RYAN CUNNINGHAM (they/she)
Yoga is a multifaceted and ever-evolving practice. It is both tuning to something that is ever-present and cultivating qualities that help me to live a purposeful life. It is from this point of view that I get on my mat and cushion everyday. My daily practice includes an integration of asana, meditation, prayer and reflection. This practice, while not always easy, has been essential for my well-being.
I am influenced and inspired by my teachers who have helped me to refine my understanding of yoga. This includes years of regular study with Barbara Benagh as well as regular workshops and trainings with Leslie Kaminoff and Judith Lasater. It also includes years of Buddhist study and practice, influenced primarily by Tibetan Buddhist teachings. For the past 7 years I have studied bodywork, yoga therapy, anatomy/biomechanics, and dharma with my teacher and mentor Tom Alden.
I have been teaching asana and meditation since 2008 throughout the Boston area. I am interested in teaching a more holistic perspective in regards to practice. I want to move away from the idea that there is a “correct”, “classical”, “traditional” form that we should strive for. Instead, I want to help students enhance their embodied awareness, understand what their choices are and respond skillfully moment to moment. I want students to be able to think and practice for themselves in a way that supports their lives on and off the mat.
Apart from group classes, I also share this work in a 1-on-1 setting. Working with students as bodyworker/massage therapist, yoga teacher, and/or mentor.
Having helped to run many of the city’s yoga studios, I am committed to making yoga spaces a more welcoming and inclusive space for all who want to practice.
What You Can Expect From My Classes
My classes move at a slower pace to encourage exploration and conversation.
There will be props, sometimes a few, sometimes ALL OF THEM. We will also do a fair amount of rolling around on the floor.
I hope that students leave class feeling like they have learned something they can bring to their home practice - or other classes they take at the studio.
I hope students leave feeling… “well… that was weird… but great!”