management team
Max Fusaro
HYR Owner & Teacher
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What brought you to yoga?
My first yoga class was in 2015 in a rehab for drug addiction and alcoholism. I was at a crossroads in my life and yoga gave me purpose, helped me love myself again, and connected me with community when I needed it the most.
Why do you love teaching yoga?
I love the sweaty physical part of the asana practice, but I love teaching so much more than that! I love to share the freedom yoga has brought me and watch others find that same miracle. Before yoga I was a shell of a person, going through the motions of life like a zombie, numbing feelings with drugs and alcohol, and hiding from life itself. Yoga helped me overcome fears, love myself again, and empowered me to take on life with a new sense of vitality and hope. I love teaching because I get to see people do the exact same things! Take their first handstand hops, nail a pose they’ve been working towards, conquer a fear, it’s magical to watch. I get to witness the greatness of everyone in the room. We lift each other up! That’s what I love about teaching yoga.
What do you want people to know about your class?
I love teaching creative, or as you’ll hear me say in class often, “funky” vinyasa flows. I love to mix it up and play with sequencing to make it powerful and also accessible to all. Whether it’s your first yoga class or thousandth, my aim is for you to leave feeling empowered, seen, challenged, and triumphant. I love to have fun in class and hope you will as well! I’m always honored and humbled when people choose to spend their time in class with me. My ultimate goal is to make you feel like it’s time well spent!
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
I’m the owner of Hot Yoga Revolution so HYR is also my life outside of yoga (someone pinch me I think I’m dreaming!). I live with my loving wife and fellow teacher at HYR Dana (go check out her classes!), our baby boy Frankie, and our two pups Tito & Poppy. I love spending time at the beach, eating ice cream, playing with handstands, watching baby Frankie giggle & laugh, and listening to The Beatles, John Mayer, and electronic music. I grew up in Westfield and I’m the youngest of five boys. I love spending time with friends and family, including my big HYR family and I’m excited for what the future holds!
Follow me on insta: @max_fusaro
Sara Rosenblatt
Manager
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What brought you to yoga?
I fell in love with power yoga while living and working in finance in NYC. Initially it was the physical workout that hooked me - it kicked my butt in the best, sweatiest way. I quickly realized that the benefits of my practice mentally and spiritually was really what I needed most at that time. But what I definitely didn’t expect was the way that yoga would change my path in life, surround me with the most incredible people and give me purpose that I truly believe in and am proud of. I absolutely love managing the HYR studios and I feel so lucky to do it every day. I get to support our community - the studios, our teachers, our clients many of whom have been practicing for years and those who come to us for their very first class! I love to resolve problems, come up with ways to make the studios and the services that we provide better, and build and grow and serve this amazing community. If you ever have questions, concerns, feedback or just want to chat about what we offer, call or email the studio and you’ll get me…I can’t wait to speak with you!
What do you love about teaching yoga?
Teaching yoga is the most humbling and the most rewarding thing I have ever done. I have made connections with students in my classes that I will cherish forever. One of my greatest joys has been training new teachers and working with them as they find their voice and their unique style and watching them grow and become an integral part of the incredible HYR teaching team or the broader yoga community wherever they may go to share their gift.
Fun facts about your life outside of the yoga studio
I grew up in Westfield…graduated from Westfield High School a looooong time ago. I love to travel and experience different cultures - have been to incredible places like India, Africa, Thailand, Guatemala, Brazil, Argentina, Croatia, Spain, Italy, Greece, Bali and Samoa. I love spending time with my friends and family and my awesome pups. I love to work out and in addition to yoga have recently gotten back into strength training. I watch an embarrassing amount of reality tv and I love sweets - healthy living plus cupcakes and cookies feels like balance to me!
Carly Conroy
Studio Coordinator & Teacher
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What brought you to yoga?
I’ve always had a flirtation with yoga. I’d take a few classes here and there, but nothing ever really stuck until I found HYR during the pandemic. The hour I rolled out my mat on the plaza became sacred to me. A moment to come back to myself—space to move, to breathe, to heal. Throughout my time practicing at HYR, I’ve had some high highs and low lows, but the studio remains my constant: the teachers, my fellow practitioners, and the community.
Why do you love teaching yoga?
This practice has been truly transformative for me, and what I love most about teaching yoga is seeing my students discover their own transformations. It allows me to be in service to others as they show up for themselves, explore within, and uncover their truest self. Yoga has changed my life in ways I never expected. What began as a physical exploration on my mat quickly became something much deeper and more expansive and it has spilled off of my mat and into every aspect of my life. I love to share this experience with my students and watch them grow.
What do you want people to know about your class?
As someone who practices daily, I know that our bodies, minds, and spirts show up differently each time we roll out our mat. In my class, you're invited to ask your body how it's showing up in that moment and then move from that space. Sometimes that will mean kicking your own butt as a means to get out of your own head; other times, it'll mean honoring softness and ease. However you're showing up, come practice with me exactly as you are.
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
Off my mat, you can usually find me cuddling with my dog (Miriam) or watching Rutgers men’s basketball with my family. I’m a sucker for the sunshine, good food, and learning new things. I hope to see you on your mat or around the studio!
Follow me on insta: @carlyraerising
Teaching Team
Ari Rodriguez
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What brought you to yoga?
I felt like I was in need of a new hobby to step out of my house and my comfort zone. At first I was just looking for something to help me physically, and little did I know I was going on a journey to find something so much more significant.
Why do you love teaching yoga?
