OUR PEOPLE MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

Our family of experienced managers, instructors, and front desk staff are dedicated to providing next-level services and experiences to our clients. We are eager to earn our clients’ loyalty every day and we’re here to help you find success on your yoga journey!

Come and discover why we have been voted as the Prescott area's

“Best Yoga Studio” for years running!

  • Owner | President

    Certified Buti Instructor

    BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    Back in 2013 Sarah had a crazy idea to open a Hot Yoga Studio in Prescott Valley. “ Vinyasa Fit” was born. It found quick success and allowed us to grow into the business we are today.

    When the opportunity arose to purchase “BEND Hot Yoga Prescott”, Sarah jumped at the chance.

    BEND Hot Yoga Studio was built on hard work and determination. As the owner, Sarah has a passion for community and small business. She is all about giving back and supporting local.

  • General Manager

    BEND Instructor | 200 E-RYT

    I have been studying movement for over 21 years. I began as a dancer performing in multiple professional companies, even owning my own dance company at one time.

    I began my yoga experience in 2015 taking a Bikram class. Being completely humbled by the experience I fully immersed myself in the practice.

    I was certified as a teacher in 2017 and have taught yoga in many different kinds of studios around the world.

    I am honored to be the manager at BEND where I get to share my love of movement with this amazing community.

  • Director of Marketing & Community Outreach

    BEND Instructor | E-200, 500 RYT

    YACEP Certified

    Hi, I’m Pye! (like apple pie) I'm here to hold space to feel, share love, and spread kindness. I'm into nature, adventure, wide-open spaces, growth, and joy. I love authenticity, hard questions, thoughtful answers, the little moments of magic in each day, and movement of all kinds: physical, emotional, and mental.

    My yoga practice has cracked me open and given me space to be a better human. It has taught me how to find comfort, ease, and peace. My classes are curated, intentional, and taught from my heart. They will challenge you to move and be moved.

    Fun Fact: Pye also hand-makes some of BEND’s jewelry items! Just look for “Ujjayi Pye” on the label!

  • Karma Coordinator

    Front Desk Family

    Our Karma Team is an invaluable part of the BEND family. Behind the scenes, they keep the studio sparkling clean, disinfected, and stocked!

    At the helm, our Karma Coordinator looks after each of our Karmis. Nani is a warm soul with a love for BEND and its awesome clients.

    Nani started coming to BEND way back in 2013 and was able to join as part of the Karma team.

    In 2023, a whole decade later, she was reintroduced to and re-immersed in this welcoming and loving BEND community and has been fortunate enough to join the team again as the Karma Coordinator. Nani loves being a part of this family and can’t wait to grow with BEND.

    If you are interested in joining our Karma program in exchange for a complimentary yoga membership, Nani can be reached at:

    karmayogaprescott@gmail.com

  • YTT Co-Facilitator

    BEND Instructor | E-500 RYT

    YACEP Certified

    I have dedicated myself to the practice and study of yoga since 1990. Since my very first yoga experience, something just felt RIGHT. My intention as a teacher is to hold space for others in order to help them feel that innate goodness and use their yoga practice to remember the light and beauty inside themselves.

    I received my first teaching certification from the Sivananda Vedanta Center in '92 and then studied for over 600 hours with the American Viniyoga Institute. I initiated the Satya Yoga Teacher Training in 2008 and have led over a dozen yoga teacher training programs, including three wonderful groups at Bend.

    Breathe deeply and remember, you are Divine!

  • YTT Co-Facilitator

    BEND Instructor | E-500 RYT

    YACEP Certified

    Rachel believes life is more interesting when we seek and find meaning in the small moments of every day. This kind of reverence for life leads us to a renewed appreciation for ourselves, our friends and family, and our community.

    Rachel is a connector, a conduit of wisdom; bridging time on the yoga mat with everyday living and life. She is a Certified Yoga Teacher in Anusara Yoga, a Yoga Health Coach, and a lover of wild places.

    She has a great gift of being approachable, inspiring, and passionate about the intersection between the wisdom of yoga and Ayurveda. One of her favorite endeavors is igniting this passion in others. Her classes are designed for the scientist, the mystic, and the athlete alike.

  • BEND Instructor | E-200 RYT

    I began my journey with BEND in 2011. I can't possibly count the ways that being part of the BEND community has positively impacted my life.

    I will *always* practice yoga, as I've seen firsthand the ways that it strengthens me and others - physically, mentally, and emotionally. What really keeps me coming back to BEND, though, is the community. BEND provides a warm (in more ways than one!), welcome environment, and the stability and consistency that we need when the other aspects of Life feel chaotic or overwhelming.

    I'm so glad that YOU are a part of this powerful community. It is truly an honor to be one of your yoga guides, and to get to share my practice with you!

  • BEND Instructor | E-200 RYT

    I have lived in the Prescott area for over 20 years and cherish the connections I’ve made through yoga!

    I have a passion for creating classes where music matters, the energy is playful, and the vibe is just right.

    Outside the studio, my husband and I have three sporty kids. I stay busy socializing, hiking, going to CrossFit, selling real estate, and working my “real” job with Yavapai County.

