Denise Druce is one of our exercise experts on My Fitness Tunes.  Writing for us since May 2011, Denise provides perspective from her role as a yoga instructor.  Over the past two and a half year she has guided our readers through many topics, from advice on your first yoga class to daily hip stretches to holiday stress busters.  Whatever topic she covers, Denise has a wealth knowledge that she gladly shares.

Without further ado, allow me to introduce you to Denise:

MPK: Our readers know you as our yoga exercise expert.  Is there a particular type of yoga that you teach?

DD: I teach a Vinyasa flow style of yoga.  My emphasis is on a playful and rejuvenating practice, using sound anatomical principles and correct alignment.  I incorporate elements of Ashtanga, Anusara, Bikram, Iyengar, and some fun tricks from the fitness world.  I love teaching a class that is inviting to everyone, no matter their age, experience or physical condition.

MPK: In some of your articles you write about accepting your body.  Is that part of yoga, or is it your own line of thinking?

DD: I believe yoga is the best way to “come home” to your body.  Yoga teaches body awareness.  It teaches us to listen to the wisdom of our bodies and when we do that, we become our own best teacher and our own best healer.  The human body is nothing short of a miracle, and I love helping my students see themselves in that light.

MPK: How many yoga classes do you teach/take in a week?  What else fills your days?

DD: I teach 9 classes a week, and I always take one class a week.  I love being a student and not having to think!  I also teach indoor cycling, step and boot camp.  I have three boys so when I’m not in the gym I’m hauling around snowboarders and hockey players.

MPK: What do you like best about being a yoga instructor?

DD: Seeing my students ‘get it’.  Whether it’s an arm balance, better form in Warrior 1, or simply a delicious Savasana, I love watching someone find their true, beautiful, authentic selves on their yoga mat.

MPK: What fun fact would our readers be surprised to learn about you?

DD: Choose one 🙂

• I have been kissed on the cheek by Bono (of U2)
• I have had to ask Madonna to behave
• My guilty pleasure is Oreo ice cream!