About
I started my journey with Pilates while dancing professionally with the Milwaukee Ballet Company in 1997. Pilates became a way to condition the body for upcoming performances and to keep in shape during the off season. Soon after, I began studying with a diverse group of teacher trainers, and in 2002 became certified by Romana Kryzanowska in NYC. At the time, the program was through the Pilates, Inc, for the professional practice of Authentic Pilates Exercises and was affiliated with Pilates Seattle International. Over the years I have learned how everyBODY brings with it a unique story. It has been a privilege to watch how movement can help heal and transform both the mind and body. The work is hard and challenging, but with dedication and practice the results are amazing.
Wanting to dive deeper into movement studies, I traveled to Alabama in 2008 to work with Aaron Mattes and certify in Active Isolated Stretching. I love incorporating this technique into sessions, as well as folding in the years of dance movement.
Education:
University of Hartford “The Hartford Ballet”- 1998
North Seattle Community College (Associates of Science)-2008
University of Washington (Bachelors of Arts: Medical Anthropology and Global Health)- 2010
Other Certifications/Trainings and Professional Dance Experience:
Milwaukee Ballet Company- 1998-2001
Pilates Inc.-2002
Spectrum Dance Theater- 2004-2007
Active Isolated Stretching (Mattes Method)- 2008
Seattle Pelvic Health & Physical Therapy, Diane Lee (The Abdominal Wall after Pregnancy, Diastasis Rectus Abdominis) - July 2017
Bastyr University, Simkin Center (Birth Doula)- Jan 2020
Bastyr University, Simkin Center (When Survivors Give Birth)- Jan 2021
Although I have hiked and backpacked and done strength training for years, Pilates has been invaluable in improving my core strength, flexibility, and balance. It is also a lot of fun! When I first started working with Karen, I did not even know what Pilates was—I started in a Mat Class at the recommendation of a friend and remember thinking—you want my body to do what!?! I will never be able to do that!!! Now I look forward to my weekly sessions with Karen who continues to challenge me, and guess what—my body CAN do all those things I never thought I would be able to do!
-Irene
