Testimonials

Anxiety

Kate Kniffen, librarian

“I have been anxious for most of my adult years. Psychotherapy helped a lot but my anxiety was still depleting my energy and limiting my pleasure in life so I asked Paula for help. Using her years of experience, she has provided me with tools to relax myself from the inside out so that I am much more at ease with myself.”

Back Pain

Judy Mendel

“About ten years ago, after trying physical therapy for my back pain, I began to study yoga with Paula. After three weeks, I realized during a class that I had no more pain. With her knowledge of the body and her calm style, Paula encouraged me to explore and discover answers on my own, with the confidence that I would not injure myself.”

Back Pain from Injury

Clare LaPlante, writer

“I came to Paula's classes with a back injury that often flared up in pain. Through her skillful teaching and deep intuitive understanding of the body, she has helped my back find its natural alignment and strength. The process has been as rewarding as the results, since each class is a practice in deep stillness and restoration. ”

Ann Mallow

“Paula has helped me considerably with severe back problems which resulted from an automobile accident many years ago. I learned postures from her which helped much more than anything done in physical therapy. These exercises have helped me to remain mobile and reduce my level of pain.”

Frozen Trapezius

Kate Kniffen, librarian

“Before I began working with Paula, my shoulders and neck were always tense. I got temporary relief with massage but the tension would soon return. I assumed there was nothing I could do to fix it permanently. Paula analyzed the unhealthy habits I had developed and taught me to use my back, shoulder and neck muscles to achieve a permanent state of relaxation and support.”

Insomnia / Sleep Medication

Kate Kniffen, librarian

“A few years ago, as a side effect of depression, I developed insomnia. My psychiatrist prescribed sleeping pills but, when I was feeling better and wanted to stop taking the medication, I found I'd become dependent on it. Paula worked with me to design a yoga practice that helps me relax and fall asleep naturally.”

Knee Problem

Sean McNeely, musician

“I first tried yoga with Paula as an alternative to exercise when I hurt my knee a couple years prior. It wasn't a serious injury but it was enough to keep me from going to the gym. Little did I know that when I started those classes it would have such a profound impact on my life. Besides the physical benefits and physical awareness, I've gained inner peace, confidence and serenity from my practice.”

Recovery from Surgery

Janet Alms

“When I was in my early fifties I had a hysterectomy which led to a period of inactivity and weight gain. I began doing yoga with Paula and slowly but surely the frozen, weak parts of my body began to strengthen and become more agile. At one time I couldn't walk without my legs and back hurting. Now I have no problem standing or even walking several miles. I'm in my sixties and feel much better in every way.”

Sylvia Tkalitch, Physical Therapist

“I was surprised after healing from abdominal surgery that I was unable to move easily; I was stiff and weak, and I had pain when walking. Being a physical therapist myself, I knew that I wasn't going to get better on my own and that I needed help. I decided to use yoga therapy to help me recover. Paula had me moving and gaining strength fast, her kindness and patience in a relaxing and supportive atmosphere allowed me to go beyond my limitations.”

Scoliosis

Cathy Williams

“I began working with Paula because of my upper thoracic scoliosis, which causes misalignments, malfunctions, and weaknesses in my back and surrounding areas. The movements Paula has developed, derived from yoga, are innovative and effective, allowing me to target problem areas passively and actively. She uses her knowledge of anatomy to answer my questions, since I like to visualize what is happening. We've also worked on destressing as well as strengthening the pelvic floor. Paula has written out our work, so I can do it myself and be independent. I am truly impressed with Paula's intelligence, depth of knowledge, and calm working style.”

Shoulders

Gary Joyce, Construction Manager

“I came to White Iris Yoga directly from the surgeon's office. My shoulder was a mess. The operation was imminent. Rehab would be intensive. I had multiple chronic injuries from motorcycle accidents, martial arts, tennis and construction work. The tears, the strains, pulled muscles were demanding more attention as I aged. One operation wasn't going to solve all this. I needed an alternative. I needed to commit the time necessary to regain health. The expectation for holistic healing seemed too great until I met Paula. The operation was averted. Much work remains yet miraculously the torqued and slanted figure of so many years has gradually become realigned. Paula's expertise has made all the difference. For this I am grateful.”

Torn Meniscus

Kate Kniffen, librarian

“I suffered constant pain from a torn meniscus in my left knee. I couldn't use Ibuprofen for relief after I developed an allergy to it so my orthopedist said surgery was the only option. Imagine my doctor's surprise and my relief when Paula was able to work out techniques to relieve the stress on my knee so that I now am pain-free.”

Traumatic Accident

Sean Rosemeyer

“I injured my leg badly, was hospitalized twice, and was very traumatized. One of the first things I had to face was just the fear of using my leg and stretching my body again. Paula's welcoming attitude, gentle guidance, concern and suggestions helped me greatly. The trauma didn't just happen to my leg. With her peaceful, intuitive instruction she has helped me on many levels.”