the unwind TRIBE
Ashley Ghattas
Owner & Founder
I am a biomedical engineer who taught in healthcare field for over 20 years. In my off time, I consistently kept up with fun friends skiing, biking, trail running, you name it. I only had one speed. Go fast, go hard, keep up, no whining. It worked well, until it didn’t. I tore ligaments in my thumb and was out of commission for many months. Devastated and not sure how I was going to stay healthy I finally went looking for answers from my friend, Dr. Sally Harris. She listened intently and lovingly handed me a handwritten script. It was for yoga twice a week. My reaction was complete disbelief. My nature was to be way too busy. “Not my speed,” I protested as I handed it back. She smiled, took a deep breath and said she understood. She scribbled again, handed me another prescription and said “yoga 5 times a week” and added that hot was acceptable.
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I was floored, she knew me well and knew my perfectionist “I got this” spirit. Her last advice was that I had better find a studio. That was 2014. My RYT 200 was at Sweat studio, and I completed classroom and teaching hours for RYT 300 thru Blue Sky studio in Taos. Yoga changed my perceptions and my life. I quit my engineering job, and focused my energy and passion for yoga teaching. I derive joy from learning and inspiring. I want to empower others and my son and daughter with a positive attitude. I strive to teach from a place of authenticity and personal stories that resonate because after all, we are all connected. I pride myself on seeking training and education opportunities to stay up-to-date. I’m a true yoga nerd - a work in progress. I genuinely want to teach in a studio that is focused on the yoga students. I am a preparer, and I strive to make the complex poses, bends and stretches simpler to understand, perform and follow and gladly answer questions and engage in discussions. All yoga students are welcomed to my studio as they are my friends and extended family!!
Jonathan Hollinger
Technology administrator
THE TRANSFORMATION
I began my journey into the practice of yoga around 2015 as a supplement to weight lifting, rock climbing, hiking and snowboarding. I quickly discovered the magical benefits of yoga, and I fell in love with practice and the transformations I began to experience.
In 2019 I found a link between my technical ability in engineering and entrepreneurialism, and people's desire to continue their yogic practices during the pandemic. I realized that the ancient art of yoga and our digital world had the opportunity to successfully commingle. I discovered immense joy in helping people connect to their practice, through the use of technology, during in a time of despair.
While I am not a instructor at this point, I am deeply rooted in all facets of Unwind Yoga, and its quest to spread
happiness, health, and prosperity through light-hearted and whole-hearted community wellness. Namaste
Danielle Russelle
RYT 500 Instructor
Embarking on my yoga journey in January 2014 was a pivotal moment, driven by the need to recover from an injury that had disrupted my usual cardio-centric workouts. Intrigued by the calming influence of yoga in my past attempts, I was initially skeptical about its potential to match the intensity of my former fitness routine. However, one transformative class shattered those doubts, revealing that yoga was not only a physical challenge but a gateway to a holistic well-being that surpassed the capabilities of any elliptical machine.
Within a few weeks, the allure of yoga extended far beyond its physical benefits. I fell in love with the serene sensation that enveloped me during each flow, where breath and movement became a harmonious dance. Stress and anxiety gradually melted away, and I discovered a heightened presence in my daily activities. Each practice became a journey of strength and flexibility, marking profound growth with every session.
A month later, I made a bold decision to bid farewell to my gym membership and fully embrace the studio. By the following month, I realized that yoga was not just a new workout routine; it was a transformative lifestyle that nurtured my mental and spiritual well-being. This realization fueled my passion to share the profound impact of yoga with others, leading me to attain my RYT200 certification in June 2016. Eager to deepen my knowledge, I pursued a 500-hour certification with Uptown Yoga in Dallas by July 2022.
As an instructor, my mission is to challenge and inspire students to embrace new possibilities within a lively and supportive environment. The joy I derive from practicing yoga is only surpassed by the fulfillment of sharing it with others. Relocating to Albuquerque with my husband and furry companion in November 2022 opened a new chapter, allowing me to explore local studios and become a part of the vibrant yoga community. Joining the Unwind Yoga team is a thrilling opportunity to extend the gift of yoga to a fresh community of students, and I am excited to contribute to their transformative journeys on and off the mat.
