Heather first came to Studio You as a student in November, 2019. Diagnosed by her physician as morbidly obese, with pre-diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, and a history of rotator cuff surgeries on both shoulders, Heather needed to find an effective, safe form of physical activity; she knew she needed to make some much-needed lifestyle changes to keep up with, and to be a role model for, her young and active children. Recommended by a friend who was going to Studio You, Heather signed up for the introductory student special, not realizing at the time what a life-changing decision it would be. Not only did she find a form of physical activity that was effective, safe, and enjoyable, she found a special place which offered a home-base for personal exploration and a much-needed sense of support and community.
As an LCSW/therapist, Heather found a passion in the intersection of Western mental health and Eastern contemplative practices. In the process, she found herself through the unique combination of physical exercise and mental health benefits only yoga can provide, and wanting to share that knowledge with others, she completed the 200-hour GoYoga Teacher Training in August, 2021, and obtained her Fit Flow yoga certification in October, 2021. Heather is grateful to be able to teach at the studio she considers the starting pace for her own personal transformation.
Still remembering her first class at Studio You, when she couldn’t touch her toes or do chaturanga, Heather strives to teach the physical and mental benefits of yoga to her students in a supportive, light-hearted environment. Students are encouraged to be themselves and Heather will meet them wherever they are on their yoga journey - whether they are new in their yoga practice or a seasoned yogi, who is looking to get more than just physical exercise.
Heather relocated to Greenwood in 2007 from New England. Heather works as a mental health therapist, and in addition to yoga, loves her husband, her two girls, and her 100 pound pitbull mix-lap dog, Roscoe.
Chia’s yoga journey started when she was in her home country of Taiwan. Chia has a tremendous passion for teaching and helping people to grow through yoga. With her diligent study and practice, she earned her 200-hour RYT in August, 2014. Chia is known for her challenging, fun teaching style yet has a way of making it relaxing at the same time. She believes that yoga is not just doing postures, but also connecting one's breath and mind. Chia is the owner of Studio You Yoga and along with her business success she teaches a variety of classes each week.
Her yoga journey has taught her that in everything you do, you have to believe in yourself. That is her secret to success.