Staff

Theresa May - Owner/Director - E-RYT 200/ RYT 500

I found yoga in 2001 (or yoga found me) when I was looking for a way to deal with the craziness and the stress in my life. I discovered a spiritual awakening and contentment that has enhanced every aspect of my life on and off the mat. The journey continued when I took the 200 and 500 hour teacher trainings with Michael Johnson.

I have been truly blessed that my life’s journey has taken me to where I am today, to help others find their own path to contentment as they discover their own strength, flexibility, courage and wisdom.

Jean Charette - RYT 200

I am a 200 hour graduate of Clearlight Yoga Shala school training with Michael Johnson and am looking forward to finishing my 500 hour Level RYT training soon. I encourage all students to enjoy the freedom and peace within their own bodies as they explore the unique challenges of yoga. What I love about yoga is the incredible awareness it brings to the mental and physical spirit while on the beautiful path of transformation and am deeply honored to teach and share this experience with my students. 

Beginning to Intermediate, Restorative, Yin and Fully Figured Yoga students can expect a warm, safe and positive atmosphere to practice all the wonderful facets of Hatha Yoga.

Meaghan Zeoli - RYT 200

I started my journey of yoga eight years ago and have watched my life and the lives of others blossom. In 2006, I decided to share my love of yoga and, under the guidance of Michael Johnson and became a certified instructor with the Yoga Alliance. I believe that the benefits of yoga are universal, transcending all age barriers. 

I have developed classes specific for teens and in 2008 became a Yoga Ed teacher for grades K-8. I have studied at length with Mira Shani and the Venerable Lobsang Chukyi to deepen my study of yoga philosophy. My wish is that all beings see the beauty inside of themselves and others.  Be present to the world around you and you will find clarity.

Debbie Jodzis - RYT

Yoga is a journey, not a destination. I have enjoyed the journey and I look forward to each yoga practice to explore myself inside and out. The physical poses (asanas) in yoga have helped me create strength, flexibility and balance. Daily, I find myself turning to the philosophies of yoga as a guide to making better choices at home, at work, with my family and my friends.

In Yoga, there is no competition, no judgment and no expectations.  My goal in each yoga class is that all participants are comfortable and find acceptance with themselves. I am happy to meet new people and help them see the benefits of yoga. I look forward to meeting you at Santosha Yoga and having you as a part of the journey.

Debbie Kowalski - PT, CPI

I became inspired by Yoga and Pilates through a commitment to rehabilitation and wellness. I developed a passion for mind/body fitness which provides tremendous benefits to students of all levels. Through self-awareness and internal focus one can find healing, growth and transformation. Classes instill motivation and challenge for students to reveal their full potential in a compassionate and non-competitive atmosphere.

I have been a licensed Physical Therapist since 1995. I became a Certified Pilates Instructor in 2003 and began YogaFit trainings in 2005.

Grace Buffa - RYT 200

I first practiced Yoga in Ferndale and Royal Oak in 1998 and felt at home on the mat. Life at that time had become very busy with completing college for Physical Therapy and getting married. Yoga was then pushed off to the side. After working and having a child 10 years later, I wanted to pursue a career in teaching Yoga.  Little did I know my passion and whole life would change.

I took my teacher training with Brian Granader at Red Lotus Yoga.  Brian has not only been a trainer, but a mentor too. My teachers also include my husband, son and students. Yoga filled a void for me spiritually and made me more compassionate, tranquil and a happier human being. I am blessed to have found Yoga and love to teach others and share all of the wisdom and freedom it brings.  My classes come from the heart and I hope to inspire others through these teachings on the mat so they can use them off the mat.

Courtney Malburg - RYT 200

When I first walked into the doors of yoga, I did not completely understand how wholly it would benefit me. From that first class I felt hooked. Regularly I came back and began to strengthen my practice and awaken to my body, breath, mind and spiritual self. I found that these aspects of myself are one and work in alignment with each other.

My hope is to teach this awareness of self. The opening and flowering of the self and heart is the biggest credit I can give to this sweet yoga. I hope my students will get closer and closer to this consciousness. Come share it with me.

Christie Cairo - RYT 200

Being a personal trainer since 1997, I knew that I needed more than just cardiovascular exercise and weight training for optimal health. I became a yoga student in 2002 and grew to love what it did for my body and my mind. I completed a 200 RYT program under my teacher Michael Johnson and have continued to bloom under the teachings of other teachers, Geshe' Michael Roach, and even my friends and family. 

I want my classes to provide a space where someone can come in and just "breathe" and enjoy the present moment. Whether it be for the physical benefits of the postures or for the positive messages for your mind, I am honored to help others improve the quality of their lives. Namaste'