Karen was born and raised in Charlottetown, PEI. Having practiced yoga on and off since high school, it wasn’t until Karen discovered hot yoga that she realized her true passion. Originally drawn to the physical aspects and cardiovascular workout, her practice soon evolved and it became more than a great way to stay in shape. She began to experience so many benefits; improved breath awareness, reduced stress, improved digestion and this incredible blissful feeling after class.

With a desire to share this experience with others, Karen completed her Modo Yoga training in 2009 in Toronto… what an amazing experience! She then traveled to Costa Rica in 2010 for Modo Level 2 as well as two Prenatal Yoga trainings in 2011 and 2017.  Now that her family has grown to include 3 beautiful children, Karen is even more grateful to the tools that her practice has given her.

Karen has a deep love for this community and is inspired every day by her students and teachers to continue to spread this Modo love all over PEI!

Dr. Natalie’s passion lies in helping women feel empowered in their healthcare journey by providing patient-centered, evidence-based naturopathic medicine. Her areas of focus include women’s health, reproductive health, periods, perimenopause and gut health. Natalie places a strong focus on prevention and empowering her patients to make informed decisions about their health.

Curiosity is what brought Suzanne into her first yoga class… Loving the exhilarated feeling after class, the freedom, focus, and positive energy in her everyday life (to mention a few) is what this practice brings to her! After a year of practicing, she knew she needed to share this experience – she wanted to deepen her practice and she wanted to teach! Packing her bags, she headed to her first yoga teacher training: Baron Baptiste Power Yoga Level One. Since then, Suzanne has continued to grow through teaching and community. Now part of the Oxygen Yoga and Fitness team, she thrives in the uplifting environment, surrounded by like-minded, energetic individuals. Teaching at Oxygen Yoga and Fitness allows Suzanne to share her passion and help others find the same empowerment and joy that yoga has brought to her. She is happy to be part of the amazing team bringing Oxygen Yoga and Fitness to Charlottetown and building a vibrant, supportive community.

A long time multi-sport athlete, Dr. Mckenna treats a wide variety of musculoskeletal complaints with a passion for movement throughout life. She offers Chiropractic services, including manual adjustment, instrument assisted soft tissue therapy, and contemporary medical acupuncture, along with being certified by the Titleist Performance Institute and Complete Concussion Management.

Scott has been guiding classes at Modo Yoga since 2014 and has extensive training in various movement styles, including yoga, Pilates, group fitness, and paddleboard yoga. With a strong foundation in mindful movement and strength training, Scott’s classes blend challenge and adaptability, encouraging students to push their limits while honoring their own bodies.

Scott believes that fitness is about more than just movement—it’s about empowerment. Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve endurance, or explore balance in a new way, Scott creates a welcoming space where all levels can thrive. Expect a motivating workout with elements of yoga, Pilates, and functional fitness, along with options to modify, ensuring you leave feeling strong, capable, and energized.

When not leading classes, Scott can be found paddleboarding, practicing in the Modo studio, or unwinding by a campfire while watching the sunset.

Erika again joins the Island Tides Festival as Program Coordinator! This is her 21th year as a full-time yoga instructor and studio manager. She is the founder of 3eYoga and co-owner of Charlottetown Yoga Space and The Space at Blackbush in Tracadie. She is a lead trainer with Maritime Yoga College, having helped certify many PEI yoga teachers. Her mission as a yoga instructor is to inspire new “a-ha” moments for the seasoned practitioner and crush any misconceptions a new yoga student might have about yoga being “boring”!

Carrie Lundy is a school teacher and yoga instructor who teaches and practices with an open heart. As a committed student, she enjoys learning from local Indigenous knowledge keepers and values the connection between the teachings of Yoga and the sacred teachings of Epekwitk. Carrie places self-love at the heart of her practice and sees Yoga as a tool to help elevate love and peace in the world.

Nicole MacRae, founder of Oak & Cedar Counselling Services, provides a safe, caring, and judgment-free space where clients feel seen, understood, and supported in a relaxed therapeutic environment.

Jenna Noble, DTCM, R.Ac. is a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncturist with a deep commitment to holistic, trauma-informed care. With over a decade of experience studying and practicing acupuncture and herbal medicine, she blends ancient wisdom with a modern understanding of the nervous system to help clients find balance and resilience.

Jenna completed her Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine education at the Kootenay Columbia College of Integrative Health Sciences in Nelson, BC, where she also gained hands-on clinical experience at Nelson Mental Health & Addictions Services. Her thesis explored the integration of trauma-informed care within a TCM framework, shaping her compassionate and individualized approach to healing.

In her practice, Jenna works collaboratively with clients to create tailored treatment plans using acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, gua sha, and nutrition. She specializes in supporting women’s health, emotional well-being, stress and nervous system regulation, and chronic or acute pain.

Now based in Prince Edward Island, Jenna runs a private practice with Inbloom Health (formerly EastND), where she helps clients reconnect with their bodies and cultivate lasting well-being. Outside of her work, she is a mother of two and finds joy in yoga, creative expression, and spending time in nature—especially on PEI’s beaches.

