From my yoga teacher mentees > > >
“The biggest lesson I learned is that change takes time in order for it to be long-lasting, and that my practice needs to be fluid and open to change. During the time we worked together, I learned to assess the effectiveness so that adjustments could be made to better fit my life. This has been instrumental in my life. I’ve heard many times that the most important time to maintain practice is when life gets chaotic. Now, I get it.
I recommend you as a mentor for other yoga teachers or yoga therapist trainees. First, you are very supportive, nonjudgmental, and creative when it comes to finding the right tools that fit the individual. I noticed these qualities during my private lessons, but also with the trainings. Second, you are extremely knowledgeable about human anatomy and kinesiology and provide clear explanations to questions. Plus, I like that you didn’t always tell me the answer right away. You guide me to the answer by helping me pull together what I have learned during class. And, third, you are capable of building confidence in your students. The guidance you gave me on sequencing and cuing provided me with an assurance needed in order to feel comfortable teaching. Thank you, Cheri!” 500 RYT in CA
“The first thing I think of when reflecting on our mentorship is that I learned how to be more self-compassionate. You’ve given me a lot of tools to help me slow down in an intentional way and to take time to appreciate my own journey and the actions I’m taking to create the life I want. Some of the tools and tips were difficult for me to implement at first because they felt counterintuitive, but I really learned a lot from trying them on and have implemented a lot of them into my current lifestyle. Our sessions together also helped me think about how a session can feel so casual, yet still be so effective.
I recommend you 1000%! You’re so knowledgeable and patient. The overall experience has been truly valuable and I’m so grateful to have received so much. I’m excited to continue on this journey, and a lot of it is because of the tools you’ve given me to move forward.” Patti Kao, 500 RYT, CA
“Cheri has been an incredible mentor to me. She’s given me the tools to protect my energy and helped me develop clear and specific boundaries, which have been such a blessing in living a more sattvic life. Maybe you’re stuck or need direction, I would recommend Cheri to be your guide, your teacher, your mentor. She sees you and she hears you. She’s got you!” Amity Howey, 500 RYT, CA
“As a yoga teacher, I have many wellness tools under my belt already. However, working with Cheri gave me practice in integrating them more intrinsically as well as giving me some eye opening “aha“ moments. What I appreciate most is Cheri’s calm, focused approach and how she breaks things down when talking goal setting for anxiety relief or guiding me through sensory and movement practices. Also just as important, how she can “nutshell” things to keep things moving. I’m someone that wants to get it all done and then some, but I absorb information slowly and deeply so this balance between Go and Pause is important for me. Cheri’s professional and focused in keeping space for me to find my voice, while being all heart and relatable.” Jeannie Lee, RYT 500 (C-IAYT 2021)
From my CEU workshop on Touch and Consent:
“one of my favorite training weekends so far – I made major progress in my own healing and this workshop has given me the guidance and courage to explore healthy touch”
“The highlight of the {touch} training weekend for me was learning about how a teacher can use touch without actually touching – cueing for self-touch or using props creatively”
“you do a wonderful job making us feel safe and comfortable exploring this part of teaching”
“excellent presentation – IMPORTANT content”
“this was by far the best adjustments/hands on training I’ve experienced”
From private clients >>>
“I have been going to the chiropractor for 5 years for lower back and hip pain. I tried exercising on my own; I went to Physical Therapy and even tried acupuncture. All of those would only give me temporary relief. I wasn’t sure what I was doing to cause the issues, or what not to do.
When I heard about the 4 month Immersion Program, I thought I might as well try to address my back issues from a totally different angle. I was a bit concerned that Skype or FaceTime wouldn’t be effective and I wouldn’t get the hands-on adjustments that I would need. Boy was I wrong! Cheri can tell by my facial expressions when I’m straining and can verbalize how to move slightly different to make a big change. Sometimes I don’t even realize I’m making a face or straining too hard, but she catches it. She helps me use imagery so that I know exactly what she means. Each session is different and totally tailored to me each time. Cheri really listens to me and thoughtfully answers. I’m able to ask questions and get clarification right away on a movement.
