Meet Team White Birch

Staci 'Narayani' Harrison, RMT, Owner & Instructor

My journey began in 2010, a pivotal year when I first stepped onto the yoga mat. At that time, my life was dominated by heavy weightlifting. My dedication to bodybuilding demanded intense physical exertion, pushing my body to its limits. While I reveled in the strength and muscle I developed, I soon recognized the need for balance in my life—a way to harmonize my fierce workouts with a practice that nurtured my body, mind, and spirit. Little did I know, this journey would expand far beyond the physical dimensions I had anticipated. I began to feel a connection to something deeper than mere flexibility or strength. The experience was transformative; it ignited an awareness of not only my physical self but also my emotional and spiritual well-being.

As I continued my practice, the real benefits unfolded. The synchronized movement of breath and body cultivated a sense of mindfulness I hadn't experienced before. Suddenly, each moment on the mat became a lesson in presence, teaching me to stay grounded despite the pressures of daily life and the intensity of my weightlifting regimen.

My practice also introduced me to the philosophical aspects of yoga. I began to delve into concepts such as ahimsa (non-violence) and satya (truthfulness). These principles were not merely aspirational; they began to permeate my lifestyle choices and decision-making. I learned to honor not only my body but the world around me, giving me a newfound appreciation for compassion—towards myself and others.

The spiritual journey of yoga particularly resonated with me. The more I practiced, the more I sought knowledge beyond the mat. I immersed myself in yoga philosophy, exploring texts like Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, where I discovered the eight limbs of yoga. This framework enriched my understanding of how yoga extends beyond physical postures and into ethical living, meditation, and self-reflection. The teachings urged me to examine my thoughts, actions, and intentions, offering a roadmap for personal growth and self-improvement.

As I progressed, I sought community, finding solace and strength among fellow yoga practitioners and any opportunity to sit in the company of Swamis, Pandits and Self-Realized Beings. This communal aspect reinforced my understanding of interconnectedness—a notion that transcended physical practice and seeped into every aspect of life. We were all navigating our journeys, each with our own challenges yet united in our pursuit of wellness and spiritual insight.

Incorporating yoga into my life has also encouraged me to embrace vulnerability. The mats provided a safe space where I could shed the armor built from years of competing in fitness and my own childhood trauma. I became more open to exploring emotions I previously ignored or suppressed. The process was not always easy; at times, it was uncomfortable and challenging. However, through every tear shed during meditation or moment of doubt in a challenging pose, I found power and resilience. This is something I hope to share with you.

Today, yoga is more than just an exercise routine. It has become an integral part of my identity, molding the way I view strength—both in physical attributes and inner character. I have learned that true strength lies in the resilience of the human spirit, the ability to rise after falls, and the willingness to pursue growth, not perfection. Each time I step onto the mat, I am reminded of the journey I’ve undertaken, from a life fixated on physical prowess to one that embraces vulnerability, mindfulness, and empathy.

Reflecting on my journey, I am filled with gratitude. The transition from heavyweight lifter to a holistic practitioner is one that has not only changed my body but also enriched my mind and soul. My relationship with yoga continues to evolve, each practice revealing new insights and wisdom. It serves as a reminder that life is not solely about pushing through obstacles but about lifting ourselves up—emotionally, spiritually, and mentally.

As I move forward, my commitment to yoga remains steadfast. I strive to maintain balance in all aspects of my life, understanding that strength comes in many forms. I incorporate what I have learned on the mat into my everyday existence, nurturing not only my physical capabilities but also my emotional depth and spiritual awareness. Each session on the mat is a celebration of my journey and a step further towards the person I strive to be—strong, compassionate, and at peace with myself and the world around me.

Anna, Instructor

Anna has been practicing yoga for over 20 years. As a high school educator, Anna has been passionate about teaching yoga and sharing these lessons from the moment she stepped on the mat. She became a certified yoga teacher shortly thereafter to bring these practices into the high school classroom to empower students with tools for self awareness and to build resilience in challenging moments of their lives.

The word “yoga” is derived from Sanskrit meaning to join, to yoke or to unite. In her class, the Indigenous teaching of the Medicine Wheel will be used to focus on the integration of the four elements of earth, air, water and fire. By integrating these four integral elements in each yoga class, participants will be encouraged to bring more conscious awareness to their own evolution and progression towards a more balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Aliz, Instructor

Aliz is a graduate of the Music Theatre and Performance program at St. Clair College and will be a certified Yoga Teacher just in time for our opening in May! She has experience in Vinyasa, Hatha and Yin styles of yoga.

