Testimonials for Tammy
There is no doubt when taking a class with Tammy that she is a very experienced yoga teacher with true expertise. But aside from her intuitive flows and sound techniques, there is the real "gold" of the experience in the class, and that gold is Tammy! She brings a totally sincere, authentic, open, genuine presence to the class that makes the students feel safe and supported.
Tammy would be seen as a Humanist in the schools and theories of psychology. So when I take her classes, I hear a lot of Buddhism and Humanistic thoughts and messages. However, even if people knew nothing of either of those things, the experience of taking a class with her would still have that very positive and loving vibe that comes from both of those philosophies. The message of support, acceptance, and personal ability to find within yourself everything you need, is a theme that can't be missed in her teachings; the classes are truly yoga classes. They are not work-outs or exercise classes. They are much more than just exercise and thus are much more valuable and meaningful. Tammy’s classes are technically so safe and so sound, and that is a big deal. I have been injured by yoga teachers, as have many of my friends. That would never happen in a class with Tammy.
Tammy has a light turned on inside her that is undeniable to anyone who takes a class from her or interacts with her in conversation. The way people speak of Tammy reveals that she is very much beloved and respected and admired. The word "magical" is applied to her often in conversation - in the sense that a class with her has amazing consequences that can transcend the mundane and the expected and serve to truly transform. It is hard to write this as I am limited by our language in what I can express, and there really are no words to say how amazing I, and many others, think she is as a yoga teacher and as a person. I know that I am truly grateful for having walked this path this time at the same time Tammy is here, and that our paths have crossed.
Jill Singleton-Jackson, PhD. Associate Professor, Dept. of Psychology, University of Windsor
From the moment Tammy walked into “Love It Yoga” she radiated warmth and kindness. Her beautiful bright smile was only out done by the sparkle in her eyes as she scanned the faces that eagerly waited to learn from her. Her speech was clearly personal, deep and reflective as she told us the fascinating journey of her life. It conveyed strength and a profound “realness” to her story that drew the listener in the same way one's favorite novel would. It was filled with joy, sorrow, painful decision making, anecdotes and laughter in such a way that I believe everyone in the room felt some magical connection with her.
Listening to her journey I saw a braveness that I deeply admired. She displayed no fear in asking people to share their religious beliefs with her so she could learn and grow. The trip to the temple she described, without instruction, a friend or any idea what was in store left me awestruck. To have the strength, courage and confidence to jump in and follow your dreams with no map or guidebook was incredibly inspirational for me. Was this my sign? Was this the earth's way of telling me it was time to face my fears…..it made me contemplate where I am and where I want to be. As we moved into the practise section I was full of eagerness and anticipation, and she lived up to every bit of the glory she exuded.
The class was far different than any I had previously committed to and I cherished every bit of it. I often felt her presence close to me as I practised, eyes closed. A new sense of peace encompassed my heart during the practice. I felt totally at ease, completely unaware of the other students, lost in my yoga....absolute bliss. One class was not enough.
Tamara Schwemler, Yoga Teacher in Training
As a teacher, Tammy is a beautiful soul inside and out. Her classes are always filled with gentleness, love and compassion. During her classes, I experience challenges and encouragement to go further. I always leave feeling happy and accomplished. You’ll know you’ve met Tammy when you see her brilliant, beautiful smile. In case you haven’t figured it out – I adore this lovely lady.
Jenn, Government Worker, Windsor, ON
Taking a yoga class with Tammy is truly the greatest gift you can give to yourself. From the minute you see her smiling face and positive energy, you start to realize you will be a different and better person in a matter of moments. Tammy’s peaceful yogi vibe surrounds her so bright and is shared with all those lucky enough to be in her presence. Taking her class will bring you closer to your divine spirit and will bring happiness and kindness into your heart. Tammy’s classes are challenging and yet relaxing. Restorative and reenergizing. There is no way a class with this teacher won’t lift your spirits and brighten your day. If you are looking to grow stronger physically, mentally and emotionally, being in Tammy’s class is a fast track to just that.
Tammy emphasizes honouring your body and practicing yoga within those means, which is a breath of fresh air in today’s fast paced competitive society. Practicing Tammy’s yoga and philosophies will not only reap rewards to you while in the class, but long after you leave, you will not be able to forget the wise words and positivity that was shared in her class. Tammy truly does practice and teach yoga for the soul, and you undoubtedly feel positive shifts on many levels with as little as one class with her.