I love teaching yoga simply because I love yoga; I love the physical part of Yoga as well as the inner workings. It has brought so much joy, love, and connection into my life, and I love to share those same feelings with others. Teaching allows me to express what yoga means to me, I hope to help others discover that same deep love and connection just like I did. If even one person finds peace, presence, or purpose through yoga, then I’ve done what I set out to do.What do you want people to know about your class?
In my classes, I aim to create a safe and welcoming space where students feel they can show up exactly as they are, however they’re feeling that day. No practice is linear, and each day brings something different as we move through the motions of life. Whether my students come to class for a physical challenge or to reconnect with their inner selves, my hope is that they leave feeling grounded, challenged, and uplifted.Fun facts about your life outside yoga?
Outside of yoga you can find me curled up with a good book, planning my next coffee shop adventure with friends, spending quality time with my family, or dreaming about my next travel destination.
Follow me on insta @arianni
Cheryl Barclay
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What brought you to yoga?
I’ve loved all things movement from a young age. I stumbled upon yoga in 2009 while working with an incredible fitness coach whose inspiring mantra was, “Movement is Life”, and I immediately found my abiding connection to the power of breath, awareness, and flow. Wanting to share my experience with others as a yoga teacher was a natural progression from there, and soon after I had completed a succession of three 200-hour teacher training certifications, and I eventually pursued my 300 hour certification in 2019 to become a 500 hour E-RYT!
What do you love about teaching yoga?
What I love most is the privilege of inviting a room full of yogis of all colors, ages, shapes, sizes, and orientations into the experience of yoga, and holding space for them to feel free and seen and celebrated for exactly who they are. I love to watch them come alive on their mats as they begin to take risks, grow stronger, and discover for themselves yoga’s unique gifts of healing, empowerment, and deeper connection, as I did.
What do you want people to know about your class/teaching style?
In my classes, students can expect a challenging yet energizing experience, with an eclectic, soulful musical vibe.
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
I LOVE music! Pretty much every genre – salsa, R&B, classic rock, gospel, you name it – music lights me up, so I love listening, singing, and dancing to them all. Outside the studio I also enjoy cow and moon gazing, getting lost in a great audiobook, the classic movie theater experience - complete with buttered popcorn - and spending time with my tribe.
Follow me on insta: @trusoulpower
Caitlin Fabian
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What brought you to yoga?
Believe it or not, my relationship with yoga wasn’t “love at first sight”. I started to explore my practice while attending graduate school in San Diego nearly a decade ago, but really dove in head-first a few years later when I was experiencing a period of intense loss and grief in my life. Yoga became my outlet and my safe space to get messy and let it all go. After moving back to NJ in 2019, I found a second home at HYR. I am forever grateful for all that this practice and community continues to provide me.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
I love that it constantly challenges me and pushes me outside of my comfort zone. Fun fact: when I did my yoga teacher training, I signed up with the intention of deepening my own practice and wasn’t sure I wanted to teach. As time went on and I started to dabble with teaching, it was the connections and the ability to share something that has completely transformed my life with others that has kept me coming back to teaching.
What you want people to know about your class and/or teaching style?
I strive to show up as my most authentic self for every class I teach, and hope to inspire others to do the same. My goal is to make everyone feel comfortable and seen so that they can find their edge and transform on their mats.
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
My family consumes most of my time off my mat these days! I have three kids (6, 4 and 1), and we are always looking for our next adventure. We love to travel, hike, and spend time outdoors as much as possible.
Follow me on insta @caitlinaileen
Dana Fusaro
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What brought you to yoga?
My parents introduced me to yoga when I was a child. As far back as I can remember they would practice yoga in our house and my sister and I would do it too! Although I took a long hiatus from yoga in my teenage years, I always felt that yoga was close to my heart. I did some recreational classes in college and ultimately committed to a hot power yoga membership when I started my first job.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
This practice has taught me more about myself than I can put into words. Teaching gives me access to share the practice and guide others to finding the parts of the practice that I know can be life changing for each of them in their own way. For me learning to breathe and take that practice off my mat has opened up a whole new world of practicing patience and non-reactivity - a daily practice - but just that one piece of yoga has been monumental and I think everyone deserves to discover the benefits this practice can offer them. All in all I love to give this practice as a service to others for them to take it and better themselves and their lives.
What you want people to know about your class and/or teaching style?
I strive to provide a welcoming, comfortable space with grounded energy for my students to come and get what they, as individuals, need within their practice. Together in class we build a supportive environment to breathe and move exactly as you are.
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
By day, I am a speech-language pathologist. I work in the specialized school setting with children elementary through high school age who have disabilities including Autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, cognitive impairments, and a variety of others. Outside of work and yoga, I love spending quality time with others, preferably at the beach or over a cup of coffee and of course spending time with Max, our son Frankie, and our two dogs, Tito and Poppy.
Follow me on insta:@danabartone
Cara Landa
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What brought you to yoga?
Yoga literally saved my life! When I found yoga I had just turned 40, had 2 young kids and I was working a very high pressure job. My anxiety level was through the roof!! Yoga taught me how to breathe and how to be present - and prior to that I had no clue how important those things were. This changed my entire life and opened me up to so many new possibilities.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
I love sharing this practice with people. For me, yoga opened a door I never knew existed and now I want to open that door for others.
What do you want people to know about your class/teaching style?
I would say I teach a strong class. It moves… I love to focus on the details that can help you find that extra connection to your body and your mind.
Tell us something about your life outside of the studio -
My family is everything to me! I have a blended family which includes my partner and 5 kids. We are a big crazy group and from time to time there will be one that comes to put their mat down.
Follow me on insta: @caravicky
Eric Wien
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What brought you to yoga?
