Welcome! I'm Vikki, the creator of Cultivating Chill, a certified yoga teacher, and a dedicated yogi.

In 2013, I was suffering from back pain due to sitting all day at my desk job. Knowing I needed to move, I decided to try yoga. I learned immediately how out of shape I was, but I felt so good afterwards that I kept going back. I didn’t realize it as it was happening, but steadily, yoga became a wellspring of inner strength and softness I never had before. To this day, it still keeps me both grounded and flexible when the world decides to turn upside down and inside out.

Yoga has taught me to move with greater intention, approach life with more compassion, and to stay calm in an often busy world. My personal practice has become an important part of how I care for myself, connect with others, and navigate life's everyday challenges.

My Yoga Journey

To develop a stronger understanding and connection to my personal practice, I earned my 200-hour Vinyasa Teacher Training in 2024 as well as a certification in Yoga Nidra, a deep meditative practice called yogic sleep.

I first began yoga teacher training to become more familiar with anatomy and yoga sequencing. By the time I graduated, I was fascinated by yogic philosophy, particularly the yamas and niyamas and the five koshas. I decided to start teaching yoga because I want to share my knowledge and experience with others, hoping to enrich their lives as much as yoga has enriched mine.

I'm particularly drawn to Vinyasa, gentle yoga, and Yoga Nidra. I love the balance of movement and stillness, the connection between breath and body, and the opportunity to create space for self-reflection and personal growth.

My approach to yoga extends beyond the physical postures. I incorporate breathwork, meditation, mindfulness, and yoga philosophy into my practice, recognizing that yoga offers something valuable both on and off the mat.

My Teaching Philosophy

I believe yoga should be welcoming, accessible, and adaptable. It isn't about achieving the perfect pose or keeping up with anyone else. It's about discovering what feels supportive, honoring where you are today, and allowing yourself the space to grow at your own pace.

Whether we're flowing through a Vinyasa practice, exploring gentle movement, or settling into a deeply restorative Yoga Nidra meditation, my hope is to create an encouraging environment where you can reconnect with yourself and find your inner chill.

There are many ways to practice yoga, and there is always something new to discover.

Beyond the Mat

When I'm not practicing yoga, I'm usually researching, reading, or writing about all things yoga and wellness. (I also watch a lot of Bravo.)

I created Cultivating Chill as a space to explore yoga philosophy, yoga science, meditation, and the many ways to bring the principles of yoga off the mat and into the everyday.

I also have a professional background in research and editing and hold a bachelor's degree in Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies, with a minor in Religious Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Let's Cultivate a Little Chill Together

I'm so happy you're here! Whether you're just beginning your yoga journey or have been practicing for years, I hope you'll find something here that speaks to you.

Explore the articles, discover a meditation, take a moment to breathe, and stay curious.

With all my heart,

Vikki

Namaste!