Jennifer Oliver, Co-Founder of LiveFerU Personal Management, Nutrition & Healthy Lifestyle Coaching, Windsor, ON
Tammy would be seen as a Humanist in the schools and theories of psychology. So when I take her classes, I hear a lot of Buddhism and Humanistic thoughts and messages. However, even if people knew nothing of either of those things, the experience of taking a class with her would still have that very positive and loving vibe that comes from both of those philosophies. The message of support, acceptance, and personal ability to find within yourself everything you need, is a theme that can't be missed in her teachings; the classes are truly yoga classes. They are not work-outs or exercise classes. They are much more than just exercise and thus are much more valuable and meaningful. Tammy’s classes are technically so safe and so sound, and that is a big deal. I have been injured by yoga teachers, as have many of my friends. That would never happen in a class with Tammy.
Tammy has a light turned on inside her that is undeniable to anyone who takes a class from her or interacts with her in conversation. The way people speak of Tammy reveals that she is very much beloved and respected and admired. The word "magical" is applied to her often in conversation - in the sense that a class with her has amazing consequences that can transcend the mundane and the expected and serve to truly transform. It is hard to write this as I am limited by our language in what I can express, and there really are no words to say how amazing I, and many others, think she is as a yoga teacher and as a person. I know that I am truly grateful for having walked this path this time at the same time Tammy is here, and that our paths have crossed.
Jill Singleton-Jackson, PhD. Associate Professor, Dept. of Psychology, University of Windsor
From the moment Tammy walked into “Love It Yoga” she radiated warmth and kindness. Her beautiful bright smile was only out done by the sparkle in her eyes as she scanned the faces that eagerly waited to learn from her. Her speech was clearly personal, deep and reflective as she told us the fascinating journey of her life. It conveyed strength and a profound “realness” to her story that drew the listener in the same way one's favorite novel would. It was filled with joy, sorrow, painful decision making, anecdotes and laughter in such a way that I believe everyone in the room felt some magical connection with her.
Listening to her journey I saw a braveness that I deeply admired. She displayed no fear in asking people to share their religious beliefs with her so she could learn and grow. The trip to the temple she described, without instruction, a friend or any idea what was in store left me awestruck. To have the strength, courage and confidence to jump in and follow your dreams with no map or guidebook was incredibly inspirational for me. Was this my sign? Was this the earth's way of telling me it was time to face my fears…..it made me contemplate where I am and where I want to be. As we moved into the practise section I was full of eagerness and anticipation, and she lived up to every bit of the glory she exuded.
The class was far different than any I had previously committed to and I cherished every bit of it. I often felt her presence close to me as I practised, eyes closed. A new sense of peace encompassed my heart during the practice. I felt totally at ease, completely unaware of the other students, lost in my yoga....absolute bliss. One class was not enough.
Tamara Schwemler, Yoga Teacher in Training
As a teacher, Tammy is a beautiful soul inside and out. Her classes are always filled with gentleness, love and compassion. During her classes, I experience challenges and encouragement to go further. I always leave feeling happy and accomplished. You’ll know you’ve met Tammy when you see her brilliant, beautiful smile. In case you haven’t figured it out – I adore this lovely lady.
Jenn, Government Worker, Windsor, ON
Taking a yoga class with Tammy is truly the greatest gift you can give to yourself. From the minute you see her smiling face and positive energy, you start to realize you will be a different and better person in a matter of moments. Tammy’s peaceful yogi vibe surrounds her so bright and is shared with all those lucky enough to be in her presence. Taking her class will bring you closer to your divine spirit and will bring happiness and kindness into your heart. Tammy’s classes are challenging and yet relaxing. Restorative and reenergizing. There is no way a class with this teacher won’t lift your spirits and brighten your day. If you are looking to grow stronger physically, mentally and emotionally, being in Tammy’s class is a fast track to just that.
Tammy emphasizes honouring your body and practicing yoga within those means, which is a breath of fresh air in today’s fast paced competitive society. Practicing Tammy’s yoga and philosophies will not only reap rewards to you while in the class, but long after you leave, you will not be able to forget the wise words and positivity that was shared in her class. Tammy truly does practice and teach yoga for the soul, and you undoubtedly feel positive shifts on many levels with as little as one class with her.