I first found yoga at a time when I was sore all the time from going to the gym. I thought maybe yoga would help me to stretch out my sore muscles. A friend of mine had just graduated from HYR’s 200 hr YTT and I took his first community class. I kept with the community classes and it wasn’t long until I was going to yoga classes more than I was going to the gym. It nourished me in ways I never saw coming and quickly became a top priority of mine.
Why do you love teaching yoga?
I love teaching yoga because it is one way that I can give back to my community. Yoga has given me so much over the years. Teaching feels like an act of reciprocity. It’s my greatest hope is that I can inspire a practice for someone that helps them get through something, shake off some negative energy, get their mind off of something they’ve been dwelling on, etc. That and of course getting to see the power and dedication of all of the students. I am always blown away at the power of those I am teaching to and inspired at how consistently they show up.
What do you want people to know about your class?
I try my best to impart lots of energy into my classes. I, myself, find this practice immensely challenging and what helps me most is to have an encouraging teacher and maybe a great playlist that keeps me pushing. I also make an effort to really try and bring people into their bodies whether it’s through breath or noticing physical sensations. My hope is that after my class, you’ll be walking off of your mat feeling lighter and more centered.
Fun facts about your life outside yoga?
I am very passionate about the environment and an huge lover of nature. I love learning to identify new plant and animal species and spend my time hiking or visiting national parks. Yoga has helped me to slow down and have a deeper appreciation for the Earth. One of life’s greatest joys is sitting under a tree’s shade in late spring while listening to leaves shuffling in the wind and birds chirping in the distance.
Follow me on insta @ericwiien
Francesca DiCataldo
Gina Nelli
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What brought you to yoga?
I took my first ever yoga class in 2013 and completely fell in love. At first it was the physical asana that attracted me but as I continued to come to class, I quickly realized that yoga was so much more. My yoga journey has not been linear, but the practice has always been there for me to fall back on. The 60 minutes spent moving, breathing, & being in community on my mat is what kept me coming back and ultimately drove me to want to be a yoga teacher.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
My favorite part of teaching is the people! Seeing a practitioner's dedication and commitment to the time on their mat inspires me to show up for this community the same way they have shown up for me time and time again.
What do you want people to know about your class?
In my class we will all flow together, find our edge, and maybe even crack a smile or 2! I am so honored every time I get to share this practice and I hope that when students leave my class they feel energized, acknowledged, and accomplished.
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
When I am not practicing yoga you can find me spending time outside with family & friends - sharing my favorite recipes and traveling (sometimes for my day job, sometimes just for fun). I can’t wait to see you in class or around the studio!
Follow me on insta: @frannydcat
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What brought you to yoga?
I was first introduced to a hot yoga studio in Belmar and immediately fell in love with the community, the dharmas, the stories & inspiration that each class held. I have been a hot power vinyasa yoga instructor for the past 6 years and I’ve taught yoga in both NJ & Hawaii, which has been such an amazing journey.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
What I love most about teaching yoga is the ENERGY I feel. No matter what mood I show up in, it always re-energizes me. It reminds me that we can show up anyway we want on our mat! I encourage our students to embrace all of the elements of yoga, which include the physical, mental & spiritual parts.
What do you want people to know about your class/teaching style?
My classes are motivating, uplifting, and empowering, and you will always hear upbeat songs on my playlist. I teach students how to smoothly transition from one pose to the next, I integrate creative sequences, and I create space in areas of tightness and tension. I love to bring a variety of tools into my yoga class, which include reading tarot cards for positive manifesting and intention setting, meditative daily passages & of course, my heart chakra singing bowl.
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
I am also a speech therapist. I received my masters degree in 2020 and have been serving the pediatric population ever since. I love to spend time with my husband, my friends & of course, my fur baby kitty cat, Anastasia.
Follow me on insta: @ginamarienelli
Jamie Pawlusiak
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What brought you to yoga?
I have always been extremely active. I played soccer, tennis and field hockey in high school, found running, kickboxing & cycling in my 20’s and those became my relief from life’s harshness. I took my first yoga class in 2019 and - I’ll admit - at first it was the physical challenge that brought me back to take another class. I soon realized that it was more a work in than a work out. The movement was great, but what my mind and spirit was experiencing was everything that I didn’t even know I needed. Yoga invited me to be with my emotions & not run from them, it allowed me to be myself and accept my imperfections, it showed me that I can be perfectly imperfect. Yoga has become a way for me to be present, to be grounded and to be accepting of myself exactly as I am. It has simply become a way of life.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
Yoga has given me so much personal strength, confidence and courage to face life, to explore outside my comfort zone and to trust not only in myself but in the process of life. I love teaching yoga because it allows me the opportunity to give that sense of hope back to this community that has given me so much. Teaching allows me to hold space for others to grow into their own greatness through their own journey - on and off their yoga mat.
What do you want people to know about your teaching style/class?
I’m right along side you on this journey. I am willing to let it get messy, to be vulnerable and to unveil the layers of life and I invite you to do the same without judgement. My classes are not about perfect poses or smooth transitions. Show up exactly as you are, and know it will be different each and every practice and THAT is perfect. Come with a willingness to explore and grow through whatever you are going through in life and let’s have some fun!
Fun facts about me outside of the yoga studio:
I am the youngest of 5, a mom of one son and an aunt, cousin and friend to many. To me family is everything.
I have been practicing as a pediatric occupational therapist for over 22 years and I am grateful to be a part of a profession that truly makes a difference in this world. On days off, I love nothing more than adventure seeking and exploring. I love to hike, bike and ride horses…. Fun fact - I actually used to race competitively, as my family raised Arabian horses!
