RYAH - Rivertown Yoga and Health (Practicioners)

OPERATIONS

Phyllis Bookspan - Founder

Phyllis has been practicing yoga since 1976, and teaching Kali Ray TriYoga® since 2002. Over the years, Phyllis has studied many forms of Yoga. When living and going to college and graduate school in New York City she studied at the Integral Yoga Center. She also studied hatha yoga with Frank Finnerty in Greenwich Connecticut and took classes at the Sivananda Center in WestChester, NY. She spent many summers attending classes and workshops at Kripalu Center in Lenox, Mass. In 1994, Phyllis met her true teacher, Kashi (Carolyn Armstrong) and discovered the power and bliss of KaliRay TriYoga. Since 1994, Phyllis has devoted her yoga practice to TriYoga, and has studied with many senior Kali Ray TriYoga teachers and with internationally famous yogini, Kali Ray. In 2006, Phyllis decided to share the joy and sense of well-being yoga brought to her life and opened RYAH.

In addition to being a certified TriYoga teacher, Phyllis also is a law professor. She brings the skills developed over twenty years in the law school classroom, along with her life long commitment to yoga practice and philosophy, to ensure a gently balanced and flowing approach to all RYAH programs and clients.

Maura Manzo - Manager

Maura brings four years of managerial and marketing experience in the restaurant world to her roles as RYAH's Manager. Maura also develops and manages all of RYAH's Workshops and Event from start to finish. Maura sought out a position at RYAH because it fulfills her goal of working in a place that complements her current career as certified holistic health counselor. In June 2007, Maura graduated from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City. She also received additional certification through the Teacher's College of Columbia University.Maura also holds a B.A. in Creative Writing and Popular Culture from Penn State.

Maura currently sees clients privately at RYAH. To learn more about her program, visit www.mauramanzo.com and see her additional bio below.

Leslie McDermott - Front Desk

You can find Leslie working at RYAHâ€™s front desk on the weekends with her dog, Jackson. Leslie is a 2006 graduate from Villanova University where she received her B.A. in Communications and a Certificate in Public Relations.

Jennifer McPherson - Front Desk

Jennifer is thrilled to join the RYAH community. As Jenn transitions from a career in business and restaurant service, she hopes to deepen her knowledge of, and pursue her interests in, yoga and holistic health. Jenn's immediate goals are to become certified as a yoga teacher, and learn more about holistic lifestyle.

You are sure to enjoy Jennifer's welcoming smile, helpful and caring attitude any evening at RYAH.

Rocky - Our Yogadog

Rocky is a five year old Portuguese Water Dog. He doesn't shed, is hypoallergenic, loves the water, and is a certified therapy dog. If you need a little love and affection let us know and we gladly will bring Rocky in to play with you. Rocky also visits nursing homes and hospitals.

YOGA/PILATES [top]

Lisa Beane - Instructor

Lisa Marie has been exploring the world of yoga since early childhood when her grandmother first introduced her to its' many observances. Throughout her life, Lisa has cultivated and used this deeper awareness to guide her many endeavors and creative offerings. In 2002, Lisa became a certified yoga instructor at the Ananda Ashram in Grass Valley California, and since has been facilitating and sharing the joys of yoga from the west to the east coast, from her ridge top farm in Mendocino California, to the beaches of orange county, from her organic fruit and vegetable, Appalachian farm in West Virginia, to the city of brotherly love, in Philadelphia PA.

As a great appreciator of the "beginner's mind", and evolution, Lisa is ever incorporating new modalities and styles into her yoga sessions. She has studied at the Kripalu Center in Massachusetts, has just recently completed her massage therapy degree and is studying Pilates, Thai yoga and Tai Chi. Lisa's classes are a fun, vitalizing blend of yoga and spiritual cultivation--honoring ancient tradition, and mixing it up with some modern rhythm. All levels are usually welcome to any of her classes, unless otherwise noted.

When not in the studio, Lisa can be found in nature, hiking, or swimming; on her farm, planting fruit trees; writing, recording and performing original music with her band SKY PIPE; at satsang, sadhanna; giving green talks and vegan cooking classes; or teaching at many of the upcoming yoga retreats in the community...she looks forward to sharing yoga and peace with you.