I’ve learned how to check in with my body and assess how I feel. Cheri has given me so many valuable tools to use every day. Now I take the time for myself to stretch and move, or reset for a few minutes.
I have so much more confidence in myself and my body that it can move, flex and heal. I feel empowered that I can make a change in my mind and body using imagery and the Franklin Method.
After only 2 months into our 4 month Immersion Program together, I’ve been able to reduce my chiropractic visits from twice a week to once every 2 weeks and I only need a small adjustment each time. My muscles are stronger and able to hold everything in place better.
Even my chiropractor noticed and was thrilled that “something” was finally working for me! I have considerably less pain and a wider range of motion. Oh, and losing 10 pounds so far is great too!
Cheri has given me a new perspective and understanding of my anatomy and bone rhythms. She challenges me (in a good way) and makes me want to continue to do more. The Franklin Method, imagery and yoga have made such a huge positive impact on me. I’m so grateful Cheri’s been able to help me in such a short amount of time.“
Jana Schroeder, Application Developer, WI
“I’ve been working with Cheri on and off for the past four years. No matter how long it has been since our last session, it’s like no time has passed at all. She continues to help me through some pretty pivotal changes in my life whether it be physical, personal or work-related – and that’s what I love! My sessions are tailored to me, my life, and my needs.
I still remember our first sessions and how quickly I took a liking to her teaching style. We’ve done so much: nutrition, anatomy, meditation, dance, yoga, interval training, weight lifting, franklin method, and the list goes on! One of the first things I learned about Cheri is that when I’m talking, she’s listening and is focused on me and only me. She responds thoughtfully in a way that really rings true to me. I find her words speaking to me throughout the day when I need it most.
What I find most of all, is that she’s become not only my coach, but a true friend and confidant that has taught me to take care of myself because I am worthy of my own time, attention and love. She’s one of the few genuine, knowledgeable, passionate, and loving people that I’ve met in my life, aim to emulate, and cherish every day! Thank you Cheri!”
– Shannon Henneman, Eau Claire, WI
“I’m more confident in teaching my classes. I now can now feel the reach from my spine to my fingertips and my grounded feet. I am alive! I have a glow of confidence in my face that people can see. I look poised and strong. I can so do this!
It is wonderful to tell my friends that I have found a wonderful mentor with great qualifications! I was in the right place at the right time when we met! You are just what I need!
I’m very pleased with the direction that you have me on! Thank you for everything. You are doing a Great Job! It is so wonderful that you are touching so many lives is such a positive way!
Trying to find some quiet time to practice, reflect and be generous with myself is not easy to come by. Which is why I have decided to continue working with you. It’s great having a mentor to give me the opportunity to learn and grow hands on. The more time I spend on my self practice, the better my classes will be. Namaste!”
– Gail Duncan, Yoga Teacher from Sioux Falls, SD
“It can be hard to put into words and justify this process at the same time. I’ve grown clearer about my goals both personally and as a teacher.
My practice is evolving all the time but what I’ve noticed is that I’m getting so much better at listening to what my body and mind need in that moment. I have learned that pushing through will not get me where I’m going in fact it sets me back.
I’m noticing a whole new body rhythm I need silence and lots of it. I’m falling in love with my body – I’m careful not to disrespect myself now. Nourishment, be that through movement, food, rest, stillness, dance, intimacy or a walk in nature – it’s all life giving, it’s all my practice. My friends can see it in how I move, there’s a sparkle in my eyes, a glow to my skin (must be all that yoga) in my ability to listen, in my incessant curiosity to figure out who I am. Although my husband at times thinks I’ve been abducted by aliens. xx
I don’t think we could have improved this first 4 month immersion. You had perfect presence and wherewithal to guide me through my ups and downs. I’m looking forward to the next chapter. Thanks Cheri xx”
– Sandra McGuffin, Yoga Teacher from Ireland
“Cheri, I just want to share a few lovely thoughts with you. My hips have been feeling juicily happy and connected in all of my movement. I hadn’t gone to a yoga class in weeks. I went to 2 yoga classes this week.