My happy place is down the shore. In 2021 I got my boating license and I absolutely love being out on the water. I also find happiness in driving all around from job to job, practice to games, to food stores and errands with the top of my Jeep down listening to all types of music (which is meditation for me)! I have a slight obsession with my peloton app, peanut butter and keeping things clean and organized. One day I would like to travel the world.
Follow me on insta:
Kaylee Baez
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What brought you to yoga?
My story with yoga is one I didn't expect. I found the practice when I was going through a really tough time in my life. During this time, I made the decision to leave school for a while and go back to Puerto Rico where I ended up in a studio in San Juan and completely fell in love with the practice. My practice is something that I don't take for granted. During this time in my life, I was completely lost, hopeless, depressed and absolutely miserable. My practice brought me back to myself, to my happiness, to God and to all the things that make this life worth it. To say that this practice saved my life would be a complete understatement and that's the honest truth.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
The correct answer is everything but my favorite part about teaching is our community. I adore each and every one of our yogis and have become fully invested in their practice and their journeys. I hope that everyone that comes to my class knows how much it means to me that they're there and understands that without them my job would be meaningless and not nearly as rewarding or fun.
What do you want people to know about your class and teaching style?
Prepare to be challenged both physically and mentally. Prepare to love me and to hate me. Prepare to laugh and to cry. Prepare to fall in love with yourself and this practice. And prepare to step into your best self. My class is about growth. My prerogative is to bring you into your next level of happiness by being there for you and holding space in the tough times while being your most fierce advocate and biggest cheerleader always. This is the place where I give back everything that this practice has given me.
Fun Facts about your life outside of yoga
I love to paddleboard and snorkel and oftentimes wish I was a fish. I love to read Murder Mysteries and Romance novels. I love to write. I am an extroverted introvert so to fill my cup I usually go to the movies every Tuesday at noon by myself. I have too many favorite movies and TV shows and can quote every Jim Carrey movie known to man. I love hanging out with my friends and my family and live for all of the laughs.
Follow me on insta: @kaylee_baez
Kelly Bender
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What brought you to yoga?
Yoga is a practice that flowed in and out of my life for many years. It wasn’t until I found Hot Yoga Revolution that it became a fundamental aspect in my life. I started teaching in 2017 and HYR has become my second home. As a true extrovert, I thrive in dynamic environments - HYR is just that and I am so grateful to be a part of it!
What do you want people to know about your class/teaching style?
I aim to always teach a powerful class that both uplifts and encourages practitioners to love themselves and this practice - both on and beyond the mat. I hope my yogis feel the love and appreciation I have for them. They show up so consistently with a gorgeous, powerful practice that I find awe inspiring.
To teach yoga is humbling. To be able to create a space for each yogi to receive what they need brings me both joy and a welcomed challenge that I do not take for granted. Whether that be a good workout, a stretch, a good time, or a connection with friends, I love being there to support them in whatever they need.
Fun facts about your life outside of the studio
When I’m not at the studio I love to be with my friends soaking up their love and laughter.
Follow me on insta: @kellyedenbender
Kimberly Perez
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What brought you to yoga?
I was going through a tough time in my life and struggling with and lacking self-love. I gave/poured all of my love & energy to everyone and everything except myself. I finally decided to start practicing something for me, at-least once everyday, that’s when I first encountered my yoga practice. I began by watching yoga videos on youtube and then I took my first hot yoga class - at HYR! By then, I was already aware of the physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits of yoga, but something about being in a classroom full of yogis coming together to practice is really what hooked me. It was the community - the sweat, flow, breath, laughter, tears, letting out messy exhales all together that empowered me. It made me feel like I was somewhere safe, where I could fully be me and accepted - surrounded by the dopest humans out there!! Since then I continue to dive deeper into my practice & it has been the best, most life-altering, transformative decision I’ve made to this day! Everything about this practice fascinates me and I love learning more about it everyday & and everytime I’m on my mat!
Why do you love teaching yoga?
I love the passion I genuinely feel while I’m teaching yoga! I am mesmerized by the different flows of the yogis that come to my classes and I admire all of the different levels of practitioners and the true dedication you have to your practice when you are on your mat. I love guiding you, all together in community. Most of all, I love the life-long connections that I’ve made through yoga every day! I’ve met the most amazing, likeminded yet so uniquely different humans, and I think that’s the best part.
What do you want people to know about your class?
My classes are very energetic & powerful! I personally enjoy a good physical challenge, so prepare to experience that in my class! I love to create fun & diverse playlists and to keep my classes fresh/different weekly, keeping you on your toes for what’s next! I strive to create a super safe & fun space for everyone to come in and feel free to flow however they like! I’m just there to guide you and provide that extra energy/push, but above all, I really just want everyone to feel GREAT - physically, mentally and spiritually!
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
I’m a simple girl… i’m either at home cuddling with my cat while rewatching Grey’s Anatomy for the 100th time, OR I’m out with my friends on one of our spontaneous adventures! Haha no but seriously, outside of yoga, you’ll catch me getting in a good workout at the gym (i love weightlifting!). I also love to go out & discover new places I haven’t been to, try out new restaurants, and I love dancing & laughing with friends! I greatly value quality time with everyone in my life, so i’m really just soaking up as much love as I can every minute of the day! :)
Follow me on insta @kimxperez_
Kristine Hunsinger
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What brought you to yoga?
I was working in NYC and looking for a new workout, a group of people in my office were taking classes at a yoga studio down the block. I decided to try a class with a co-worker one night after work. I was hooked! I loved how I felt so relaxed and energized at the same time after the class was over. I knew then and there I wanted to make yoga a part of my life.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
My favorite part about teaching yoga is the connection I feel with my students. I love watching their practice change and how it impacts them both physically and
mentally. Yoga means union and I feel like the connections I make within the yoga community are a greater form of yoga above and beyond the physical and mental.