Phyllis Bookspan, RYT - Yoga Instructor

Phyllis has been practicing yoga since 1976, and teaching Kali Ray TriYogaÂ® since 2002. Over the years, Phyllis has studied many forms of Yoga. When living and going to college and graduate school in New York City she studied at the Integral Yoga Center. She also studied hatha yoga with Frank Finnerty in Greenwich Connecticut and took classes at the Sivananda Center in WestChester, NY. She spent many summers attending classes and workshops at Kripalu Center in Lenox, Mass. In 1994, Phyllis met her true teacher, Kashi (Carolyn Armstrong) and discovered the power and bliss of KaliRay TriYoga. Since 1994, Phyllis has devoted her yoga practice to TriYoga, and has studied with many senior Kali Ray TriYoga teachers and with internationally famous yogini, Kali Ray. In 2006, Phyllis decided to share the joy and sense of well-being yoga brought to her life and opened RYAH.

Maureen Collins - Instructor

Maureen took her first yoga class in 1999 and has been in wonder of it's healing powers ever since. Her desire to be more connected with her body inspired her to enroll in the prestigious Barbara Brennan School of Healing, where she graduated in June of 2007 with a Diploma in Brennan Healing Science. In this four-year program of healing and personal transformation, she realized her yoga practice grounded her energy and that the energy awareness deepened and expanded her yoga practice. This realization led to her senior project, a paper that was written on the connection between yoga and healing. Maureen believes that every body can benefit from a yoga practice and she is passionate about helping others gain a deeper awareness of and connection to their body and internal energy. She earned her yoga teacher's certification from Dhyana Yoga in February 2007 and looks forward to learning about yoga and bodywork the rest of her life. She teaches in the vinyasa flow style and gives lots of individual attention through assists and adjustments. â€œI love that yoga is a truly individual practice, that it's not about how easily you can touch your toes but how mindful you are getting there."

As a Brennan Healing Science practitioner, Maureen is available for individual bodywork sessions in which an integration of massage and hands-on healing techniques are used for healing on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels.

Diane Dibeler - Yoga Instructor

Diane has her Yoga certification from the Yoga Life Institute in Devon Pa. She also is a Certified Massage Therapist and Licensed Special Education Teacher.

All about Diane

I came to yoga searching for a deeper connection to myself, a desire to live a more fulfilled life and to experience more joy. In the beginning I was afraid of what I might unearth, yet in each meditation and yoga practice to my wonderment and surprise I began to tap into a rich inner source of strength, wisdom, courage, passion and faith. As I dedicated myself to this incredible exploration of mind, body, and spirit, I have been able to release long held tensions and emotions that were holding me back. I have a greater capacity to breathe in life and truly experience inner joy and bliss! I have practiced yoga and meditation since 1995 and started teaching in 2003.

Come along for an amazing journey.

Bharati - Bonnie Keyser - Instructor

â€œLiving yoga off the matâ€ is something Bharati believes in strongly. Itâ€™s great that the student feels relaxed and focused after class, but how can s/he learn to create and sustain that relaxation and focus throughout the challenges of daily life?

Bharati has been a student of Tri Yoga for 12 years and a teacher for 5 years working with local Tri Yoga teachers, yogini Kali Ray and her senior teaching staff. She is certified in Basics and Level 1. She has found that Tri Yoga is physically, spiritually and emotionally transformative for a wide range of students.

Bonnie has worked in public education with adults and children for many years. This experience has given her patience and understanding for students of all abilities and backgrounds. She hopes that students will take their experiences from her class and incorporate them into their lives through home practice, introspection and meditation.

Bonnieâ€™s non-yoga interests include travel, technology and playing jazz piano.

Lisa Laney, RYT - Yoga Instructor

Lisa Laney received her RYT with Yoga Alliance in March 2006. She has been studying and practicing yoga for the past eight years. Lisa earned her first teacher training certificate in Ashtanga with Beryl Bender Birch, who gave her the inspiration to become a yoga teacher. She has studied with other accomplished instructors including Jimmy Barkan, who teaches The Barkan Method, or the Evolution of Hot Yoga; and Rolf Gates, a Vinyasa Guru and author. Lisa completed her RYT training with her teachers Cara Bradley and Johnny Gillespe.