The poses/movement felt much easier and so much more comfortable, organized and connected in my body! My neck, shoulders or hips didn’t ache the next day (which usually always happens to me in my yoga classes. Yay, for greater function in my body during yoga!)
Thanks for working with me to upgrade my body and mind systems. And lastly, thanks for sharing your calm, supportive presence and knowledge with me. Sending you a big, fat bear hug!”
– Amanda Krause, owner and director of Freckles Pilates Studio in Green Bay, WI
“I reached out to you, Cheri, because of your post on facebook. I’ve had constant nerve and muscle pain. I’m supposed to be moving as much as possible but often find if I try to move I do too much and the result is a migraine and even worse nerve and muscle pain. So, learning to move correctly and with the right frame of mind sounded like the next step in my healing journey.
I found our consult very relieving because someone understood me and was willing to work with me to help me change and heal. This process is very difficult because exposing what I’m going through brings up a lot of issues of self-esteem, the abuse, and all of the physical challenges I’m facing. It altogether is so much, that it can be very difficult to face.
Our first session was so great! I realized that once I got over my nervousness that I can do a lot more that I thought, and that my mind is super powerful. And that the movement doesn’t have to be big to have a big impact.
I felt hopeful for the first time in a long time. I was excited to move again and I’m slowly opening up to accepting my body as it is right now.
The most effective tools I’ve learned from our sessions is to listen to my body and my instincts, use the imagery, and be open and willing to try new movements. I’ve noticed that I can move more easily, freely, and more comfortably using the Franklin Method. My body is more comfortable and I’ve been able to connect with some of my body – I am still working on all of it. My comfort level has improved from a 2 to a 6 in just 4 sessions and I see myself changing by doing the exercises daily and getting rid of some of my old ingrained habits. Especially clenching my jaw, it’s been much easier to release it.
I’m moving again and I’m excited to do it! I’ve missed it so much, because when I’ve been moving these last few years it hasn’t felt good like this does now!
Our work is so necessary because all the prescriptions, therapy, botox, and nerve blocks are only a piece of the puzzle of me. In order to heal, I need to be learning and practicing this physical/mental component.
I am most grateful for you Cheri, you are supportive and challenging. I’m looking forward to keep moving! I really do find so much joy in moving and it’s such an essential part of life!
After our 4 month immersion, meeting weekly: This experience has changed my life by allowing me to fully connect with my body, which I wasn’t doing before and in not being connected I was draining myself of a lot of energy and healing. So, my energy is better, my strength is better, and my mindset is better. I’m able to make bad situations better for myself instead of worse, I’m able to identify feeling in my body and with meditation I can now be ok with feelings that are uncomfortable.
My yoga practice has changed in that I’m able to be better in tune with my body and make small adjustments for better movement quality and stamina. I’m not a teacher but I have shared the foot massage with women in my group and my family. It feels good to pass on some of what I’ve learned.
I’ve learned I can change my attitude or intention for the better. I’ve been able to increase my reps and do it with less stress on my body. (Knee, neck, and shoulders feel better) I now feel more in my body and more confident that I can do movement practice. I’ve told people how I’m moving so much better. Learning Franklin Method has really not only changed how I move but my mentality as well.
My husband has noticed that I’m moving more and said that I’m more attractive because of it. My family has noticed my increase in energy and that I’m not as spacey. You’re such a great teacher, and I’m so thrilled that I’ve had this opportunity to work together. Thank you.”
– Kari from Wisconsin
“The most important thing I learned or now understand is that my lungs have space and I can let the breath play more deeply. Feeling the shape shift of my ribs when the organs resist the movement of the diaphragm – that’s when the intercostals and my breath really expand. I’m excited that I’m getting better breath.
I’ve been practicing and my left knee is almost completely pain free through all movements now.
I was able to use some of the imagery and movements along with dynamic alignment stuff to free one of my lower ribs and my shoulder that were talking too loud while I was trying to study. The pain calmed down and was no longer interrupting my thoughts. I could spend more time sitting, reading and taking notes – with increased concentration! Thanks, Cheri! It was fun moving with you during my session!”