What do you want people to know about your class/teaching style?
I like to teach a powerful class; the type of class I would want to take. The promise of my class is you will definitely sweat and go to your edge. My goal is for you to leave my class knowing just how powerful, strong, and capable you are.
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
Outside of yoga I enjoy spending as much quality time as I can with my husband, my twin boys and the real head of our household, the cutest labradoodle, Zuzu.
Follow me on insta: @kristinehunsinger
Lana Scheurle
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What brought you to yoga?
I discovered yoga when I was about 9 years old going through health issues at the time. That’s when a restorative yoga class was offered to me. The practice felt so natural to me and I’ve had a deep connection with it since then.
Why do you love teaching yoga?
I love contributing to people’s joy while showing them that they are strong, powerful, and capable of achieving anything they set their mind to. Teaching yoga is also a way for me to express myself, connect with community, and to use my voice to have a positive impact on others.
What do you want people to know about your class?
I will allow you to step into your power, delivering a fun high energy class with a fire playlist! In my classes, I invite my students to come as they are and express themselves freely from the moment they step onto their mats, and to take a brief pause from the hectic world outside of the studio. After class, you might ask me to share a couple of the songs I played for your own playlists.
Fun facts about your life outside yoga
I’m a publicist in NYC, which has allowed me to meet some really cool people I wouldn’t have been able to meet otherwise, the most recent being Tony Hawk. I’ve also worked as a model and on-air radio personality. I love music, cats, and making charcuterie boards for my friends.
My Schedule
Follow me on insta @itslanavera
Lauren Biondi
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What brought you to yoga?
Yoga has been a part of my life for 15 years and I have been practicing at Hot Yoga Revolution since the studio opened in 2010! I fell in love with vinyasa at HYR - I had a background in dance and I loved how the sequencing felt like beautiful choreography. The heat and great workout pulled me in, but this community and the peace of mind has kept me coming back for all these years.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
I completed my 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training right here at HYR in 2015 and later got certified in Yin Yoga as well. I teach to share with others what I’ve found to be such a powerful outlet to disconnect from the everyday grind and reconnect with your body.
What do you want people to know about your class/teaching style?
I love to deliver a fun, powerful flow to give everyone a chance to move, breathe and take a much needed hour for themselves.
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
I recently had my first baby and I could not be more excited to get back on my mat and reconnect with my practice and the HYR community!
Follow me on insta: @laurenalexa14
Leslie Miller
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What brought you to yoga?
My introduction to yoga was in 2009 when a friend brought me with her to a Bikram style class. I enjoyed the class and the experience, but it wasn’t until I took my first class at HYR in 2010 that something really clicked - it was a part of my life that I never knew was missing.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
I love everything about teaching yoga! It’s my favorite thing to do. I’m not certain about many things in life, but I’m 100% certain that I was meant to do this. I love being given the opportunity to make people feel good. The yoga community brings me so much joy - I just want to want to give it all back and share it with everyone!
What you want people to know about your class and/or teaching style?
I have a lot of passion while I’m teaching. I like to keep the energy and the vibrations high! I will always hold space for each individual student and have the highest respect for their own unique body and practice. Everyone comes to class for different reasons, but it’s my hope that when you leave my class, you just feel really good in all of the ways.
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
My favorite way to spend my time outside of yoga is with my husband and kids. I love being a mom. I think I’m a pretty good one. My husband is truly my best friend.
I’m quite the gardener - you may even get to sample my veggies in the summertime!
I have a deep love for live music. My husband and I met at a music festival, and we’ve now seen that band almost 200 times! (Come to class and I’ll tell you who it is!)
I’ve been a dental hygienist since 2008 and I really love my patients! Establishing relationships with them and making connections is something that means a lot to me.
Follow me on insta: @lesaliejm
Mark Paczkowski
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What brought you to yoga?
It started as a way to address chronic tightness and muscle imbalances from a very active lifestyle. Since then, it has permeated almost every part of my life. Yoga has taught me flexibility and balance in ways I couldn’t even imagine before diving into the practice.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
I love to share this practice which has been so transformative in my life. Teaching is a practice in itself and a constant learning experience. I’m continually trying to find ways to teach age old principles in a way that resonates with students. Observing a class land in a meaningful way with my students is the most rewarding part of this work.
What do you want people to know about your class and/or teaching style?
I work to integrate skills and techniques I’ve learned as a fitness professional to create powerful yet safe classes for all levels. More importantly, I try to instill these lessons in a way that benefits students off the mat as well. Integrating breath work, mindfulness and meditation techniques help to deepen the experience and make it much more than just physical exercise.
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
I’m a new father and outdoor lover, always ready for the next challenge. I love spending time with my family, surfing all year, snowboarding, mountain biking, lifting, running, fishing and anything else that pushes the boundaries of what’s comfortable and what’s possible.
Mi Chau
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What brought you to yoga?
I found yoga at a really tough time in my life, back in 2013/2014. I had always wanted to try hot yoga but never made the time. I was really struggling personally, and I knew I needed to make myself and my health a priority and I got to my mat for the first time. The practice helped me push through my tough time but also brought me joy in a way I did not expect. I knew I wanted to teach this practice that helped me so much. No matter what has happened since then - even with all of life’s distractions and when my practice became inconsistent at times, my passion for the practice never waned and I found my way to my mat. When I moved to New Jersey I found HYR, I signed up for teacher training in 2021 & couldn’t imagine my life without this community!
What do you love about teaching yoga?