Candice Epp
Pilates & RYT 200 Instructor
My journey into the yoga and fitness world started when I was 28 and walked into a hot Bikram studio on a cold, snowy winter’s day in Edmonton, Alberta. As I waited to start the 90 minute class, one of the more practiced students told me that I would get addicted to hot yoga, and years later, she was right. That first hot yoga class started my journey as a fitness gypsy; I’ve been interested in ALL fitness modalities and take every opportunity to try a new workout or new studio, especially when I travel. I feel like there is something to learn in every class, and as a teacher, I incorporate the exercises and cues from instructors that I admire. I was given my first teaching opportunity in 2019 after completing the Inferno Hot Pilates training in Phoenix. Teaching was something totally new for me, as a full time accountant, I am used to communicating through numbers! I loved the challenge of crafting classes that would motivate my students to grow stronger mentally and physically while having fun and creating community. In the Spring of 2023, I completed a 100 hour hot Pilates teacher training program through the Foundry in Phoenix, which is a National Pilates Certification Program. The training qualified me to write the NPCP mat pilates exam in October and I am waiting for my results to be nationally certified! In November, my husband and I moved to Albuquerque. I immediately started looking for a Pilates home and by divine guidance, coincidence or good luck, I walked into Unwind Yoga. My strength as a teacher is that I encourage my students to keep going through their next breath and their next movement - and kindly remind myself to do the same.
After working in many different fields from Photography to Massage therapy, to cooking for many years. I still found myself at a loss spiritually and professionally. Soon after becoming a single mom, I decided to change the course of my life and return to school to find a spark in passion, and inspiration. What began as a curiosity to solve my chronic backpain, quickly turned into a spiritual journey. Through Yoga I learned to find self-reflection and peace in myself. Learning the necessary tools to become self-aware, patient, kind to oneself, letting go of the unnecessary and embracing all the positivity that is me. Outside of Yoga I am a PT caretaker for my grandmother and work PT in retail. I have many hobbies. I enjoy Photography, Art, Woodworking. You will find me most days hanging out with my little boy and our big dog. I was very invested in a fast paste lifestyle, which brought me joy in spurs of moments, which exhausted me physically and emotionally. Along this journey of self-discovery, I am learning more and more about myself and have found peace in living in each moment and enjoying each breath. I am growing each and every day and learning who it is, I am and can become. I place my faith in my higher self to guide me on this journey. I appreciate this opportunity given to me to embrace all gifts of knowledge.
Chris Ortega
RYT 500 Instructor
Chris is a 200-hour RYT with Yoga Alliance and was trained at Adi Yoga Ashram in Rishikesh, India. He specializes in Meditation, Hatha and Ashtanga Vinyasa as well as Pranayama and restorative Yin yoga.
Chris is from Southern California and has been a sponsored athlete his entire life in multiple sports. Chris discovered yoga while training athletes as part of Wilson Sports Elite Staff and soon began incorporating it into his own life. Having sustained a number of injuries to his neck and shoulders in sports-related accidents, Chris found the restorative effects of yoga to be hugely beneficial in relieving pain and stiffness in his body.
Yoga brought Chris to meditation and Eastern philosophy. As an intellectually and spiritually curious person, Chris began studying the subjects closely and started applying the lessons he was learning and reading about to his own life.
Chris continued his spiritual journey abroad completing an 300-hour Meditation program recently with his Guru Dr. Rohit Chobin and spent time studying and practicing yoga and meditation around the world for the last decade. He considers Thailand to be a second home but now calls Albuquerque, NM home.
Chris’s knowledge continues to grow each day and his approach to yoga remains ever so focused on alignment, breath, balance, positivity, and gratitude.
Chris’s patience and kind spirit make him an excellent teacher.
