About our Yoga Instructors
Deanna Spear, RYT-200, Studio Manager
Deanna started her yoga journey shortly after becoming a new mom. She struggled with anxiety for years and began suffering from anxiety attacks while pregnant with her daughter. Devoting time on her mat allowed her to overcome her attacks and learn different ways to calm the mind and body. In 2017 she earned her RYT 200 from The Chicago School of Yoga and has specialized training in Kids Yoga through Zenergy Yoga. She teaches class that physically move the body, promoting strength and confidence, while incorporating self-care skills that are easy to use off the mat. With a background in dance Deanna brings a firm understanding of the body and how too easily modify, allowing yoga to be accessible to all. “I want my yoga students to feel good after class!”
Saphire Shaw, RYT-200
“Hello! Nice to meet you all! My name is Saphire, and I have been working in wellness since 2017, after recovering from an invasive surgery. My interest in fitness started when I played sports in school and continued during my time in the U.S. Air Force. I’m a Chicago native, a 200hr Registered Yoga Teacher, a trained Stretch Therapist, Meditation Guide, and Fitness Instructor through the Yoga Alliance and ISSA. I specialize in Vinyasa, Power Sculpt, Restorative, Hatha, and Bikram yoga. I hope to pursue a doctorate in Physical Therapy. I have other specialties in sound healing, aromatherapy, and children’s yoga. I can’t wait to train with you!”
Dana Fortner, RYT 200
Dana came to yoga over 20 years ago as a disconnected young adult and quickly fell in love with the practice. After several years working as a recreational therapist, she took a hiatus from her career to reassess where best to focus her energy. The thought of studying to become a yoga teacher had been a reoccurring thought for over a decade, and she decided that she should start paying attention to what her inner voice was communicating.
“I believe that connecting with others is the most powerful thing we can do as humans. It's what brings us together, makes us feel less alone, and helps us find our place in this world. Helping others find the connection between the mind and body opens one up to what is and what could be. Yoga is a beautiful way to integrate the physical and mental aspects of being human.”
Beth Carpenter, RYT 200
Beth has been practicing yoga for five years. After the birth of her third child she decided to give it a try and immediately fell in love. When she walked into her first yoga studio she was home. In 2019 Beth received her 200 hour yoga certification and started teaching vinyasa flow at Reflections Yoga Center in Homewood. Her love of yoga is rooted in the belief that the practice is carried far beyond the mat. What she's learned from yoga has intrinsically changed the way she moves outside of the studio.
Maura Therese, RYT 200
An educator by profession with a passion for Wellness, Maura loves to learn and help others. Maura's personal experience with yoga has led her to earn her RYT 200 with additional specialized training in Restorative Yoga and traditional Yoga Nidra. Whether in movement or stillness, Maura's classes support your growth in your unique yoga practice. Discover a balance of effort and ease, find grounding, build resilience on your mat and carry it with you into your everyday life.
Myriam Lozano, RYT 200
Myriam turned to yoga during a difficult time in her life, having worked as an educator for years and experienced burn out. During this time, she discovered how to practice mindfulness and intentionality, both on and off the mat. This allowed her to become more present and mindful. In 2018 Myriam earned her 200 hour yoga certification from Breathe For Change, a nationally
recognized yoga training program that focuses on integrating yoga into educational settings. She holds the intrinsic belief that yoga should be accessible for all people and aims to create a safe and equitable space in the studio.
Kiara Sinclair, RYT 200
Kiara has developed a unique practice grounded in yogic philosophy and somatic theory. In her approach she recognizes that the body holds patterns of tension, pain, and emotional blockages that impact not only the mind but also the nervous system, muscles, and cellular memory. Over time, these imprints create holding patterns that influence the mind, body, and spirit.
Through intentional breathwork and carefully designed movements, Kiara's practice helps individuals access and release stored stress by focusing on areas of stored tension, activating the body’s natural capacity for healing and restoration. She integrates breath to seamlessly flow between postures, emphasizing spine and vertebral column alignment. Many poses feature triangular forms, geometric shapes, and linear lines, all harmonizing with the body’s innate structure and anatomy.