I love the community that teaching yoga creates around me! I am challenged to constantly improve my teaching by learning from my students and from my personal yoga practice and that learning never stops. Most of all, I love just being with everyone in the space for the time we share together!
What you want people to know about your class and/or teaching style?
I love to teach a fiery and challenging flow, while holding space for each person to be exactly as they are in that moment. I am constantly learning from my students as I watch the room flow and come together in all of its different ways of being - and that makes me a better teacher. I am someone that strives for perfection in my own life, and through my teaching and my practice I realize that it’s okay to be messy! It’s important that we embrace what we perceive as our flaws and live not trying to always “fix” and perfect these things. Also, I bring lots of throwbacks from the 90s and 2000s to jam and sing along to as we flow!
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
By day, I’m a lawyer. On weekends, I coordinate weddings. Here and there (not as often as I like), I ride motorcycles.
Follow me on insta: @mi_chau
Michelle Ancheta
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What brought you to yoga?
I first learned about yoga from a book. I was 11 yrs old and started doing this second hand 28 day yoga challenge book my mom brought home. It was shortly after I started dance classes and a lot of the poses were very similar to movement I was already learning. So in a way, I’ve been doing yoga since then. I flipped through the pages of poses, and made it my goal to have a headstand. But I think my first actual yoga class was more than a decade later at HYR Garwood! And then seven years after that I finally jumped into teacher training. I’ve always had this connection between my mind and my body. They haven’t always been in sync, especially when injury demands to heal, but that was the class that inspired my current yoga journey. Yoga has always been there, so that I could go back over and over when I needed to reconnect to myself.
Why do you love teaching yoga?
Inspiration. The first class I took back in the Garwood studio, was the first time I ever felt amazing covered in sweat. I’ve always been inspired by my teachers and I will always be a forever student. But I also realized that in becoming a teacher, I could still keep learning too. Learn how to help people, help them heal, connect, breathe, and just be. Guiding a yoga practice is a huge honor and I am very grateful every chance I get to do it, every time I get to give someone that same feeling I got on that day.
What do you want people to know about your class?
We are going to go with the flow, literally. My dream was always to be a choreographer. So for me, any sequence on the mat comes from the heart with help from the brain, every pose melts into the next, and we’re gonna have some great music to move with. Whether it’s a restorative or a power class, I’m going to lead you with my whole heart and we’re going to connect to ourselves and our journey on the mat.
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
I basically have a farm at home. Currently, I’ve got two rescue dogs and a foster fail cat that thinks she’s one of the dogs! I am a costume designer. More specifically, I make wrestling gear! I’ve been sewing since I was about 9 (a white bedsheet turned into a Princess Leia Halloween, my mom still doesn’t know, shhh!) and it didn’t really become serious for me ever because I can’t believe it’s my job now, every day. I get to make art with my hands and I’ve technically been on tv, movies, and action figures!
Follow me on insta: @fran_mich
Na’or Oknin
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What brought you to yoga?
The search to get more connected with myself led me to try many things. Yoga most certainly was not love at first sight for me. Instead, it was like a friendship I developed with the practice over time. The big bang came during a challenging part of my life where the practice gave me the outlet to express myself the way I needed to. It is now both a continued journey and a destination, filled with amazing realizations and results.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
Teaching yoga is where I become one with the class. Where I find connection and hand over my life experience. Teaching yoga is challenging and rewarding on so many levels. No two classes are the same and everyone goes through their own self-development and self-realization journey. The ultimate goal is a strengthening of the mind and body while gaining a deeper connection with the body and the practice. When I started teaching, my goal was and still is to pass on the sensations and experiences I have on my mat to others.
What do you want people to know about your class?
Be you! I will be here with you and beside you as you show up on your mat. Every day is different. Express yourself however you feel in the moment and know that you are in a safe space to be the best version of yourself. During class, we will work to challenge our bodies, hold ourselves in our power, and be in stillness as we explore the deepest parts within ourselves.
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
I love taking night walks! Sometimes, with my little dog Charlie with his short legs. Being by the water is a true meditation place for me. And I love exploring new little towns and small coffee places.
Follow me on insta: @naoroknin1
Natalia Chancafe
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What brought you to yoga?
I just wanted to move my body again. After the pandemic I didn’t feel the same and went through a huge health and wellness journey. It was a rough time but something needed to change. I quit going to the gym, I was too nervous to go back to dance, so I thought why not try this place everyone keeps talking about? I was hooked. Yoga allows me to express myself in so many different ways (physically and mentally) and gave me a community I never knew I needed
Why do you love teaching yoga?
I’ve always loved to be a leader and teacher. One of my biggest love languages is acts of service so no surprise there. I have to admit I was the overachieving TA, tutor and campus ambassador in college so when I graduated and went into the real world I was lost. After my first yoga class I knew I wanted to teach but this is a different level. Being a yoga teacher is the most humbling and transformative thing I’ve ever done. Watching people grow on and off their mats fills my heart and is the biggest honor of my life. It pushes me to be better too.
What do you want people to know about your class?
I want you to feel powerful in my class, whatever that means for you that day - just bring your best! I love a challenge but that doesn’t always mean physically tiring yourself out in my book. I want you to grow mentally AND physically while feeling accomplished. Also expect random playlists because my taste in music depends on whatever mood I’m in that week - could be rock, could be house music. We’ll never know.
Fun facts about your life outside yoga?
If I’m not at the studio I’m probably in NYC for my day job or out and about with my friends and family! I absolutely love traveling, catching some sun and photographing gorgeous views. But at my core I love to stay in with my pets and watch as many movies as I can in an afternoon. I will also have an iced coffee at any time of the day.