"It has been a wonderful and life changing experience and truly a blessing to be able to learn and teach yoga at this level."

Lisaâ€™s formal education and training is in the performing arts. She is a multi-talented accomplished dancer, actor and singer. Lisa has performed with a Dutch dance troupe, acted in regional theaters, and continues to pursue her passion for art and music. Her roots are in Georgia and North Carolina, but she has been living in Wayne for the past twelve years, raising her family.

"My college advisor once said I would make a great anthropologist or physical therapistâ€”teaching yoga must be somewhere in between."

Lisa also is certified in aromatherapy and has completed Level 1 Tai Yoga Message certification, and she plans to continue her education in the yogic arts. One of her favorite sayings is, â€œSeek justice, love, and kindness, and walk humbly with your dog.â€

Betty Levengood - Pilates Instructor

Betty Levengood, NSCA-CPT Betty brings over 25 years of experience in the fitness industry to RYAH. She is a certified Personal Trainer and certified Pilates Mat and Reformer Instructor through PHI Pilates. For the last 11 years she has worked at the Healthplex Sports Club in Springfield, Delaware County. She was their Group Fitness Director for 7 years before giving up her administrative duties and devoting her time to training clients one-on-one, teaching group fitness classes, instructing Pilates Mat classes, and doing both one-on-one and small group Pilates Reformer training. She was voted Best of Delco Female Personal Trainer in 2003. She brings to RYAH experience, knowledge, enthusiasm, and the ability to bring out the best in each participant in her classes. Betty strongly believes that staying healthy in mind, body and spirit is a life long process and we only get better with age!

David Missimer - Yoga Instructor

David's journey along the yoga pathway began here at RYAH.

"I knew from my very first visit that I wanted to become part of RYAH. Not only could I sense the peacefulness and serenity of the studio, but I was also treated with exceptional kindness and respect by the staff. I am always mindful of this when sharing my yoga practice, and I make sure all students feel welcomed and comfortable in my classes."

In addition to practicing yoga, David is a certified personal fitness trainer and group exercise instructor who teaches mat pilates and indoor cycling. He enjoys helping others achieve their health and fitness goals, while he also loves the positive energy created in group classes. David's interest in the healing arts has also inspired him to become a massage therapist.

He works closely with fellow RYAH instructor, Lisa Laney, who is not only a good friend, but who has also been his guide and inspiration along his journey. Her motivation and support helps maintain his strong desire to become both a better teacher and student of yoga.

David has two wonderful children, Cade and Kaleigh , who are the loves of his life. In his limited free time, David enjoys long-distance running, meditation, and creating landscapes for model trains & railroads.

Cyndie Slagle - Pilates Instructor

Cyndie is a Pilates Matwork Specialist. She brings passion, inherent knowledge and skill to her classes - working with each student at his/her level. Students love Cyndie's friendly style, and clear instruction. When not teaching Pilates, Cyndie can be found swimming, running, or bicycling, training for the triathylon that she runs on a regular basis.

Cyndie is a mom and teacher in the Planetarium in the WhiteMarsh School District.

HEALTH AND THERAPY [top]

Margaret Brown, BSN, MSN, APRN-BC - Holistic Nurse

Margaret began her nursing career in the acute care setting at UPenn. Interested in providing patients with preventative care, Margaret obtained a Masters Degree as an Adult Nurse Practitioner from the University of Pennsylvania. As an adult nurse practitioner Margaret worked with many populations including, adolescent through geriatric patients with complex social and multiple medical diagnosis. "While practicing in the primary care setting, I began to witness a need for healing which Western medicine could not provide." Margaret then began to explore many alternative practices and focused on holistic nursing. Experiencing the power of energy work, she became a Reiki Master.

"My nursing model is based on the belief that we are spiritual beings. Emotional, mental, physical and spiritual distress effect physiologic wellness. Client directed holistic interventions are developed to help facilitate the client in their healing process and achieve a state of wellness."

To learn more about her program, visit www.innerlightrecovery.com

Margaret practices tai chi, qi gong, yoga, and meditation to stay grounded in this busy world. One of her favorite hobbies is hiking with her husband and three children.

