Leslie began to call Kansas Siddhi Yoga her beloved yoga home in 2005. Since that time, her perception of yoga has broadened exponentially! Over time, with consistent, continued practice at KSY, what she initially believed was a tough but well-balanced physical regimen developed into a spiritual, whole-life practice. In the spirit of looking for a way to share her passion for the path of yoga with others, she began teaching classes at her local gym. It didn't take her long to recognize the differences between purely fitness-based yoga and the richer practice she was doing at her studio. Eager to learn more than she'd be able to teaching at the gym, she asked Gina about apprenticing with her and has been eagerly absorbing the vast yogic teachings ever since. Her desire to learn and serve the students of KSY is surpassed only by her loving-kindness and the extraordinary depth of her heart.
Leslie equally loves a challenging, intelligently-sequenced vinyasa class (Solar) and the deep release of a well-balanced Yin yoga class (Lunar). Every week you'll find her practicing both! She also has a special passion for empowering young women (pre-teens) with yoga as well as for introducing kids to the invaluable tools that a lifelong yoga practice will provide! Leslie's mother died when she was only 10 years old and that tragedy has been a pivotal learning experience for her. She realized how precious life, love and relationships are and has sought to live that truth every single day and expresses this through her teaching. She strives to bring that wisdom to others and introduce others to their own power! In addition, she always takes on karma yoga opportunities including teaching yoga in local elementary schools, at kids' parties, to mothers of pre-schoolers (MOPS) and at charity events. She strives to be a role model for all and be a reminder that we should seek happiness in life and never forget that we can stand on our heads at any age!
Leslie has a B.S. in Physical Education from CMSU and is certified by YogaFit to teach adult as well as kid's classes. She is committed to continuing her yoga education and has been influenced by Paula Tortolano (Iyengar Yoga), Sarah Powers & Paul Grilley (Yin Yoga) and Laura Williamson & Anita Bailey (Restorative Yoga). Her most powerful influences continue to be her apprenticeship with Gina Caputo and her committed yoga practice.
Leslie's other great love is her family, including her wonderful husband Nick, who supports her fully, and her amazing children Neko and Josie. They celebrate their life together in Lee's Summit!
Leslie believes we should laugh as often as possible and receive the world with open arms and an open heart, come what may, knowing there is something to learn from everything and everyone. Her favorite saying is one Gina taught her, "When the student is ready, the teacher appears."
