Our Yoga Teachers
Shirley Newton RN, E–RYT, YACEP
Founder of Essence of Yoga Studio 2006
As a retired registered nurse, a E–RYT 500 certified yoga teacher and Reiki practitioner. I have always been connected to helping people reach their optimal health—for me yoga is a holistic extension of my professional career. I fell in love with yoga decades ago due to an injury. From roller skating to Jazzercise to Step and Spinning I’ve not only tried it all—I’ve taught numerous classes as well.
Yoga for me isn’t about just exercise—which is a side effect of the practice—instead it is mixture of self-exploration, balance and peace. In our 24/7 non-stop world it’s this sense of peace and balance we are missing and crave the most.
Many years ago I turned my private passion into a space where others could take the time to re-center and re-charge. Essence of Yoga Studio was once my dream which became a reality over a decade ago. Everyone needs a space where they can relax, disconnect and reflect and this place is Essence of Yoga Studio.
My desire is for people to take the flexibility and openness that they gain on their mat from each class off their mat and into their lives.
“May the experience you gain at Essence of Yoga Studio open your heart and lead you to peace.”
Namaste
Nicole Moodie RYT 200hr
Hello! I’m Nicole, a seasoned yoga teacher. I discovered the transformative power of yoga in the early 2000s. My foundational training in Kundalini yoga and meditation was obtained at Yoga House in Washington, DC, under the tutelage of the late Elizabeth Greathouse. I further honed my skills at Zenith Yoga Hanoi, diving deep into traditional hatha yoga, emphasizing alignment, meditation, and philosophy. I’m on the verge of completing a wellness coach certification from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, further enhancing my holistic approach to well-being. With years of experience and diverse training, I invite you to join me in embracing a journey of balance, health, and mindfulness.
Diane Turdik, RYT
I began my personal yoga journey many years ago along with what I refer to as my spiritual journey. Eight years ago the opportunity to become a yoga instructor was presented to me and I accepted whole-heartedly. My training was done at the Yoga Institute East coast. I am a registered 200 hour instructor and a member of the Yoga Alliance. I am also Reiki Certified under the Usui lineage. I am also an ordained Minister. I have training in breath work, essential oils, and crystal healing. I am here for your individual needs, and I will honor your journey.
When you enter my class I hope that you follow my favorite quote and words of wisdom, “Let it be” — Paul McCartney
Mary Lazzaro, RYT
For me to practice yoga is to consciously seek to unite with the essence of Truth. After having experienced this communion in my own yoga practice I felt inspired to humbly guide others towards this ultimate oneness and the peace and joy that I have found through yoga. I feel that each class is a bud that blossoms when I share my practice with students. It is my hope that by quieting our minds through mudras, mantras, chants, asanas and meditation we can strengthen our bodies, nurture our spirits and open our hearts to that union of all beings and all that is.
Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti!
Peace and all good
Alyssa Citarella, RYT–200
What to say! In 2005 I attended a Dahn Yoga Tai-Chi class, and the rest is history! I have been trained in Traditional Vinyasa, Alchemical Meditation, and Yin Yoga, and am always on the lookout for new training to deepen my knowledge & experience. I see Breathwork as the gateway to nervous system regulation, Movement as medicine for both the body & the mind, and Eastern Philosophy as a source of inspiration for the human spirit. Always remember, Yoga is not simply about poses! The 8 Limbed Yogic Path is one I continue to study with reverence & gratitude, and I am so grateful that my practice has led me to Essence of Yoga! I am both a spiritual seeker & a science geek, so my goal is to always provide anatomically safe classes, along with a generous dose of practical mysticism of course. I look forward to meeting you in class!
Kristen Cerone, RYT
I came to yoga after the birth of my third child, in search of lower back relief and some much needed “me” time. The peace and focus found on my mat began to spill over into all aspects of my life, eventually leading me to pursue my certification. Under the guidance of Lucia Tucci DiPalo at The Yoga Room, RYS, I studied the importance of anatomy and alignment, while delving deeply into yoga philosophy and tradition. I have a deep respect for all systems of yoga and consider myself a perpetual student. My classes incorporate strength building standing poses, twists, and balancing poses to find flexibility and stamina for both the body and mind. I invite the use of props to assist and enhance your yoga practice and encourage each student to go somewhere new each time they step onto their mat.
“It is my hope that by helping students to align the body, the mind and spirit will follow.”