Ellen Sundell

I continue to learn more and more about yoga and deepen my own practice so I may inspire others as I teach and learn. About My Practice My yoga practice began in 1993 as a candlelight moving meditation, after my infant son was snuggled into sleep for the night. I was mysteriously inspired to move my body and breath in flowing sequences, mindful to practice the creative flow on both sides of my body; I found this experience deeply peaceful and expressive. After my first practice, I called my best friend, excited to share with her my strange and wonderful experience. She told me that I had just practiced yoga! The next night, my friend and I sought out our first official yoga class. My teacher was Robert Gallagher at his store Present Moment in Minneapolis. We practiced Sivananda Yoga with Bob, his Swamis, and friends for many years to follow. My yoga practice continued as my son grew. While my son was busy playing in kids' programs and activities at the YMCA, I discovered inspiring and knowledgeable yoga teachers and fitness classes for ME! After many years within the YMCA community, I was asked to teach, to share my passion for yoga and love of health and wellbeing with the members. I said, “OK! I better learn how to teach” (and I did)! Along my teaching journey, I've become a part of some very fabulous yoga studios and fallen in love with so many beautiful communities of yogis. I’ve been teaching yoga (10,000+ hours over 14+ years, as well as many of my favorite fitness formats) since 2009. In addition to teaching yoga and fitness, I have enjoyed a 30-year career as a Creative Director, and currently own my own business ManyBearsCreative.com, doing web and & graphic design, marketing & product photography for social media. I am a mother, fine artist, yogi, cyclist, and sailor. Namaste friends, Elle