She was introduced to yoga as an active form of rehabilitation and became passionate about the positive impact it had on her mind, body and spirit. When she’s not practising yoga, she enjoys art, nature walks, travelling, reading and always looking to learn new ways to improve her teaching and practice.

With her musical and dance background she invites you on a full body experience through her nature themed aromatherapy, breath-work and core building sequences to improve strength, alignment and flexibility.

Beth, Instructor

While first feeling skeptical of trying yoga, Beth decided to attend a beginners yoga series in 2008 and became quickly hooked. She has been practicing yoga regularly ever since and has attended many training workshops over the years to deepen her knowledge. Beth completed her 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Certification with Inspiritus Yoga in 2021 and is currently pursuing her 300 Hour Master Yoga Teacher Certification. She also completed her Pilates Teacher Certification in October of 2021.

Beth is a licensed engineer working in the automotive industry in Tecumseh and holds an Honour Bachlor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Windsor.

Jana, Instructor

After teaching dance for many years; Jana sustained an injury. She was introduced to yoga as a way to relax and find relief from the pain. That introduction to yoga changed her life. In 2009, she traveled to India, finding more in depth knowledge and a deeper awareness of her health and body.

Jana’s desire is that her love for yoga will help bring the community to a more healthy awareness. She wishes nothing more than to bring the joy, peace, and happiness she has acquired through her dedication to yoga to anyone who yearns to experience a more fulfilled life.

Jana is also a recent Diploma graduate of the Massage & Hydrotherapy Program from CCHST!

Lulu, Instructor

Lulu has been practicing Pilates for several years and has completed her Pilates teacher training in June of 2024. She believes group fitness should create a positive, motivating environment that empowers everyone. Fitness, in her view, is for all, and she is passionate about helping people discover the transformative power of movement.

Her journey with Pilates and Yoga began in university, where it strengthened her physically and mentally. Lulu believes movement is medicine. During COVID, Lulu suffered a neck injury from prolonged desk work, and after exploring various treatments, it was consistent movement that aided her recovery. This experience inspired her to pursue teacher training, allowing her to better understand her body and help others on their fitness journeys.

As a Pilates instructor, Lulu finds fulfillment in seeing her participants leave class feeling stronger, more confident, and empowered. She is passionate about making fitness accessible to everyone, whether they are seasoned athletes or recovering from an injury. For her, teaching Pilates is about more than physical fitness—it’s about supporting growth, building connections, and creating an environment where movement transforms lives for the better.

Purnima, Instructor

Hello, I'm Purnima, a name that means "full moon" in Sanskrit — a symbol of my belief in the power of light, transformation, and continuous growth. As a certified Yoga instructor and holistic healer, I offer Reiki, Sound Healing, Chakra Energy Work, and Tarot readings to support others in their journey toward balance and wellness.

My Yoga journey began at the age of 10, and for the past seven years, I've been fortunate to share this transformative practice with others. My specialty lies in Gentle and Restorative Yoga, where I guide individuals to reconnect with their bodies, quiet their minds, and nurture their spirits.

A guiding philosophy in my life is found in the Bhagavad Gita: "Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self." I embrace this path of self-discovery and am passionate about supporting others along their own. I'm truly honored to be part of this incredible community and I look forward to being a part of your journey toward healing, growth, and inner balance.

Andrea, Instructor

Andrea has been practicing yoga for 8 years and successfully completed her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training following a desire to increase representation of larger bodies in the yoga community.

She believes in the Health at Every Size (HAES) movement that promotes well-being for people of all sizes, and adopts this inclusive approach when guiding a yoga practice.

Andrea also has a love for learning and has completed various workshops, such as Assisted Stretch Training and Yoga Foundations and Functional Movement.

Yvonne, Instructor

With over 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse, I bring a deep understanding of the body, health, and healing to my work as a Yoga Instructor.

My passion for wellness and the mind-body connection naturally led me to yoga, where I continue to support others on their path to well-being.

In my classes, I offer a sacred space for mindful movement with a focus on alignment, breath, and meeting each student where they are. The practice is designed to cultivate resilience, strength and inner peace.

Solid Ground. Balanced Body. Free Mind.