Crista Chavez
E-RYT 500 Instructor
Crista is a yoga facilitator and Katonah Yoga Instructor. She balances her daily practices of yoga and clearing with full time teaching at Central New Mexico Community College. She travels the world, teaching yoga and learning from her experiences and the teachings from different lineages. Crista is a masterful teacher and her skill and ability to convey the archetypes of yoga are considerable assets to the new and experienced yoga students and teachers in training who are fortunate to work with her. Crista was born in Mexico and raised in the United States. She aspires to teach yoga and Pilates en Español. Her background is in Psychology, Yoga, Energetic Clearing and Hypnosis . She has studied Katonah Yoga, yoga nidra, restorative yoga, ropes yoga (Yoga Kurunta) yin yoga, chair yoga and is currently studying to be a facilitator of the Pilates method. She brings play, sustainability and community to her students and she is a light to be around.
Jo Carter
RYT 500 Instructor
Jo's journey into the world of yoga is nothing short of a passionate odyssey. Picture this: Guatemala, where she was training for competitive horse jumping. It was there that a wise jump coach introduced her to yoga, promising enhanced concentration. Little did she know that this practice would unfurl a world of unimaginable beauty. Yoga not only sharpened her focus as she gracefully guided her horse through challenging courses but also enveloped her in a profound sense of peace, a fierce sense of control, and a soul-deep completeness she had yearned for.
For over three decades, Jo has been igniting the flames of transformation in the hearts of her students. Her journey has taken her to distant retreats across the nation, learning from the luminaries of the yoga world. She has diligently honed her expertise through various teacher training programs, earning her place as the guardian of one of New Jersey's most revered RYT-200 yoga training programs.
Jo's life has been a canvas painted with vibrant strokes from Mexico, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Ecuador, Spain, and England. Yet, she firmly believes that the most profound adventure is the one you embark upon your own yoga mat.
Join me as we welcome Jo to our vibrant yoga community at Unwind. Here, passion flows like a river, inner peace is a way of life, and your path to completeness awaits. We're not just inviting you to practice; we're inviting you to join a passionate journey. Come, let's blaze a trail of transformation together!
Amanda Weinstein
Instructor
Discovering solace and healing through the sacred practice of yoga, Amanda embarked on a transformative journey to reconcile the intricate relationship between mind and body. With unwavering resilience and an open heart, Amanda immersed themselves in the realm of yoga, driven by a quest for restoration and profound understanding.
Enduring the challenges of autoimmune issues and chronic pain, Amanda discovered a haven on the mat, guided by compassionate instructors who illuminated the path to self-discovery and self-healing. Through unwavering dedication, Amanda unearthed a deep connection to their inner self, recognizing a compassionate sanctuary that had long been overlooked.
Motivated by a profound desire to make yoga accessible to marginalized communities, including the disabled, LGBTQIA+, and those grappling with chronic illnesses, Amanda channels their passions into professional development. With each stride forward, the goal is to dismantle barriers and cultivate inclusive spaces where everyone can find solace, strength, and a sense of belonging.
A fortuitous encounter with Ashley led Amanda to become an integral part of the Unwind Yoga community. Embraced by fellow yogis in an atmosphere of acceptance and kindness, Amanda discovered a kinship and support system that significantly enriched their practice. Unwind Yoga, to Amanda, is more than just a studio; it's a sacred sanctuary—a nucleus where their journey of self-discovery and healing resonates with profound purpose.
As Amanda continues to tread the path of yoga and meditation, their commitment remains steadfast in spreading compassion, accessibility, and acceptance through the sacred arts they hold dear. Their journey serves not only as a testament to personal growth but also as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who seek solace and connection in the transformative power of yoga.
Cristin Shea
RYT 500 Instructor
Cristin's journey in yoga began in the early 90s, marking her dedication to the practice for over three decades. Her foundational training in Ashtanga Yoga under the guidance of Larry Schultz and It's Yoga in 2005 paved the way for her distinctive teaching style.
In her classes, Cristin emanates a dynamic, intuitive, and spiritual energy, enriching the practice experience for her students. She intertwines breathwork seamlessly with sequences, ensuring a holistic approach to yoga. Recognizing the diverse abilities of her students, Cristin incorporates modifications tailored to individual levels, fostering inclusivity and accessibility within her classes.
Drawing from her background in dance, Cristin possesses a profound understanding of the body's capabilities and limitations. Leveraging this knowledge, she guides her students to explore their strengths and confront their challenges with grace and acceptance.
