I have been a Pilates instructor since 2004 but I have been doing Pilates since 1999.  I started with Pilates as a way to ease stress, get in shape and help a chronic low back problem.  What I found after a year of doing Pilates, is that my desk job was getting in the way of my health.  That is when I decided to change careers.  Movement and health are huge passions of mine and although Pilates is by far the tool I use the most, I have studied and taken classes in Yoga, Mindfulness meditation, Qigong, Structural Integration, Ashiatsu as well as becoming a Pilates Master Trainer, Burn at the Barre Master Trainer, massage therapist and Functional Medicine Health Coach. I incorporate whatever makes sense and works the best for my clients. I am a creative teacher and whether you are doing Pilates, massage or Health coaching it always comes back to that Mind/Body connection.  As a daughter of two teachers, I love to share my education and knowledge taking the approach of guiding and teachering others rather than using route instruction, formulas and routines.  But most of all, I think that everybody deserves to move and feel well. Movement should bring you joy and I like to be playful while teaching my clients how to be more efficient and productive in their bodies. 

In my spare time, I am busy cooking and looking for new healthy recipes.  I love to eat and talk about food.  Iā€™m often found outdoors on the trails taking in the beautiful Northwest. I believe in whole body health that incorporates mindfulness not just in my studio but also in my daily life. I also write frequently, (you can follow me on Medium under @pilatesmaria), mostly musing of things I have discovered in my life and wellness journey.  I am a mother of two beautiful boys that keep me occupied and remind me everyday that movement is a song, a gift and a joy.  

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