Ouma, born in Mauritius, was raised in the rich tradition of Vedic practices. Her meditation journey has been deeply influenced by a long-time dedication to Vajrayana and Vipassana meditation, practices she was initiated into in India, England, and Canada. In 2014, she was formally inducted as a Buddhist Meditation Facilitator by Lama Catherine Rathburn in Toronto.

Ouma’s passion for Sanskrit and its profound wisdom has led her to study the language for nearly a decade now, complementing her studies of Advaita philosophy and other Vedic traditions. As a yoga teacher, she teaches Hatha yoga at the Charlottetown Yoga Space, Blackbush Resort, and the University of Prince Edward Island.

Smita was born and raised in New Delhi, India. An interior designer by profession, she has always had a keen interest in Yoga. Her quest to delve deeper into the knowledge of self (Yoga = yuj = union with self) led her to join the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Forest Academy headquartered in ValMorin, Quebec, Canada. In 2020-2021 she completed her 800 hrs of teachers training (TTC) & advanced teachers training (ATTC) at the Sivananda ashrams in Kerala & Tamil Nadu in south India earning herself a Master in Yoga, MY and YPM member of the Indian Yoga Association. She has been conducting classes in Hatha Yoga specialising in the Sivananda lineage taught through the Guru disciple tradition in India and Canada. She started her journey with her husband on Prince Edward island, Canada in 2021 nd is looking forward to being an integral part of the Yoga community of the island. Sivananda Yoga follows the 5 fold paths – proper breathing, proper exercise, proper diet, proper relaxation & most importantly meditation with positive thinking. She would like to share this beautiful knowledge through her classes for the benefit of the community. She continues her learning of Sanskrit, Indian scriptures – Bhagavad Gita, Patanjali Yoga Sutras, Upanishads amongst others under the guidance of Vedanta amritam community which is an ongoing journey. She has recently completed her ayurvedic wellness training from Sivananda ashram Neyyardam, Kerala , India.

Andrea’s goal is to provide the motivation and training necessary to facilitate a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Andrea hosts annual Yoga and fitness retreats at Farm of Life, Costa Rica.

A lot of Kelly’s teachings are based on research and training with Yoga Medicine, a platform that bridges gaps between yoga and other health systems. This idea of meshing and working together of the modalities of health to offer us our best shot of achieving and maintaining ongoing health and wellness.

Charles is the founder of YogaGrove. He started seriously engaging with Iyengar Yoga after starting classes with Pam Stewart in 2010. Through his work in the practice he began to witness the transformative and evolutionary power of this incredible art, science, and philosophy of yoga. His joy in teaching and humour make classes enjoyable and fun as well as challenging, educational, and rewarding.

Lesley was born and raised in Prince Edward Island, and her first foray into the world of wine was as a Junior Sommelier for the Ritz Carlton, Cayman Islands. Work has taken Lesley to Calgary, Vancouver, Turkey, and Halifax, and wine has taken her to France, Italy, Austria, Chile, Portugal, and California. Ask her what my favourite wine is and the answer will always be “I love all my babies equally.”

Sonic alchemist and artist Kiara Ra is a higher-realm conduit of healing energy, lyrical and non-lyrical soul songs, and shamanic sound healing journeys, serving as a catalyst for personal transformation. Her expansive vocal range, multi-instrumentalism, and meticulous, self-taught approach to crystal quartz singing bowls make for multifaceted sound journeys, rich energetic transmissions, and overall sublime experiences.

Triona Harrop is the Owner-Operator of Infrared Fitness. She has been teaching all forms of movement from dance, Pilates, yoga, spin, and track & field to rehab and mindfulness movement. Her passion for movement comes across in her style of teaching as she incorporates over 30 years of teaching experience to students of all levels. Triona will help you to tap into your true potential on the Mat and leave you feeling challenged, invigorated and inspired.

Sat Nam. My name is Teri Hall and I am a yoga teacher and lifelong student of Life. I was introduced to yoga at a very young age and have been practicing and teaching various styles of Yoga for over 50 years (Hatha, Kundalini, Chair, Restorative, and Yoga Nidra). I have always been drawn to yoga’s ability to help calm my mind, strengthen my body and most of all, to connect to my inner self. I integrate pranayama (breathing techniques), mindfulness and meditation into my classes and teach with wisdom, dedication and passion. I am always seeking opportunities to continue my education and growth as a teacher and to share these learnings with you. Off my mat, I can be found designing jewelry, painting, hiking, kayaking, and being in nature every chance I get.

Mel Martell is a certified Indian Head Massage practitioner with over a decade of experience, having been trained in this ancient healing art since 2015 through the Canadian Centre of Indian Head Massage. With a deep passion for wellness, Mel has continued to expand her expertise by furthering her education to become an Indian Head Massage Instructor, allowing her to certify others in the practice of Indian Head Massage.

Known for her skillful and intuitive approach, Mel provides highly effective treatments that promote relaxation, stress relief, and overall well-being. As an experienced practitioner and instructor, she is dedicated to helping others experience

Cynthia has been practicing yoga for 24 years and teaching for the last 6. She truly loves helping people find relaxation in their day, peace in their hearts and strength and confidence in their bodies. My goal to instill a sense of agency and curiosity in my students. Yoga is the lens she looks at the world through, and the way that she stays connected to herself and the present moment and Cynthia always excited to share the gift of movement.