Through her teachings, Cristin inspires her students to embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-improvement, transcending physical boundaries to attain mental and spiritual growth on and off the mat.
Beverly Richardson
RYT 200 Instructor
Beverly Richardson, a 200hr RYT, has been guiding diverse fitness classes since the early '90s, spanning weightlifting, running, cross-fit, and snow sports. After discovering the benefits of hot yoga post-foot surgery in 2005, she embraced her vinyasa practice. Initially unsure about the Sanskrit script, she found solace and decided to deepen her knowledge. In 2019, Beverly committed to yoga school at Sweat studio. Now, at Unwind Yoga Studio, Beverly aspires to create a nurturing space for students of all levels. Drawing inspiration from various yoga traditions, she incorporates breathwork and mindful movement to foster a harmonious practice. Whether you're new to yoga or a seasoned yogi, Beverly's sessions are crafted to support personal growth and enhance overall vitality. Beyond physical postures, Beverly's teachings encourage students to find stillness within, connect with their breath, and embrace the present moment. Join her on the mat for a transformative journey of self-discovery, cultivating strength, flexibility, and a profound sense of inner peace. Let's explore the transformative path of yoga together.
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Cascade Linback
RYT 500 Instructor
Meet Cascade, a dedicated yoga practitioner whose journey into the world of yoga began in 2006 when she sought relief from lower back pain at an Iyengar studio in her vibrant Málaga neighborhood. Little did she know, this initial step onto the yoga mat would transform into a lifelong passion.
Enchanted by the profound connection between breath and movement, Cascade quickly found solace in yoga's ability to ground her in the present moment. As life progressed, yoga became her steadfast anchor, guiding her through various chapters of her journey.
In 2012, Cascade embarked on a transformative adventure, earning her 200-hour Vinyasa Teaching Certification under the mentorship of esteemed instructors Ali Valdez and Sattva Yoga in Seattle and Bali. Armed with knowledge and dedication, she shared her expertise not only in Seattle-area studios but also in high school classrooms, where she introduced yoga as a valuable physical education elective. A dedicated educator, Cascade seamlessly integrated her passion for yoga into her role as a middle and high school Spanish teacher.
Cascade's commitment to enhancing her teaching skills led her to pursue a Kids’ Yoga Certification with Liz Doyle and delve into the teachings of Andrey Lappa, the visionary founder of Universal Yoga. In 2017, she achieved a significant milestone by completing her 500-hour Advanced Teacher Training. This intensive training honed her expertise in sequencing, philosophy, and the therapeutic aspects of yoga, equipping her with the knowledge to support individuals dealing with chronic pain and anxiety. Today, Cascade skillfully guides students through a diverse range of yoga practices, including vinyasa, yin, slow flow, hatha, and meditation, all with the intention of nurturing both body and mind.
Having explored yoga across the globe, Cascade's journey took her to New Mexico in 2019, adding another enriching layer to her experiences. Her yoga mat has been her sanctuary in various corners of the world, including Spain, Myanmar, and Mexico, where she continues to study and practice the art of yoga.
Beyond the mat, Cascade finds joy in the simple pleasures of life. She cherishes moments with her tuxedo cat, immerses herself in the world of literature, embarks on invigorating hikes, crafts delectable vegan dishes, and revels in the magic of live music performances. Cascade embodies the essence of a mindful yogi, seamlessly weaving her passion for yoga into the tapestry of her vibrant life.
Breeze Sansom
E-RYT 200, YRT 500, YACEP Instructor
Breeze feels happiest and most fulfilled when guiding yoga classes and helping others tap into their own light and purpose. She is a 500-hr RYT, receiving her 200-hr RYT certification in 2011 and most recently earning a 300-hr certification with Aligned Yoga in 2024. Through continuing her education and wellness practices, Breeze has acquired in-depth knowledge of postures, breathing techniques, and spiritual elements of yoga teaching. She aims to make every class accessible for beginners while also offering more advanced options for those yogis who are ready for the next level. Before yoga, Breeze received her Bachelor's degree in Journalism and worked in advertising for over a decade. When not practicing or teaching yoga, Breeze is an office manager at an optical engineering firm. She loves being a mom to her tiny human and fur-babies, spending time outdoors, and sharing good food with family and friends.
