J MILES • YOGI • MARTIAL ARTIST  • BODY WORKER

I am a Yogi, martial artist, body worker, retired breakdancer, community activist, and the son of a Baptist minister, and have been learning and studying eastern arts and philosophy for nearly two decades. But movement itself, and creativity and exploration of movement through dance has always been a constant source of curiosity and confidence. From learning how to headstand at five from my father, to walking on my hands and tumbling as an adolescent, to playing sports as a teen, to poppin and lockin, I’ve always been moving. These all came together for me in the Brazilian art of Capoeira, with its precision and elegance, freedom and beauty. That inexplicably led me me to Hung Gar kung fu and my first real Teacher, who unknowingly led me to yoga. From books by Muata Ashby, to the teachings of Swami Satchidananda and Integral Yoga, along with Ashtanga, Jivamukti and other prominent systems of yoga, my “style” has crafted a style tempered by real life and humor, and relies on the importance of breath as a guide and a source of strength. My classes aim to create for each person a fluid, sustainable and enjoyable practice, that hopefully will prove to be beneficial over a lifetime. And even as this ancient practice continues to evolve, the mantra continues to be “practice is effort toward steadiness of mind”.

I give all credit to my teachers for shaping my practice, and more importantly me as a person: Sifu Tyron Staton whose teachings move far beyond martial arts, and a group of extraordinary women: Barbara Taylor (mom), Vimala Posey, Arlene Bjork, Jill Abelson, Satya Greenstone, Dana Flynn and Jennifer Elliott. These individuals are immeasurable fountains of knowledge and wisdom.

Find me in my hometown of Richmond Va, loving my family and friends, while working to improve my community through my co-founded organization, Project Yoga Richmond (PYR) and partnering with other leaders for positive change in the world. Take your time, look around, join me for a class, or reach out so that we can connect.