  • Certified Buti Instructor

    BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    I have been with the BEND community for over 7 years. I took my first yoga class at Vinyasa Fit with Sarah in Prescott Valley, and I fell in love with the practice and the community that surrounded it.

    Since then, I have been so fortunate to grow as both a BEND instructor and late BPedal coach. I have had the opportunity to teach many different classes such as Flex & Flow, Mixed, V-Core, and Buti.

    I love watching our clients grow in their practice and it is an amazing feeling to see all their smiles as they leave the studio!

  • BEND Instructor | 500 RYT

    Christena dedicates her personal & professional life to the teachings & practice of Yoga.

    She holds a 500HR RYT Certification, 100HR Yin & Restorative Yoga & Reiki Master Certification all from Yandara Yoga Institute. She is a 3X Graduate of Landmark Education Personal & Professional Self-Development Courses.

    She works with a wide variety of students, ages, special needs, injuries & limitations; giving her the experience to tailor all Yogic Practices to suit students’ individual needs & goals. Christena has been teaching at BEND since 2015.

  • BEND Instructor | 500 RYT

    Ann is a 500hr RYT who began teaching at BEND in 2015.

    In 2016 her focus shifted to developing a practice with the ‘silver' population in mind. If we are to age with less pain, better balance and healthy joints, Ann believes that it is essential to 'wake up' and use all parts of ourselves. One of her favorite things is what she calls 'somatic magic’: simple (and safe) movements that can improve our range of motion and increase strength and stability by utilizing more optimal movement patterns and more of our whole self.

    Ann’s classes offer a strong emphasis on building and improving balance, whilst maintaining a sense of humor, having a bit of fun, and always remembering to be grateful for what we can do!

  • Pilates Certfied

    BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    I can remember the first classes I took at BEND and the way I admired the instructors and the vibe of the studio. Back then, I never would have dreamed I’d become a part of the team. To my surprise, I got my first job teaching spin in 2013, and then added my POP Pilates Cert. & my 200hr RYT. I started teaching Vinyasa Fit in PV in 2017. I was also an instructor at BPEDAL before I started teaching Pilates at BEND.

    I love being a part of a yoga and wellness journey. It has been such a blessing in my life, that I truly enjoy giving back - whether that means giving a kick-butt Inferno Hot Pilates workout, or an emotional release during a yoga class, I hope that each client grows along with me. I learn more from the clients here at Bend than I can articulate, and it is my honor to continue providing options for all levels of fitness and mobility, allowing each individual to find comfort, fun, and challenges within each class. I am immensely grateful to be a part of this team.

  • BEND Instructor | 500 RYT

    I have been teaching since 2017 and teaching with BEND since 2019. I teach a gentle warm Yin practice.

    My offering to the community is a place to go within. A place to rest and open the heart space and mind. My classes offer a space to be still, to get quiet, to tap into what is, and notice.

    Each time we practice we come home to who we truly are and let things settle. All are welcome. I look forward to practicing next to you as well as being your instructor.

  • Front Desk Family

    BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    I have been practicing yoga for about 6 years and have been working at BEND for just over a year.

    Yoga prvides a way for me to focus inward and really connect and settle into my body and mind. About a year ago I decided that I wanted to share the practice of yoga with as many people as possible. I just started teaching the Mixed class at BEND. This has been a big step for me and I am so excited to be on this journey.

    Everyone in the community here at BEND has been so encouraging and supportive throughout my tenure. I am very grateful to be a part of this wonderful community.

  • Pilates Certified

    BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    BEND 2024 YTT Student

    It was over ten years ago that I took my first BEND class and I have been hooked ever since! I love being a part of this amazing fitness community and have been lucky to participate in various classes that have elevated my practice and wellness journey.

    Each class I lead is another opportunity to witness clients finding their strength, and challenging themselves.

    I am committed to physical and emotional growth and healing through intentional self-care. BEND has created this growing space for me, both as a client and as an instructor, and I look forward to practicing with you in the future!

  • Pilates Certified

    BEND 200hr YTT Graduate

    BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    In 2021, I graduated from BEND’s 200hr Yoga Teacher Training program.

    Bend is my sacred space. Bend is my church where we come together, yoga is the message and IHP (Inferno Hot Pilates) is when the choir sings and claps.

    IHP is a chance to let loose, burn it up and even shout if you want! That right there is my vibe. The music is engaging and builds as the exercises do. It’s high intensity and I see bodies just transform. It’s magical. Plus we have fun! In exercise and in life, don’t take it too seriously!

    Peace, love and BEND!

  • BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    Angela Garrotto, Local business owner of Earth and Herbs Arizona, yoga instructor and Reiki Master enjoys sharing Hatha style Yoga with beginner level students.

    She specializes in energy medicine and her passion is to bring mindfulness into the body through yoga, so we can enjoy our spirit!

  • Aerial Yoga Certified

    SUP Yoga Certified

    BEND Instructor | 500 RYT

    Last year, I relocated to Prescott from Southern Florida where my yoga journey began.

