Lourdes Paredes has pursued spiritual practices since she was a young person, and yoga asana added a physical dimension that cultivated strength, grace, and increased health. Her academic background, BS in Developmental Psychology, MA in Theology, and MS in Organizational Development, with graduate studies in Sociology and Pastoral Counseling equips her with many tools from which to draw upon to communicate and facilitate the transforming yoga process to her students. Before teaching yoga, Lourdes completed training for ministry in the Catholic tradition, worked as a lay missionary in East Harlem, NY, worked as a Vocation Director and leader for a religious community, and worked as a researcher at Loyola University Chicago. These experiences have enriched her wisdom and vision for the world. Her most influential teachers have been Shiva Rea, Andrey Lappa, Gary Kraftsow, and Rod Stryker. She currently studies with Shiva and assists her at retreats, conferences, workshops, and teacher trainings. Lourdes’ teaching style guides students into the practice of yoga as an authentic way of life. She teaches a20creative vinyasa flow practice which is inspirational and deep, and takes students to their appropriate edge, for physical and spiritual awakening. She transmits yoga to her students with the love and clarity with which she has received the teachings. Lourdes integrates the spiritual practice with the physical practice of yoga in such a way that living yoga makes sense and is authentic.