Jennifer Oliver, Co-Founder of LiveFerU Personal Management, Nutrition & Healthy Lifestyle Coaching, Windsor, ON
Testimonials for Michelle
I had been a regular yoga practitioner when I first met Michelle in the summer of 2014. I thought I had a good grasp on ‘the yoga thing’, and what it meant to me.
I was unknowingly trapped in the physical aspects of yoga, typical of my western mindset.
As I became a regular student in Michelle’s classes, I realized there is a whole other world to yoga, a wealth of untapped knowledge that I didn’t know existed, that I didn’t know I could access. When my local studio announced that Michelle was going to be teaching a 200hr YTT course, I was curious. Was this the opportunity I was looking for to expand my horizons on this brilliant, ancient, eastern practice?
I completed my 200hr YTT, and could not have been more pleased with the experience. Michelle designed the course such that it was focused on the philosophy, history, and religion of yoga, as opposed to limiting our training to the physical domain. We were presented with reading materials and held lengthy discussions on topics I had not vet through before, and did not realize I had formed calculated opinions on. These discussions, along with other materials, encouraged participants to become teachers of the full practice, as it was meant to be, encompassing body, mind, and spirit.
It was so refreshing to be taught and mentored by someone who cares about the full practice as much as I do. To understand everything that Michelle has taught me over the course of our friendship has brought a new level of meaning to my practice, and has inspired me to approach the grand design with a new perspective. Michelle’s calm and caring demeanor is an invaluable addition to any studio or workplace. Her pride in her work, and in her beliefs, radiates in every class she teaches. Michelle is attentive to each of her students, observantly adjusting her class as necessary to ensure that all feel comfortable and safe. I wish it were possible for me to attend Michelle’s classes on a weekly basis, but I understand that she has much to give to the world, and I support her on her journey.
Felicia Cristofaro, 2015
Completing my 200 RYT training with Michelle was a dream come true. Six years ago, I fell in love with the practice of yoga, which I credit to Michelle because of her remarkable ability to gently encourage her students to find their edge in the physical practice, and to find their hearts in the spiritual. Michelle is a well of knowledge on the subject of yoga. Michelle has earned the trust, time and time again, of all of her students.
What is most compelling to me about Michelle’s teachings is that she inspires her students to be better people on and off of their mats. It is clear that Michelle chooses to live everyday by her yoga philosophy. Michelle is bright, peaceful, and patient- three of the most important attributes of a yoga instructor. I could write several paragraphs more, but will end here by saying that Michelle has a profound knowledge of yoga, a wealth of experience, and an ability to transform any space into the perfect yoga space. She is an absolute treasure to aspiring teachers and seasoned practitioners alike. I am so very thankful to have Michelle in my life.
Victoria Faraci, 2015
I first fell in love with yoga in 1973. I was 19 years old. It has been an on and off love affair the rest of my life. Over the years I have had some wonderful teachers but I must say that I found something extraordinary when I had the fortune of taking a class with Michelle a year ago. Michelle is very special. She is the most gifted teacher I have ever had the honour to study with. She radiates compassion and an extraordinary peaceful energy that permeates everything around her. Her gentleness and wisdom guide you through a class that leaves you re-energized and serene.
The physical aspects of yoga become almost secondary. The spirituality of yoga becomes paramount, the body follows.
I have had the privilege to come to know Michelle outside of class and the life she lives is a testament to the tenets of yoga. She is yoga. Her love and compassion are always there to be given to those in need. I have told Michelle that she is a gift. I truly believe that. She has made my lifelong yoga practice come into a much clearer focus. She has opened my mind and heart to the spirituality of yoga and shown me, through her example, how one can live a life guided by the principles set out in the Sutras. She is my wonderful teacher and my cherished friend.
Wendy Ross, 2015
I had come to a point in my yoga practice where I began questioning: "Why am I doing this pose? This sequence? This breath work?" Thinking I might get some answers and enhance my practice, I enrolled in a 200-hour RYT course with Michelle Van Lare. And while I expected to learn more about the physical practice of yoga, I didn't anticipate that the 200-plus hours spent with Michelle would change my life.
Michelle has spent more than a decade teaching and studying yoga around the world. Her knowledge of anatomy, the physical practice -- both Eastern and Western -- and the art of adjustment is outstanding. She has a true passion for the history of yoga and its spiritual legacy. It is this passion, along with an insatiable curiosity and a desire to share her knowledge, that makes Michelle a wonderful and unique teacher.