Reequal Smith, born and raised on the beautiful Bahama Islands, is the Founder and Artistic Director of “Oshuns Dance Studios” focusing on bringing women together to feel empowered and venerated of all ethnicities. She has trained in ballet, jazz, modern contemp, african, aerial ballet and fire dancing. During her career in her hometown,she has performed in multiple shows in hotels for more than 8 years and Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival for three years with local artists. Reequal obtains a B.A in Marketing at The University of The Bahamas and is a Sopa alumni from Holland College in PEI, where she currently continues her dancing career as an independent artist,choreographer and educator in Charlottetown. Further taking part in Festivals and events such as; Diversecity Festival, Roma Festival, River Clyde Pageant and Stratford Fall Festival. She continues to express her art by fusing cultural patterns together as one creating something beautiful and wishes to bring more excitement and diversity to the PEI Community.”Continuously aiming for new heights she follows the words by Francisco Gella “Dance because you love it, Dance because you live it, and Dance because you have nothing to lose and everything to share”.

I stepped into my first Yoga class over 20 years ago. Wow, how my practice and understanding of Yoga has changed since then! I completed my first Yoga certification in 2009 with YogaLife in India. Since then, I have accumulated over 4000 training hours. I am a Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT), a graduate of Yoga North International Soma Yoga Institute, an Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher with the Yoga Alliance (E-RYT at the 500-hour level), and a Registered Holistic Nutritionist (RHN). Along the way, I have also completed an 800-hour Yoga history and Philosophy program, Yoga-Nidra Levels 1 and 2, as well as Yoga-Nidra for Children through Traditional Yoga Studies (Brenda and Georg Feuerstein), a year-long Mastery of Mantra training with Russill Paul and Ayurveda, Chakras and more with Indu Arora. Above all, I am a student first and humbly take space within this tradition of Yoga with reverence and sincerity. I currently work as a Yoga Therapist and Nutritionist at the Serene View Ranch, a multi-disciplinary clinic on PEI that focuses on treating mental health issues, especially trauma-related difficulties. I also lead workshops and trainings focusing on mental health, Yin, Ayurveda, and more. I have been a guest presenter for many events and festivals on the Island and beyond.

Rhonda Gallant has been teaching fitness and wellness in Souris since 2003 and has been PEI’s only licensed Groove™️ (AKA bodygroove) facilitator since 2018 leading weekly community classes in Charlottetown.

Erika Perez is a multi-faceted individual who seamlessly weaves her passion for dance with her dedication to teaching. As a teacher and performer of contemporary and belly dance, she brings a unique blend of artistry and mindfulness to her classes.

With a deep understanding of the emotional factors that influence individuals lives, Erika approaches her teaching from a holistic perspective. She recognizes the power of dance not only as a form of expression but also as a tool to develop resilience and release trauma and stress. Through her classes, she aims to provide her students with not just instruction but also emotional well-being.

Erika’s journey has taken her across borders, allowing her to share her expertise in diverse cultural settings from Egypt to Canada and Mexico, which has enriched her teaching. The holistic approach during class ensures that her classes are not only about the mastering of dance techniques but also about nurturing mind, body, and soul.

Erika is a graduate of the National Institute of Arts in Mexico City. In 2018 and 2019, she was invited to teach dance workshops at the “Sagat Festival” in El Cairo, Egypt. Currently teaches at Two Right Feet Dance Inc., a non-profit organization in Charlottetown.

Jacqueline is a loving, high-spirited, freelance makeup artist with a strong passion for natural beauty, well-being, and our environment. Celebrating over 12 years of experience working in the industry, she is happy to be the Maritimes’ first natural makeup artist. She empowers her clients to embrace their own individuality. Encouraging a conscious, mindful approach, she hopes to inspire you to look at beauty from a different perspective. With an environmentally-conscious mindset, Jacqui believes that a movement can be made that creates not only a healthier planet, but a healthier connection to ourselves. She’s on a mission to help make this world a better place—one toxin-free, earth-friendly product at a time! Find her on Instagram at @urbandaisyboutique or online at www.urbandaisy.ca

Julie is a part-time yoga teacher at Modo Yoga Charlottetown. Her focus is always on the breath, mindfulness, and moving in a way that simply feels good. She loves debunking the myth that only flexible people can do yoga by making the practice accessible for everyone. She believes witnessing students leaving the studio feeling better than they did when they walked in is the biggest reward. When Julie is not at the yoga studio, you will find her hiking or enjoying the sweet salt air on one of PEI’s beautiful beaches.

Julie Pellissier-Lush is a Mi’kmaq storyteller, photographer, actor, drummer, best-selling author, and the first Indigenous Poet Laureate for PEI.

Through her books, songs, poetry, and other creative pursuits, Julie celebrates and shares the powerful stories of the Mi’kmaq on PEI. Amongst her many accomplishments, Julie helped script the play ‘Mi’kmaq Legends’, which has been performed countless times over the past 12 years across the Island.

