Desiree Presnar, Teacher

Desiree's journey with yoga has been transformative, starting in 2018 when she returned to her hometown of Erie, PA from Texas. Seeking warmth during the chilly winter months, she stumbled upon Erie's Original Hot Power Yoga, yogaErie, where she discovered solace in the comforting embrace of the studio's heaters. Initially, she was drawn to the heat and physical challenge of power yoga. However, during a difficult period in 2022, her practice took on a deeper meaning, allowing her to explore the profound connection between mind and body and uncover the invaluable lessons that yoga offers both on and off the mat.

In her quest for continued growth, Desiree embarked on her Level 1 power vinyasa teacher training through Amazing Yoga/yogaErie's first hybrid partner studio program in 2023. Throughout her training, she found unwavering support from her newfound yoga family. As part of her Level 1 teacher training, Desiree provided community classes to incarcerated women, emphasizing the principles of well-being and empowerment that arise from yoga’s community-driven atmosphere.

As a teacher, Desiree's primary goal is to create a safe environment to share the practice’s benefits with her students. She aims to design creative sequences that not only challenge her students physically, but also provide them with an opportunity to explore their inner selves both on and off the mat. Desiree believes that yoga has the power to unlock hidden potential, and she aims to guide her students in discovering who they truly are.

Desiree's teaching philosophy is encapsulated by the words of Thich Nhat Hanh, "We have more possibilities in each moment than we realize." She encourages her students to embrace the present moment and become the best versions of themselves.