Follow me on insta @natalia.mia
Patricia Luensmann
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What brought you to yoga?
I started practicing yoga while feeling burnt out and unfulfilled in my career- I needed an outlet to help me deal with my stress and anxiety.
Why do you love teaching yoga?
At first, teaching Yoga was a way for me to share a practice that changed my life. Now, I view teaching as getting a front-row seat to witnessing transformation.
What do you want people to know about your class?
I want my students to feel strong; physically and mentally. Yoga and life are deeply intertwined and it is my objective for you to leave my classes with a deeper understanding of your practice and of your SELF.
Fun facts about your life outside yoga?
I’m always trying new hobbies and learning new skills. Right now I’m really loving pottery and calisthenics
Follow me on insta: @ayo_legz
Rarita Quinn
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What brought you to yoga?
Literally, the M23 crosstown bus in Manhattan brought me to my first yoga class in 1993 in the not yet gentrified Flatiron district. The guru was schooled in the Kundalini tradition and held practice on half the floor of an old printing house. I don't remember a lot of what we actually did, but the post practice lightness and ease I felt in body and mind was amazing. I was hooked.
Since then, I've practiced many different styles and continue to be inspired by the transformative power of yoga.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
That complete list is long. Here's the top three:
1. Meeting and befriending some pretty special human beings from all walks of life.
2. Being of service to my community.
3. Unlike being at home with my family, I get to be in a room full of people who are actually listening to me.
What do you want people to know about your teaching style?
I believe that breath is the most dynamic tool in the yoga shed. Simply linking breath to movement can create an energetic practice regardless of pace or ability. Lately, I have been incorporating elements of my classical Thai dance training - encouraging practitioners to explore when to stand firm and when to soften. Whether I am teaching power vinyasa, yin, or meditation, I want people to feel regal, graceful, peaceful, fluid, and strong. Maybe not all at the same time. But, if you have figured out how to do this, DM me! @radiant.darling
Fun facts about me
I am married for 25 years and have two incredible daughters whose names mean radiant (Rasamee) and darling (Priya). I am a volunteer at The Westfield Service League, an avid gardener and a fan of the Mad Max / Road Warrior franchise.
Follow me on insta: @radiant.darling
Rob Toth
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What brought you to yoga?
I took my first class at HYR in May 2016. I had hurt my Achilles tendon running so I was looking to try something new. Luckily I ran into my high school friend and fellow teacher Kelly Bender who suggested I give HYR a try. The rest, as they say, is history! I feel like I have been coming back every single day since then. In 2019 I completed my 200 hour teacher training with Danielle Mojo and Sara Rosenblatt and I’m so happy to now be sharing this incredible practice with others.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
I really enjoy creating space in my class to allow everyone to just show up and shine exactly as they are. Maybe that looks like just showing up for a 5:30 am class on a cold rainy New Jersey morning or getting into crow or handstand for the first time. I also love seeing people find ease in balancing poses and just allowing their breath and bodies to determine where the pose goes, rather than their story or fears about their limits. I always like to say “do the pose that you do when no one is looking!”
What do you want people to know about your class/teaching style?
I teach a powerful class, but one thing I have learned through my training and my own physical practice is that speed does not equal power. I used to think that a fast flow meant that it was powerful, but I now know that power is achieved through methodical movement connected with breath as a tool to find your deepest expression of each pose. It is about engaging the essential muscles while finding ease in the non essential muscles. And I love helping my students strike this balance in class so that they feel both revitalized and at peace when the practice is complete.
In addition to the yoga asana and all of its benefits, my hope is that after leaving my class you feel like you are part of a community where you are important and you feel lighter than when you came in.
Fun facts about your life outside the studio
I am blessed to have a wonderful wife and son and I enjoy every aspect of being a husband and father. We enjoy cooking, traveling and especially laughing together.
I hope to see you on your mat soon!
Follow me on insta: @robert.toth1313
Rochelle Gomez
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What brought you to yoga?
I dabbled in yoga in college, but my first experience with hot yoga was in 2017 and I was hooked. I loved the “workout” aspect of it, but soon realized there was something deeper. Classes left me crying on my mat and I realized there was a such a healing aspect to yoga as a whole. The workout got in me, the healing is why I stayed.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
I love seeing students have that aha! moment. That moment when you’re able to get them into their bodies and they have an experience - you cannot only see it, but you can feel it. Whether that be an emotional experience or a moment when they realize they can in fact do something physically challenging. There’s no feeling like that.
What do you want people to know about your teaching style?
I love teaching challenging flows. I break it down and get people in their bodies, holding poses, then we get fluid and flow through that sequence. You get the embodiment and fluidity.
Fun facts
Outside of the yoga studio I spend my time with my baby boy Enzo, making herbal tinctures, and cooking with my husband. I’m from Cleveland, OH so when I can, I explore my new surroundings here in NJ - Hiking, coffee shops, and fun parks and places for Enzo to play!
Follow me on insta: @rochelle_gomez_
Taylor Brennan
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What brought you to yoga?
My yoga journey began at HYR in January of 2020 when I signed up for my first 40 Days to Personal Revolution program. Through the program, I realized that the discomfort that I felt in my physical practice was a reflection of all of the ways that I was not letting love into my life on a spiritual level. This program was the start of a huge life shift for me.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the HYR community was a light that helped me get through so many hard things. As a full-time school teacher, this practice shifted who I am for my students and helped me to better support them. In September 2020, a student of mine took their own life. Yoga became my only source of expression to try to make sense of my devastation, and the support from the yoga community helped me to process how this happened - even if I couldn’t see why.
