ANDREA FOTOPOULOS (she/her)
For me, Yoga is the invitation to come home to ourselves in an honest, self reflective, compassionate and empowered way. It calls us to make change where we can, to be with the “IS” of what is, and to be discerning with our words and actions.
I have been practicing for over 25 years and teaching for almost 20. With over a 1000 hrs. dedicated to learning about the body through asana, alignment, and therapeutics, I am constantly inspired to bring the teachings to the mat for others. Known for skill, clarity and authenticity, my teaching style is a blend of functional alignment, dynamic movement, and inspiration to create a bridge between the hard work on and off the mat. I aim to create a supportive space for every student to do their own individual work, while also cultivating a strong sense of community to practice within. I am dedicated to making yoga accessible for everybody-making the difficult doable, and the doable difficult so we stay present and engaged.
Both my personal practice as a student and teacher are heavily influenced by an understanding of asana alignment, yoga therapeutics, hands on adjustments and yoga philosophy by the Anusara methodology, the Philosophy of Tantra and my recent study of Yoga Nidra and Restorative Yoga. I have ongoing studies in both asana and philosophy with my teachers Christina Sell, Desiree Rumbaugh, Darren Rhodes, Noah Maze and Douglas Brooks.
Teaching is a full time endeavor for me, that is, besides being a mom and a human being. In addition to public studio classes, I teach private one on one sessions, high school students and offer Teacher Trainings. You can find more information on me visiting www.andreafotopoulos.com.
What You Can Expect From My Classes
My classes usually start with an anecdote, a story, or a contemplation that sets the tone and creates the focus for our endeavors on the mat. Because shapes and forms are how we move and transform our bodies and can directly impact the health of our inner landscape, I teach actions that help connect the parts. Actions of alignment are really intended to create a space for each student to move and build on their understanding of what it means to feel strong, supple, present and connected. You can expect traditional “Yoga postures taught via radical yet specific ways.” - student, Shireen D.
I am committed to seeing each student, and will often check in regarding injuries and limitations and offer verbal cues, physical adjustments (when invited) and variations that bring the whole class along. While our individual practices are uniquely personal, we can practice in community to share and deepen our experiences.