At her essence, Julie is a cultural teacher and knowledge keeper. She finds inspiration from her elders, as they bravely share their stories, and from today’s courageous youth who are embracing and celebrating their rich culture. Her five children serve as her greatest inspiration and enduring reason for getting up each day to teach, sing, and create in celebration of her Mi’kmaw roots.

The multi-talented, heart-centred artist’s contributions to the Mi’kmaw community and PEI have not gone unnoticed. She is the recipient of the Queens Diamond and Platinum Jubilee Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Senators 150 Medal.

Her plays continue to grow in popularity and are featured in various festivals and stand-alone productions across Atlantic Canada. Julie is currently writing a new ghost storybook with the Elders of PEI as well as two children’s books.

As an athlete from a young age, and fascinated by biomechanics and physiology, it was a natural progression for Seb to end up on the other side of the barbell using his knowledge and experience to assist others. Seb is a personal training specialist with an affinity for the fundamentals and an emphasis on functionality.

Monelli is an Iranian-born dancer whose joyful spirit and playful energy shine through in every performance. As a teacher, she creates a supportive space for students to explore movement, grow, and find joy, inspiring freedom and healing.

Her journey is one of resilience and joy. Separated from her family at age 7 and relocating to Canada, Monelli used dance, music, and yoga to navigate emotional challenges. Her vibrant energy continues to uplift and inspire all those she meets.

For the last 18 months, Monelli has been teaching Kundalini Yoga, sharing the teachings from her International School of Yoga in the French Alps. She has been teaching Persian dance for over 5 years, empowering others to heal, grow, and celebrate life through yoga, dance, and mindfulness.

Celine is a naturopathic doctor, acupuncturist, and cofounder of EASTND and owner of the Charlottetown location. Her practice focuses mainly on hormonal health and skin health (graceful aging and acne). She graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Dalhousie University and a Doctorate of Naturopathy from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. Celine was drawn to naturopathic medicine because the model of care resonated greatly with her belief in patient focused care and individualized medicine. Patient education is a large component of therapy, as she hopes to empower her patients to trust their bodies’ capacity to heal. Celine enjoys blending evidence based natural practices with ancient eastern medical traditions to promote lasting health of the mind, body and soul. She’s excited to share her knowledge & expertise with many festival-goers on Saturday during the Island Tides Community Acupuncture Clinic at Confederation Landing and again at the Green Beauty Breakfast at Salt & Sol on Sunday morning. Find out more at www.eastnd.ca

Blythe Martin is a physiotherapist and the proud owner of Collective Health Inc. She graduated from Dalhousie University’s physiotherapy master’s program in 2010 and joined Collective Health in 2013, where she has made significant contributions to the clinic’s success and reputation for providing exceptional care.

Since completing her master’s degree, Blythe has pursued advanced training in several areas of physiotherapy. She holds special certifications in advanced dry needling, and pelvic floor physiotherapy, with a particular focus on women’s health issues. These additional qualifications have enabled her to provide comprehensive and personalized care to her patients, helping them achieve optimal health and well-being.

Outside of her professional life, Blythe is a proud mother to her children, Libby and Will. She enjoys an active lifestyle, often spending time swimming, hiking, and going to the beach with her family. Blythe’s passion for health and wellness extends beyond her work, as she is dedicated to leading a balanced and healthy life for herself and her loved ones.

Bryde MacLean is a life-long learner and a facilitator of transformative experiences. Her passion is “making” and especially, making the most of the in-between moments that compose most of our lives. A senior teacher of Modo Yoga and professional actor on stage and in film, Bryde leads mindful movement and breath classes that help participants feel at home in their bodies and minds. Her classes are known for cultivating calm, and her grounding, thoughtful, and encouraging cues open up the senses and imagination for a rich experience of the present moment.

Born into a theatrical family on Prince Edward Island, Bryde has studied professionally in England, Toronto, and Los Angeles in the Performing Arts. Her instructor certifications in Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yin Yoga include over 3,000 hours of training in the yoga tradition. As the Manager of Teacher Training for Modo Yoga, Bryde led over 700 teachers through the journey to their certification. In September 2021, Bryde will return to school to begin the journey towards her Diploma in Osteopathy.

You can catch Bryde guiding “Simple Movements for Complex Times” with Pam August on Sunday, July 18th from 12-1pm at the Founders’ Hall Green Space.

Tim is a carpenter, a musician, an islander, a lover of life. His first yoga pose was vrksasana, Tree Pose, in the PEI Strathgartney provincial park campground , summer of 2000, For many years he has dabbled in the asanas, attended yoga classes, studied yoga for dummies, practiced meditation, and explored the spiritual journey.

In 2020, after many years of coping with lower back pain and other physical stresses, and mental stresses, he came upon Yoga in a new way. Five years of focussed training and a few hundred yoga classes later, there is still occasional backpain lol, but now with a clearer understanding of the body and how to work with it.
“ the body and mind are not separate, what affects one affects the other” author unknown.

Tim is a recent Maritime Yoga Teacher Training (200hr) graduate, and even though he said he probably wasn’t going to teach, here he is. He wants you to get into your body, really really get into it, have a look around, pay attention to what’s going on in there, and then maybe find a few new practices that can help you navigate this beautiful existence here on earth.