Soon after that I enrolled in HYR’s 200 Hour Teacher Training. I learned that yoga is so much more than a physical practice. It’s a sanctuary to grow and evolve, to get rid of limiting beliefs, to let go of the aspects of life that no longer serve us and to deepen our spiritual connections and see that life is always happening for us – never to us.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
I love that I get to be a part of others’ healing journey. Watching people discover their practice and how it resonates with them inspires me so much. I am so humbled when a student shares with me that something I said in class was exactly what they needed to hear. And it makes my heart full that as a yoga teacher I have the ability to help my students break through barriers in their life, to stay when they are ready to give up and to witness their journey into their own power.
What do you want people to know about your classes?
I have a strong spiritual foundation and this has a huge influence on my classes. My theme is often inspired by what I am currently growing through in my own life. I teach a physically powerful and challenging class, and love to find creative ways to connect the physical pose with the spiritual expression. My playlists are fun and crafted with purpose to accompany us on our journey!
Fun facts about my life outside of the studio
My favorite number is 9 (so many of the most important dates in my life add up to some variation of it); summer is my favorite season and I’m happiest where the water meets the sand. I am an avid Pinterester, love doing DIY renovation flips, and would love to have my own crafting/maker space business one day. And the one I am most excited to share - I am a proud dog mom to three Goldens - Carley, Cooper, and Dex - who are the absolute lights of my life and bring me so much joy. I love documenting their shenanigans on their own Instagram - follow along! @thelifeof_carleyandcooper
Follow me on insta: @taylor.brenn
Rosie Lazroe
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What brought you to yoga?
Around the age of 21, I experienced an unexpected health crisis which led me to my first yoga class. The practice immediately sparked memories from my childhood, where I would intuitively meditate and move my body through the guidance of my breath. I began to realize that I had the
knowledge of these ancient tools within me all along just waiting to come alive. After a decade of study and practice at home, I felt the call to share these sacred tools with others, and in 2009 I got certified in Hatha Yoga.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
My favorite thing about being a teacher, is sharing these ancient tools in this modern society. We have so much distraction in the modern world, and it is too easy to become disconnected from ourselves and from others. My personal growth experiences through the practice of yoga have
helped me to turn inward so I can embrace life with a focused mind and a peaceful heart. When we move through the world in this way, I believe we exude a sense of calm that can inspire others to pause and turn within. I am so grateful to have been inspired to contribute to the world through this practice, and it is a joy to inspire others to do the same.
What do you want people to know about your class and/or teaching style?
My hope is that my style of teaching allows my students the freedom to embrace the practice of yoga in their own unique way, without worrying if they are “doing it right”. Specializing in
Restorative Yoga and Meditation, it is my goal is to leave everyone feeling refreshed and connected to the inner peace within… or at least get a good night’s sleep. My classes are relaxing, slow moving, filled with meditative imagery and juicy deep breaths. We also use lots of yoga props to assure minimal effort while holding the postures. The restorative practice inspires liberation from unwanted thoughts and tensions in the body and mind so we can simply enjoy being present in the now.
Fun facts about your life outside of yoga
I am a lover of music and I love to sing! When I’m not teaching yoga or leading reiki and sound trainings, you can find me playing acoustic guitar and singing my heart out. Read more about me on my website www.rosielazroe.com
Follow me on insta: @jersey.gypsy
Victoria Riporti
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What brought you to yoga?
Yoga came into my life during a time when I was seeking balance and a deeper connection to myself. The more I practiced, the more I realized that yoga wasn’t just about flexibility or strength - it was a journey of transformation, both on and off the mat. It has helped me reconnect with my body, mind, and heart in ways beyond what I could have ever imagined.
Why do you love teaching yoga?
Teaching yoga is one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. There’s something truly special about creating a space where people can show up as they are, let go of distractions, and connect with themselves on a deeper level. It’s incredibly rewarding to guide others through their journey of self-discovery and witness their transformations. Each class reminds me of the power of connection, and I am so grateful for the shared moments of growth, presence, and community!
What do you want people to know about your class?
In my class, I focus on creating a space where everyone feels empowered to explore their practice and show up just as they are. With a foundation in mindfulness, movement, and breath work, I encourage students to listen to their bodies, find their edge, and honor what they need in the moment. My goal is for each person to leave feeling lighter, more grounded, and deeply connected to themselves.
Fun facts about your life outside yoga
When I’m not on the mat, you’ll find me out and about with my two Westies, Harley & Honey—they’re my partners in crime! I LOVE to travel, always exploring new places with my partner, Angel, and dreaming up our next adventures. A foodie at heart, whether I’m cooking something delicious or trying new foods wherever we go! Most of all, I treasure spending time with my family and friends, making memories that’ll last a lifetime.
My Schedule
Follow me on insta @vriporti
Sara Page Hall
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What brought you to yoga?
What brought me to yoga was injuries. I was a runner and everything was starting to hurt. So I came to Hot Yoga. It was a far more difficult workout than running ever was lol
What do you love about teaching yoga?
There are few things that make me happier than teaching, training or being in community at HYR. What I love most about teaching yoga is the student — just the students and the community
What do you want people to know about your classes/teaching style?
I try to make my classes as authentic and fun as possible. I don’t take myself too seriously. If I make a mistake, I am completely in ownership around it. I think Yoga is a beautiful way to interact with not just your own emotions but with other people.
Fun facts about your life outside the studio
I’m a complete Disney freak. I shamelessly go every year! I was an actor for 20 years before Ihad my daughter Elizabeth - who I am completely over the top proud of, humbled by and inspired by - and now she and I love to go to Disney every year together. I am also a Pivot accountability coach and I love to help others find the true calling in their life!
Follow me on insta: @hallsarapage
