About Mara

Hello,
I am Mara Carrico and if you are on this page that means that you would like to know more about me and how Yoga Lady® may be of help to you on your journey. I am thrilled to have this platform where I can share my life’s work and support others. Good fortune has blessed me with many mentors and teachers who have taught and guided me – generously and patiently. I also wish to serve in these roles, helping others via my creativity, skills, and experience.

A few facts:
I am a yoga teacher with a background in dance and movement therapy. I am the author of Yoga Journal’s Yoga Basics and the American Council on Exercise Fitness Yoga. I have worked at both Rancho La Puerta and The Golden Door.  Jane Fonda hired me to create her first yoga video.

My roots and interests:
I’m from Montana, born in Great Falls. I grew up in the Los Angeles area and Encinitas has been my home since 1990. I’m a California girl at heart who loves wide open spaces and cherishes her cowboy boots. My tastes are eclectic, from rock ‘n roll to opera and ballet to belly dancing.

Early inspiration:
I became interested in metaphysics and Eastern philosophy in junior high. I took my first yoga class when I was 18 and felt as though I had “come home.” Although dance will always remain my first love, my personal yoga practice keeps me grounded.

Life-altering event:
I had polio as a child which affected me both physically and emotionally. Dance became the therapy for my body; yoga provided solace for my mind and spirit. I am grateful for all experiences, both joyful and painful, that have brought me to where I am today.

My life’s purpose:
When I was 12 my ballet teacher took maternity leave and asked me to take over her studio for a month. And so my teaching career was born! Teaching dance segued into teaching yoga. I have done other jobs — some wild and wacky – but it seems that I have always been brought back to the role of teacher. “We teach what we need to learn” seems to hold true for me.

Putting it all together:
Yoga Lady® provides a way to channel my interests in yoga, dance and art. It is my sincere desire that you will return often, joining me on my path of self-discovery and fulfillment.

For more information on my background, experiences, and projects, please visit my blog.