Hi! I’m Michaela, an artist, certified pilates instructor, dance educator, and creative aging specialist living in Buffalo, NY.
My interest in somatic sciences and holistic movement began over ten years ago while studying dance at the University at Buffalo, NY. I have always been curious about human anatomy, biomechanics, and how movement and mindfulness inform individual and collective healing.
I blend my modalities as a professional artist and certified pilates instructor with my research in therapeutic arts to guide individual clients and communities through the process of healing from the inside out. I’ve had the privilege to work with clients of all ages in schools, universities, community centers, and private studios but specialize in working with elders. I enjoy the reciprocal exchange of sharing the tools I have accumulated during my career to help elders age both actively and independently while learning from those wiser and more experienced than me.
My sessions, classes, and workshops combine creativity, restorative movement, and community engagement as a tool for positive social change and embodied transformation. As an educator my aim is to encourage play, challenge traditional hierarchical classroom structures, and allow for flexibility and individualization of material as needed. I hope that when students exit my class, they leave feeling they’ve developed personalized tools which they can carry out of the studio and into their daily lives for continued, lifelong learning.
I’m so glad you’re here. Please feel free to reach out for questions or for more information. I hope to see you in classes and/or private sessions soon! Remember to follow my social accounts to stay updated on new services and events!
ABOUT ME
MY APPROACH
I help individuals explore their inner creativity, manage stress, and promote overall well-being. My approach is client-centered, supportive, and tailored to your unique needs. I hope that when students exit my class, they leave feeling they’ve developed personalized tools which they can carry out of the studio and into their daily lives for continued, lifelong learning.
EXPERIENCE
I've been teaching dance and pilates in private studios, community centers, and universities for over 10 years. I've been an artist my entire life and am an active researcher in therapeutic arts for community wellness, specifically in the areas of creative aging and working with adults 60+. I have 5+ years experience in arts program design and management.
EDUCATION
I have my mat pilates certification from Balanced Body LLC and my reformer apparatus certification from ID Pilates. I earned a Bachelor's degree in Dance Performance & Choreography from SUNY University at Buffalo and my Masters of Fine Arts in Dance and Nonprofit Studies from The Ohio State University.
SERVICES
I offer sliding scale therapeutic arts and pilates/wellness coaching to individuals, small groups, and community centers through 1:1 private coaching, small group classes, and specialized workshops.
REACH OUT
Please reach out to schedule a coaching session, sign up for group classes, inquire about special workshops, or to ask a question. I look forward to hearing from you!
ADDRESS
all pilates related classes and sessions take place at the carriage house collective located at 1134 delaware ave, buffalo NY.