Cleveland – Yoga teacher finds stress relief on a mat

As a last resort for stress-relief, Kelly Novak of Cleveland, OH turned to a yoga mat and never looked back.

By: Dan Salupo

In February of 2008, Kelly Novak found her self on a yoga mat as a last resort for stress relief, unsure of what to expect. In that hour, and the ensuing months, she found more than she had ever expected–a development of mental and physical strength with a touch of spiritual awareness.

“As a [very] non-athletic person, I was ecstatic to find a way to step into my body and do some form of physical exercise in front of others – in a welcoming, fun environment,” said Novak. “I found a little bit of courage and confidence and never looked back.”

Enlightened by her experiences on the yoga mat, Novak registered for a yoga teacher-training program at Inner Bliss Yoga Studio in Rocky River, OH to learn from Mitchel Bleier and Tammy Lyons. However, as Kelly went on to earn her certification, she realized that even the most talented yogis were not her only source of wisdom.

“My favorite teachers of all are my students,” said Novak, “they truly teach me everything.”

Today, Novak teaches, and practices, Vinyasa yoga – a practice of flowing from pose to pose, guided by a teacher, working with the breath – at a number of locations throughout the Greater Cleveland Area, most notably the Alta House in Little Italy, Gemini Quest Personal Training in Broadview Heights, and Puma Yoga Studio in Lakewood, OH. Through guided yoga, with hands-on adjustments to cultivate strength, flexibility and balance, Novak consistently offers modifications to suit different body types.

“Yoga is truly appropriate for anyone, regardless of fitness level,” said Novak. “All my classes are offered in an accepting environment where you are encouraged to work at your own pace. I often introduce concepts or themes, ranging from the contemplative to the humorous. I embrace the nonphysical yoga practice as a way to deepen the mind and the heart – and to laugh and be light,” she added.

In addition to various locations throughout Cleveland, Kelly is available for private and small-group sessions. To learn more about yoga with Kelly, call (440) 552-5321 or click here for more information.