+ WHAT ARE YOUR OFFERINGS?

I currently offer Relevate Barre, Mat and Equipment-based Pilates, Yin/Restorative Yoga, Energy Healing, Sound Healing, Women's Circles, and Intuitive Spiritual Coaching. I also teach at events and workshops locally, throughout the US, and around the world. Learn more via the Barre, Pilates, Healing, and Events pages.

+ WHAT EDUCATION/TRAINING DO YOU HAVE?

I have been a mindful movement instructor for over a decade, with certifications in Yoga, Barre, and Pilates. I am a Certified Level 1 STOTT PILATES® Instructor for Mat, Reformer, Chair, Barrels, and Cadillac (all Pilates apparatus) and have additionally been trained through STOTT PILATES® for Injuries and Special Populations. I also hold a Barre certification through barre3, and have developed my own barre method called Relevate. Finally, I hold two 200hr Yoga Teacher Certifications through Radiant Yoga Boston with Chanel Luck and Bonnie Argo, and YogaWorks with Natasha Rizopoulos. I am currently working towards my Full (Advanced Level) STOTT PILATES® certification, and am constantly pursuing continuing education to increase my breadth of knowledge about anatomy, biomechanics, physical rehabilitation, and mind-body wellness.

In addition to movement expertise, I also hold a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and pursued my first career in Cancer Biology and Therapeutic Development. I also am a certified Transformational Nutrition Coach (through the Institute for Transformational Nutrition) and a Level 3 Reiki Master.

+ HOW DO YOUR OFFERINGS STAND OUT?

I love living and sharing my passion for movement, music, and community building, as I believe these elements powerfully heal. My classes - both group and private sessions - take you on a journey that not only deeply challenges your body, but also empowers your mind and uplifts your spirit. My instruction blends the meditative quality of linking breath to movement with intelligent sequencing and alignment-based cueing. I pay close attention to form and alignment, and always ensure clients receive a well-balanced class that is safe, challenging, and fun. While my classes inspire clients to sweat, work hard, and push themselves deeper than they think is possible, I also encourage them to listen to the wisdom of their bodies and to take breaks and modifications when needed.

With multiple mindful movement certifications (Yoga, Pilates, Barre), I am poised to offer a broad set of exercises from numerous modalities in each class/session that I teach. In addition to movement, I also hold a Ph.D. in Biochemistry, and am a Transformational Nutrition Coach, and a Reiki Master. With my extensive background in science, transformation coaching, energy healing, and teaching movement, I am uniquely poised to train clients from a deep well of knowledge, empathy, and motivation to help them feel their best.

+ WHAT IS RELEVATE?

Relevate was a mindful movement studio located in San Diego, CA from 2017-2020. While we no longer have a physical studio location for group classes, the heart and energy of the studio lives on through the teaching of my signature Relevate class. Relevate is turbocharged movement experience that weaves together yoga, barre, Pilates, heart-pumping cardio, and functional strength training, all set to uplifting, high energy music. We finish every class with deep, restorative stretching to balance the body and calm the mind. Form, alignment, and safety are top priority in classes, and all fitness levels are welcome. You will sweat, shake, quake, and be challenged, but you are also encouraged to listen to the wisdom of your body and take modifications and/or breaks as needed. In addition to Barre, I also offer Mat and Equipment-based Pilates classes taught using the contemporary STOTT PILATES method. In classes, I am about empowering you to do, be, and feel your BEST.

+ WHERE ARE MOVEMENT CLASSES/ENERGY HEALING SESSIONS HELD?

Currently, Relevate in the Park Barre classes are on hold until 2023. Please see the Barre and Events pages for more details, respectively. Mat-based and Equipment-based Pilates private sessions and Energy Healing sessions are offered in-person at my studio space in University Heights (San Diego locals only). For in-person sessions, please email for more details on availability and location. Stay tuned for additional group movement class offerings.

+ IS THERE AN AGE REQUIREMENT TO TAKE YOUR MOVEMENT CLASSES?

Due to the physical demands of Relevate Barre and Pilates classes, it is recommended that you are the age of 15 or older. If you are ages 15-18, you will be required to have your waiver co-signed by a parent.

+ WHAT TYPES OF CLIENTS/STUDENTS DO YOU WORK WITH?

My classes are for everybody and every body. I work with clients aged 20-70, ranging from athletes to fitness addicts to those rehabbing injuries or just getting back to working out. I am highly experienced with working with expecting or postnatal Mamas as well. My top priority is offering an empowering, safe movement experience for my clients, where they will be challenged to do and be their best, while learning to listen to the wisdom of their bodies. Relevate literally means "to raise to good spirits", and it is my goal for every client to leave their session feeling energized, inspired, and strong in his/her body.

+ WHAT DO I WEAR/BRING TO MY PILATES OR ENERGY HEALING SESSION?