Dale Spear Garson, MSW, LCSW, M.Ed. - Counseling Services

Dales' approach to therapy uses many tools and techniques. In addition to psychotherapy, Dale has specialized training in both Couples Therapy (Imago) and Adolescent/ Child Therapy. She is certified in trauma treatments including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and NET (Neuro-Emotional Technique), and uses these techniques with adults and adolescents affected by trauma, abuse or substance use. These techniques are effective in curbing the reactions that exert a force to flee, fight or freeze. Dale also is certified in techniques associated with Shamanic healing.

Dale believes that "we all make sense" and that. in therapy, as we begin to notice reactions that seem obstructive to our goals we can lower the triggered uncontrolled response and begin to assume command with more effective ways of being. We can move through the automatic emotional reactivity that is evidence of past incidents affecting the present. I appreciate how challenging life can be and the frustration, when despite our best efforts, we can't create the outcomes we long for.

Dale also has a Master's in Education and taught both special education and Montessori. With a background in education, she brings depth to her understanding of children's challenges. Her experience with her spouse and raising three children bring much to her work with families and couples.

Dale is co-founder of The Eccoes Foundation with her husband Jeff. She founded Support Connections (a program of The Eccoes Foundation) and has coordinated multigenerational service/ education trips to Central America. Dale studied architecture and has worked as a photographer, focusing on social issues. Dale has 3 children and a grandchild due in December 2006.

Maura Manzo, HHC, AADP - Holistic Health Counselor

Maura is graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and received additional cetification from Columbia University. She received her B.A. in Creative Writing and Popular Culture from Pennsylvania State University. She is also a member of the American Association for Drugless Practitioners.

In addition to being a Health Counselor, Maura also heads marketing and special event planning for RYAH.

Maura is thoroughly intrigued by the ever-changing world of nutrition and saddened by the poor state of health in our country today. "I firmly believe through proper diet and lifestyle choices everyone can achieve an optimal state of health and happiness...something we all deserve! It is with great joy that I am able to share my knowledge with others and help them achieve their goals."

Maura sees clients for a range of health issues, including but not limited to: weight loss, increase in energy, improved eating habits & healthy alternatives, meal planning, and awareness in eating & life. Maura loves the opportunity that RYAH provides her to meet others interested in living a healthy and joyous life.

Bernardo Merizalde, M.D. - Consulting Physician

Bernardo Merizalde, offers services to RYAH as consulting physician. Upon request, he is available to RYAH practitioners for case discussion and evaluation.

Dr.Merizalde believes in integrating the physical, mental and spiritual dimensions to reach a maximum of health and well being. To reach this goal he incorporates various therapeutic modalities such as homeopathy, counseling, relaxation and visualization techniques, traditional natural remedies, herbs, exercise, physical treatments, flower essences, counseling and conventional medicine.

He has been in the practice of General Medicine since 1980 and is Board Certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. A writer and researcher, he has lectured to undergraduate, graduate, and medical students at the University of Pennsylvania, Jefferson University, the Medical College of Pennsylvania and consumer groups.

Dr. Merizalde believes that the process of healing occurs when the individual is given an environment that maximizes its innate abilities to cure itself. The optimum environment is created through proper food, respiration, psychological and spiritual factors, and the use of medicines when the organism is not able to continue the process without aid.

ENERGY WORK/MASSAGE [top]

Marge Cagliola - Massage Therapist

After working in healthcare for 12 years, Marge realized her dream of becoming a massage therapist. In 2004, Marge graduated from Cortiva's PA School of Muscle Therapy, where her studies also included reflexology, sports massage, geriatric and prenatal massage. She is nationally certified, a member of the American Massage Therapist Association, and has a certification in Corrrective Medical Massage, and a specialization in soft tissue injuries. Marge also is a Level I Reiki Practitioner.

In her spare time Marge enjoys cooking reading and crafts, volunteering for her church, and relaxing with her family and three Teacup Pomeranians: Samson, Delilah, and Jezibel.

Mary Garland - Massage Therapist

Mary has a strong interest in wellness and complementary medicine. She is a Level 1 Pranic Healer, Level 1 Reiki practitioner, studied Yan Xin Qigong. Mary is a graduate of Cortiva's Pennsylvania Institute of Muscle Therapy with a certification in Massage Therapy.