– Sarah Aiken-Felling, Eau Claire, Wisconsin
“While I’ve just started learning the Franklin Method, I am enjoying it a great deal and that is because of you and the patience you have and the way you explain things. I particularly enjoy your anatomy lessons and explanations as well as the hands on training that helps me truly understand not only what you want from me but what I can do for myself. Using imagery, I’m understanding and starting to feel my organs.
I have never been so grounded or relaxed in my life!
The most profound change I’m experiencing is my new ability to truly relax and be myself, the feeling of truly understanding my body and what it does for me and feeling so grounded physically and mentally.
I truly enjoy our sessions together. My body and soul feel much better just having this chance to get to know you.”
– Kathye Epley, Huntsville, Texas
“Cheri and I were both students in the Alignment Yoga 500-hour training program. We often worked together during partner and small-group exercises, and I benefited greatly from her teaching experience and anatomical knowledge. More recently, Cheri created a Franklin Method practice for me to address shoulder tension and pain caused by years of sitting at a computer. I do these movements a couple times a week as part of my yoga practice, and I’m happy to report that my shoulders are feeling much better.”
– Nancy Giguere, RYT-500, Minnesota
“I had almost given up caring or believing that anything could change. But, it has, for the better. I’m happy that I can see change happening and looking at how long I’d been sliding off the rails, I’m impressed by how quickly things have begun turning around.
I know my body so much better now since studying with you. I feel a state of flow, beingness, grounding far more often now than ever before.
Working with you over the last 6 months or so has helped me put the focus back on my health and the fact that I’m the only person responsible for my health. When I started last winter, I was having difficulty getting the one mile in every day. Now I can walk for 2-3 miles with no pain in my hip, leg, foot or shoulder. We even went to Lowes Creek today for a little hike to test walking on uneven ground. It was damp underfoot and I was wearing the wrong shoes, but, I made it just fine for 55 minutes without stopping! We plan to do that hike every weekend now until the snow flies! I sometimes forget how far I have come, but, I’ve received many positive compliments about looking calm and relaxed or healthy – my daughter even said I looked “hot”.
I know my students are picking up on my deeper embodied self, starting to explore their body and home practice in new ways, too. We’re reflecting this higher state of health for each other. Thank you.”
– Juanita Peck, Yoga Teacher, Wisconsin
“Ooooohhhh you are good! I feel good from our session, thanks for asking. I really enjoy our workouts, they are good for me both mentally and physically! Thanks for your encouragement and for setting the bar high and teaching me not to settle for less than I deserve!”
– Angie Clements, mom of 4, Wisconsin
“Oh, man where to start! I first met Cheri when she subbed for a yoga class I attended almost three years ago. I was instantly struck by Cheri’s guidance, enthusiasm, and knowledge. At that time, I had been practicing yoga on and off for 5 years, but I remember leaving that class feeling connected to myself for the first time in my life. I felt at home in my body!
After the birth of my second child in September, 2012, I began private lessons with Cheri. I was dealing with a 10 year old hockey injury as well as the deep changes that accompany childbirth. Together, she helped me discover a new way of looking at myself and approaching my commitment to health and fitness — rather than focusing on what I couldn’t do, I started focusing on what I could do! I gained strength, confidence and integrity in my physical practice! I began a journey of loving my time within my body. I have since had the privilege of joining Cheri in weekly yoga classes as well as in intensive workshops.
I always leave her classes feeling closer to myself – loving myself just a little bit more. Most importantly, I feel inspired to keep moving, to trust my body, to take care of it and to love my own personal journey to health and fitness. Cheri has awakened a joy of movement within me that has translated to a better relationship with my kids, my husband and myself. No matter where you may be starting, I believe that a class/lesson/workshop with Cheri can and will help you begin and expand your journey to holistic wellness. Thanks for everything Cheri!”