Chef Brittany Boothroud first became passionate about concious eating when she began her yoga journey in 2015. With over 10+ years of experience in the restaurant industry, she has spent time cooking and learning in various restaurants in and around Charlottetown, PEI; Banff, Alberta; Melbourne, Australia and Nelson, British Columbia. While working in a busy vegan soul food restaurant in Autralia, her passion for plant-based cooking was brought to life. She then returned to PEI with a goal to reconnect Islanders with the food on their plates . Brittany is passionate about vegan and vegetarian cooking, though her goal is to open your mind to concious eating, however that may look to you. Brittany is the owner and head chef of @Wild Kitchen: plant-based cooking classes in which she teaches private, hands on cooking classes to bring people back into their own kitchens. You can catch her on Saturday, July 17 from 4-6pm at the Mindful Living Talks & Tapas event at Merchantman’s Anchor Room discussing Mindful Eating.

Originally from the small community New Mills, New Brunswick, Kaitlyn moved to the Island in 2010 to study Foods and Nutrition at the University of Prince Edward Island. After completing her Bachelor of Science degree Kaitlyn decided she was not ready to leave the beautiful Island. She began employment at Simply For Life in 2015 as a Nutrition Consultant. In 2018 she purchased Simply For Life Charlottetown and along with Nutrition consulting she embraced the role of being s business owner and began to grow the Simply For Life retail market. Kaitlyn is passionate about health and giving those around her the tools to eat well and live well. Buying local and eating locally grown foods is something Kaitlyn values highly and enjoys sharing her love for it with others. She’s excited to share her expertise with festival goers during the Walk N’ Talk with Your Expert at the Charlottetown Farmers’ Market on Saturday, July 17th at 9am. Free to attend and first come, first serve!

Dr. Veronica Kaye, B.Sc; PhD has a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and a PhD in Marine Natural Products Chemistry. During her PhD studies, she discovered the powerful practice of yoga and a decade later, became an instructor (200 hours). She is also a children’s yoga instructor and works with daycares and groups of children in her popular classes!

Dr. Kaye is a Kidney Research Technician at the University of Prince Edward Island. You can find her teaching Ashtanga yoga to adults in Souris or to children for her Children’s Yoga series.

She lives in Fortune Bridge with her husband and two children.

Steff Sullivan (she/hers), founder of Steff Sullivan Collective, blends over a decade of experience as a women’s health nurse, movement practitioner and her own spiritual curiosity into a deep rooted passion for self-care and mental wellbeing. As a Certified Human Design Guide, she supports individuals in understanding their unique energy, fostering self-acceptance and finding inner peace through personalized self-care practices. With a strong commitment to community, Steff creates intentional group experiences that bring people together to connect, share, and support one another. Her offerings include movement classes, self-care workshops, personalized one-on-one sessions, group programs, and wellness retreats — both virtually and locally on Prince Edward Island, Canada. Learn more about Steff’s journey and her current offerings at www.steffsullivan.co

Mary has been practicing yoga in PEI since 1997. Her mission with community teaching and running a yoga and karate studio has been healthy individuals, healthy families, and healthy communities – based on individual needs. Her 25 years of yoga instruction began in Calgary with a 2 year teacher training program and the years have included Classical Hatha yoga, Power yoga, Kripalu yoga, Kripalu yoga dance, yoga for children, prenatal and postnatal yoga, therapeutic yoga, yoga for seniors, and iRest yoga nidra.

Holly has been teaching yoga, practicing reiki and meditation for approximately 10 years. Her expertise, experience, and authenticity make for a deeply restorative, rejuvenating, and relaxing class. Students love Holly’s gentle approach, paired with her empowering, articulate, and inspiring (unique) classes. This will be Holly’s 4th meditation walk with Discover Charlottetown and 3rd year involved with Island Tides Festival.

Megan Macdonald teaches weekly yoga classes and is trained in Reiki, and facilitates the self-healing Dalian Method. She has taught widely on ritual and belief, and works with individuals and groups to promote wellbeing, health and raising consciousness. @expansionhealing www.expansionhealing.ca

Trevor Grant has been a musician all his life, holds a Bachelor of Music from Mount Allison University and has been performing and teaching for over 30 years. He offers sound meditation sessions with his project “SoundEscapes.” @soundescapes FB and IG.

Following a severe car accident 33 years ago, Anita tried yoga to manage her chronic pain. She found not only physical relief, but an inner peace, sense of purpose, meaning, and spiritual connection. Once she began, “I felt like yoga would always be in my life,” Anita says. 

In 2021, Anita became a yoga teacher, with the intention to share the blessing yoga has been in her own life with others. Fascinated by healing, she has studied Reiki, Therapeutic Touch and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, and also completed Energy Medicine Yoga teacher training.

Anita’s classes are rich with compassion, kindness and infectious joy. She especially wants to teach those who yearn to try yoga but feel it’s out of reach, perhaps because they are self-conscious of their body, feel they lack flexibility and balance, or they’re shy about taking a class. “I always saw myself that way too,” Anita says. “But I pushed past the fear, and yoga changed my life.”

