create the future- all through the transformative power of intentional practice.”

Since that amazing summer of 2002, Brett has devoted much of his time to the studies of yoga, yogic philosophy & physiology, bodywork, and the art of self-healing. Brett has also integrated weight lifting back into his practice using the yogic perspective.

“Lifting was once an obsession of mine for aesthetic purposes alone. At this point of my life however, lifting weights is a physical practice just like the Yoga – a metaphor of the life journey as well as enhancing my performance outside the gym. I enjoy meeting the resistance of gravity, using it to my advantage, and seeing my goals being reached. Applying yogic principles to my approach in the gym has kept my body safe and my mind strong.”

The following is a listing of his qualifications:

• Certified Personal Trainer 2002-International Sports Sciences Association, New York City
• 200-hour certification with Yoga Alliance 2003- Laughing Lotus College of Yoga- New York City
• Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute 2005- Mysore, India
• Mumuksha Ayurvedic School of Massage 2005-Mysore, India
• Certified with Radiant Lotus Thai-Yoga Body Therapy 2006- Harmony Learning Center- Decatur, Ga
• Currently working toward the 500 hr Yoga Alliance Certification under Bill Hufschmidt and “Yoganand” Michael Carroll