Prior to becoming a massage therapist, Mary worked in the corporate world as a human relations manager and informations technology expert. "I feel very fortunate to be able to combine my business background and personal belief in the importance of integrating body, mind, and spirit into my roles at RYAH."

Jill Harris - Certified Massage Therapist, Usui Reiki Master, Certified and Licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant

Jill has been practicing Occupational Therapy since 1988 in various settings; Reiki since 1992; and Massage Therapy professionally since 2000. Jill graduated from the Pennsylvania School of Muscle Therapy with over 500 hours of education, and received her national certification in 2004.

Jill specializes in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Prenatal, Trigger Point, Cranial Sacral, Range of Motion and Reiki. Jill has also familiarized herself with acupressure and reflexology. She keeps herself educated by attending multiple workshops to enhance her abilities. Jill has always been interested in the holistic healing of others in medical and serene settings. Her easy going personality makes it effortless for her to incorporate all her skills to meet her client's needs. Jill truly loves what she does and it shows in her work.

When not working, Jill enjoys spending time with her husband, gardening, healthy cooking, reading, the arts and taking long walks with her dog Boo Boo.

Marlene Henkin - Mind Body Energy Therapist

Marlene has 20 years experience in corporate management and executive roles and a Master's degree in Organizational Dynamics from the University of Pennsylvania. She currently works as Special Assistant to the Secretary of Health, PA Department of Health. Marlene has been practicing integrative healing since 1995.

Marlene is a Master of Usui Reiki, Karuna Reiki and Integrated Energy Therapy. She has certifications in Reflexology, Polarity Therapy, Basic Acupressure, One Brain, Touch for Health and Tachyon Energy Therapy.

She is also a practitioner of Color Therapy and Swedish Massage. In August 2007, she obtained her PA state licensed 600 hour Diploma program in Integrative Body/Mind Therapies. Marlene also teaches Reiki Level 1 and Level II Trainings at RYAH Yoga and Health.

Marlene is passionate about integrating complementary health care into a comprehensive health and wellness program within the traditional practice of medicine, and bringing alternative stress reduction techniques into the workplace. She also helps others in understanding the interrelationship between the body's inner healing abilities and the mind.

To learn more about Marlene and energy therapies, visit www.henkinenergytherapy.com

Gilda Smith - Massage Therapist

Gilda Smith CMT, PDMT is a graduate of Pennsylvania School of Muscle Therapy. She specializes in Pfrimmer Deep Tissue Muscle Therapy, Muscle Activation, Myofascial Release, Corrective Medical Therapy, Cranial Sacral Therapy, Swedish Massage, Maternity, Hot Stone Therapy and Sports Massage.

Gilda's strength is finding homeostasis, a balanced mental and physical experience. Clients appreciate her integrative body worker because the results of Gilda's massage treatments are outstanding. Once you have a session with Gilda you will always return. She believes it is essential to make a difference in the mind body and soul. Gildaâ€™s believes â€œwe can awaken each clientâ€™s individual healing journey and alleviate the stressors in their lives.â€

Kyla Stewart - Massage Therapist

Kyla is a multi-talented and sensitive healer and therapist. She has her B.S in Kinesiology Movement Science from Penn State, her C.M.T from the Mt. Nittany Institute of Natural Health in State College,a certification in Thai Traditional Massage from the Wat Po Medical School in Bangkok, Thailand, and is working toward a masters in applied healing arts. Kyla combines her knowledge of eastern and western traditions in her deeply healing and transformative treatments.

Kyla specializes in Deep Tissue Massage, Swedish Massage, Thai Massage, Shiatsu, and Reiki. When not giving massage, Kyla can be found inspecting organic farms for the Independent Organic Association. She enjoys gardening, hiking, fishing, yoga, reading and knitting, cooking and scuba diving.

Lisa Marie Welsh - Massage Therapist

Lisa Marie has been praticing Massage Therapy for over 15 years. She graduated from the Massage, Arts and Science Center of Philadelphia in 1991. Her studies included Therapeutic Swedish Massage, Reflexology, specializing in Prenatal Massage and treating Fibromyalgia.

Lisa Marie has a chiropractic background, as well as spa background. She has been working with seriously injured patients for over 10 years as well as pampering clients at some of the most elite spas in the Philadelphia area.