Gabrielle’s primary focus as a teacher and personal trainer is to keep everyone moving well throughout their lifespan. She has taught in Montreal and Toronto over the last thirty years and her great joy is working with people to restore lost mobility and helping people maintain and optimize their strength and range of motion. She uses a dynamic multidisciplinary approach in all her classes to motivate participants of all ages, fitness levels, body shapes, and sizes. Gabrielle completed 750 hours of yoga training with Naada Yoga Montreal and Yogafit Canada, and many hours with her mom in the 70’s in front of the TV! She also holds a doctorate from the Department of Kinesiology, University of Montreal, in the Science of Physical Activity. She completed certifications as an Exercise Physiologist from the Health and Fitness Federation of Canada and as a Fitness Instructor from the YMCA. Helping people move is her passion!

• PhD. Science of Physical Activity, University of Montreal, Department of Kinesiology
• Certified Exercise Physiologist – HFFC
• Certified YMCA F.I.T-Group Conditioning
• Certified Yoga Instructor – 750 YTT

Xclusiv Crew is a diverse Urban Dance Company that was founded in 2010 by Bahamian HipHop Choreographer, Joe Dames. The crew originally started with six male dancers from Eight Mile Rock, Bahamas. In 2012, Joe met his wife, Dawn Dames, who then brought her vision and style to the crew. They have both trained and performed in Trinidad, Cincinatti, NYC, and have shared the stage with artists such as Destra Garcia & Cardi B. The two artists moved to Prince Edward Island together in 2018, and continued developing their technique, creating a safe space for dancers of all skin tones, shapes and sizes, and building a platform for the community. The crew performs HipHop, Breakdancing, Contemporary, Lyrical, Afro Jazz, Afro Beat, Tap, Step, Jazz Funk, and much more. Joe is currently a part time choreographer at The Confederation Centre of the Arts, and Dawn is The Associate Artistic Director for the Charlottetown Festival. Their goals are to continue to break stereotypes and pave the way for young artists like themselves. 

With over ten years in the industry, Jessica is a certified Personal Training Specialist, Schwinn Indoor Cycling Instructor, and future certified yoga teacher. An Infrared instructor and member since 2017, she has thousands of classes under her belt as both a teacher and student. Jessica believes that physical fitness is the key to longevity as it equips us with the confidence, determination and power needed to conquer any challenge. Jessica inspires students with her infectious energy in classes, including Eli Sport Athletica, Hot Athletica, and the newly-launched Athletica Spin!

Jocelyn has been a movement enthusiast since the early days of her youth and found her yoga practice just prior to beginning post secondary education in kinesiology and pharmacy. Yoga became Jocelyn’s primary movement practice as it helped to increase strength, flexibility and agility while simultaneously contributing to her mental well-being.

Jocelyn completed her 200 hour YTT in 2019 following moving to the island from Saskatchewan through physical therapist Lara Heimann and the LYT Method. LYT is a modern method of movement that is based on the principles of physiology, kinesiology and neurology that aids in creating efficient movement patterns. After having her children, this core based movement practice has been ever more important in finding her centre both on and off the mat.

Kate was born and raised in Southern Ontario. During her youth, she figure skated competitively for many years. After moving to Northern Ontario, she came back to figure skating as a Coach for three years. During this time, yoga was becoming increasingly important to maintain both her physical health and well being. Her style varies from Hot Yoga, Vinyasa Flow and Yin Yoga. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of experiencing one of Kate’s classes, you will be left wanting to come back time and time again.

Kristi is a certified personal trainer and indoor spin coach, blending her expertise with a love for fun workouts. With a background in different dance styles and varsity rugby, Kristi embodies teamwork and resilience. Kristi has a passion for helping others get fit with fun and effective methods.

Leone and Michelle met online during the Covid times. They found themselves each in a certification workshop for She Recovers out of BC. An instant friendship was formed because of a shared love for light, the poetry of life, and yoga. There’s been no looking back as together they bring light to the darkness and honour darkness because of the light. Satnam.

Alex holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Affiliated Kinesiologist, and is a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer at 782 Fitness.

Makenna holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Affiliated Kinesiologist, and is a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer at 782 Fitness.

Yoga has been a grounding part of Leone’s life for over 20 years, and her practice has helped her grow stronger, more flexible, more fearless, and more balanced both on and off the mat. Yoga inspires Leone to live each moment more mindfully and to let the inner light shine. Leone completed her 200 hour RYT under the excellent guidance of Sam and Erika at Maritime Yoga College. There is so much growth to be found in the journey of yoga. She has had the opportunity, through further education courses, to deepen her awareness of Yin and Restorative Yoga, Yoga with a Chair, Subtle Yoga, Yoga for Healing and Recovery, Somatics Blend Yoga, Mindfulness, Meditation, Reiki Therapy and so on. She will always be a student of yoga and is deeply grateful for the wisdom her teachers have shared with her on the journey. Believing yoga to be for every body, Leone guides classes and workshops at various spaces and places through out the Island, internationally online, and favours, most of all guiding classes in the great outdoors spaces and places surrounding us. Regardless the venue, Leone seeks to help others nurture the body, mind and soul connection as they explore their own yoga practice. Her hope is that you will step off the mat feeling refreshed and renewed, nourished and balanced too. 

