Marilee McCarthy

I have always been passionate about how movement can transform the mind, body, and soul. Growing up, I enjoyed various physical activities, but asthma began to limit my movement in my 20s. In 2012, a friend took me to my first hot yoga class. Every pore in my body and soul was released; it was an intense experience I wanted to know more about. That experience inspired me to explore yoga further, and with the help of a yoga teacher and a reiki practitioner, I discovered how yoga could help my mental and physical health.

I attended UpDog's teacher training in 2017, completed my 200 hours in January 2018 to become certified, and began teaching immediately. 

Teaching movement and mindfulness is my passion; it has brought me immense joy and fulfillment. Over the years, I've had the opportunity to teach many beautiful souls in various settings, including outdoor classes and sessions with animals like puppies, kittens, and goats! I believe animals are as healing as movement and mindfulness. In 2023, I earned the E-RYT 200 certification to offer continuing education to fellow teachers. Yoga has greatly improved my breathing and overall mental and physical well-being. It has taught me to find balance in my life, breathe better, and relieve my wrist pain. I hope to share yoga's benefits, helping others build a strong foundation for a healthy physical life and promote mental well-being through mindfulness and self-compassion, both on and off the mat.

My teaching approach emphasizes that everyone is free to move in a way that best serves their mind, body, and soul. Questions and conversations are welcome to promote mindful exploration. Whether you need space to lie still and breathe or move as it feels right, I provide that. I believe yoga is for every-BODY, and I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for you to explore your practice. I would love to help you create your movement and mindfulness practice.

Outside of yoga, I stay active mentally and physically. I enjoy spending time with friends, family, plants, and pets. I have a background in various trades, including vet med, dog training, pet sitting, cosmetology, phlebotomy, and haunted house acting. I enjoy being outside, in the trees, and barefoot mostly. Currently, I am attending the University of Michigan, pursuing my bachelor's/master's in social work.