Denise Zaverdas

Denise Zaverdas, E-RYT 500 enjoys the tenure of over 16,000 hours of Yoga instruction. With a B.S. degree in Kinesiology, an unending fascination of human form and function, and the deep curiosity of a seeker, Denise shares the practice from her heart and years of exploration, inquiry, learning and unlearning. While drawing from a diverse blend of disciplines, she emphasizes spirit, breath, structure, strength and fluidity.  Often described as a “teacher’s teacher,” Denise guides students inward to foster a deeper connection with their inner master.  She is a perpetual student, and her current understanding is that Yoga is about relationship: our inner relationship with Self and Spirit, and our outer relationship with fellow travelers and the world around us.  She crafts each unique class as a moving meditation, in preparation for stillness and seated meditation. 
 
She has taught all levels of practitioners in a variety of styles, such as Ashtanga, Forest, Yin, Restorative, Therapeutic and Vinyasa Yoga. In addition to her 20 years of in-depth studies on the mat, and 17-plus years dedicated to serving the local community in the classroom, Denise also has extensive experience in yoga studio management.  For 12 years, first as Assistant Director of the Santa Barbara Yoga Center, and then as the founder of Montecito Yoga, she facilitated many teacher trainings and workshops. Denise is particularly keen on refining the practice for beginners and those with special needs.