Liz Fay grew up on Prince Edward Island, moved to Alberta at 21, and 27 years later, has returned to her roots. She is enjoying being close to family, the community of PEI and, of course, the ocean. For the last 5 years she has been growing and living a healing journey, learning Advance Pranic Healing, has become a Reiki Master and a Sacred Sound Healer. Liz loves sharing her talents with others, bringing calm, relaxation, and wellbeing to those around her. She has felt so loved and welcomed back to PEI as the community has been so open and excited for her Sound Baths that she has been performing them from one tip of the Island to the other!

Ruth Richman has been practicing yoga asana and meditation since the 1960’s. She has 1000’s of hours of training in several styles and branches of Yoga including Hatha, Astanga, Kundalini, Yin, Restorative, Pranayama, and Yoga Therapy. In addition she has studied and practiced meditation styles for decades. She has been teaching Yoga on PEI since 1980. For 12 years she led Yoga Teacher Training programs in PEI and NB. Currently, Ruth teaches classes in person in Charlottetown and on Zoom; she leads a free weekly Meditation session on Zoom and in person: and she is a volunteer leader of a free Early Morning Sadhana on Zoom. It is a 2.5 hour practice of Kundalini mantra, motion, and meditation. Ruth particularly enjoys workshop style classes in which participants get to explore and experience the many aspects of Yoga, no matter what the style.

Ellie (she/her) is a proud Yoga for All certified instructor with a passion for creating safe, welcoming yoga classes for all bodies and experience levels. Coming from a background in dance, Ellie was first drawn to yoga as a way to integrate movement and creativity back into her life with a mix of strength, stability, and mobility for injury prevention.

Ellie is a firm believer that there is no full expression of any yoga pose – there is only your expression of the pose. Her mission as a teacher is to encourage students to explore their expression of each pose so that it feels good and welcome in each individual body.

Outside of yoga, you might find Ellie falling off her paddleboard, tap dancing, and spending time at local coffee shops, breweries and vineyards.

After 20 collective years of competitive gymnastics, volleyball, and track and field, Emma Menchefski found pilates after getting rear-ended by an 18-wheeler and suffering with chronic back pain. Her physiotherapist recommended strengthening her core through pilates, and the rest is history!

With regular practice, her back pain went away, along with her long-term knee and hip injuries from gymnastics. After a year of living pain-free, Emma completed her pilates instructor training with Halifax boutique fitness studio, R Studios.

Her passion now lies in helping others find joy in movement. Pilates not only supports injury prevention, but helps build a strong foundation for all other types of movement. Movement doesn’t have to be a chore – let’s make it fun together!

Gabrielle’s primary focus as a teacher and personal trainer is to keep everyone moving well throughout their lifespan. She has taught in Montreal and Toronto over the last thirty years and her great joy is working with people to restore lost mobility and helping people maintain and optimize their strength and range of motion. She uses a dynamic multidisciplinary approach in all her classes to motivate participants of all ages, fitness levels, body shapes, and sizes. Gabrielle completed 750 hours of yoga training with Naada Yoga Montreal and Yogafit Canada, and many hours with her mom in the 70’s in front of the TV! She also holds a doctorate from the Department of Kinesiology, University of Montreal, in the Science of Physical Activity. She completed certifications as an Exercise Physiologist from the Health and Fitness Federation of Canada and as a Fitness Instructor from the YMCA. Helping people move is her passion!

– PhD. Science of Physical Activity, University of Montreal, Department of Kinesiology
– Certified Exercise Physiologist – HFFC
– Certified YMCA F.I.T-Group Conditioning
– Certified Yoga Instructor – 750 YTT

Greg has a 500 hour kundalini, a 200 hour hatha, advanced teacher trainer in Thai yoga massage, along with a lifetime of study into oriental arts that vary widely. As a lifetime student and aspiring scholar, his studies has taken him around the world expanding his knowledge base. From the Amazon for herbalism to Nepal for sound healing courses to yearly trips to Thailand for traditional Thai Ayurvedic medicine, all in order to gain new insights on the base of education in traditional Chinese medicine and Taoism from a study of tai chi, qigong, and acupuncture. Greg has recently competed his Ayurvedic practitioners course to add to his hatha yoga teaching and yoga nidras, which have been the culmination of a 23 year yoga and meditation practice.

Krystal Mills has been a teacher on PEI for almost 20 years, and has always been a life-long learner, completing her Masters of Education in 2015 and becoming a certified Life and Mindset Coach in 2020.

It was her role as an art teacher, that caused her to stumble upon Neurographica, which is a process of mindful drawing leading to shifts in how you think about things. With her Psychology background, a love of self-development, and passion for art, Neurographica was a perfect fit, combining all three.

After completing her Basic User training, she completed the certification as a Neurographica Specialist, enabling her the ability to offer coaching and classes, sharing this transformational modality with others.

Krista Doyle is the founder of Beast-Mode Mommas. Beast-Mode Mommas is a fitness and wellness Business dedicated to helping PEI women and mothers become stronger, healthier, and more confident. With many in-person and online programs to choose from, we offer flexible options to fit your lifestyle. Through expert coaching, accountability, and a supportive community, Beast-Mode Mommas provides the tools and encouragement needed to build sustainable habits. Whether you’re a new Momma, fresh into fitness, or looking to push past plateaus, Beast-Mode Mommas is here to help you feel your best—for yourself and your family.