– Erica Zerr, Frolic Knitwear entrepreneur, and mom of two
“I met Cheri a few years ago when I think I was at the lowest point in my life. I had a fabulous career, wonderful marriage, travel, great income, broken family, stress, but all and all what most people aspire to – the ‘American Dream’. Who doesn’t want a fab career, prestige, and money, right?!! But something was definitely missing!
Cheri taught me that I was missing my own life!!! It was a wake up call.
Striving year after year to succeed and push myself in my career had left me spent and absolutely miserable. My body and mind were a mess.
She helped me in a tremendous way to honor myself as a whole human being, mind, spirit and body. One connected being! It’s been a long journey of shedding old habits and accepting myself, but Cheri had played an integral role in finding my true and authentic self. I’m still on that journey but I thank Cheri for all her love, inspiration and encouragement to be my true self and take care of my mind and body as one.
Her teachings of the Franklin Method has had a profound impact on me and I would encourage anyone to just give it a try. It could change your life!!
It’s like a compass showing you true North. Cheri helped me find my true North. Many thanks to the strong, kind and wise woman Cheri, who started my journey on finding my true self! I’m blessed !
I am so happy when I implement the Franklin Method! Please tell everyone that I have melted shoulders and a totally relaxed spine and hips. I love it. Hugs to you!”
– Kristin Charlton, former corporate executive turned vitality-seeker
“The best thing I’ve learned from working with Cheri is that I‘m capable of doing things I never would have tried before.
In our first meetings, I told her “I am not a runner!” Now I’m running regularly, and enjoying it! She encourages me to try new things and I’ve really seen the benefits.
I’ve worked with Cheri both one-on-one and with a small group. I love the creativity and variety she brings to our workout sessions, she makes it fun but also challenges us to work hard.
I really appreciate her approach to overall well being…we talk about eating right, managing stress and supporting each other.”
– Libby Smith, Program Evaluator, Wisconsin
Words from Laura to come soon!
LOVE from workshop participants >>>
“One of the best things I’ve received from your teachings of the Franklin Method, Cheri, is that the power for healthy, happy movement lies within me – I just need a little help to tap into the resources that already exist inside. What a gift that is!”
– Ellen D, Physical Therapist and Yoga Teacher
“I practice bodywork professionally and teach tai chi, and I still learned a lot from attending a group workshop! Cheri blends her formidable interdisciplinary knowledge with a high degree of physical skill. Her friendly yet challenging attitude helps her students go deeper into their own experience, and they learn how to move with more power, ease and poise.
This type of education represents the next level in healing arts: using awareness and the mind-body connection to bring health from within.”
– Chris Hayden, Rolfer, Bodywork therapist, and Tai Chi teacher
“During your workshops in St, Paul, MN, a lot of the information was not new to me, but the visual and experiential way that you taught the anatomy of the pelvis made a couple of things click for me in a way that they never had before.
Through practicing the chair pose I found new awareness of my sit bones and how they move. I have some hip and prolapse issues that I’m studying right now, and I wonder if this ‘bone rhythm’ will contribute to my healing.
Feeling the actual movement of the bones in my pelvis was the most useful part of my workshop experience. Oh, and the images during the exercises on the peanut and balls. I felt a totally different recruitment of my muscles!”
– Amber Moesch, Yoga Teacher from La Crosse, WI
“Thank you so much for the wonderful workshops. The most important thing I learned was to have so much more body awareness. I loved when we talked about using the Franklin Method balls underneath the sacrum in supported bridge, instead of using a yoga block. I noticed a difference in my lower body. I often have too much compression in the lower spine when I use the block. So now I will consider something softer.
I really enjoyed the workshops – they left me wanting to learn more! Dancing is also my background and so I’m interested in learning more about The Franklin Method and your work. Could you also send me information about your online running program?! Thanks again, Cheri!”
– Ruth Silva, Zumba and Yoga teacher from St Paul, MN
“I feel much more at home with my spine – it has become a living, fluid center. I’m delighted…it’s been very useful to be taught dynamic alignment.”
– Helaine, Yoga Teacher