    In 2007, I enrolled in my first 500hr yoga teacher training. Upon graduation, I immediately began teaching and continuing my education. Soon thereafter, I changed career paths and pursued Yoga full-time. I practice and teach Hot Yoga, Paddleboard Yoga, and Aerial Silk Yoga.

    My life path has led me to share this practice and help people create life-enhancing fitness and lifestyle habits. In my class, you'll find a supportive space to build strength, flexibility, and endurance by focusing the mind with the body through breath. Classes are tailored with intelligent sequencing, utilizing the sacred geometry of the body.

  • BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    My name is Jon, and I love to teach Yoga!

    I grew up around these parts in Prescott, AZ, and still cannot get enough of it. Outside of teaching, you will catch me being a nature lover – out on the trails, usually doing some type of running.

    Yoga has been in my life for about a third of it now. As an instructor and as a student, the main thing that stands out and fills me with joy is the community this practice can build… Especially in a small town such as Prescott.

    Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this community. I hope as an instructor, I can match the magic that comes from you, our BEND clients!

  • BEND Instructor | 500 RYT

    Jordon spent most of his life being completely inactive and in constant pain, but when he hit his 30’s he knew he couldn’t spend the rest of his life living with daily aches and limited mobility. Thinking that yoga would be a good “beginner” exercise, he took his first yoga class. Halfway through class, panting and covered in sweat he realized he had some misconceptions about yoga.

    As tough as that first class was, it was also the start of a life dedicated to learning about and sharing yoga. Now, he is passionate about bringing yoga to clients of all types - beginner and advanced. He is excited to be a part of the BEND team, offering Flow & Glow classes, Mixed classes, and Yoga for Longevity classes.

  • Front Desk Family

    BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    Jordyn has many passions: Her hubby, her doggos, yoga, travel, and Disney to name a few.

    She grew up in Prescott AZ, and attended her first BEND class in 2014. She became a 200hr RYT in May 2022, and is currently working to complete her 300hr RYT. She is a part of the BEND front desk family and a new addition to our teaching team.

    Jordyn’s smile lights up the room, and her warmth can be felt even through the heat of the hot room. She encourages clients to have fun with practice, be present, and find their inner courage.

  • BEND Instructor | 500 E-RYT

    YACEP Certified

    Thomas has been studying yoga for 23 years and operates from the foundation that the physical body is an access point to all other realms of the human being for the healing and growth of the human potential.  His yoga classes are dynamic and fluid in movement while maintaining the element of stillness and presence.  He weaves alignment and freedom with expansive philosophy and focused intention, allowing you to experience your power, your vastness, your sovereignty and your connection to all things.  Come join him in this embodied journey we call life!

  • AntiGravity® Aerial Certified

    BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    Elisabeth “Isa” Dinerman’s first-hand experience as an owner/operator of a successful multi-location skincare and cosmetic apothecary allows her to share her entrepreneurial expertise with other business owners. Isa owns a successful global, virtual franchise in the wellness and beauty space.

    Isa’s other passion as an AntiGravity Fitness Instructor allows her to travel and cultivate relationships in the international retreat and yoga studio markets.

    Isa thrives on helping others realize their entrepreneurial dreams and success financially in this creative realm.

  • HIIT Certified

    BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    Kara is a fitness enthusiast and loves to make the Prescott community sweat!

    Join Kara for our Quick HOT HIIT and Yoga Sculpt!

  • Front Desk Family

    BEND 200hr YTT Graduate

    Pilates Certified

    BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    Jenny started practicing yoga and taking fitness classes at Vinyasa Fit (and now BEND) 8 years ago. She has since acquired her 200hr Yoga Teacher Certification through BEND’s YTT Program, and most recently started teaching Inferno Hot Pilates. 

    BEND has become an integral part of Jenny's life over these past few years as she now works the front desk as well.  She simply loves the positive energy she experiences at the studio and working with people of all ages and walks of life.  When not at BEND, you can find Jenny hiking with her husband and dog and just enjoying small town living in Prescott.

  • BEND Instructor | 500 E-RYT

    YACEP Certified

    We’re excited to welcome Tataya to the BEND team!

    Teacher bio coming soon!

  • BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    In 2014 at a hot yoga studio in Austin, Texas, the instructor announced the next yoga teacher training. I earned my 200-HR RYT certification the next year and have been practicing yoga and growing on and off my mat ever since.

    As a yoga instructor, I focus on gratitude, self-love, and enjoying the journey because all my favorite personal experiences stem from holding space for those states of being. Yoga, like life, is a constant practice in recognizing our limiting beliefs that keep us from self-worth and our boundless capacity to positively impact those around us. Yoga helps us truly see and know ourselves more deeply.

  • BEND 200hr YTT Graduate

    Pilates Certified

    BEND Instructor | 200 RYT

    I have been a dedicated yoga practitioner for over a decade. Through yoga, its teachings, and daily habits, I can tap into my most authentic self. My practice has helped me realize that I hold the key to my own happiness, and I have found a level of personal healing and self-love that I never knew existed before. I use yoga as a tool to move my body, cleanse my mind, and allow my spirit to guide me. 

    I am honored to be part of the BEND community. My passion is to provide clients with love, light, and encouragement. In class, I offer my students support while they navigate their personal yoga journey.