Michelle Barge

Who did you study with?

Paula Tursi, Dharma Mittra, Sadie Nardini, Schuyler Grant

What year did you start teaching yoga?

2006

What other jobs have you had?

translator, art appraiser, fashion merchandiser, and most recently years in the marketing and PR world

Favorite place that you have traveled to?

There are so many – often times it's the total experience, not just the place: Big Sur is one of my favorite places but because I stay at Post Ranch Inn; Cadaques, Spain is probably an all-around favorite.

List 3 words your students would use to describe your classes:

alignment heavy, intense, fun, traditional, (threw in an extra…)

How does your own practice influence your daily life?

My own practice makes me more mindful and joyous. The practice has also brought more compassion for others into my life and the ability to meditate easily and anywhere has also grown due to my own practice.

Favorite asana?

Bound side angle, headstands, full wheel.

Who is a teacher who inspires you?

Paula Tursi – not because she's our boss, but I found Paula and her style of teaching years ago right after 9/11 – and her grace and caring and classes kept me afloat at that time. I'm also inspired by many of the teachers at Integral Yoga as they are, what I like to call, yogi purists. Nothing fancy, no bells and whistles, just "old school" yoga.

A great yoga class makes you feel…

that the burdens you brought into class no longer exist or feel less intense; that life is full of possibility and transformation is possible.