Kate Cook found herself on the yoga path in 1999 in the hope of reaping the potential physical benefits of an asana practice. Since then it has become a journey of exploration that extends beyond the physical toward discovering how the practice of yoga impacts all facets of her life. Kate received her teacher training certification through AFPA. It is her personal philosophy that the practice of yoga asanas is a powerful tool to self discovery. “On one level, we experience various emotions which are continually being exposed to us throughout our practice. But beyond that, what I have found most amazing is how revealing our approach to the mat is reflective of our approach to so many other things we do. En route to transformation in our practice we can perhaps tap into a means for transformation in other areas of our lives. Then finally, I believe wholeheartedly that there is a magical state we find ourselves in at the end of our practice in which- if we allow it- our souls have a chance to catch up. Everything throughout the practice should lead to that final place in the end where we are still and able to look within with objectivity and with self-kindness taking inventory of our thoughts and emotions and whatever it is that is happening in that time. I love that place!”
The greatest joy Kate experiences in teaching is encouraging others along the same path of exploration that she loves so much. This is either through a vigorous practice, the discovery of a new pose or the thrill of being able to move in way that is new or more refined. She also loves the element of play which so much of our lives are void of. “In the end it is my hope that I can bring joy and laughter into a small piece of someone’s day and that they walk away feeling alive, refreshed and eager for life.” Her favorite quote: “Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.” Mother Theresa
Susan Maravetz began her mind/body exploration in 1996, when a friend cajoled her to a hatha yoga class at a local gym. An avid gym devotee, trained in the “no pain, no gain” philosophy, she was skeptical at best. Susan was immediately intrigued by the contrast of the mental and physical challenge of yoga and began taking classes regularly. In 2001, now living in Raleigh; Susan discovered Pilates when another friend introduced her to Body Balance and became a complete convert to mindful movement. This ongoing curiosity and exploration has led to a total personal and career transformation; from client to instructor, from software sales professional to EVOLVE Movement Director; Susan teaches Pilates, Gyrotonic and Yoga. Susan’s training includes the Pilates Certification Center(2002), Pilates for Golf(2003), Gyrotonic Expansion System(2007), Gyrotonic Jumping-Stretching Board(2009) , Gyrotonic Gyrotoner(2009), and Evolve 200 Hour Vinyasa Flow(2010). 