SFP Editor: What inspired you to teach yoga?
Maria: After 15 years of personal yoga practice, I wanted to share the benefits of flexibility, strengthen, relaxation and meditation with students.

SFP Editor: What is your teaching philosophy?
Maria: Teach what you know and allow students to explore the poses in a way that brings the ancient tradition alive for the individual. If the “proper” alignment does not work for a student, s/he should experiment with modifications.

SFP Editor: For those who are not familiar with yoga, please explain what it is and how it is helpful.
Maria: Yoga involves combining physical poses with breathing techniques to provide flexibility, balance, strength and relaxation. It also reduces everyday stress, improves concentration and enhances overall well-being by focusing our minds on the present moment with compassion.

SFP Editor: What about yoga have you found the most beneficial in your life?
Maria: Yoga provides me with an easy accessible means to quiet the mind, increase mindfulness and come into the present moment one breath at a time.

SFP Editor: What advice do you have to those who find yoga intimidating?
Maria: Pick one pose a day and just work on that pose. You’ll notice your body opening and relaxing in ways you would never have imagined. The internet has several great websites with poses.

SFP Editor: What brought you to the DC area?
Maria: Graduate school. Yoga has always provided me with great stress relief from hectic school days and now from the working world.

SFP Editor: Should people who practice yoga have a 'yoga' goal or is there more informal approach to practice?
Maria: Starting your practice with an intention makes sense (for example, concentrate on your breath, open your heart, bring compassion rather than competition to your practice). However, don’t think of the intention in terms of a goal -- rather, allow your mind and heart to direct you to the right intention for you as you practice each day.

SFP Editor: There are so many yoga studios in DC. How can one determine the best studio for his or her needs?
Maria: DC is filled with stressed-out people so yoga is the perfect companion for DC. Most studios offer a range of classes from beginner to advance. Just find one that is fun and stick with it.

SFP Editor: Are you participating in yoga week and if so, what will you be doing?
Maria: Sure, I’ll use the opportunity to go to some new classes and try out different teaching styles.