Michelle reignited my love of yoga, as well as my love of life. I hope I can pass on even a fraction of her knowledge and passion to my students.
Katera Zappacosta, 2015
I was unknowingly trapped in the physical aspects of yoga, typical of my western mindset.
As I became a regular student in Michelle’s classes, I realized there is a whole other world to yoga, a wealth of untapped knowledge that I didn’t know existed, that I didn’t know I could access. When my local studio announced that Michelle was going to be teaching a 200hr YTT course, I was curious. Was this the opportunity I was looking for to expand my horizons on this brilliant, ancient, eastern practice?
I completed my 200hr YTT, and could not have been more pleased with the experience. Michelle designed the course such that it was focused on the philosophy, history, and religion of yoga, as opposed to limiting our training to the physical domain. We were presented with reading materials and held lengthy discussions on topics I had not vet through before, and did not realize I had formed calculated opinions on. These discussions, along with other materials, encouraged participants to become teachers of the full practice, as it was meant to be, encompassing body, mind, and spirit.
It was so refreshing to be taught and mentored by someone who cares about the full practice as much as I do. To understand everything that Michelle has taught me over the course of our friendship has brought a new level of meaning to my practice, and has inspired me to approach the grand design with a new perspective. Michelle’s calm and caring demeanor is an invaluable addition to any studio or workplace. Her pride in her work, and in her beliefs, radiates in every class she teaches. Michelle is attentive to each of her students, observantly adjusting her class as necessary to ensure that all feel comfortable and safe. I wish it were possible for me to attend Michelle’s classes on a weekly basis, but I understand that she has much to give to the world, and I support her on her journey.
Felicia Cristofaro, 2015
Completing my 200 RYT training with Michelle was a dream come true. Six years ago, I fell in love with the practice of yoga, which I credit to Michelle because of her remarkable ability to gently encourage her students to find their edge in the physical practice, and to find their hearts in the spiritual. Michelle is a well of knowledge on the subject of yoga. Michelle has earned the trust, time and time again, of all of her students.
What is most compelling to me about Michelle’s teachings is that she inspires her students to be better people on and off of their mats. It is clear that Michelle chooses to live everyday by her yoga philosophy. Michelle is bright, peaceful, and patient- three of the most important attributes of a yoga instructor. I could write several paragraphs more, but will end here by saying that Michelle has a profound knowledge of yoga, a wealth of experience, and an ability to transform any space into the perfect yoga space. She is an absolute treasure to aspiring teachers and seasoned practitioners alike. I am so very thankful to have Michelle in my life.
Victoria Faraci, 2015
I first fell in love with yoga in 1973. I was 19 years old. It has been an on and off love affair the rest of my life. Over the years I have had some wonderful teachers but I must say that I found something extraordinary when I had the fortune of taking a class with Michelle a year ago. Michelle is very special. She is the most gifted teacher I have ever had the honour to study with. She radiates compassion and an extraordinary peaceful energy that permeates everything around her. Her gentleness and wisdom guide you through a class that leaves you re-energized and serene.
The physical aspects of yoga become almost secondary. The spirituality of yoga becomes paramount, the body follows.
I have had the privilege to come to know Michelle outside of class and the life she lives is a testament to the tenets of yoga. She is yoga. Her love and compassion are always there to be given to those in need. I have told Michelle that she is a gift. I truly believe that. She has made my lifelong yoga practice come into a much clearer focus. She has opened my mind and heart to the spirituality of yoga and shown me, through her example, how one can live a life guided by the principles set out in the Sutras. She is my wonderful teacher and my cherished friend.
Wendy Ross, 2015
I had come to a point in my yoga practice where I began questioning: "Why am I doing this pose? This sequence? This breath work?" Thinking I might get some answers and enhance my practice, I enrolled in a 200-hour RYT course with Michelle Van Lare. And while I expected to learn more about the physical practice of yoga, I didn't anticipate that the 200-plus hours spent with Michelle would change my life.
Michelle has spent more than a decade teaching and studying yoga around the world. Her knowledge of anatomy, the physical practice -- both Eastern and Western -- and the art of adjustment is outstanding. She has a true passion for the history of yoga and its spiritual legacy. It is this passion, along with an insatiable curiosity and a desire to share her knowledge, that makes Michelle a wonderful and unique teacher.
Michelle reignited my love of yoga, as well as my love of life. I hope I can pass on even a fraction of her knowledge and passion to my students.
Katera Zappacosta, 2015