“I love yoga - full stop! My name is Jessica but I prefer to be called AZ. I’ve lived in many places, but I now call NC home. I had an amazing Army career that spanned over 21 years before I retired, taking with me some awesome memories and a lot of wear and tear. While active duty, I enjoyed training hard and supplementing with CrossFit and BJJ, but between the heavy physical toll on my body and the crazy incessant stress I began to break down. My body ached, my soul was tired! Thank goodness for my husband who dragged me, kicking, to my first yoga class. And I never looked back.

Yoga is exactly what my body (and mind!) needs. I love that I can modify or intensify any pose or sequence to fit what I need in the moment, despite my injuries (mental and physical). When I practice, for 60-90 minutes I feel at peace, present on my mat and in my body.

I completed Yoga Teacher Training through Hot Asana Yoga University in 2021 and am stoked to share yoga with anyone who needs to sweat, move, or find peace. My favorite classes are Hot Vinyasa/Power yoga. Yoga is truly for everyone. No matter where you are, yoga meets you there to strengthen and soothe you. Hope to see you on your mats!”