Kara Rock Blattman
RYT 500 Instructor
Yoga teacher and Wellness educator.
I have been practicing yoga for over 30 years and teaching for 20 years. I first came to yoga because I was looking for a movement art that was more than just a physical practice. I needed a better connection to my body and knowing myself. Yoga changed my life and led me on a path of total body, mind, and spiritual wellness. I have studied many yoga styles and I like to bring in the teachings that have affected me the most. My favorite yoga practice and style of teaching is a Vinyasa Flow. It is a moving meditation of body and breath. I like to teach an energetic and healing flow that allows students to feel strong, open and quiet in their physical and mental body. My background is natural healing and mind-body awareness, with a degree of science in Occupational Therapy, Certifications in the Science of Ayurveda and Yoga Teacher Trainings in Hatha Yoga, Ayur-Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, Yoga for a Happy Back and The Rocket. I am a founder of Doterra International in Israel. I have an amazing and supportive husband, Ishmael, and I am a mother of 4 beautiful children, Sofia, Chana, Levi, and Sapir.
Stevie Montoya
RYT Instructor
Bianca Chavez
Assistant Manager
Bianca is the Studio Assistant Manager, a loving and compassionate soul whose journey has been shaped by a deep connection to healing and spirituality. After many years as a cook, Bianca explored a diverse range of passions, including Massage Therapy, Woodworking, Photography, and other Art Modalities. For the past three and a half years, she has devoted herself to the study of Yoga, embracing its spiritual depth and transformative power.
Bianca is passionate about how Yoga can support those living with mental disabilities and depression, believing in its ability to bring peace and healing to the heart and mind. Her travels to India deepened her understanding of Ayurveda and Raga Chikitsa, enriching her practice with ancient wisdom. Now nearing the completion of her 200-hour Teacher Training, Bianca is excited to discover her true teaching specialty. Above all, her goal is to use Yoga to guide her autistic son, helping him navigate daily life with greater ease and balance
Lisa Wade
RYT 200 Instructor
Lisa Wade, an experienced and certified yoga instructor with a background in athletics and wellness coaching, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her teaching practice. With over a decade of dedicated yoga practice under her belt, she views each session as an opportunity for growth and discovery.
Drawing from her extensive training in the Ashtanga lineage and her immersion in the principles of Yin yoga, Lisa's classes offer a dynamic blend of strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. She believes in the transformative power of yoga to unite body, mind, and spirit, fostering a deeper connection to oneself and the world around us.
Beyond the physical postures, Lisa emphasizes the importance of breath awareness and inner reflection, guiding her students to cultivate a sense of presence and vitality on and off the mat. As a former distance runner and certified personal trainer, she understands the value of an active lifestyle and strives to inspire others to embrace their own journey toward holistic well-being.
With a playful and curious approach, Lisa encourages her students to explore their edge while honoring their body's wisdom. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to the practice, she creates a welcoming space for growth, healing, and self-discovery.
Join Lisa on the mat and embark on a journey of transformation, where every breath and every pose is an opportunity for renewal and rejuvenation. Discover the joy of movement, the power of stillness, and the beauty of new beginnings in every practice session.
Brianna Massey
Pilates Instructor
Brianna is a passionate Pilates instructor and dedicated mom, certified in mat Pilates by Balanced Body. Her journey into the world of movement and wellness comes after a career shift working as a chemist and having originally earned a Bachelor’s of Science in environmental science from the University of New Mexico. After experiencing the transformative power of Pilates postpartum, both physically and mentally, she felt called to share that experience with others. Combining her analytical background with a deep understanding of the body's mechanics, she brings a thoughtful, focused approach to every class. Whether you're new to Pilates or looking to deepen your practice, Brianna creates a welcoming and supportive environment where you can challenge yourself and find both strength and relaxation. In her own journey, Pilates has been a vital tool for recovery, self-care, and staying active as a busy mom. She believes in the importance of taking time for yourself and encourages clients to embrace each movement with intention and mindfulness.
