“May we always greet each other with a smile, because a smile is the beginning of friendship.”

Introduction

Namaste, friends!  My name is Marie Theriault.  I am an E-RYT-200 teacher and have thousands of hours of teaching experience.  I am also trained in Yoga for Cancer and am certified to teach Qigong and Tai Chi meditative movement classes.

Teaching Style

My teaching style is slow flow and mindful.  I guide my students to connect to their breath so they can get the most benefit from their practice.  I offer cues and options so people can participate in a way that suits their individual needs.

My classes are designed to help improve coordination, circulation, strength, balance, and stimulate the flow of Prana and Qi in the body to support immunity, relieve stress, and cultivate peaceful energy.  I strive to create classes in which you will obtain maximum benefit for your time.

My goal is to offer more than “just a class.”  In addition to exercise, I intend it to be an educational experience of learning techniques and coping skills to address life and health challenges and to promote deep healing and peacefulness.

Trainings and Certifications

I am an E-RYT-200 with Yoga Alliance.  I am also certified in Yoga for Cancer (45 hours).

My extensive Qigong training was completed at the Elixir Qigong Center and also with Supreme Science Qigong (600 hours).

My Tai Chi training was completed at the Empower Life Center (120 hours).  I also studied virtually with World Tai Chi Champion Li Jing of Jing Tai Chi (72 hours).

Experience

Qigong since 2011

Yoga since 2014

Yoga for Cancer since 2015

Tai Chi since 2021

I have worked in a variety of settings such as Wellness Centers, Fitness Centers, Hospitals, Virtually, and Privately.  My students come from a wide demographic from young adult to seniors and from physically fit to those who are experiencing limited mobility due to injury, age, or health concerns such as cancer.   I have many years of experience working with people who desire a natural approach to health and healing that is complementary to other traditional or alternative therapies.

Specializations

My classes are unique.  In addition to Yoga poses and Pranayama (breathing techniques), I also incorporate Mudra (Yoga for the Hands), information about the Chakras, and Guided Meditation in my Seated and Standing (Chair) Yoga classes.

The Qigong classes include warmup stretches that are followed by fun to learn movement practices based on the seasons of the year and their relationship to the Five Elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine.  As we follow the yearly cycle, we connect with nature, support the healthy functioning of our internal organs, and cultivate the virtues of the elements so we become strong emotionally and mentally as well as physically.  I share videos about Acupuncture points that can be used to help with common health concerns such as headaches, nausea, stress, fatigue, pain, and digestive issues.

I have created choreographed movement sequences to popular music to make all my classes unique.  Songs from the Beatles, Simon and Garfunkel, Eva Cassidy, Fleetwood Mac, and more are often incorporated into my classes.

Personal Information

I grew up in Connecticut but have lived in Mississippi, Texas, Germany, and currently North Carolina.  I worked for many years as a legal assistant in the personal injury and medical malpractice field.

My current focus and passion is teaching various styles of Yoga, Qigong, and Tai Chi.  I appreciate the mind/body/spirit approach to health and love to share the teachings with my students.

I am currently enrolled in an additional 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training and expect to graduate in August 2024.  I also enjoy keeping up to date with different styles of Qigong and Tai Chi.  There is always something new to learn!

I enjoy being out in nature, hiking to waterfalls, blogging, and cooking healthy meals.

Testimonials

Kind words from my students:

I just wanted to reach out and let you know how much I enjoyed my first Yoga class with you.  Thank you so much for your wonderful instruction.  I feel good for the first time in a very long time today.

I have enjoyed and learned a lot from your Qigong class, even though I only recently joined it.

I really enjoy your classes.  You have a great ability to connect through Zoom, and I always feel so welcome in your classes.

Your classes are wonderful.  I feel so at peace during them and am so thankful for you. ❤️

I wanted to let you know that attending your classes has been one of the most important parts of my daily life; it helped me both physically and mentally go through a very difficult treatment process.  I truly enjoy your classes.  You are the best training teacher I ever had!

Thank you for your warm and kind welcome, always. I so enjoy your leadership style & willingness to share your vast knowledge about healing with us!

I greatly appreciate all the hope you’ve given us.  I have enjoyed and learned so much from your classes.

Thank you for teaching us Qigong.  It has been a wonderful experience.