For all sessions, wear comfortable workout or yoga attire and feel free to wear layers. For Equipment-based Pilates Reformer classes, grip socks are required and please plan to bring your own water bottle.

+ DO I NEED TO WEAR A MASK TO AN IN-PERSON CLASS?

Masks are not required for sessions with Shannon; however, you may choose to wear a mask for your session if that makes you more comfortable. Please do not attend a session while feeling any symptoms of illness; instead, please reschedule. If you arrive to a session with any illness symptoms, Shannon reserves the right to cancel the session. If you arrive with a fever, you will immediately be asked to leave the session and reschedule for a future date.

+ I HAVE AN INJURY. CAN I STILL ATTEND?

If you have an injury, please consult your physician before attending any class. If you are cleared to exercise, or had a previous injury or injury-prone parts of your body, please let me know prior to class. Modifications and alternative movements are offered for every pose, specifically to support the ankles, knees, hips, low back, neck, and shoulders. You can still have a deep, satisfying workout while taking modifications. If at any time you feel pain or discomfort during class, please alert your instructor so adjustments can be made.

+ I AM EXPECTING A BABY. IS RELEVATE/MOVEMENT RIGHT FOR ME?

Firstly, congratulations! I welcome expecting and new Mamas to work with me for Barre, Pilates, and Energy Healing sessions. For movement classes, I offer pre- and postnatal modifications for postures to ensure you are fully supported in your workouts. Many of my clients safely take classes well into their 3rd trimester. Please let me know so I can guide you through the recommended modifications before and after your pregnancy. It is most important that you listen to your body, and as always, please consult your physician before taking class.

+ HOW OFTEN SHOULD I WORK OUT WITH YOU?

My workouts are balanced to ensure you experience deep muscle burn, cardio blasts, and stretching/restoration. That said, it is not uncommon to be sore after class! Your recovery time between classes will depend on your fitness level and how many/what kind of other classes you take as part of your fitness regimen. The key is to listen to your body and find a routine that works for you. Know that each day is different, and you are always encouraged to take modifications and breaks in class as needed.

+ WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A CLIENT LOOKING TO HIRE A TEACHING IN YOUR AREA OF EXPERTISE?

If you are looking to invest in private Pilates sessions, choose someone who knows anatomy, biomechanics, has a scientific/analytical mind, AND has strong communication and empathy skills. Moving bodies are like puzzles when it comes to injuries and imbalances, and it takes curiosity and a deep knowledge about the body to tease apart what is going on. Choose an instructor who deeply listens to you, supports your goals, is your biggest cheerleader, and who isn't afraid to ask for feedback in terms of whether your needs are being met in your sessions. Seek an instructor who isn't afraid to give adjustments or modifications for every exercise - there is a modification for everything, and it is important that you receive the workout that you need for that day, as every day is different. Be willing to invest in your instructor, as an outstanding instructor has greatly invested in his/her own education and knowledge, and as they say ... you get what you pay for!

+ WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION/NO-SHOW POLICY?

Due to the limited number of spaces available in each class and on the Pilates/Energy Healing session schedule, clients must be accountable for their reservations. To allow every client the opportunity to attend class, I ask that you please abide the policies listed below.

1. Payment Policy: Clients are required to pre-pay for their session to reserve the date/time. You may purchase single sessions or session packages, depending on the service.
   
2. Cancellation and No Show Policy: Please cancel your class or Pilates/Energy Healing session reservations at least twenty four (24) hours prior to the class/session. No shows or Classes/sessions cancelled after that time will forfeit the pre-paid session.
   
3. Late Arrival Policy: If you arrive less than ten (10) minutes late for your class or session, you will receive instruction for the time remaining in your session. Due to a tight schedule and out of respect for other clients, I am unable to accommodate sessions running over time. If you arrive more than ten (10) minutes late after your session start time, I reserve the right to cancel your session, and your session will be forfeit. This is for your safety, as it is important that we have the full session to warm up, peform sufficient exercises to strengthen and balance the body, and to cool down.

+ WHAT IF MY CLASS PACKAGE EXPIRES BEFORE I USE ALL OF MY CLASSES?

Currently, session packages carry a 4 month expiration from date of purchase. I hope the expiration date encourages you to use the classes and experience the amazing benefits of attending your sessions regularly. At this time, I am unable to extend class package expiration dates.

+ CAN I SHARE A SESSION PACKAGE WITH A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER?

No, session packages cannot be shared between clients. However, if you'd like to purchase a package for a friend or loved one as a gift, you are more than welcome to do so!

+ WHAT IS YOUR REFUND POLICY?

All session packages and services are final sale and may not be partially or fully refunded or transferred. The only exception is for one-time events or workshops. If you register but cannot attend, you may be refunded the registration minus a 20% administration fee provided you cancel at least one week prior to the event/workshop. If you cancel less than one week prior to the event/workshop, no refunds will be given.