Therapist and Founder of Risework Therapy
Registered Therapist (MSW/RSW)

I am a registered therapist with over eleven years of experience working in mental health. I spent five years in a private practice in Toronto before creating Risework Therapy in 2021.
Risework Therapy is built on authenticity, accessibility, and a modern approach to mental wellness. Our therapists bring their authentic selves to each session—human, compassionate, and down-to-earth—so clients feel safe to do the same.

At Risework, we combine a laid-back approach with evidence-based therapeutic modalities, encouraging the integration of therapy into overall wellness. With virtual therapy available across Canada and partnerships with wellness professionals, we aim to bridge the gap between holistic wellness and mental health, encouraging the prioritization of mental health as an essential part of well-being.

As a therapist I work from a client-centered approach integrating evidence-based practice with an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. I provide clients with a non-judgmental, comfortable space that facilitates openness and encourages self-exploration. I have an eclectic approach which draws from therapeutic modalities such as Emotion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Mindfulness-Based Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). With a compassionate lens, I encourage clients to explore the inter-relatedness between their thoughts, behaviours and emotions, helping to identify patterns that no longer serve them.
I aim to support my clients as they gain a better understanding of themselves & build their sense of worth while learning to diminish internal obstacles which get in the way of developing and reaching personal goals.

Teresa sings in several languages bringing us simple wisdom songs from around the world. Kirtan is call and answer singing, no singing experience required. Teresa invites participants to get up and move if they feel inclined.Mantras both energize and quiet the mind, similar to yoga and meditation. They also work to attract what you want, remove obstacles, and re-center your body-mind-spirit. These chants are a core part of the yoga tradition and participants can use these simple mantras in their own daily practice.

Therapist and Founder of Risework Therapy
Registered Therapist (MSW/RSW)

I am a registered therapist with over eleven years of experience working in mental health. I spent five years in a private practice in Toronto before creating Risework Therapy in 2021.
Risework Therapy is built on authenticity, accessibility, and a modern approach to mental wellness. Our therapists bring their authentic selves to each session—human, compassionate, and down-to-earth—so clients feel safe to do the same.

At Risework, we combine a laid-back approach with evidence-based therapeutic modalities, encouraging the integration of therapy into overall wellness. With virtual therapy available across Canada and partnerships with wellness professionals, we aim to bridge the gap between holistic wellness and mental health, encouraging the prioritization of mental health as an essential part of well-being.

As a therapist I work from a client-centered approach integrating evidence-based practice with an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. I provide clients with a non-judgmental, comfortable space that facilitates openness and encourages self-exploration. I have an eclectic approach which draws from therapeutic modalities such as Emotion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Mindfulness-Based Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). With a compassionate lens, I encourage clients to explore the inter-relatedness between their thoughts, behaviours and emotions, helping to identify patterns that no longer serve them.
I aim to support my clients as they gain a better understanding of themselves & build their sense of worth while learning to diminish internal obstacles which get in the way of developing and reaching personal goals.

Susana Rutherford is a Certified Mindfulness and Meditation Teacher with nearly a decades of working in mental health. She is also a professional artist. Co-facilitator Christina Patterson is professional artist and teacher whose whimsical works have represented PEI.

Taylor Morehouse is a certified Hatha Yoga instructor at Kuuma Yoga Studio in Moncton, NB, and is excited to attend the Island Tides Yoga and Wellness Festival for the first time! In addition to her yoga practice, she is a registered holistic nutritionist with a special focus on fertility and female hormone health. Taylor is also a birth doula with The Whole Mama Collective, offering support to families during one of life’s most sacred moments. When she’s not doing yoga or welcoming new babies into the world, Taylor loves cuddling with her two bunnies, Minerva and Malcolm, and van camping with her husband, Brett, embracing the freedom of the open road and the beauty of nature.

Charlie took up yoga nearly 10 years ago. He had recently released from the military with several chronic physical injuries and mental health issues that were causing him a bit of a struggle. Charlie found yoga accessible, strengthening and relaxing. Over time he noticed a marked improvement in his physical capabilities as well as a development of inner peace and a quieting mind.

In 2020 Charlie enrolled into the Maritime Yoga College Teacher Training program. His initial intention was to deepen his practice and learn more of the many aspects of yoga. During the training Charlie found that he had a knack for teaching the material and enjoyed sharing peace, quiet and accessibility with others.

Charlie will guide you through basic yoga sequences with emphasis on alignment and accessibility. Through movement with breath, he encourages effort while maintaining a sense of ease.

Karolina is an experienced certified guided meditation teacher with extensive experience and a deep understanding of how to support individuals of all ages. She brings a soothing presence, fostering calm, balance, and positivity. With her guidance, participants experience not just relaxation but a lasting sense of well-being and inner peace.

Maria McEachern is a consultant specializing in education, meditation, and movement. She collaborates with individuals and organizations to design transformative wellness spaces. Rooted in mindfulness and somatics, Maria empowers others to reconnect with themselves and their environment in creative and inspiring ways.