Melissa Kelly

RYT 200hr, Sound Healing Certified

WHERE WERE YOU BORN AND RAISED?
 I was born in Santa Paula and other then a couple years in Florida as a teenager, I have been here all my life. I currently live in the Ojai Valley with my husband of 21 years and our 2 youngest kids.

TELL US A BRIEF HISTORY OF YOUR PERSONAL PRACTICE
I started my yoga practice 12 years ago when I had a herniated disc and major sciatica pain. I slowly built it up and as I slowly healed physically, I also realized how different I felt internally. I have been practicing ever since.

TELL US A BRIEF HISTORY OF YOUR TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I have been teaching for over 6 years. I will be getting my 500hr training this year as well.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE YOGA POSE?
I love pigeon because it gives me an opportunity to open my hips like no other pose.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE YOGA/SPIRITUALITY/SELF HELP BOOK?

Expectation Hangover by Christine Hassler. As a virgo moon & rising, expectations of others, of experiences and definitely myself is always an issue and this book gives tangible real life advice to navigate and heal from that toxic pattern that hurts you and your relationships. I highly recommend it for any type A personality, like myself.

ANY ADVICE FOR BEGINNERS?
You are in such a beautiful time of your practice! You are in a space that “advanced” practitioners struggle to get back too. You are fully present because you are just trying to figure out what the heck a “trikonasana” pose is and you literally don't have time to worry about what is happening outside that class. You are just trying to keep up! We have all been there. What happens is that as you learn the poses, your brain starts to hit autopilot a bit and it takes more effort to stay present. It is a gift to be in a beginner's mind.

WHAT DOES “COMMUNITY” MEAN TO YOU?
Connection, authenticity, inclusiveness, vulnerability, responsibility and nurturing.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT VENTURA?
The views, the laid back environment, the great places to hang out. It has been a great place to raise my kids!

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION?
I love Together Rising. 100% of it`s proceeds go to whatever cause needs it at the moment. That could be a huge disaster or more personal like a single mother who needs help getting off her feet. They list how every penny is spent and I really appreciate that.