Kara Zimmerman

 I am a professional dancer based in Chicago, and have been dancing professionally for the past 20 years. Over the years, I have had the privilege to perform all over the United States and Internationally, including 6 years with the Joffrey Ballet here in Chicago, as well as with PNB in Seattle, and the Cincinnati Ballet. After my time at the Joffrey Ballet, I moved to Madrid, and I spent an incredible year living and touring throughout Spain with the Victor Ullate Ballet Company. Yoga found me at a time in my life when I needed it for the mindfulness aspect of the practice, but I realized in the process, that the physical aspect was also helping to improve my dancing.  Now as a freelance dancer, Yoga has been key to helping me prolong my dance career  by keeping my body strong,  flexible, and in "dancer" shape when I'm not able to be in the studio.. as well as giving me the space to breathe and de-stress. In 2018, I decided I wanted to teach yoga and go deeper into the practice, so I studied with the Full Circle Yoga School in Cocoa Beach, FL where I received my 200 Hr Yoga Teacher Certification. In addition to performing and teaching yoga, I also teach and coach ballet students all over the United States. I enjoy being able to combine my extensive dance experience and acute body awareness, with my yoga training, to share with my students  the joy of movement and the incredible benefits mentally and physically that yoga and dance have given to me.